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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: It Is Never Too Late to Mend + +Author: Charles Reade + + +Release Date: November, 2003 [Etext #4606] +This file was first posted on February 18, 2002 +Last Updated: March 5, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO MEND *** + + + + +Produced by James Rusk and David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO MEND + </h1> + <h2> + By Charles Reade + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + This attempt at a solid fiction is, with their permission, dedicated to + the President, Fellows, and demies of St. Mary Magdalen College. Oxford, + by a grateful son of that ancient, learned, and most charitable house. + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER XXIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER XXX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER XXXI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER XXXII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER XXXIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER XXXIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0035"> CHAPTER XXXV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0036"> CHAPTER XXXVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0037"> CHAPTER XXXVII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0038"> CHAPTER XXXVIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0039"> CHAPTER XXXIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0040"> CHAPTER XL. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0041"> CHAPTER XLI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0042"> CHAPTER XLII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0043"> CHAPTER XLIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0044"> CHAPTER XLIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0045"> CHAPTER XLV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0046"> CHAPTER XLVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0047"> CHAPTER XLVII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0048"> CHAPTER XLVIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0049"> CHAPTER XLIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0050"> CHAPTER L. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0051"> CHAPTER LI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0052"> CHAPTER LII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0053"> CHAPTER LIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0054"> CHAPTER LIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0055"> CHAPTER LV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0056"> CHAPTER LVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0057"> CHAPTER LVII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0058"> CHAPTER LVIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0059"> CHAPTER LIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0060"> CHAPTER LX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0061"> CHAPTER LXI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0062"> CHAPTER LXII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0063"> CHAPTER LXIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0064"> CHAPTER LXIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0065"> CHAPTER LXV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0066"> CHAPTER LXVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0067"> CHAPTER LXVII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0068"> CHAPTER LXVIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0069"> CHAPTER LXIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0070"> CHAPTER LXX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0071"> CHAPTER LXXI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0072"> CHAPTER LXXII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0073"> CHAPTER LXXIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0074"> CHAPTER LXXIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0075"> CHAPTER LXXV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0076"> CHAPTER LXXVI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0077"> CHAPTER LXXVII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0078"> CHAPTER LXXVIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0079"> CHAPTER LXXIX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0080"> CHAPTER LXXX. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0081"> CHAPTER LXXXI. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0082"> CHAPTER LXXXII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0083"> CHAPTER LXXXIII. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0084"> CHAPTER LXXXIV. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0085"> CHAPTER LXXXV. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + George Fielding cultivated a small farm in Berkshire. + </p> + <p> + This position is not so enviable as it was. Years ago, the farmers of + England, had they been as intelligent as other traders, could have + purchased the English soil by means of the huge percentage it offered + them. + </p> + <p> + But now, I grieve to say, a farmer must be as sharp as his neighbors, or + like his neighbors he will break. What do I say? There are soils and + situations where, in spite of intelligence and sobriety, he is almost sure + to break; just as there are shops where the lively, the severe, the + industrious, the lazy, are fractured alike. + </p> + <p> + This last fact I make mine by perambulating a certain great street every + three months, and observing how name succeeds to name as wave to wave. + </p> + <p> + Readers hardened by the <i>Times</i> will not perhaps go so far as to weep + over a body of traders for being reduced to the average condition of all + other traders. But the individual trader, who fights for existence against + unfair odds, is to be pitied whether his shop has plate glass or a barn + door to it; and he is the more to be pitied when he is sober, intelligent, + proud, sensitive, and unlucky. + </p> + <p> + George Fielding was all these, who, a few years ago, assisted by his + brother William, filled “The Grove”—as nasty a little farm as any in + Berkshire. + </p> + <p> + Discontented as he was, the expression hereinbefore written would have + seemed profane to young Fielding, for a farmer's farm and a sailor's ship + have always something sacred in the sufferer's eyes, though one sends one + to jail, and the other the other to Jones. + </p> + <p> + It was four hundred acres, all arable, and most of it poor sour land. + George's father had one hundred acres grass with it, but this had been + separated six years ago. + </p> + <p> + There was not a tree, nor even an old stump to show for this word “Grove.” + </p> + <p> + But in the country oral tradition still flourishes. + </p> + <p> + There had been trees in “The Grove,” only the title had outlived the + timber a few centuries. + </p> + <p> + On the morning of our tale George Fielding might have been seen near his + own homestead, conversing with the Honorable Frank Winchester. + </p> + <p> + This gentleman was a character that will be common some day, but was + nearly unique at the date of our story. + </p> + <p> + He had not an extraordinary intellect, but he had great natural gayety, + and under that he had enormous good sense; his good sense was really + brilliant, he had a sort of universal healthy mind that I can't understand + how people get. + </p> + <p> + He was deeply in love with a lady who returned his passion, but she was + hopelessly out of his reach, because he had not much money or + expectations; instead of sitting down railing, or sauntering about + whining, what did me the Honorable Frank Winchester? He looked over + England for the means of getting this money, and not finding it there, he + surveyed the globe and selected Australia, where, they told him, a little + money turns to a deal, instead of dissolving in the hand like a lozenge in + the mouth, as it does in London. + </p> + <p> + So here was an earl's son (in this age of commonplace events) going to + Australia with five thousand pounds, as sheep farmer and general + speculator. + </p> + <p> + He was trying hard to persuade George Fielding to accompany him as bailiff + or agricultural adviser and manager. + </p> + <p> + He knew the young man's value, but to do him justice his aim was not + purely selfish; he was aware that Fielding had a bad bargain in “The + Grove,” and the farmer had saved his life at great personal risk one day + that he was seized with cramp bathing in the turbid waters of Cleve + millpool, and he wanted to serve him in return. This was not his first + attempt of the kind, and but for one reason perhaps he might have + succeeded. + </p> + <p> + “You know me and I know you,” said Mr. Winchester to George Fielding; “I + must have somebody to put me in the way. Stay with me one year, and after + that I'll square accounts with you about that thundering millpool.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! Mr. Winchester,” said George, hastily and blushing like fire, “that's + an old story, sir?” with a sweet little half-cunning smile that showed he + was glad it was not forgotten. + </p> + <p> + “Not quite,” replied the young gentleman dryly; “you shall have five + hundred sheep and a run for them, and we will both come home rich and + consequently respectable.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a handsome offer, sir, and a kind offer and like yourself, sir, but + transplanting one of us,” continued George, “dear me, sir, it's like + taking up an oak tree thirty years in the ground—besides—besides—did + you ever notice my cousin, Susanna, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Notice her! why, do you think I am a heathen, and never go to the parish + church? Miss Merton is a lovely girl; she sits in the pew by the pillar.” + </p> + <p> + “Isn't she, sir?” said George. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Winchester endeavored to turn this adverse topic in his favor; he made + a remark that produced no effect at the time. He said, “People don't go to + Australia to die—they go to Australia to make money, and come home + and marry—and it is what you must do—this “Grove” is a + millstone round your neck. Will you have a cigar, farmer?” + </p> + <p> + George consented, premising, however, that hitherto he had never got + beyond a yard of clay, and after drawing a puff or two he took the cigar + from his mouth, and looking at it said, “I say, sir! seems to me the fire + is uncommon near the chimbly.” Mr. Winchester laughed; he then asked + George to show him the blacksmith shop. “I must learn how to shoe a + horse,” said the honorable Frank. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I never!” thought George. “The first nob in the country going to + shoe a horse,” but with his rustic delicacy he said nothing, and led Mr. + Winchester to the blacksmith's shop. + </p> + <p> + While this young gentleman is hammering nails into a horse's hoof, and + Australia into an English farmer's mind, we must introduce other + personages. + </p> + <p> + Susanna Merton was beautiful and good. George Fielding and she were + acknowledged lovers, but marriage was not spoken of as a near event, and + latterly old Merton had seemed cool whenever his daughter mentioned the + young man's name. + </p> + <p> + Susanna appeared to like George, though not so warmly as he loved her; but + at all events she accepted no other proffers of love. For all that she + had, besides a host of admirers, other lovers besides George; and what is + a great deal more singular (for a woman's eye is quick as lightning in + finding out who loves her), there was more than one of whose passion she + was not conscious. + </p> + <p> + William Fielding, George's brother, was in love with his brother's + sweetheart, but though he trembled with pleasure when she was near him, he + never looked at her except by stealth; he knew he had no business to love + her. + </p> + <p> + On the morning of our tale Susan's father, old Merton, had walked over + from his farm to “The Grove,” and was inspecting a field behind George's + house, when he was accosted by his friend, Mr. Meadows, who had seen him, + and giving his horse to a boy to hold had crossed the stubbles to speak to + him. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Meadows was not a common man, and merits some preliminary notice. + </p> + <p> + He was what is called in the country “a lucky man”; everything he had done + in life had prospered. + </p> + <p> + The neighbors admired, respected, and some of them even hated this + respectable man, who had been a carter in the midst of them, and now at + forty years of age was a rich corn-factor and land-surveyor. + </p> + <p> + “All this money cannot have been honestly got,” said the envious ones + among themselves; yet they could not put their finger on any dishonest + action he had done. To the more candid the known qualities of the man + accounted for his life of success. + </p> + <p> + This John Meadows had a cool head, an iron will, a body and mind alike + indefatigable, and an eye never diverted from the great objects of sober + industrious men—wealth and respectability. He had also the soul of + business—method! + </p> + <p> + At one hour he was sure to be at church; at another, at market; in his + office at a third, and at home when respectable men should be at home. + </p> + <p> + By this means Mr. Meadows was always to be found by any man who wanted to + do business; and when you had found him, you found a man superficially coy + perhaps, but at bottom always ready to do business, and equally sure to + get the sunny side of it and give you the windy. + </p> + <p> + Meadows was generally respected; by none more than by old Merton, and + during the last few months the intimacy of these two men had ripened into + friendship; the corn-factor often hooked his bridle to the old farmer's + gate, and took a particular interest in all his affairs. + </p> + <p> + Such was John Meadows. + </p> + <p> + In person he was a tall, stout man, with iron gray hair, a healthy, + weather-colored complexion, and a massive brow that spoke to the depth and + force of the man's character. + </p> + <p> + “What, taking a look at the farm, Mr. Merton? It wants some of your grass + put to it, doesn't it?” + </p> + <p> + “I never thought much of the farm,” was the reply, “it lies cold; the + sixty-acre field is well enough, but the land on the hill is as poor as + death.” + </p> + <p> + Now this idea, which Merton gave out as his, had dropped into him from + Meadows three weeks before. + </p> + <p> + “Farmer,” said Meadows, in an undertone, “they are thrashing out new wheat + for the rent.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't say so? Why I didn't hear the flail going.” + </p> + <p> + “They have just knocked off for dinner—you need not say I told you, + but Will Fielding was at the bank this morning, trying to get money on + their bill, and the bank said No! They had my good word, <i>too</i>. The + people of the bank sent over to me.” + </p> + <p> + They had his good word! but not his good tone! he had said. “Well, their + father was a safe man;” but the accent with which he eulogized the parent + had somehow locked the bank cash-box to the children. + </p> + <p> + “I never liked it, especially of late,” mused Merton. “But you see the + young folk being cousins—” + </p> + <p> + “That is it, cousins,” put in Meadows; “it is not as if she loved him with + all her heart and soul; she is an obedient daughter, isn't she?” + </p> + <p> + “Never gainsaid me in her life; she has a high spirit, but never with me; + my word is law. You see, she is a very religious girl, is Susan.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, a word from you would save her—but there—all that + is your affair, not mine,” added he. + </p> + <p> + “Of course it is,” was the reply. “You are a true friend. I'll step round + to the barn and see what is doing.” And away went Susan's father uneasy in + his mind. + </p> + <p> + Meadows went to the “Black Horse,” the village public house, to see what + farmers wanted to borrow a little money under the rose, and would pawn + their wheat ricks, and pay twenty per cent for that overrated merchandise. + </p> + <p> + At the door of the public-house he was met by the village constable, and a + stranger of gentlemanly address and clerical appearance. The constable + wore a mysterious look and invited Meadows into the parlor of the + public-house. + </p> + <p> + “I have news for you, sir,” said he, “leastways I think so; your pocket + was picked last Martinmas fair of three Farnborough bank-notes with your + name on the back.” + </p> + <p> + “It was!” + </p> + <p> + “Is this one of them?” said the man, producing a note. + </p> + <p> + Meadows examined it with interest, compared the number with a memorandum + in his pocketbook, and pronounced that it was. + </p> + <p> + “Who passed it?” inquired he. + </p> + <p> + “A chap that has got the rest—a stranger—Robinson—that + lodges at “The Grove” with George Fielding; that is, if his name is + Robinson, but we think he is a Londoner come down to take an airing. You + understand, Sir.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows' eyes flashed actual fire. For so rich a man, he seemed + wonderfully excited by this circumstance. + </p> + <p> + To an inquiry who was his companion, the constable answered <i>sotto voce</i>, + “Gentleman from Bow Street, come to see if he knows him.” The constable + went on to inform Meadows that Robinson was out fishing somewhere, + otherwise they would already have taken him; “but we will hang about the + farm, and take him when he comes home.” + </p> + <p> + “You had better be at hand, sir, to identify the notes,” said the + gentleman from Bow Street, whose appearance was clerical. + </p> + <p> + Meadows had important business five miles off; he postponed it. He wrote a + line in pencil, put a boy upon his black mare, and hurried him off to the + rendezvous, while he stayed and entered with strange alacrity into this + affair. “Stay,” cried he, “if he is an old hand he will twig the officer.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I'm dark, sir,” was the answer; “he won't know me till I put the + darbies on him.” + </p> + <p> + The two men then strolled as far as the village stocks, keeping an eye + ever on the farm-house. + </p> + <p> + Thus a network of adverse events was closing round George Fielding this + day. + </p> + <p> + He was all unconscious of them; he was in good spirits. Robinson had + showed him how to relieve the temporary embarrassment that had lately + depressed him. + </p> + <p> + “Draw a bill on your brother,” said Robinson, “and let him accept it. The + Farnborough Bank will give you notes for it. These country banks like any + paper better than their own. I dare say they are right.” + </p> + <p> + George had done this, and expected William every minute with this and + other moneys. And then Susanna Merton was to dine at “The Grove” to-day, + and this, though not uncommon, was always a great event with poor George. + </p> + <p> + Dilly would not come to be killed just when he was wanted. In other words, + Robinson, who had no idea how he was keeping people waiting, fished + tranquilly till near dinner-time, neither taking nor being taken. + </p> + <p> + This detained Meadows in the neighborhood of the farm, and was the cause + of his rencontre with a very singular personage, whose visit he knew at + sight must be to him. + </p> + <p> + As he hovered about among George Fielding's ricks, the figure of an old + man slightly bowed but full of vigor stood before him. He had a long gray + beard with a slight division in the center, hair abundant but almost + white, and a dark, swarthy complexion that did not belong to England; his + thick eyebrows also were darker than his hair, and under them was an eye + like a royal jewel; his voice had the Oriental richness and modulation—this + old man was Isaac Levi; an Oriental Jew who had passed half his life under + the sun's eye, and now, though the town of Farnborough had long been too + accustomed to him to wonder at him, he dazzled any thoughtful stranger; so + exotic and apart was he—so romantic a grain in a heap of vulgarity—he + was as though a striped jasper had crept in among the paving-stones of + their marketplace, or a cactus grandiflora shone among the nettles of a + Berkshire meadow. + </p> + <p> + Isaac Levi, unlike most Jews, was familiar with the Hebrew tongue, and + this and the Eastern habits of his youth colored his language and his + thoughts, especially in his moments of emotion, and above all, when he + forgot the money-lender for a moment, and felt and thought as one of a + great nation, depressed, but waiting for a great deliverance. He was a man + of authority and learning in his tribe. + </p> + <p> + At sight of Isaac Levi Meadows' brow towered, and he called out rather + rudely without allowing the old gentleman to speak, “If you are come to + talk to me about that house you are in you may keep your breath to cool + your porridge.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows had bought the house Isaac rented, and had instantly given him + warning to leave. + </p> + <p> + Isaac, who had become strangely attached to the only place in which he had + ever lived many years, had not doubted for a moment that Meadows merely + meant to raise the rent to its full value, so he had come to treat with + his new landlord. “Mr. Meadows,” said he persuasively, “I have lived there + twenty years—I pay a fair rent—but, if you think any one would + give you more you shall lose nothing by me—I will pay a little more; + and you know your rent is secure?” + </p> + <p> + “I do,” was the answer. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, sir! well, then—” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, next Lady-day you turn out bag and baggage. + </p> + <p> + “Nay, sir,” said Isaac Levi, “hear me, for you are younger than I. Mr. + Meadows, when this hair was brown I traveled in the East; I sojourned in + Madras and Benares, in Bagdad, Ispahan, Mecca and Bassora, and found no + rest. When my hair began to turn gray, I traded in Petersburg and Rome and + Paris, Vienna and Lisbon and other western cities and found no rest. I + came to this little town, where, least of all, I thought to pitch my tent + for life, but here the God of my fathers gave me my wife, and here He took + her to Himself again—” + </p> + <p> + “What the deuce is all this to me, man?” + </p> + <p> + “Much, sir, if you are what men say; for men speak well of you; be + patient, and hear me. Two children were born to me and died from me in the + house you have bought; and there my Leah died also; and there at times in + the silent hours I seem to hear their voices and their feet. In another + house I shall never hear them—I shall be quite alone. Have pity on + me, sir, an aged and a lonely man; tear me not from the shadows of my + dead. Let me prevail with you?” + </p> + <p> + “No!” was the stern answer. + </p> + <p> + “No?” cried Levi, a sudden light darting into his eye; “then you must be + an enemy of Isaac Levi?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” was the grim reply to this rapid inference. + </p> + <p> + “Aha!” cried the old Jew, with a sudden defiance, which he instantly + suppressed. “And what have I done to gain your enmity, sir?” said he, in a + tone crushed by main force into mere regret. + </p> + <p> + “You lend money.” + </p> + <p> + “A little, sir, now and then—a very little.” + </p> + <p> + “That is to say, when the security is bad, you have no money in hand; but + when the security is good, nobody has ever found the bottom of Isaac + Levi's purse.” + </p> + <p> + “Our people,” said Isaac apologetically, “can trust one another—they + are not like yours. We are brothers, and that is why money is always + forthcoming when the deposit is sound.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Meadows, “what you are, I am; what I do on the sly you do on + the sly, old thirty per cent.” + </p> + <p> + “The world is wide enough for us both, good sir—” + </p> + <p> + “It is!” was the prompt reply. “And it lies before you, Isaac. Go where + you like, for the little town of Farnborough is not wide enough for me and + any man that works my business for his own pocket—” + </p> + <p> + “But this is not enmity, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows gave a coarsish laugh. “You are hard to please,” cried he. “I + think you will find it is enmity.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay! sir, this is but matter of profit and loss. Well, let me stay, and I + promise you shall gain and not lose. Our people are industrious and + skillful in all bargains, but we keep faith and covenant. So be it. Let us + be friends. I covenant with you, and I swear by the tables of the law, you + shall not lose one shilling per annum by me.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll trust you as far as I can fling a bull by the tail. You gave me your + history—take mine. I have always put my foot on whatever man or + thing has stood in my way. I was poor, I am rich, and that is my policy.” + </p> + <p> + “It is frail policy,” said Isaac, firmly. “Some man will be sure to put + his foot on you, soon or late.” + </p> + <p> + “What, do you threaten me?” roared Meadows. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir,” said Isaac, gently but steadily. “I but tell you what these old + eyes have seen in every nation, and read in books that never lie. Goliath + defied armies, yet he fell like a pigeon by a shepherd-boy's sling. Samson + tore a lion in pieces with his hands, but a woman laid him low. No man can + defy us all, sir! The strong man is sure to find one as strong and more + skillful; the cunning man one as adroit and stronger than himself. Be + advised, then, do not trample upon one of my people. Nations and men that + oppress us do not thrive. Let me have to bless you. An old man's blessing + is gold. See these gray hairs. My sorrows have been as many as they. His + share of the curse that is upon his tribe has fallen upon Isaac Levi.” + Then, stretching out his hands with a slight but touching gesture, he + said, “I have been driven to and fro like a leaf these many years, and now + I long for rest. Let me rest in my little tent, till I rest forever. Oh! + let me die where those I loved have died, and there let me be buried.” + </p> + <p> + Age, sorrow, and eloquence pleaded in vain, for they were wasted on the + rocks of rocks, a strong will and a vulgar soul. But indeed the whole + thing was like epic poetry wrestling with the <i>Limerick Chronicle</i> or + <i>Tuam Gazette</i>. + </p> + <p> + I am almost ashamed to give the respectable western brute's answer. + </p> + <p> + “What! you quote Scripture, eh? I thought you did not believe in that. + Hear t'other side. Abraham and Lot couldn't live in the same place, + because they both kept sheep, and we can't, because we fleece 'em. So + Abraham gave Lot warning as I give it you. And as for dying on my + premises, if you like to hang yourself before next Lady-day, I give you + leave, but after Lady-day no more Jewish dogs shall die in my house nor be + buried for manure in my garden.” + </p> + <p> + Black lightning poured from the old Jew's eyes, and his pent-up wrath + burst out like lava from an angry mountain. + </p> + <p> + “Irreverent cur! do you rail on the afflicted of Heaven? The Founder of + your creed would abhor you, for He, they say, was pitiful. I spit upon ye, + and I curse ye. Be accursed!” And flinging up his hands, like St. Paul at + Lystra, he rose to double his height and towered at his insulter with a + sudden Eastern fury that for a moment shook even the iron Meadows. “Be + accursed!” he yelled again. “Whatever is the secret wish of your black + heart Heaven look on my gray hairs that you have insulted, and wither that + wish. Ah, ah!” he screamed, “you wince. All men have secret wishes—Heaven + fight against yours. May all the good luck you have be wormwood for want + of that—that—-that—that. May you be near it, close to + it, upon it, pant for it, and lose it; may it sport, and smile, and laugh, + and play with you till Gehenna burns your soul upon earth!” + </p> + <p> + The old man's fiery forked tongue darted so keen and true to some sore in + his adversary's heart that he in turn lost his habitual self-command. + </p> + <p> + White and black with passion he wheeled round on Isaac with a fierce + snarl, and lifting his stick discharged a furious blow at his head. + </p> + <p> + Fortunately for Isaac wood encountered leather instead of gray hairs. + </p> + <p> + Attracted by the raised voices, and unseen in their frenzy by either of + these antagonists, young George Fielding had drawn near them. He had, + luckily, a stout pig-whip in his hand, and by an adroit turn of his + muscular wrist he parried a blow that would have stopped the old Jew's + eloquence perhaps forever. As it was, the corn-factor's stick cut like a + razor through the air, and made a most musical whirr within a foot of the + Jew's ear. The basilisk look of venom and vengeance he instantly shot back + amounted to a stab. + </p> + <p> + “Not if I know it,” said George. And he stood cool and erect with a calm + manly air of defiance between the two belligerents. While the stick and + the whip still remained in contact, Meadows glared at Isaac's champion + with surprise and wrath, and a sort of half fear half wonder that this of + all men in the world should be the one to cross weapons with and thwart + him. “You are joking, Master Meadows,” said George coolly. “Why the man is + twice your age, and nothing in his hand but his fist. Who are ye, old man, + and what d'ye want? It's you for cursing, anyway.” + </p> + <p> + “He insults me,” cried Meadows, “because I won't have him for a tenant + against my will. Who is he? A villainous old Jew.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, young man,” said the other, sadly, “I am Isaac Levi, a Jew. And what + is your religion” (he turned upon Meadows)? “It never came out of Judea in + any name or shape. D'ye call yourself a heathen? Ye lie, ye cur; the + heathen were not without starlight from heaven; they respected sorrow and + gray hairs.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall smart for this. I'll show you what my religion is,” said + Meadows, inadvertent with passion, and the corn-factor's fingers grasped + his stick convulsively. + </p> + <p> + “Don't you be so aggravating, old man,” said the good-natured George, “and + you, Mr. Meadows, should know how to make light of an old man's tongue; + why it's like a woman's, it's all he has got to hit with; leastways you + mustn't lift hand to him on my premises, or you will have to settle with + me first; and I don't think that would suit your book or any man's for a + mile or two round about Farnborough,” said George with his little + Berkshire drawl. + </p> + <p> + “He!” shrieked Isaac, “he dare not! see! see!” and he pointed nearly into + the man's eye, “he doesn't look you in the face. Any soul that has read + men from east to west can see lion in your eye, young man, and cowardly + wolf in his.” + </p> + <p> + “Lady-day! Lady-day!” snorted Meadows, who was now shaking with suppressed + rage. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” cried Isaac, and he turned white and quivered in his turn. + </p> + <p> + “Lady-day!” said George, uneasily, “Confound Lady-day, and every day of + the sort—there, don't you be so spiteful, old man—why if he + isn't all of a tremble. Poor old man.” He went to his own door, and called + “Sarah!” + </p> + <p> + A stout servant-girl answered the summons. + </p> + <p> + “Take the old man in, and give him whatever is going, and his mug and + pipe,” then he whispered her, “and don't go lumping the chine down under + his nose now.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, young man,” faltered Isaac, “I must not eat with you, but I + will go in and rest my limbs which fail me, and compose myself; for + passion is unseemly at my years.” + </p> + <p> + Arrived at the door, he suddenly paused, and looking upward, said: + </p> + <p> + “Peace be under this roof, and comfort and love follow me into this + dwelling.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank ye kindly,” said young Fielding, a little surprised and touched by + this. “How old are you, daddy, if you please?” added he respectfully. + </p> + <p> + “My son, I am threescore years and ten—a man of years and grief—grief + for myself, grief still more for my nation and city. Men that are men pity + us; men that are dogs have insulted us in all ages.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said the good-natured young man soothingly—“don't you vex + yourself any more about it. Now you go in, and forget all your trouble + awhile, please God, by my fireside, my poor old man.” + </p> + <p> + Isaac turned, the water came to his eyes at this after being insulted so; + a little struggle took place in him, but nature conquered prejudice and + certain rubbish he called religion. He held out his hand like the king of + all Asia; George grasped it like an Englishman. + </p> + <p> + “Isaac Levi is your friend,” and the expression of the man's whole face + and body showed these words carried with them a meaning unknown in good + society. + </p> + <p> + He entered the house, and young Fielding stood watching him with a natural + curiosity. + </p> + <p> + Now Isaac Levi knew nothing about the corn-factor's plans. When at one and + the same moment he grasped George's hand, and darted a long, lingering + glance of demoniacal hatred on Meadows, he coupled two sentiments by pure + chance. And Meadows knew this; but still it struck Meadows as singular and + ominous. + </p> + <p> + When, with the best of motives, one is on a wolf's errand, it is not nice + to hear a hyena say to the shepherd's dog, “I am your friend,” and see him + contemptuously shoot the eye of a rattlesnake at one's self. + </p> + <p> + The misgiving, however, was but momentary; Meadows respected his own + motives and felt his own power; an old Jew's wild fury could not shake his + confidence. + </p> + <p> + He muttered, “One more down to your account, George Fielding,” and left + the young man watching Isaac's retreating form. + </p> + <p> + George, who didn't know he was gone, said: + </p> + <p> + “Old man's words seem to knock against my bosom, Mr. Meadows—Gone, + eh?—that man,” thought George Fielding, “has everybody's good word, + parson's and all—who'd think he'd lift his hand, leastways his stick + it was and that's worse, against a man of three score and upward—Ugh!” + thought George Fielding, yeoman of the midland counties—and + unaffected wonder mingled with his disgust. + </p> + <p> + His reverie was broken by William Fielding just ridden in from + Farnborough. + </p> + <p> + “Better late than never,” said the elder brother, impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “Couldn't get away sooner, George; here's the money for the sheep, 13 + pounds 10s.; no offer for the cow, Jem is driving her home.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but the money—the 80 pounds, Will?” + </p> + <p> + William looked sulkily down. + </p> + <p> + “I haven't got it, George! There's your draft again, the bank wouldn't + take it.” + </p> + <p> + A keen pang shot across George's face, as much for the affront as the + disappointment. + </p> + <p> + “They wouldn't take it?” gasped he. “Ay, Will, our credit is down, the + whole town knows our rent is overdue. I suppose you know money <i>must</i> + be got some way.” + </p> + <p> + “Any way is better than threshing out new wheat at such a price,” said + William sullenly. “Ask a loan of a neighbor.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Will,” appealed George, “to ask a loan of a neighbor, and be denied—it + is bitterer than death. <i>You</i> can do it.” + </p> + <p> + “I! Am I master here?” retorted the younger. “The farm is not farmed my + way, nor ever was. No! Give me the plow-handle and I'll cut the furrow, + George.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt, no doubt!” said the other, very sharply, “you'd like to draw + the land dry with potato crops, and have fourscore hogs snoring in the + farmyard; that's your idea of a farm. Oh! I know you want to be elder + brother. Well, I tell'ee what do; you kill me first, Bill Fielding, and + then you will be elder brother, and not afore.” + </p> + <p> + Here was a pretty little burst of temper! We have all our sore part. + </p> + <p> + “So be it, George!” replied William, “you got us into the mud, elder + brother, you get us out of the mire!” + </p> + <p> + George subdued his tone directly. + </p> + <p> + “Who shall I ask?” said he, as one addressing a bosom counselor. + </p> + <p> + “Uncle Merton, or—or—-Mr. Meadows the corn-factor; he lends + money at times to friends. It would not be much to either of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Show my empty pockets to Susanna's father! Oh, Will! how can you be so + cruel?” + </p> + <p> + “Meadows, then.” + </p> + <p> + “No use for me, I've just offended him a hit; beside he's a man that never + knew trouble or ill luck in his life; they are like flints, all that + sort.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, look here, I'm pretty well with Meadows. I'll ask him if you will + try uncle; the first that meets his man to begin.” + </p> + <p> + “That sounds fair,” said George, “but I can't—well—yes,” said + he, suddenly changing his mind. “I agree,” said he, with simple cunning, + and lowered his eyes; but suddenly raising them, he said cheerfully, “Why, + you're in luck, Bill; here's your man,” and he shot like an arrow into his + own kitchen. + </p> + <p> + “Confound it,” said the other, fairly caught. + </p> + <p> + Meadows, it is to be observed, was wandering about the premises until such + time as Robinson should return; and while the brothers were arguing, he + had been in the barn, and finding old Merton there had worked still higher + that prudent man's determination to break off matters between his daughter + and the farmer of “The Grove.” + </p> + <p> + After the usual salutations William Fielding, sore against the grain, + began: + </p> + <p> + “I did not know you were here, sir! I want to speak to you.” + </p> + <p> + “I am at your service, Mr. Willum.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir. George and I are a little short just at present; it is only + for a time, and George says he should take it very kind if you would lend + us a hundred pound, just to help us over the stile.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Mr. Willum,” replied Meadows, “I should be delighted, and if you had + only asked me yesterday, I could have done it as easy as stand here; but + my business drinks a deal of money, Mr. Willum, and I laid out all my + loose cash yesterday; but, of course, it is of no consequence—another + time—good morning, Mr. Willum.” + </p> + <p> + Away sauntered Meadows, leaving William planted there, as the French say. + </p> + <p> + George ran out of the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” + </p> + <p> + “He says he has got no money loose.” + </p> + <p> + “He is a liar! he paid 1,600 pounds into the bank yesterday, and you knew + it; didn't you tell him so?” + </p> + <p> + “No; what use? A man that lies to avoid lending won't be driven to lend.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't play fair,” retorted George. “You could have got it from + Meadows, if you had a mind; but you want to drive your poor brother + against his sweetheart's father; you are false, my lad.” + </p> + <p> + “You are the only man that ever said so; and you durstn't say it if you + weren't my brother.” + </p> + <p> + “If it wasn't for that, I'd say a deal more.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, show your high stomach to Uncle Merton, for there he is. Hy!—uncle!” + cried William to Merton, who turned instantly and came toward them. + “George wants to speak to you,” said William, and shot like a cross-bow + bolt behind the house. + </p> + <p> + “That is lucky,” said Merton, “for I want to speak to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Who would have thought of his being about?” muttered George. + </p> + <p> + While George was calling up his courage and wits to open his subject, Mr. + Merton, who had no such difficulties, was beforehand with him. + </p> + <p> + “You are threshing out new wheat?” said Merton, gravely. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” answered George, looking down. + </p> + <p> + “That is a bad lookout; a farmer has no business to go to his barn door + for his rent.” + </p> + <p> + “Where is he to go, then? to the church door, and ask for a miracle?” + </p> + <p> + “No; to his ship-fold, to be sure.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! you can; you have got grass and water and everything to hand.” + </p> + <p> + “And so must you, young man, or you'll never be a farmer. Now, George, I + must speak to you seriously” (George winced). + </p> + <p> + “You are a fine lad, and I like you very well, but I love my own daughter + better.” + </p> + <p> + “So do I!” said George simply. + </p> + <p> + “And I must look out for her,” resumed Merton. “I have seen a pretty while + how things are going here, and if she marries you she will have to keep + you instead of you her.” + </p> + <p> + “Heaven forbid! Matters are not so bad as that, uncle.” + </p> + <p> + “You are too much of a man, I hope,” continued Merton, “to eat a woman's + bread; and if you are not, I am man enough to keep the girl from it.” + </p> + <p> + “These are hard words to bear,” gasped George. “So near my own house, old + man.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, plain speaking is best when the mind is made up,” was the reply. + </p> + <p> + “Is this from Susanna, as well as you?” said George, with a trembling lip, + and scarce able to utter the words. + </p> + <p> + “Susan is an obedient daughter. What I say she'll stand to; and I hope you + know better than to tempt her to disobey me; you wouldn't succeed.” + </p> + <p> + “Enough said,” answered George very sternly. “Enough said, old man; I've + no need to tempt any girl.” + </p> + <p> + “Good morning, George!” and away stumped Merton. + </p> + <p> + “Good morning, uncle! (ungrateful old thief).” + </p> + <p> + “William,” cried he, to his brother, who came the next minute to hear the + news, “our mother took him out of the dirt.—I have heard her say as + much—or he'd not have a ship-fold to brag of. Oh! my heart—oh! + Will!—” + </p> + <p> + “Well, will he lend the money?” + </p> + <p> + “I never asked him.” + </p> + <p> + “You never asked him!” cried William. + </p> + <p> + “Bill, he began upon me in a moment,” said George, looking appealingly + into his brother's face; “he sees we are going down hill, and he as good + as bade me think no more of Susan.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said the other, harshly, “it was your business to own the truth + and ask him help us over the stile—he's our own blood.” + </p> + <p> + “You want to let me down lower than I would let that Carlo dog of yours. + You're no brother of mine,” retorted George fiercely and bitterly. + </p> + <p> + “A bargain is a bargain,” replied the other sullenly: “I asked Meadows, + and he said No. You fell talking with uncle about Susan, and never put the + question to him at all. Who is the false one, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “If you call me false, I'll knock your ugly head off, sulky Bill.” + </p> + <p> + “You're false, and a fool into the bargain, bragging George!” + </p> + <p> + “What, you will have it, then?” + </p> + <p> + “If you can give it me.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, if it is to be,” said George, “I'll give you something to put you + on your mettle. The best man shall farm 'The Grove,' and the other shall + be a servant on it, or go elsewhere, for I am sick of this.” + </p> + <p> + “And so am I!” cried William, hastily; “and have been any time this two + years.” + </p> + <p> + They tucked up their sleeves a little, shook hands, and then retired each + one step, and began to fight. + </p> + <p> + And how came these two honest men to forget that the blood they proposed + to shed was thicker than water? Was it the farm, money, agricultural + dissension, temper? They would have told you it was, and perhaps thought + it was. It was Susanna Merton! + </p> + <p> + The secret subtle influence of jealousy had long been fermenting, and now + it exploded in this way and under this disguise. + </p> + <p> + Ah! William Fielding, and all of you, “Beware of jealousy”—cursed + jealousy! it is the sultan of all the passions, and the Tartar chief of + all the crimes. Other passions affect the character; this changes, and, if + good, always reverses it! Mind that, reverses it! turns honest men to + snakes, and doves to vultures. Horrible unnatural mixture of Love with + Hate—you poison the whole mental constitution—you bandage the + judgment—you crush the sense of right and wrong—you steel the + bowels of compassion—you madden the brain—you corrupt the + heart—you damn the soul. + </p> + <p> + The Fieldings, then, shook hands mechanically, and receding each a step + began to spar. + </p> + <p> + Each of these farmers fancied himself slightly the best man; but they both + knew they had an antagonist with whom it would not do to make the least + mistake. + </p> + <p> + They therefore sparred and feinted with wary eye before they ventured to + close; George, however, the more impetuous, was preparing to come to + closer quarters when all of a sudden, to the other's surprise, he dropped + his hands by his sides, and turned the other way with a face anything but + warlike, fear being now the prominent expression. + </p> + <p> + William followed the direction of his eye, and then William partook his + brother's uneasiness; however, he put his hands in his pockets, and began + to saunter about, in a circumference of three yards, and to get up a + would-be-careless whistle, while George's hands became dreadfully in his + way, so he washed them in the air. + </p> + <p> + While they were employed in this peaceful pantomime a beautiful young + woman glided rapidly between the brothers. + </p> + <p> + Her first words renewed their uneasiness. + </p> + <p> + “What is this?” cried she, haughtily, and she looked from one to the other + like a queen rebuking her subjects. + </p> + <p> + George looked at William—William had nothing ready. + </p> + <p> + So George said, with some hesitation, but in a mellifluous voice, “William + was showing me—a trick—he learned at the fair—that is + all, Susan.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a falsehood, George,” replied the lady, “the first you ever told + me”—(George colored)—“you were fighting, you two boys—I + saw your eyes flash!” + </p> + <p> + The rueful wink exchanged by the combatants at this stroke of sagacity was + truly delicious. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, fie! oh, fie! brothers by one mother fighting—in a Christian + land—within a stone's throw of a church, where brotherly love is + preached as a debt we owe to strangers, let alone our own blood.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! it is a sin, Susan,” said William, his conscience suddenly + illuminated. “So I ask <i>your</i> pardon, Susanna.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! it wasn't your fault, I'll be bound,” was the gracious reply. “What a + ruffian you must be, George, to shed your brother's blood.” + </p> + <p> + “La! Susan,” said George, with a doleful whine, “I wasn't going to shed + the beggar's blood. I was only going to give him a hiding for his + impudence.” + </p> + <p> + “Or take one for your own,” replied William coolly. + </p> + <p> + “That is more likely,” said Susan. “George, take William's hand; take it + this instant, I say,” cried she, with an air imperative and impatient. + </p> + <p> + “Well, why not? don't you go in a passion, Susan, about nothing,” said + George coaxingly. + </p> + <p> + They took hands; she made them hold one another by the hand, which they + did with both their heads hanging down. “While I speak a word to you two,” + said Susan Merton. + </p> + <p> + “You ought both to go on your knees, and thank Providence that sent me + here to prevent so great a crime; and as for you, your character must + change greatly, George Fielding, before I trust myself to live in a house + of yours.” + </p> + <p> + “Is all the blame to fall on my head?” said George, letting go William's + hand with no great apparent reluctance. + </p> + <p> + “Of course it is! William is a quiet lad that quarrels with nobody; you + are always quarreling; you thrashed our carter last Candlemas.” + </p> + <p> + “He spoke saucy words about you.” + </p> + <p> + Susan, smiling inwardly, made her face as repulsive outside as lay in her + power. + </p> + <p> + “I don't believe it,” said Susan; “your time was come round to fight and + be a ruffian, and so it was to-day, no doubt.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” said George, sorrowfully, “it is always poor George that does all + the wrong. + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” replied the lady, an arch smile playing for a moment about her lips, + “I could scold William, too, if you think I am as much interested in his + conduct and behavior as in yours.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no!” cried George, brightening up, “don't think to scold anybody but + me, Susan; and William,” said he, suddenly and frankly, “I ask your + pardon.” + </p> + <p> + “No more about it, George, if you please,” answered William in his dogged + way. + </p> + <p> + “Susan,” said George, “you don't know all I have to bear. My heart is + sore, Susan, dear. Uncle twitted me not an hour ago with my ill luck, and + almost bade me to speak to you no more, leastways as my sweetheart; and + that was why, when William came at me on the top of such a blow, it was + more than I could bear; and Susan—Susan—uncle said you would + stand to whatever he said.” + </p> + <p> + “George,” said Susan gently, “I am very sorry my father was so unkind.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank ye kindly, Susan; that is the first drop of dew that has fallen on + me to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “But obedience to parents,” continued Susan, interrogating, as it were, + her conscience, “is a great duty. I <i>hope</i> I shall never disobey my + father,” faltered she. + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” answered the goose George hastily, “I don't want any girl to be kind + to me that does not love me; I am so unlucky, it would not be worth her + while, you know.” + </p> + <p> + At this Susan answered still more sharply, “No, I don't think it would be + worth any woman's while, till your character and temper undergo a change.” + </p> + <p> + George never answered a word, but went and leaned his head upon the side + of a cart that stood half in and half out of a shed close by. + </p> + <p> + At this juncture a gay personage joined the party. He had a ball + waistcoat, as alarming tie, a shooting jacket, wet muddy trousers and + shoes, and an empty basket on his back. + </p> + <p> + He joined our group, just as George was saying to himself very sadly, “I + am in everybody's way here”—and he attacked him directly. + </p> + <p> + “Everybody is in this country.” + </p> + <p> + The reader is to understand that this Robinson was last from California; + and California had made such an impression upon him, that he turned the + conversation that way oftener than a well-regulated understanding recurs + to any one topic, except, perhaps, religion. + </p> + <p> + He was always pestering George to go to California with him, and it must + be owned that on this one occasion George had given him a fair handle. + </p> + <p> + “Come out of it,” continued Robinson, “and make your fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “You did not make yours there,” said Susan sharply. + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon, miss. I made it, or how could I have spent it?” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt,” said William. “What comes by the wind goes by the water.” + </p> + <p> + “Alluding to the dust?” inquired the Cockney. + </p> + <p> + “Gold dust especially,” retorted Susan Merton. + </p> + <p> + Robinson laughed. “The ladies are sharp, even in Berkshire,” said he. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Robinson then proceeded to disabuse their minds about the facility of + gold. + </p> + <p> + “A crop of gold,” said he, “does not come by the wind any more than a crop + of corn; it comes by harder digging than your potatoes ever saw, and + harder work than you ever did—oxen and horses perspire for you, + Fielding No. 2.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you ever see a horse or an ox mow an acre of grass or barley?” + retorted William dryly. + </p> + <p> + “Don't brag,” replied the other; “they'll eat all you can mow and never + say a word about it.” + </p> + <p> + This repartee was so suited to their rustic idea of wit, that Robinson's + antagonists laughed heartily, except George. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter with him?” said Robinson, sotto voce, indicating + George. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! he is cross, never mind him,” replied Susan ostentatiously loud. + George winced, but never spoke back to her. + </p> + <p> + Robinson then proceeded to disabuse the rural mind of the notion that gold + is to be got without hard toil, even in California. He told them how the + miners' shirts were wet through and through in the struggle for gold; he + told them how the little boys demanded a dollar apiece for washing these + same garments; and how the miners to escape this extortion sent their + linen to China in ships on Monday morning, and China sent them back on + Saturday, only it was Saturday six weeks. + </p> + <p> + Next Mr. Robinson proceeded to draw a parallel between England and various + nations on the other side of the Atlantic, not at all complimentary to his + island home; above all, he was eloquent on the superior dignity of labor + in new countries. + </p> + <p> + “I heard one of your clodhoppers say the other day, 'The squire is a good + gentleman, he often <i>gives me a day's work</i>.' Now I should think it + was the clodhopper gave the gentleman the day's work, and the gentleman + gave him a shilling for it—and made five by it.” + </p> + <p> + William Fielding scratched his head. This was a new view of things to him, + but there seemed to be something in it. + </p> + <p> + “Ay! rake that into your upper soil,” cried our republican orator; then + collecting into one his scattered items of argument, he invited his friend + George to take his muscle, pluck, wind, backbone, and self, out of this + miserable country, and come where the best man has a chance to win. + </p> + <p> + “Come, George,” he cried, “England is the spot if you happen to be married + to a duke's daughter, and got fifty thousand a year and three houses. + </p> + <p> + “<i>And</i> a coach. + </p> + <p> + “<i>And</i> a brougham. + </p> + <p> + “<i>And</i> a curricle. + </p> + <p> + “<i>And</i> ten brace of pointers. + </p> + <p> + “<i>And</i> a telescope so big the stars must move to it, instead of it to + the stars. + </p> + <p> + “<i>And</i> no end of pretty housemaids. + </p> + <p> + “<i>And</i> a butler with a poultice round his neck and whiskers like a + mop-head. + </p> + <p> + “<i>And</i> a silver tub full of rose-water to sit in and read the <i>Morning + Post</i>. + </p> + <p> + “<i>And</i> a green-house full of peaches—and green peas all the + year round. + </p> + <p> + “<i>And</i> a pew in the church warmed with biling eau de Cologne. + </p> + <p> + “<i>And</i> a carpet a foot thick. + </p> + <p> + “<i>And</i> a piano-forte in every blessed room in the house. But this + island is the Dead Sea to a poor man.” + </p> + <p> + He then, diverging from the rhetorical to the metropolitan style, proposed + to his friend “to open one eye. That will show you this hole you are in is + all poor hungry arable ground. You know you can't work it to a profit.” + (George winced.) “No! steal, borrow, or beg 500 pounds. Carry out a cargo + of pea-jackets and fourpenny bits to swap for gold-dust, a few tools, a + stout heart, and a light pair of—'Oh, no; we never mention them; + their name is never heard'—and we'll soon fill both pockets with the + shiney in California.” + </p> + <p> + All this Mr. Robinson delivered with a volubility to which Berkshire had + hitherto been a stranger. + </p> + <p> + “A crust of bread in England before buffalo beef in California,” was + George's reply; but it was not given in that assured tone with which he + would have laughed at Robinson's eloquence a week ago. + </p> + <p> + “I could not live with all those thieves and ruffians that are settled + down there like crows on a dead horse; but I thank you kindly, my lad, all + the same,” said the tender-hearted young man. + </p> + <p> + “Strange,” thought he, “that so many should sing me the same tune,” and he + fell back into his reverie. + </p> + <p> + Here they were all summoned to dinner, with a dash of asperity, by Sarah + the stout farm servant. + </p> + <p> + Susan lingered an instant to speak to George. She chose an unfortunate + topic. She warned him once more against Mr. Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “My father says that he has no business nor trade, and he is not a + gentleman, in spite of his red and green cravat, so he must be a rogue of + some sort.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall I tell you his greatest fault?” was the bitter reply. “He is my + friend; he is the only creature that has spoken kind words to me to-day. + Oh! I saw how cross you looked at him.” + </p> + <p> + Susan's eyes flashed, and the color rose in her cheek, and the water in + her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “You are a fool, George,” said she; “you don't know how to read a woman, + nor her looks, nor her words either.” + </p> + <p> + And Susan was very angry and disdainful, and did not speak to George all + dinner-time. + </p> + <p> + As for poor George, he followed her into the house with a heart both sick + and heavy. + </p> + <p> + This Berkshire farmer had a proud and sensitive nature under a homely + crust. + </p> + <p> + Old Merton's words had been iron passing through his soul, and besides he + felt as if everything was turning cold and slippery and gliding from his + hand. He shivered with vague fears, and wished the sun would set at one + o'clock and the sorrowful day come to an end. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. + </h2> + <p> + THE meal passed almost in silence; Robinson was too hungry to say a word, + and a weight hung upon George and Susan. + </p> + <p> + As they were about to rise, William observed two men in the farmyard who + were strangers to him—the men seemed to be inspecting the hogs. It + struck him as rather cool; but apparently the pig is an animal which to be + prized needs but to be known, for all connoisseurs of him are also + enthusiastic amateurs. + </p> + <p> + When I say the pig I mean the four-legged one. + </p> + <p> + William Fielding, partly from curiosity to hear these strangers' remarks, + partly hoping to find customers in them, strolled into the farmyard before + his companions rose from the table. + </p> + <p> + The others, looking carelessly out of the window, saw William join the two + men and enter into conversation with them; but their attention was almost + immediately diverted from that group by the entrance of Meadows. He came + in radiant; his face was a remarkable contrast to the rest of the party. + </p> + <p> + Susan could not help noticing it. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Mr. Meadows,” cried she, “you look as bright as a May morning; it is + quite refreshing to see you; we are all rather down here this morning.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows said nothing, and did not seem at his ease under this remark. + </p> + <p> + George rose from the table; so did Susan; Robinson merely pushed back his + chair and gave a comfortable little sigh, but the next moment he cried + “Hallo!” + </p> + <p> + They looked up, and there was William's face close against the window. + </p> + <p> + William's face was remarkably pale, and first he tried to attract George's + attention without speaking, but finding himself observed by the whole + party, he spoke out. + </p> + <p> + “George, will you speak a word?” said he. + </p> + <p> + George rose and went out; but Susan's curiosity was wakened, and she + followed him, accompanied by Meadows. + </p> + <p> + “None but you, George,” said William, with a voice half stern, half + quivering. + </p> + <p> + George looked at his brother. + </p> + <p> + “Out with it,” cried he, “it is some deadly ill-luck; I have felt it + coming all day, but out with it; what can't I bear after the words I have + borne this morning?” + </p> + <p> + William hung his head. + </p> + <p> + “George, there is a distress upon the farm for the rent.” + </p> + <p> + George did not speak at first, he literally staggered under these words; + his proud spirit writhed in his countenance, and with a groan, he turned + his back abruptly upon them all and hid his face against the corner of his + own house, the cold hard bricks. + </p> + <p> + Meadows, by strong self-command, contrived not to move a muscle of his + face. + </p> + <p> + Up to this day and hour, Susan Merton had always seemed cool, compared + with her lover; she used to treat him a little <i>de haut en bas</i>. + </p> + <p> + But when she saw his shame and despair, she was much distressed. + </p> + <p> + “George, George!” she cried, “don't do so. Can nothing be done? Where is + my father?—they told me he was here. He is rich, he shall help you.” + She darted from them in search of Merton; ere she could turn the angle of + the house he met her. + </p> + <p> + “You had better go home, my girl,” said he gravely. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no, no! I have been too unkind to George already,” and she turned + toward him like a pitying angel with hands extended as if they would bring + balm to a hurt soul. + </p> + <p> + Meadows left chuckling and was red and white by turns. + </p> + <p> + Merton was one of those friends one may make sure of finding in adversity. + </p> + <p> + “There,” cried he, “George, I told you how it would end.” + </p> + <p> + George wheeled round on him like lightning. + </p> + <p> + “What, do you come here to insult over me? I must be a long way lower than + I am, before I shall be as low as you were when my mother took you up and + made a man of you.” + </p> + <p> + “George, George!” cried Susan in dismay; “stop, for pity's sake, before + you say words that will separate us forever. Father,” cried the + peace-making angel, “how can you push poor George so hard and him in + trouble! and we have all been too unkind to him to-day.” + </p> + <p> + Ere either could answer, there was happily another interruption. A smart + servant in livery walked up to them with a letter. With the instinctive + feeling of class they all endeavored to conceal their agitation from the + gentleman's servant. He handed George the note, and saying, “I was to wait + for an answer, Farmer Fielding,” sauntered toward the farm-stables. + </p> + <p> + “From Mr. Winchester,” said George, after a long and careful inspection of + the outside. + </p> + <p> + In the country it is a point of honor to find out the writer of a letter + by the direction, not the signature. + </p> + <p> + “The Honorable Francis Winchester! What does he write to you?” cried + Merton, in a tone of great surprise. This, too, was not lost on George. + </p> + <p> + Human nature is human nature. He was not sorry to be able to read a + gentleman's letter in the face of one who had bitterly reproached him, and + of others who had seen him mortified and struck down. + </p> + <p> + “Seems so,” said George, dryly, and with a glance of defiance; and he read + out the letter. + </p> + <p> + “George Fielding, my fine fellow, think of it again. I have two berths in + the ship that sails from Southampton to-morrow. You will have every + comfort on the voyage—a great point. I will do what I said for you” + (“he promised me five hundred sheep and a run”). “I must have an honest + man, and where can I find as honest a man as George Fielding?” (“Thank + you, Mr. Winchester; George Fielding thanks you, sir.”) And there was + something noble and simple in the way the young farmer drew himself up, + and looked fearlessly in all his companions' eyes. + </p> + <p> + “You saved my life—I can do nothing for you here—and you are + doing no good at 'The Grove'—everybody says so (“everybody says so!”—and + George Fielding winced at the words). + </p> + <p> + “And it really pains me, my brave fellow, to go without you where I know I + could put you on the way of fortune. My heart is pretty stout; but home is + home; and be assured that I wait with some anxiety to know whether my eyes + are to look on nothing but water for the next four months, or are to be + cheered by the sight of something from home, the face of a thoroughbred + English yeoman, and—a friend—and—and—” + </p> + <p> + Poor George could read no more, the kind words, coming after his affronts + and troubles, brought his heart to his mouth. + </p> + <p> + Susan took the letter from him, and read out— + </p> + <p> + “And an upright, downright honest man”—“AND SO YOU ARE, GEORGE!” + cried she, warmly, drawing to George's side, and darting glances of + defiance vaguely around. Then she continued to read— + </p> + <p> + “If the answer is favorable, a word is enough. Meet me at 'The Crown,' in + Newborough, to-night, and we will go up to Town by the mail train.” + </p> + <p> + “The answer is, Yes,” said George to the servant, who was at some + distance. + </p> + <p> + Susan, bending over the letter, heard, but could not realize the word, but + the servant now came nearer. George said to him, “Tell your master, Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes? George!” cried Susan, “what do you mean by yes? It is about going to + Australia.” + </p> + <p> + “The answer is yes,” said George. + </p> + <p> + The servant went away with the answer. + </p> + <p> + The others remained motionless. + </p> + <p> + “This nobleman's son respects me if worse folk don't. But it is not the + great bloodhounds and greyhounds that bark at misfortune's heels, it is + only the village curs, when all is done. This is my path. I'll pack up my + things and go.” And he did not look at Susan or any of them, but went into + the house like a man walking in his sleep. + </p> + <p> + There was a stupefied pause. + </p> + <p> + Then Susan gave a cry like a wounded deer. + </p> + <p> + “Father! what have you done?” + </p> + <p> + Merton himself had been staggered, but he replied stoutly: + </p> + <p> + “No more than my duty, girl, and I hope you will do no less than yours.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment Robinson threw up the window and jumped out into the yard. + </p> + <p> + Meadows, under stronger interests, had forgotten Robinson; but now at + sight of him he looked round, and catching the eye of a man who was + peering over the farmyard wall, made him a signal. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter?” cried Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “George is going to Australia,” replied Merton, coldly. + </p> + <p> + “Australia!” roared Robinson—“Australia! He's mad. Who ever goes + there unless they are forced? He shan't go there! I wouldn't go there if + my passage was paid, and a new suit of clothes given me, and the + governor's gig to take me ashore to a mansion provided for my reception, + fires lighted, beds aired and pipes laid across upon the table.” + </p> + <p> + As Robinson concluded this tirade the policeman and constable, who had + crept round the angle of the farm-house, came one on each side, put each a + hand on one of his elbows and—took him! + </p> + <p> + He looked first down at their hands in turn, then up at their faces in + turn, and when he saw the metropolitan's face a look of simple disgust + diffused itself over his whole countenance. + </p> + <p> + “Ugh!!!” interjected Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “Ay!” replied the policeman, while putting handcuffs on him. “To Australia + you'll go, for all that, Tom Lyon, alias Scott, alias Robinson, and you'll + have a new suit of clothes, mostly one color, and voyage paid, and a large + house ashore waiting for you; and the governor's gig will come alongside + for you, provided they can't find the convicts' barge,” and the official + was pleased with himself and his wit and allowed it to appear. + </p> + <p> + But by this time Robinson was on his balance again. “Gentlemen,” answered + he with cold dignity, “what am I to understand by this violence from + persons to whom I am an utter stranger?” and he might have set for the + picture of injured innocence. “I am not acquainted with you, sir,” added + he; “and by the titles you give me it seems you are not acquainted with + me.” + </p> + <p> + The police laughed, and took out of this injured man's pocket the stolen + notes which Meadows instantly identified. + </p> + <p> + Then Mr. Robinson started off into another key equally artistical in its + way. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Merton,” snuffled he, “appearances are against me, but mark my + words, my innocence will emerge all the brighter for this temporary + cloud.” + </p> + <p> + Susan Merton ran indoors, saying, “Oh! I must tell George.” She was not + sorry of an excuse to be by George's side, and remind him by her presence + that if home had its thorns it had its rose tree, too. + </p> + <p> + News soon spreads; rustic heads were seen peeping over the wall to see the + finale of the fine gentleman from “Lunnun.” Meantime the constable went to + put his horse in a four-wheeled chaise destined to convey Robinson to the + county jail. + </p> + <p> + If the rural population expected to see this worthy discomposed by so + sudden a change of fortune, they were soon undeceived. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Jacobs,” said he, with sudden familiarity, “you seem uncommon + pleased, and I am content. I would rather have gone to California; but any + place is better than England. Laugh those who win. I shall breathe a + delicious climate; you will make yourself as happy as a prince, that is to + say, miserable, upon fifteen shillings and two colds a week; my sobriety + and industry will realize a fortune under a smiling sun. Let chaps that + never saw the world, and the beautiful countries there are in it, snivel + at leaving this island of fogs and rocks and taxes and nobs, the rich + man's paradise, the poor man's—I never swear, it's vulgar.” + </p> + <p> + While he was crushing his captors with his eloquence, George and Susan + came together from the house; George's face betrayed wonder and something + akin to horror. + </p> + <p> + “A thief!” cried he. “Have I taken the hand of a thief?” + </p> + <p> + “It is a business like any other,” said Robinson deprecatingly. + </p> + <p> + “If you have no shame I have; I long to be gone now.” + </p> + <p> + “George!” whined the culprit, who, strange to say, had become attached to + the honest young farmer. “Did ever I take tithe of you? You have got a + silver candle cup, a heavenly old coffee-pot, no end of spoons double the + weight those rogues the silversmiths make them now; they are in a box + under your bed in your room,” added he, looking down. “Count them, they + are all right; and Miss Merton, your bracelet, the gold one with the + cameo: I could have had it a hundred times. Miss Merton, ask him to shake + hands with me at parting. I am so fond of him, and perhaps I shall never + see him again. + </p> + <p> + “Shake hands with you?” answered George sternly; “if your hands were loose + I doubt I should ram my fist down your throat; but there, you are not + worth a thought at such a time, and you are a man in trouble, and I am + another. I forgive you, and I pray Heaven I may never see your face + again.” + </p> + <p> + And Honesty turned his back in Theft's face. + </p> + <p> + Robinson bit his lip and said nothing, but his eyes glistened; just then a + little boy and girl, who had been peering about mighty curious, took + courage and approached hand in hand. The girl was the speaker, as a matter + of course. + </p> + <p> + “Farmer Fielding,” said she curtsying, a mode of reverence which was + instantly copied by the boy, “we are come to see the thief; they say you + have caught one. Oh, dear!” (and her bright little countenance was + overcast), “I couldn't have told it from a man!” + </p> + <p> + We don't know all that is in the hearts of the wicked. Robinson was + observed to change color at these silly words. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Jacobs,” said he, addressing the policeman, “have you authority to + put me in the pillory before trial?” He said this coldly and sternly; and + then added, “Perhaps you are aware that I am a man, and I might say a + brother, for you were a thief, you know!” Then changing his tone entirely, + “I say, Jacobs,” said he, with cheerful briskness, “do you remember + cracking the silversmith's shop in Lambeth along with Jem Salisbury and + Black George, and—” + </p> + <p> + “There, the gig is ready,” cried Mr. Jacobs; “you come along,” and the + ex-thief pushed the thief hastily off the premises and drove him away with + speed. + </p> + <p> + George Fielding gave a bitter sigh. This was a fresh mortification. He had + for the last two months been defending Robinson against the surmises of + the village. + </p> + <p> + Villages are always concluding there is something wrong about people. + </p> + <p> + “What does he do?” inquired our village. + </p> + <p> + “Where does he get his blue coat with brass buttons, his tartan waistcoat + and green satin tie with red ends? We admit all this looks like a + gentleman. But yet, somehow, a gentleman is a horse of another color than + this Robinson.” + </p> + <p> + George had sometimes laughed at all this, sometimes been very angry, and + always stood up stoutly for his friend and lodger. + </p> + <p> + And now the fools were right and he was wrong. His friend and protege was + handcuffed before his eyes and carried off to the county jail amid the + grins and stares of a score of gaping rustics, who would make a fine story + of it this evening in both public-houses; and a hundred voices would echo + some such conversational Tristich as this: + </p> + <p> + 1st Rustic. “I tawld un as much, dinn't I now, Jarge?” + </p> + <p> + 2d Rustic. “That ye did, Richard, for I heerd ee.” + </p> + <p> + 1st Rustic. “But, la! bless ye, he don't vally advice, he don't.” + </p> + <p> + George Fielding groaned out, “I'm ready to go now—I'm quite ready to + go—I am leaving a nest of insults;” and he darted into the house, as + much to escape the people's eyes as to finish his slight preparations for + so great a journey. + </p> + <p> + Two men were left alone; sulky William and respectable Meadows. Both these + men's eyes followed George into the house, and each had a strong emotion + they were bent on concealing, and did conceal from each other; but was it + concealed from all the world? + </p> + <p> + The farm-house had two rooms looking upon the spot where most of our tale + has passed. + </p> + <p> + The smaller one of these was a little state parlor, seldom used by the + family. Here on a table was a grand old folio Bible; the names, births, + and deaths of a century of Fieldings appeared in rusty ink and various + handwritings upon its fly-leaf. + </p> + <p> + Framed on the walls were the first savage attempts of woman at + worsted-work in these islands. There were two moral commonplaces, and + there was the forbidden fruit-tree, whose branches diverged, at set + distances like the radii of a circle, from its stem, a perpendicular line; + exactly at the end of each branch hung one forbidden fruit—pre-Raphaelite + worsted-work. + </p> + <p> + There were also two prints of more modern date, one agricultural, one + manufactural. + </p> + <p> + No. 1 was a great show of farming implements at Doncaster. + </p> + <p> + No. 2 showed how, one day in the history of man and of mutton, a sheep was + sheared, her wool washed, teased, carded, etc., and the cloth *'d and *'d + and *'d and *'d, and a coat shaped and sewed and buttoned upon a goose, + whose preparations for inebriating the performers and spectators of his + feat appeared in a prominent part of the picture. + </p> + <p> + The window of this sunny little room was open and on the sill was a row of + flower-pots from which a sweet fresh smell crept with the passing air into + the chamber. + </p> + <p> + Behind these flower-pots for two hours past had crouched—all eye and + ear and mind—a keen old man. + </p> + <p> + To Isaac Levi age had brought vast experience, and had not yet dimmed any + one of his senses. More than forty-five years ago he had been brought to + see that men seldom act or speak so as to influence the fortunes of others + without some motive of their own; and that these motives are seldom the + motives they advance; and that their real motives are not always known to + themselves, and yet can nearly always be read and weighed by an + intelligent bystander. + </p> + <p> + So for near half a century Isaac Levi had read that marvelous page of + nature written on black, white and red parchments, and called “Man.” + </p> + <p> + One result of his perusal was this, that the heads of human tribes differ + far more than their hearts. + </p> + <p> + The passions and the heart he had found intelligible and much the same + from Indus to the Pole. + </p> + <p> + The people of our tale were like men walking together in a coppice; they + had but glimpses of each others' minds. But to Isaac behind his + flower-pots they were a little human chart spread out flat before him, and + not a region in it he had not traveled and surveyed before to-day: what to + others passed for accident to him was design; he penetrated more than one + disguise of manner; and above all his intelligence bored like a center-bit + into the deep heart of his enemy, Meadows, and at each turn of the + center-bit his eye flashed, his ear lived, and he crouched patient as a + cat, keen as a lynx. + </p> + <p> + He was forgotten, but not by all. + </p> + <p> + Meadows, a cautious man, was the one to ask himself, “Where is that old + heathen, and what is he doing?” + </p> + <p> + To satisfy himself, Meadows had come smoothly to the door of the little + apartment, and burst suddenly into it. + </p> + <p> + There he found the reverend Israelite extended on a little couch, a + bandana handkerchief thrown over his face, calmly reposing. + </p> + <p> + Meadows paused, eyed him keenly, listened to his gentle but audible, + equable breathing, relieved his mind by shaking his fist at him, and went + out. + </p> + <p> + Thirty seconds later Isaac <i>awoke!</i> spat in the direction of Meadows, + and crouched again behind the innocent flowers, patient as a cat, keen as + a lynx. + </p> + <p> + So then; when George was gone in, William Fielding and Mr. Meadows both + felt a sudden need of being alone; each longed to indulge some feeling he + did not care the other should see; so they both turned their faces away + from each other and strolled apart. + </p> + <p> + Isaac Levi caught both faces off their guard, and read the men as by a + lightning flash to the bottom line of their hearts. + </p> + <p> + For two hours he had followed the text, word by word, deed by deed, letter + by letter, and now a comment on that text was written in these faces. + </p> + <p> + That comment said that William was rejoiced at George's departure and + ashamed of himself for the feeling. That Meadows rejoiced still more and + was ashamed anybody should know he had the feeling. + </p> + <p> + Isaac withdrew from his lair; his task was done. + </p> + <p> + “Those men both love that woman, and this Meadows loves her with all his + soul, and she-aha!” and triumph flashed from under his dark brows. But at + his age calm is the natural state of the mind and spirits; he composed + himself for the present, and awaited an opportunity to strike his enemy + with effect. + </p> + <p> + The aged man had read Mr. Meadows aright; under that modulated exterior + raged as deep a passion as ever shook a strong nature. + </p> + <p> + For some time he had fought against it. “She is another man's sweetheart,” + he had said to himself; “no good will come of courting her.” But by + degrees the flax bonds of prudence snapped one by one as the flame every + now and then darted at them. Meadows began to reason the matter coolly. + </p> + <p> + “They can never marry, those two. I wish they would marry or break off, to + put me out of this torture; but they can't marry, and my sweet Susan is + wasting her prime for nothing, for a dream. Besides, it is not as if she + loved him the way I love her. She is like many a young maid. The first + comer gets her promise before she knows her value. They walk together, get + spoken of; she settles down into a groove, and so goes on, whether her + heart is in it or not; it is habit more than anything.” + </p> + <p> + Then he watched the pair, and observed that Susan's manner to George was + cool and off-hand, and that she did not seem to seek opportunities of + being alone with him. + </p> + <p> + Having got so far, he now felt it his duty to think of her interest. + </p> + <p> + He could not but feel that he was a great match for any farmer's daughter; + whereas “poor young Fielding,” said he compassionately, “is more likely to + break as a bachelor than to support a wife and children upon 'The Grove.'” + </p> + <p> + He next allowed his mind to dwell with some bitterness upon the poor + destiny that stood between him and the woman he loved. + </p> + <p> + “George Fielding! a dull dog, that could be just as happy with any other + girl as with my angel. An oaf, so little alive to his prize that he + doesn't even see he has rivals; doesn't see that his brother loves her. + Ah! but I see that, though; lovers' eyes are sharp. Doesn't see me, who + mean to take her from both these Fieldings—and what harm? It isn't + as if their love was like mine. Heaven forbid I should meddle if it was. A + few weeks, and a few mugs of ale would wash her from what little mind + either of them have; but I never loved a woman before, and never could + look at another after her.” + </p> + <p> + And so by degrees Meadows saw that he was quite justified in his resolve + to win Susan Merton, PROVIDED IT WAS DONE FAIRLY. + </p> + <p> + This resolve taken, all this man's words and actions began to be colored + more or less by his secret wishes; and it is not too much to say, that + this was the hand which was gently but adroitly, with a touch here and a + touch there, pushing George Fielding across the Ocean. + </p> + <p> + You see, a respectable man can do a deal of mischief; more than a rogue + could. + </p> + <p> + A shrug of the shoulders from Meadows had caused the landlord to distrain. + </p> + <p> + A hint from Meadows had caused Merton to affront George about Susan. + </p> + <p> + A tone of Meadows had closed the bank cash-box to the Fieldings' bill of + exchange, and so on. And now, finding it almost impossible to contain his + exultation—for George once in Australia he felt he could soon + vanquish Susan's faint preference, the result of habit—he turned + off, and went to meet his mare at the gate; the boy had just returned with + her. + </p> + <p> + He put his foot in the stirrup, but ere he mounted it occurred to him to + ask one of the farm servants whether the old Jew was gone. + </p> + <p> + “I sin him in the barn just now,” was the reply. + </p> + <p> + Meadows took his foot out of the stirrup. Never leave an enemy behind you, + was one of his rules. “And why does the old heathen stay?” Meadows asked + himself; he clinched his teeth and vowed he would not leave the village + till George Fielding was on his way to Australia. + </p> + <p> + He sent his mare to the “Black Horse,” and strolled up the village; then + he showed the boy a shilling and said, “You be sure and run to the + public-house and let me know when George Fielding is going to start—I + should like to see the last of him.” + </p> + <p> + This was true! + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. + </h2> + <p> + AND now passed over “The Grove” the heaviest hours it had ever known; + hours as weary as they were bitter to George Fielding. “The Grove” was + nothing to him now—in mind he was already separated from it; his + clothes were ready, he had nothing more to do, and he wished he could + fling himself this moment into the ship and hide his head, and sleep and + forget his grief, until he reached the land whose fat and endless pastures + were to make him rich and send him home a fitter match for Susan. + </p> + <p> + As the moment for parting drew nearer there came to him that tardy + consolation which often comes to the honest man then when it can but add + to his pangs of regret. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps no man is good, manly, tender, generous, honest and unlucky quite + in vain; at last, when such a man is leaving all who have been unjust or + cold to him, scales fall from their eyes, a sense of his value flashes + like lightning across their half-empty skulls and tepid hearts, they feel + and express some respect and regret, and make him sadder to leave them; so + did the neighbors of “The Grove” to young Fielding. Some hands gave him + now their first warm pressure, and one or two voices even faltered as they + said “God bless thee, lad!” + </p> + <p> + And now the carter's lad ran in with a message from a farmer at the top of + the hill. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! Master George, Farmer Dodd says, if you please, he couldn't think to + let you walk. You are to go in his gig to Newbury, if you'll walk up as + fur as his farm; he's afeared to come down <i>our</i> hill, a says, + because if <i>he</i> did, <i>his</i> mare 'ud kick <i>his</i> gig into + toothpicks, <i>he</i> says. Oh! Master George, <i>I</i> be sorry <i>you</i> + be going,” and the boy, who had begun quite cheerfully, ended in a + whimper. + </p> + <p> + “I thank him! Take my bag, boy, and I'll follow in half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + Sarah brought out the bag and opened it, and, weeping bitterly, put into + it a bottle with her name on a bit of paper tied round the neck, to remind + poor George he was not forgotten at “The Grove,” and then she gave George + the key and went sadly in, her apron to her eyes. + </p> + <p> + And now George fixed his eye on his brother William, and said to him, + “Wilham, will you come with me, if <i>you</i> please?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, George, sure.” + </p> + <p> + They went through the farmyard side by side; neither spoke, and George + took a last look at the ricks, and he paused, and seemed minded to speak, + but he did not, he only muttered “not here.” Then George led the way out + into the paddock, and so into the lane, and very soon they saw the village + church. William wondered George did not speak. They passed under the + yewtree into the churchyard. William's heart fluttered. They found the + vicar's cow browsing on the graves. William took up a stone. George put + out his hand not to let him hurt her, and George turned her gently into + the lane; then he stepped carefully among the graves. William followed + him, his heart fluttering more and more with vague fears. William knew now + where they were going, but what was George going to say to him there? his + heart beat faint-like. By-and-by the brothers came to this— + </p> + <p> + [Drawing of Grave] + </p> + <p> + The grave was between the two men—and silence—both looked + down. + </p> + <p> + George whispered, “Good-by, mother! She never thought we should be parted + this way.” Then he turned to William and opened his mouth to say something + more to him; doubtless that which he had come to say, but apparently it + was too much for him. I think he feared his own resolution. He gasped and + with a heavy sigh led the way home. William walked with him, not knowing + what to think or do or say; at last he muttered, “I wouldn't go, if my + heart was here!” + </p> + <p> + “I shall go, Will,” replied George, rather sternly as it seemed. + </p> + <p> + When they came back to the house they found several persons collected. + </p> + <p> + Old Fielding, the young men's grandfather, was there; he had made them + wheel him in his great chair out into the sun. + </p> + <p> + Grandfather Fielding had reached the last stage of human existence. He was + ninety-two years of age. The lines in his face were cordage, his aspect + was stony and impassible, and he was all but impervious to passing events; + his thin blood had almost ceased to circulate in his extremities; for + every drop he had was needed to keep his old heart a-beating at all, + instead of stopping like a clock that has run down. + </p> + <p> + Meadows had returned to see George off, and old Merton was also there, and + he was one of those whose hearts gave them a bit of a twinge. + </p> + <p> + “George,” said he, “I'm vexed for speaking unkind to you to-day of all + days in the year; I didn't think we were to part so soon, lad.” + </p> + <p> + “No more about it, uncle,” faltered George; “what does it matter now?” + </p> + <p> + Susan Merton came out of the house; she had caught her father's + conciliatory words; she seemed composed, but pale; she threw her arms + round her father's neck. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! father,” said she imploringly, “I thought it was a dream, but he is + going, he is really going. Oh! don't let him go from us; speak him fair, + father, his spirit is so high!” + </p> + <p> + “Susan!” replied the old farmer, “mayhap the lad thinks me his enemy, but + I'm not. My daughter shall not marry a bankrupt farmer, but you bring home + a thousand pounds—just one thousand pounds—to show me you are + not a fool, and you shall have my daughter and she shall have my + blessing.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows exulted. + </p> + <p> + “Your hand on that, uncle,” cried George, with ardor; “your hand on that + before Heaven and all present.” + </p> + <p> + The old farmer gave George his hand upon it. + </p> + <p> + “But, father,” cried Susan, “your words are sending him away from me.” + </p> + <p> + “Susan!” said George sorrowfully but firmly, “I am to go, but don't forget + it is for your sake I leave you, my darling Susan—to be a better man + for your sake. Uncle, since your last words there is no ill-will; but + (bluntly) I can't speak my heart before you.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll go, George, I'll go; shan't be said my sister's son hadn't leave to + speak his mind to letbe who atool,* at such a time.” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + *Let be who it will. Cui libet. +</pre> + <p> + Merton turned to leave them, but ere he had taken two steps a most + unlooked-for interruption chained him to the spot. An old man, with a long + beard and a glittering eye, was among them before they were aware of him; + he fixed his eye upon Meadows, and spoke a single word—but that word + fell like a sledge-hammer. + </p> + <p> + “No!!” said Isaac Levi in the midst. “No!!” repeated he to John Meadows. + </p> + <p> + Meadows understood perfectly what “No” meant; a veto upon all his plans, + hopes and wishes. + </p> + <p> + “Young man,” said Isaac to George, “you shall not wander forth from the + home of your fathers. These old eyes see deeper than yours (and he sent an + eye-stab at Meadows); you are honest—all men say so—I will + lend you the money for your rent, and one who loves you (and he gave + another eye-stab at Meadows) will bless me.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! yes, I bless you,” cried Susan innocently. + </p> + <p> + The late exulting Meadows was benumbed at this. + </p> + <p> + “Surely Heaven sends you to me,” cried Susan. “It is Mr. Levi, of + Farnborough.” + </p> + <p> + Here was a diversion. Meadows cursed the intruder, and his own evil star + that had raised him up so malignant an enemy. + </p> + <p> + “All my web undone in a moment,” thought he, and despair began to take + possession of him. + </p> + <p> + Susan, on the other hand, was all joy and hope; William more or less + despondent. + </p> + <p> + The old Jew glanced from one to another, read them all, and enjoyed his + triumph. + </p> + <p> + But when his eye returned to George Fielding he met with something he had + not reckoned upon. + </p> + <p> + The young man showed no joy, no emotion. He stood immovable, like a statue + of a man, and when he opened his lips it was like a statue speaking with + its marble mouth. + </p> + <p> + “No! Susan. No! old man. I am honest, though I'm poor—and proud, + though you have seen me put to shame near my own homestead more than once + to-day. To borrow without a chance of paying is next door to stealing; and + I should never pay you. My eyes are opened in spite of my heart. I can't + farm 'The Grove' with no grass, and wheat at forty shillings. I've tried + all I know, and I can't do it. Will there is dying to try, and he shall + try, and may Heaven speed his plow better than it has poor George's.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not thinking of the farm now, George,” said William. “I'm thinking + of when we were boys, and used to play marbles—together—upon + the tombstones.” And he faltered a little. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Levi! seems you have a kindness for me. Show it to my brother when + I'm away, if you <i>will</i> be so good.” + </p> + <p> + “Hum?” said Isaac doubtfully. “I care not to see your stout young heart + give way, as it will. Ah, me! I can pity the wanderer from home. I will + speak a word with you, and then I will go home.” + </p> + <p> + He drew George aside, and made him a secret communication. + </p> + <p> + Merton called Susan to him, and made her promise to be prudent, then he + shook hands with George and went away. + </p> + <p> + Now Meadows, from the direction of Isaac's glance, and a certain + half-surprised half-contemptuous look that stole over George's face, + suspected that his enemy, whose sagacity he could no longer doubt, was + warning George against him. + </p> + <p> + This made him feel very uneasy where he was, and this respectable man + dreaded some exposure of his secret. So he said hastily, “I'll go along + with you, farmer,” and in a moment was by Merton's side, as that worthy + stopped to open the gate that led out of George's premises. His feelings + were anything but pleasant when George called to him: + </p> + <p> + “No, sir! stop. You are as good a witness as I could choose of what I have + to say. Step this way, if you please, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows returned, clinched his teeth, and prepared for the worst, but + inwardly he cursed his uneasy folly in staying here, instead of riding + home the moment George had said “Yes!” to Australia. + </p> + <p> + George now looked upon the ground a moment; and there was something in his + manner that arrested the attention of all. + </p> + <p> + Meadows turned hot and cold. + </p> + <p> + “I am going—to speak—to my brother, Mr. Meadows!” said he, + syllable by syllable to Meadows in a way brimful of meaning. + </p> + <p> + “To me, George?” said William, a little uneasy. + </p> + <p> + “To you!—Fall back a bit.” (Some rustics were encroaching upon the + circle.) + </p> + <p> + “Fall back, if you please; this is a family matter.” + </p> + <p> + Isaac Levi, instead of going quite away, seated himself on a bench outside + the palings. + </p> + <p> + It was now William's turn to flutter; he said, however, to himself, “It is + about the farm; it must be about the farm.” + </p> + <p> + George resumed. “I've often had it on my mind to speak to you, but I was + ashamed, now that's the truth; but now I am going away from her I must + speak out, and I will—William!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, George?” + </p> + <p> + “You've taken—a fancy—to my Susan, William!” + </p> + <p> + At these words, which, though they had cost him so much to say, George + spoke gravely and calmly like common words, William gave one startled look + all round, then buried his face directly in his hands in a paroxysm of + shame. + </p> + <p> + Susan, who was looking at George, remonstrated loudly, “How can you be so + silly, George! I am sure that is the last idea poor William—” + </p> + <p> + George drew her attention to William by a wave of the hand. + </p> + <p> + She held her tongue in a moment, and turned very red, and lowered her eyes + to the ground. It was a very painful situation—to none more than to + Meadows, who was waiting his turn. + </p> + <p> + George continued: “Oh, it is not to reproach you, my poor lad. Who could + be near her, and not warm to her? But she is my lass, Will, and no other + man's. It is three years since she said the word. And though it was my + hard luck there should be some coolness between us this bitter day, she + will think of me when the ocean rolls between us if no villain undermines + me—” + </p> + <p> + “Villain! George!” groaned William. “That is a word I never thought to + hear from you.” + </p> + <p> + “That's why I speak in time,” said George. “I do suppose I am safe against + villainy here.” And his eye swept lightly over both the men. “Anyway, it + shan't be a <i>mis</i>take or a <i>mis</i>understanding; it shall be + villainy if <i>'tis</i> done. Speak, Susanna Merton, and speak your real + mind once for all.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! George,” cried Susan, fluttering with love; “you shall not go in + doubt of me. We are betrothed this three years, and I never regretted my + choice a single moment. I never saw, I never shall see, the man I could + bear to look on beside you, my beautiful George. Take my ring and my + promise, George.” And she put her ring on his little finger and kissed his + hand. “While you are true to me, nothing but death shall part us twain. + There never was any coolness between us, dear; you only thought so. You + don't know what fools women are; how they delight to tease the man they + love, and so torment themselves ten times more. I always loved you, but + never as I do to-day; so honest, so proud, so unfortunate; I love you, I + honor you, I adore you, oh! my love!—my love!—my love!!” + </p> + <p> + She saw but George—she thought but of George—and how to soften + his sorrow, and remove his doubts, if he had any. And she poured out these + words of love with her whole soul—with blushes and tears and all the + fire of a chaste and passionate woman's heart. And she clung to her love; + and her tender bosom heaved against his; and she strained him, with tears + and sighs, to her bosom; and he kissed her beautiful head; and his + suffering heart drew warmth from this heavenly contact. + </p> + <p> + The late exulting Meadows turned as pale as ashes, and trembled from head + to foot. + </p> + <p> + “Do you hear, William?” said George. + </p> + <p> + “I hear, George,” replied William in an iron whisper, with his sullen head + sunk upon his breast. + </p> + <p> + George left Susan, and came between her and William. + </p> + <p> + “Then, Susan,” said he, rather loud, “here is your brother.” + </p> + <p> + William winced. + </p> + <p> + “William! here is my life!” And he pointed to Susan. “Let no man rob me of + it if one mother really bore us.” + </p> + <p> + It went through William's heart like a burning arrow. And this was why + George had taken him to their mother's grave. That flashed across him, + too. + </p> + <p> + The poor sulky fellow's head was seen to rise inch by inch till he held it + as erect as a king's. + </p> + <p> + “Never!” he cried, half shouting, half weeping. “Never, s'help me God! + She's my sister from this hour—no more, no less. And may the red + blight fall on my arm and my heart, if I or any man takes her from you—any + man!” he cried, his temples flushing and his eye glittering; “sooner than + a hundred men should take her from you while I am here I'd die at their + feet a hundred times.” + </p> + <p> + Well done, sullen and rugged but honest man; the capital temptation of + your life is wrestled with and thrown. That is always to every man a + close, a deadly, a bitter struggle; and we must all wade through this deep + water at one hour or another of our lives. It is as surely our fate as it + is one day to die. + </p> + <p> + It is a noble sight to see an honest man “cleave his own heart in twain, + and fling away the baser part of it.” These words, that burst from + William's better heart, knocked at his brother's you may be sure. He came + to William, “I believe you,” said he; “I trust you, I thank you.” Then he + held out his hand; but nature would have more than that, in a moment his + arm was round his brother's neck, where it had not been, this many a year. + He withdrew it as quickly, half ashamed; and Anne Fielding's two sons + grasped one another's hands, and holding hands turned away their heads and + tried to hide their eyes. + </p> + <p> + They are stronger than bond, deed or indenture, these fleshly compacts + written by moist eyes, stamped by the grip of eloquent hands, in those + moments full of soul when men's hearts beat from their bosoms to their + fingers' ends. + </p> + <p> + Isaac Levi came to the brothers, and said to William, “Yes, I will now,” + and then he went slowly and thoughtfully away to his own house. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” faltered George, “I feel strong enough to go, and I'll go.” + </p> + <p> + He looked round at all the familiar objects he was leaving, as if to bid + them farewell; and last, while every eye watched his movements, he walked + slowly up to his grandfather's chair. + </p> + <p> + “Grandfather,” said he, “I am going a long journey, and mayhap shall never + see you again; speak a word to me before I go.” + </p> + <p> + The impassive old man took no notice, so Susan came to him. “Grandfather, + speak to George; poor George is going into a far country.” + </p> + <p> + When she had repeated this in his ear their grandfather looked up for a + moment. “George, fetch me some snuff from where you're going.” + </p> + <p> + A spasm crossed George's face; he was not to have a word of good omen from + the aged man. + </p> + <p> + “Friends,” said he, looking appealingly to all the rest, Meadows included, + “I wanted him to say God bless you, but snuff is all his thought now. + Well, old man, George won't forget your last word, such as 'tis.” + </p> + <p> + In a hutch near a corner of the house was William's pointer, Carlo. Carlo, + observing by the general movement that there was something on foot, had + the curiosity to come out to the end of his chain, and as he stood there, + giving every now and then a little uncertain wag of his tail, George took + notice of him and came to him and patted his head. + </p> + <p> + “Good-by, Carlo,” faltered George, “poor Carlo—you and I shall never + go after the partridges again, Carlo. The dog shows more understanding + than the Christian. By, Carlo.” Then he looked wistfully at William's dog, + but he said nothing more. + </p> + <p> + William watched every look of George, but he said nothing at the time. + </p> + <p> + “Good-by, little village church, where I went to church man and boy; + good-by, churchyard, where my mother lies; there will be no church bells, + Susan, where I am going; no Sunday bells to remind me of my soul and + home.” + </p> + <p> + These words, which he spoke with great difficulty, were hardly out of + young Fielding's mouth when a very painful circumstance occurred; one of + those things that seem the contrivance of some malignant spirit. The + church bells in a moment struck up their merriest peal! + </p> + <p> + George Fielding started, he turned pale and his lips trembled. “Are they + mocking me?” he cried. “Do they take a thought what I am going through + this moment, the hard-hearted—” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, no!” cried William; “don't think it, George; I know what 'tis—I'll + tell ye.” + </p> + <p> + “What's it?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it is—well, George, it is Tom Clarke and Esther Borgherst + married to-day. Only they couldn't have the ringers till the afternoon.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Will, they have only kept company a year, and Susan and I have kept + company three years; and Tom and Esther are married to-day; and what are + George and Susan doing to-day? God help me! Oh, God help me! What <i>shall</i> + I do? what <i>shall</i> I do?” And the stout heart gave way, and George + Fielding covered his face with his hands and burst out sobbing and crying. + </p> + <p> + Susan flung her arms round his neck. “Oh! George, my pride is all gone; + don't go, don't think to go; have pity on us both, and don't go.” And she + clung to him—her bonnet fallen off, her hair disheveled—and + they sobbed and wept in one another's arms. + </p> + <p> + Meadows writhed with the jealous anguish this sad sight gave him, and at + that moment he could have cursed the whole creation. He tried to fly, but + he was rooted to the spot. He leaned sick as death against the palings. + </p> + <p> + George and Susan cried together, and then they wiped one another's eyes + like simple country folk with one pocket-handkerchief; and then they + kissed one another in turn, and made each other's tears flow fast again; + and again wiped one another's eyes with one handkerchief. + </p> + <p> + Meadows griped the palings convulsively—hell was in his heart. + </p> + <p> + “Poor souls, God help them!” said William to himself in his purified + heart. + </p> + <p> + The silence their sorrow caused all around was suddenly invaded by a voice + that seemed to come from another world—it was Grandfather Fielding. + “The autumn sun is not so warm as <i>she</i> used to be!” + </p> + <p> + Yes, there was the whole map of humanity on that little spot in the county + of Berks. The middle-aged man, a schemer, watching the success of his able + scheme, and stunned and wounded by its recoil. And old age, callous to + noble pain, all alive to discomfort, yet man to the last—blaming any + one but Number One, cackling against heavenly bodies, accusing the sun and + the kitchen fire of frigidity—not his own empty veins! And the two + poor young things sobbing as if their hearts would break over their first + great earthly sorrow. + </p> + <p> + George was the first to recover himself. + </p> + <p> + “Shame upon me!” he cried; he drew Susan to his bosom, and pressed a long, + burning kiss upon her brow. + </p> + <p> + And now all felt the wrench was coming. George, with a wild, + half-terrified look, signaled William to come to him. + </p> + <p> + “Help me, Will! you see I have no more manhood than a girl.” + </p> + <p> + Susan instinctively trembled. George once more pressed his lips to her, as + if they would grow there. William took her hand. She trembled more and + more. + </p> + <p> + “Take my hand; take your brother's hand, my poor lass,” said he. + </p> + <p> + She trembled violently; and then George gave a cry that seemed to tear his + heart, and darted from them in a moment. + </p> + <p> + Poor Susan uttered more than one despairing scream, and stretched out both + her hands for George. He did not see her, for he dared not look back. + </p> + <p> + “Bob, loose the dog,” muttered William hastily, in a broken voice. + </p> + <p> + The dog was loosed, and ran after George, who, he thought, was only going + for a walk. Susan was sinking pale and helpless upon her brother's bosom. + </p> + <p> + “Pray, sister,” said gentle William; “pray, sister, as I must.” + </p> + <p> + A faint shiver was all the answer; her senses had almost left her. + </p> + <p> + When George was a little way up the hill, something ran suddenly against + his legs——he started—it was Carlo. He turned and lifted + up his hands to Heaven; and William could see that George was blessing him + for this. Carlo was more than a dog to poor George at that cruel moment. + Soon after that, George and Carlo reached the crown of the hill. George's + figure stood alone a moment between them and the sky. He was seen to take + his hat off, and raise his hands once more to Heaven, while he looked down + upon all he loved and left; and then he turned his sorrowful face again + toward that distant land—and they saw him no more! + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. + </h2> + <h3> + THE world is full of trouble. + </h3> + <p> + While we are young we do not see how true this ancient homely saying is. + </p> + <p> + That wonderful dramatic prologue, the first chapter of Job, is but a great + condensation of the sorrows that fall like hail upon many a mortal house. + Job's black day, like the day of the poetic prophets—the true <i>sacri + vates</i> of the ancient world—is a type of a year—a bitter + human year. It is terrible how quickly a human landscape all gilded + meadow, silver river and blue sky can cloud and darken. + </p> + <p> + George Fielding had compared himself this very day to an oak tree, “Even + so am I rooted to my native soil.” His fate accepted his simile. The oak + of centuries yields to an impalpable antagonist, whose very name stands in + proverbs for weakness and insignificance. This thin, light trifle, + rendered impetuous by motion, buffets the king of the forest, tears his + roots with fury out of the earth, and lays his towering head in the dust; + and even so circumstances, none of them singly irresistible, converging to + one point, buffeted sore another oak pride of our fields, and, for aught I + know, of our whole island—an honest English yeoman; and tore him + from his farm, from his house hard by his mother's grave, from the joy of + his heart, his Susan, and sent him who had never traveled a hundred miles + in his life across a world of waters to keep sheep at the Antipodes. A + bereaved and desolate heart went with Farmer Dodd in the gig to + Newborough; sad, desolate and stricken hearts remained behind. When two + loving hearts are torn bleeding asunder it is a shade better to be the one + that is driven away into action, than the bereaved twin that petrifies at + home. + </p> + <p> + The bustle, the occupation, the active annoyances are some sort of bitter + distraction to the unfathomable grief—it is one little shade worse + to lie solitary and motionless in the old scenes from which the sunlight + is now fled. + </p> + <p> + It needed but a look at Susan Merton, as she sat moaning and quivering + from head to foot in George's kitchen, to see that she was in no condition + to walk back to Grassmere Farm to-night. + </p> + <p> + So as she refused—almost violently refused—to stay at “The + Grove,” William harnessed one of the farm-horses to a cart and took her + home round by the road. + </p> + <p> + “It is six miles that way 'stead of three, but then we shan't jolt her + going that way,” thought William. + </p> + <p> + He walked by the side of the cart in silence. + </p> + <p> + She never spoke but once all the journey, and that was about half way, to + complain in a sort of hopeless, pitiful tone that she was cold. It was a + burning afternoon. + </p> + <p> + William took off his coat, and began to tie it round her by means of the + sleeves; Susan made a little, silent, peevish and not very rational + resistance; William tied it round her by brotherly force. + </p> + <p> + They reached her home; when she got out of the cart her eye was fixed, her + cheek white, she seemed like one in a dream. + </p> + <p> + She went into the house without speaking or looking at William. William + was sorry she did not speak to him; however he stood disconsolately by the + cart, asking himself what he could do next for her and George. Presently + he heard a slight rustle, and it was Susan coming back along the passage. + “She has left something in the cart,” thought he, and he began to look in + the straw. + </p> + <p> + She came like one still in a dream, and put her hand out to William, and + it appeared that was what she had come back for. + </p> + <p> + William took her hand and pressed it to his bosom a moment. At this Susan + gave a hysterical sob or two, and crept away again to her own room. + </p> + <p> + What she suffered in that room the first month after George's departure I + could detail perhaps as well as any man living; but I will not. There is a + degree of anguish one shrinks from intruding upon too familiarly in + person; and even on paper the microscope should spare sometimes these + beatings of the bared heart. It will be enough if I indicate by-and-by her + state, after time and religion and good habits had begun to struggle, + sometimes gaining, sometimes losing, against the tide of sorrow. For the + present let us draw gently back and leave her, for she is bowed to the + earth—fallen on her knees, her head buried in the curtains of her + bed; dark, faint and leaden, on the borders of despair—a word often + lightly used through ignorance. Heaven keep us all from a single hour, + here or hereafter, of the thing the Word stands for; and Heaven comfort + all true and loving hearts that read me, when their turn shall come to + drain the bitter cup like Susan Merton. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. + </h2> + <p> + THE moment George Fielding was out of sight, Mr. Meadows went to the + public-house, flung himself on his powerful black mare, and rode homeward + without a word. + </p> + <p> + One strong passion after another swept across his troubled mind. He burned + with love, he was sick with jealousy, cold with despondency, and for the + first time smarted with remorse. George Fielding was gone, gone of his own + accord; but like the flying Parthian he had shot his keenest arrow in the + moment of defeat. + </p> + <p> + “What the better am I?” thus ran this man's thoughts. “I have opened my + own eyes, and Susan seems farther from me than ever now—my heart is + like a lump of lead here—I wish I had never been born!—so much + for scheming—I would have given a thousand pounds for this, and now + I'd give double to be as I was before; I had honest hopes then; now where + are they? How lucky it seemed all to go, too. Ah! that is it—'May + all your good luck turn to wormwood!' that was his word—his very + word—and my good luck is wormwood; so much for lifting a hand + against gray hairs, Jew or Gentile. Why did the old heathen provoke me, + then? I'd as soon die as live this day. That's right, start at a handful + of straw; lie down in it one minute and tremble at the sight of it the + next, ye idiot. Oh, Susan! Susan! Why do I think of her? why do I think of + her? She loves that man with every fiber of her body. How she clung to + him! how she grew to him! And I stood there and looked on it, and did not + kill them both. Seen it! I see it now, it is burned into my eyes and my + heart forever; I am in hell!—I am in hell!—Hold up, you + blundering fool; has the devil got into you, too?—Perdition seize + him! May he die and rot before the year's out, ten thousand miles from + home! may his ship sink to the bottom of the ——. What right + have I to curse the man, as well as drive him across the sea? Curse + yourself, John Meadows. They are true lovers, and I have parted them, and + looked on and seen their tears. Heaven pity them and forgive me. So he + knew of his brother's love for her, after all. Why didn't he speak to me, + I wonder, as well as to Will Fielding? The old Jew warned him against me, + I'll swear. Why? why because you are a respectable man, John Meadows, and + he thought a hint was enough to a man of character. 'I do suppose I am + safe from villainy here,' says he. That lad spared me; he could have given + me a red face before them all. Now if there are angels that float in the + air and see what passes among us sinners, how must John Meadows have + looked beside George Fielding that moment? This love will sink my soul! I + can't breathe between these hedges; my temples are bursting!—Oh! you + want to gallop, do you? gallop, then, and faster than you ever did since + you were foaled—confound ye!” With this he spurred his mare + furiously up the bank, and went crushing through the dead hedge that + surmounted it. He struck his hat, at the same moment, fiercely from his + head (it was fast by a black ribbon to his button-hole), and as they + lighted by a descent of some two feet on the edge of a grass-field he + again drove his spurs into his great fiery mare, all vein and bone. Black + Rachel snorted with amazement at the spur, and with warlike delight at + finding grass beneath her feet and free air whistling round her ears, she + gave one gigantic bound like a buck with arching back and all four legs in + the air at once (it would have unseated many a rider but never moved the + iron Meadows), and with dilating nostril and ears laid back she hurled + herself across country like a stone from a sling. + </p> + <p> + Meadows' house was about four miles and a half distant as the crow flies, + and he went home to-day as the crow flies, only faster. None would have + known the staid, respectable Meadows, in this figure that came flying over + hedge and ditch and brook, his hat dangling and leaping like mad behind + him, his hand now and then clutching his breast, his heart tossed like a + boat among the breakers, his lips white, his teeth clinched and his eyes + blazing! The mare took everything in her stride, but at last they came + somewhat suddenly on an enormous high, stiff fence. To clear it was + impossible. By this time man and beast were equally reckless; they went + straight into it and through it as a bullet goes through a pane of glass; + and on again over brook and fence, plowed field and meadow, till Meadows + found himself, he scarce knew how, at his own door. His old deaf servant + came out from the stable-yard and gazed in astonishment at the mare, whose + flank panted, whose tail quivered, whose back looked as if she had been in + the river, while her belly was stained with half a dozen different kinds + of soil, and her rider's face streamed with blood from a dozen scratches + he had never felt. + </p> + <p> + Meadows flung himself from the saddle and ran up to his own room. He + dashed his face and his burning hands into water; this seemed to do him a + little good. He came downstairs; he lighted a pipe (we are the children of + habit); he sat with his eyebrows painfully bent. People called on him; he + fiercely refused to see them. + </p> + <p> + For the first time in his life he turned his back on business. He sat for + hours by the fireplace. A fierce mental struggle wrenched him to and fro. + </p> + <p> + Evening came, still he sat collapsed by the fireplace. From his window, + among other objects, two dwellings were visible; one, distant four miles, + was a whitewashed cottage, tiled instead of thatched, adorned with + creepers and roses and very clean, but in other respects little superior + to laborers' cottages. + </p> + <p> + The other, distant six long miles, was the Grassmere farmhouse, where the + Mertons lived; the windows seemed burnished gold this evening. + </p> + <p> + In the small cottage lived a plain old woman—a Methodist. She was + Meadows' mother. + </p> + <p> + She did not admire worldly people, still less envied them. + </p> + <p> + He was too good a churchman and man of business to permit conventicles or + psalm-singing at odd hours in his house. So she preferred living in her + own, which moreover was her own—her very own. + </p> + <p> + The old woman never spoke of her son, and checked all complaints of him, + and snubbed all experimental eulogies of him. + </p> + <p> + Meadows never spoke of his mother, paid her a small allowance with the + regularity and affectionate grace of clock-work; never asked her if she + didn't want any more—would not have refused her if she had asked for + double. + </p> + <p> + This evening, while the sun was shining with all his evening glory on + Susan Merton's house, Meadows went slowly to his window and pulled down + the blind, and drawing his breath hard shut the loved prospect out. + </p> + <p> + He then laid his hand upon the table, and he said: “I swear by the holy + bread and wine I took last month that I will not put myself in the way of + this strong temptation. I swear I will go no more to Grassmere Farm, never + so long as I love Susan.” He added faintly, “Unless they send for me, and + they won't do that, and I won't go of my own accord, I swear it. I have + sworn it, however, and I swear it again—unless they send for me!” + </p> + <p> + Then he sat by the fire with his head in his hands—a posture he + never was seen in before. Next he wrote a note and sent it hastily with a + horse and cart to that small whitewashed cottage. + </p> + <p> + Old Mrs. Meadows sat in her doorway reading a theological work called + “Believers' Buttons.” She took the note, looked at it. “Why, this is from + John, I think; what can he have to say to me?” She put on her spectacles + again, which she had taken off on the messenger first accosting her, and + deliberately opened, smoothed and read the note. It ran thus: + </p> + <p> + “Mother, I am lonely. Come over and stay awhile with me, if you please. + </p> + <p> + “Your dutiful son, JOHN MEADOWS” + </p> + <p> + “Here, Hannah,” cried the old woman to a neighbor's daughter that was + nearly always with her. + </p> + <p> + Hannah, a comely girl of fourteen, came running in. + </p> + <p> + “Here's John wants me to go over to his house. Get me the pen and ink, + girl, out of the cupboard, and I'll write him a word or two any way.—Is + there anything amiss?” said she quickly to the man. + </p> + <p> + “He came in with the black mare all in a lather, just after dinner, and he + hasn't spoke to a soul since. That's all I know, missus. I think something + has put him out, and he isn't soon put out, you know, he isn't.” + </p> + <p> + Hannah left the room, after placing the paper as she was bid. + </p> + <p> + “You will all be put out that trust to an arm of flesh, all of ye, master + or man, Dick Messenger,” said the disciple of John Wesley somewhat grimly. + “Ay, and be put out of the kingdom of heaven, too, if ye don't take heed.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that the news I'm to take back to Farnborough, missus?” said Messenger + with quiet, rustic irony. + </p> + <p> + “No; I'll write to him.” + </p> + <p> + The old woman wrote a few lines reminding Meadows that the pursuit of + earthly objects could never bring any steady comfort, and telling him that + she should be lost in his great house—that it would seem quite + strange to her to go into the town after so many years' quiet—but + that if he was minded to come out and see her she would be glad to see him + and glad of the opportunity to give him her advice, if he was in a better + frame for listening to it than last time she offered it to him, and that + was two years come Martinmas. + </p> + <p> + Then the old woman paused, next she reflected, and afterward dried her + unfinished letter. And as she began slowly to fold it up and put it in her + pocket—“Hannah,” cried she thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + Hannah appeared in the doorway. + </p> + <p> + “I dare say—you may fetch—my cloak and bonnet. Why, if the + wench hasn't got them on her arm. What, you made up your mind that I + should go, then?” + </p> + <p> + “That I did,” replied Hannah. “Your warm shawl is in the cart, Mrs. + Meadows.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! you did, did you. Young folks are apt to be sure and certain. I was + in two minds about it, so I don't see how the child could be sure,” said + she, dividing her remark between vacancy and the person addressed—a + grammatical privilege of old age. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! but <i>I</i> was sure, for that matter,” replied Hannah firmly. + </p> + <p> + “And what made the little wench so sure, I wonder?” said the old woman, + now in her black bonnet and scarlet cloak. + </p> + <p> + “Why, la!” says Hannah, “because it's your son, ma'am—and you're his + mother, Dame Meadows!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. + </h2> + <p> + JOHN MEADOWS had always been an active man, but now he was indefatigable. + He was up at five every morning, and seemed ubiquitous; added a gray + gelding to his black mare, and rode them both nearly off their legs. He + surveyed land in half a dozen counties—he speculated in grain in + half a dozen markets, and did business in shares. His plan in dealing with + this ticklish speculation was simple. He listened to nothing anybody said, + examined the venture himself, and, if it had a sound basis, bought when + the herd was selling, and sold wherever the herd was buying. Hence, he + bought cheap and sold dear. + </p> + <p> + He also lent money, and contrived to solve the usurers' problem—perfect + security and huge interest. + </p> + <p> + He arrived at this by his own sagacity and the stupidity of mankind. + </p> + <p> + Mankind are not wanting in intelligence; but, as a body, they have one + intellectual defect—they are muddle-heads. + </p> + <p> + Now these muddle-heads have agreed to say that land is in all cases five + times a surer security for money lent than movables are. Whereas the fact + is that sometimes it is and sometimes it is not. Owing to the above + delusion the proprietor of land can always borrow money at four per cent, + and other proprietors are often driven to give ten—twenty—thirty. + </p> + <p> + So John Meadows lent mighty little upon land, but much upon oat-ricks, + wagons, advantageous leases and such things, solid as land and more easily + convertible into cash. + </p> + <p> + Thus without risk he got his twenty per cent. Not that he appeared in + these transactions—he had too many good irons in the fire to let + himself be called a usurer. + </p> + <p> + He worked this business as three thousand respectable men are working it + in this nation. He had a human money-bag, whose strings he went behind a + screen and pulled. + </p> + <p> + The human money-bag of Meadows was Peter Crawley. + </p> + <p> + This Peter Crawley, some years before our tale, lay crushed beneath a + barrowful of debts—many of them to publicans. In him others saw a + cunning fool and a sot—Meadows an unscrupulous tool. Meadows wanted + a tool, and knew the cheapest way to get the thing was to buy it, so he + bought up all Crawley's debts, sued him, got judgments out against him, + and raising the ax of the law over Peter's head with his right hand, + offered him the left hand of fellowship with his left. Down on his knees + went Crawley and resigned his existence to this great man. + </p> + <p> + Human creatures, whose mission it is to do whatever a man secretly bids + them, are not entitled to long and interesting descriptions. + </p> + <p> + Crawley was fifty, wore a brown wig, the only thing about him that did not + attempt disguise, and slouched in a brown coat and a shirt peppered with + snuff. + </p> + <p> + In this life he was an infinitesimal attorney. Previously, unless + Pythagoras was a goose, he had been a pole-cat. + </p> + <p> + Meadows was ambidexter. The two hands he gathered coin with were Meadows + and Crawley. The first his honest, hard-working hand; the second his + three-fingered Jack, his prestidigital hand; with both he now worked + harder than ever. He hurried from business to business—could not + wait to chat, or drink a glass of ale after it; it was all work! work! + work!—money! money! money! with John Meadows, and everything he + touched turned to gold in his hands; yet for all this burning activity the + man's heart had never been so little in business. His activity was the + struggle of a sensible, strong mind to fight against its one weakness. + </p> + <p> + “Cedit amor rebus; res age tutus eris,” is a very wise saying, and + Meadows, by his own observation and instinct, sought the best antidote for + love. + </p> + <p> + But the Latins had another true saying, that “nobody is wise at all + hours.” + </p> + <p> + After his day of toil and success he used to be guilty of a sad + inconsistency. He shut himself up at home for two hours, and smoked his + pipe, and ran his eye over the newspaper, but his mind over Susan Merton. + </p> + <p> + Worse than this, in his frequent rides he used to go a mile or two out of + his way to pass Grassmere farmhouse; and however fast he rode the rest of + his journey he always let his nag walk by the farmhouse, and his eye + brightened with hope as he approached it, and his heart sank as he passed + it without seeing Susan. + </p> + <p> + He now bitterly regretted the vow he had made, never to visit the Mertons + again unless they sent for him. + </p> + <p> + “They have forgotten me altogether,” said he bitterly. “Well, the best + thing I can do is to forget them.” + </p> + <p> + Now, Susan had forgotten him; she was absorbed in her own grief; but + Merton was laboring under a fit of rheumatism, and this was the reason why + Meadows and he did not meet. In fact, farmer Merton often said to his + daughter, “John Meadows has not been to see us a long while.” + </p> + <p> + “Hasn't he, father?” was Susan's languid and careless reply. + </p> + <p> + One Sunday, Meadows, weakened by his inner struggle, could not help going + to Grassmere church. At least he would see her face. He had seated himself + where he could see her. She took her old place by the pillar; nobody was + near her. The light from a side window streamed full upon her. She was + pale, and the languor of sorrow was upon every part of her face, but she + was lovely as ever. + </p> + <p> + Meadows watched her, and noticed that more than once without any visible + reason her eyes filled with tears, but she shed none. He saw how hard she + tried to give her whole soul to the services of the church and to the word + of the preacher; he saw her succeed for a few minutes at a time, and then + with a lover's keen eye he saw her heart fly away in a moment from prayer + and praise and consolation, and follow and overtake the ship that was + carrying her George farther and farther away from her across the sea; and + then her lips quivered with earthly sorrow even as she repeated words that + came from Heaven, and tried to bind to her heavy heart the prayers for + succor in every mortal ill, the promises of help in every mortal woe, with + which holy Church and holier Writ comfort her and all the pure of heart in + every age. + </p> + <p> + Then Meadows, who up to this moment had been pitying himself, had a better + thought and pitied Susan. He even went so far as to feel that he ought to + pity George, but he did not do it; he could not, he envied him too much; + but he pitied Susan, and he longed to say something kind and friendly to + her, even though there should not be a word or a look of love in it. + </p> + <p> + Susan went out by one of the church doors, Meadows by another, intending + to meet her casually upon the road home. Susan saw his intention and took + another path, so that he could not come up with her without following her. + </p> + <p> + Meadows turned upon his heel and went home with his heart full of + bitterness. + </p> + <p> + “She hates the sight of me,” was his interpretation. + </p> + <p> + Poor Susan, she hated nobody, she only hated to have to speak to a + stranger, and to listen to a stranger; and in her present grief all were + strangers to her except him she had lost and her father. She avoided + Meadows not because he was Meadows, but because she wanted to be alone. + </p> + <p> + Meadows rode home despondently, then he fell to abusing his folly, and + vowed he would think of her no more. + </p> + <p> + The next day, finding himself, at six o'clock in the evening, seated by + the fire in a reverie, he suddenly started fiercely up, saddled his horse, + and rode into Newborough, and, putting up his horse, strolled about the + streets and tried to amuse himself looking at the shops before they + closed. + </p> + <p> + Now it so happened that, stopping before a bookseller's shop, he saw + advertised a work upon “The Australian Colonies.” + </p> + <p> + “Confound Australia!” said Meadows to himself, and turned on his heel, but + the next moment, with a sudden change of mind, he returned and bought the + book. He did more, he gave the tradesman an order for every approved work + on Australia that was to be had. + </p> + <p> + The bookseller, as it happened, was going up to London next day, so that + in the evening Meadows had some dozen volumes in his house, and a + tolerably correct map of certain Australian districts. + </p> + <p> + “Let me see,” said Meadows, “what chance that chap has of making a + thousand pounds out there.” This was no doubt the beginning of it, but it + did not end there. The intelligent Meadows had not read a hundred pages + before he found out what a wonderful country this Australia is, how worthy + a money-getter's attention or any thoughtful man's. + </p> + <p> + It seemed as if his rival drew Meadows after him wherever he went, so + fascinated was he with this subject. And now all the evening he sucked the + books like a leech. + </p> + <p> + Men observed, about this time, an irritable manner in Mr. Meadows which he + had never shown before, and an eternal restlessness; they little divined + the cause, or dreamed what a vow he had made, and what it cost him every + day to keep it. So strong was the struggle within him, that there were + moments when he feared he should go mad; and then it was that he learned + the value of his mother's presence in the house. + </p> + <p> + There was no explanation between them, there could be no sympathy; had he + opened his heart to her he knew she would have denounced his love for + Susan Merton as a damnable crime. Once she invited his confidence. “What + ails you, John?” said the old woman. “You had better tell me; you would + feel easier, I'm thinking.” + </p> + <p> + But he turned it off a little fretfully, and she never returned to the + charge. But though there could be no direct sympathy, yet there was a + soothing influence in this quaint old woman's presence. She moved quietly + about, protecting his habits, not disturbing them; she seemed very + thoughtful, too, and cast many a secret glance of inquiry and interest at + him when he was not looking at her. + </p> + <p> + This had gone on some weeks when, one afternoon, Meadows, who had been + silent as death for a full half hour, started from his chair and said with + sudden resolution: + </p> + <p> + “Mother, I must leave this part of the country for a while.” + </p> + <p> + “That is news, John.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. I shall go into the mining district for six months or a year, + perhaps.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! go, John! you want a change. I think you can't do better than go.” + </p> + <p> + “I will, and no later than to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “That is sudden.” + </p> + <p> + “If I was to give myself time to think, I should never go at all.” + </p> + <p> + He went out briskly with the energy of this determination. + </p> + <p> + The same evening, about seven o'clock, as he sat reading by the fire, an + unexpected visitor was announced—Mr. Merton. + </p> + <p> + He came cordially in and scolded Meadows for never having been to see him. + </p> + <p> + “I know you are a busy man,” said the old farmer, “but you might have + given us a look in coming home from market; it is only a mile out of the + way, and you are pretty well mounted in a general way.” + </p> + <p> + Then the old man, a gossip, took up one of Meadows' books. “Australia! + ah!” grunted Merton, and dropped it like a hot potato; he tried another, + “Why, this is Australia, too; why, they are all Australia, as I am a + living sinner.” And he looked with a rueful curiosity into Meadows' face. + </p> + <p> + Meadows colored, but soon recovered his external composure. + </p> + <p> + “I have friends there,” said he hastily, “who tell me there are capital + investments in that country, and they say no more than the truth.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think he will do any good out there?” asked the old man, lowering + his voice. + </p> + <p> + “I can't say,” answered Meadows dryly. + </p> + <p> + “Tell us something about that country, John,” said Merton; “and if you was + to ask me to take a glass of your home-brewed ale I don't think I should + gainsay you.” + </p> + <p> + The ale was sent for, and over it Meadows, whose powers of acquisition + extended to facts as well as money, and who was full of this new subject, + poured the agricultural contents of a dozen volumes into Mr. Merton. + </p> + <p> + The old farmer sat open-mouthed, transfixed with interest, listening to + his friend's clear, intelligent and masterly descriptions of this + wonderful land. At last the clock struck nine; he started up in + astonishment. + </p> + <p> + “I shall get a scolding if I stay later,” said he, and off he went to + Grassmere. + </p> + <p> + “Have you nothing else to say to me?” asked Meadows, as the farmer put his + foot in the stirrup. + </p> + <p> + “Not that I know of,” replied the other, and cantered away. + </p> + <p> + “Confound him!” muttered Meadows; “he comes and stops here three hours, + drinks my ale, gets my knowledge without the trouble of digging for't, and + goes away, and not a word from Susan, or even a word about her—one + word would have paid me for all this loss of time—but no, I was not + to have it. I will be in Devonshire this time to-morrow—no, + to-morrow is market day—but the day after I will go. I cannot live + here and not see her, nor speak to her—'twill drive me mad.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning, as Meadows mounted his horse to ride to market, a + carter's boy came up to him, and taking off his hat and pulling his head + down by the front lock by way of salute, put a note into his hand. Meadows + took it and opened it carelessly; it was a handwriting he did not know. + But his eye had no sooner glanced at the signature than his eyes gleamed + and his whole frame trembled with emotion he could hardly hide. This was + the letter: + </p> + <p> + “DEAR MR. MEADOWS—We have not seen you here a long time, and if you + could take a cup of tea with us on your way home from market, my father + would be glad to see you, if it is not troubling you too much. + </p> + <p> + “I believe he has some calves he wishes to show you. + </p> + <p> + “I am, yours respectfully, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “SUSAN MERTON. +</pre> + <p> + “P. S.—Father has been confined by rheumatism, and I have not been + well this last month.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows turned away from the messenger, and said quietly, “Tell Miss + Merton I will come, if possible.” He then galloped off, and as soon as + there was no one in sight gave vent to his face and his exulting soul. + </p> + <p> + Now he congratulated himself on his goodness in making a certain vow and + his firmness in keeping it. + </p> + <p> + “I kept out of their way, and they have invited me; my conscience is + clear.” + </p> + <p> + He then asked himself why Susan had invited him; and he could not but + augur the most favorable results from this act on her part. True, his + manner to her had never gone beyond friendship, but women, he argued, are + quick to discern their admirers under every disguise. She was dull and out + of spirits, and wrote for him to come to her; this was a great point, a + good beginning. “The sea is between her and George, and I am here, with + time and opportunity on my side,” said Meadows; and as these thoughts + coursed through his heart, his gray nag, spurred by an unconscious heel, + broke into a hand-gallop, and after an hour and a half hard riding they + clattered into the town of Newborough. + </p> + <p> + The habit of driving hard bargains is a good thing for teaching a man to + suppress his feelings and feign indifference, yet the civil nonchalance + with which Meadows, on his return from Newborough, walked into the + Merton's parlor cost him no ordinary struggle. + </p> + <p> + The farmer received him cordially—Susan civilly, and with a somewhat + feeble smile. The former soon engaged him in agricultural talk. Susan, + meanwhile, made the tea in silence, and Meadows began to think she was + capricious, and had no sooner got what she asked for than she did not care + for it. After a while, however, she put in a word here and there, but with + a discouraging languor. + </p> + <p> + Presently Farmer Merton brought her his tea-cup to be replenished, and + upon this opportunity Susan said a word to her father in an undertone. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, ay!” replied the farmer very loud indeed; and Susan colored. + </p> + <p> + “What was you saying to me about that country—that Christmas-day is + the hottest day in the year?” began Mr. Merton. + </p> + <p> + Meadows assented, and Merton proceeded to put other questions, in order, + it appeared, to draw once more from Meadows the interesting information of + last night. + </p> + <p> + Meadows answered shortly and with repugnance. Then Susan put in: “And is + it true, sir, that the flowers are beautiful to the eye, but have no + smell, and that the birds have all gay feathers, but no song?” Then Susan, + scarcely giving him time to answer, proceeded to put several questions, + and her manner was no longer languid, but bright and animated. She wound + up her interrogatories with this climax: + </p> + <p> + “And <i>do</i> you think, sir, it is a country where George will be able + to do any good. And will he have his health in that land, so far from + every one to take care of him?” + </p> + <p> + And this doubt raised, the bright eyes were dimmed with tears in a moment. + </p> + <p> + Meadows gasped out, “Why not? why not?” but soon after, muttering some + excuse about his horse, he went out with a promise to return immediately. + </p> + <p> + He was no sooner alone than he gave way to a burst of rage and bitterness. + </p> + <p> + “So, she only sent for me here to make me tell her about that infernal + country where her George is. I'll ride home this instant—this very + instant—without bidding them good-by.” + </p> + <p> + Cooler thoughts came. He mused deeply a few minutes, and then, clinching + his teeth, returned slowly to the little parlor: he sat down and took his + line with a brisk and cheerful air. + </p> + <p> + “You were asking me some questions about Australia. I can tell you all + about that country, for I have a relation there who writes to me. And I + have read all the books about it, too, as it happens.” + </p> + <p> + Susan brightened up. + </p> + <p> + Meadows, by a great histrionic effort, brightened up, too, and poured out + a flood of really interesting facts and anecdotes about this marvelous + land. + </p> + <p> + Then, in the middle of a narrative, which enchained both his hearers, he + suddenly looked at his watch, and putting on a fictitious look of dismay + and annoyance, started up with many excuses and went home—not, + however, till Susan had made him promise to come again next market-day. + </p> + <p> + As he rode home in the moonlight Susan's face seemed still before him. The + bright look of interest she had given him, the grateful smiles with which + she had thanked him for his narration—all this had been so sweet at + the moment, so bitter upon the least reflection. His mind was in a whirl. + At last he grasped at one idea, and held it as with a vise. + </p> + <p> + “I shall be always welcome to her if I can bring myself to talk about that + detestable country. Well, I will grind my tongue down to it. She shall not + be able to do without my chat; that shall be the beginning; the middle + shall be different; the end shall be just the opposite. The sea is between + him and her. I am here with opportunity, resolution and money. I <i>will</i> + have her!” + </p> + <p> + The next morning his mother said to him: + </p> + <p> + “John, do you think to go to-day?” + </p> + <p> + “Where, mother?” + </p> + <p> + “The journey you spoke of.” + </p> + <p> + “What journey?” + </p> + <p> + “Among the mines.” + </p> + <p> + “Not I.” + </p> + <p> + “You have changed your mind, then?” + </p> + <p> + “What, didn't you see I was joking?” + </p> + <p> + “No!” (very dryly.) + </p> + <p> + Soon after this little dialogue Dame Meadows proposed to end her visit and + return home. Her son yielded a cheerful assent. She went gravely and + quietly back to her little cottage. + </p> + <p> + Meadows had determined to make himself necessary to Susan Merton. He + brought a woman's cunning to bear against a woman's; for the artifice to + which his strong will bent his supple talent is one that many women have + had the tact and temporary self-denial to carry out, but not one man in a + hundred. + </p> + <p> + Men try to beat an absent rival by sneering at him, etc. By which means + the asses make their absent foe present to her mind and enlist the whole + woman in his defense. + </p> + <p> + But Meadows was no ordinary man. Susan had given his quick intelligence a + glimpse of a way to please her. He looked at the end, and crushed his will + down to the thorny means. + </p> + <p> + Twice a week he called on the Mertons, and much of his talk was Australia. + Susan was grateful. To hear of the place where George would soon be was + the nearest approach she could make to hearing of George. + </p> + <p> + As for Meadows, he gained a great point, but he went through tortures on + the way. He could not hide from himself why he was so welcome; and many a + time as he rode home from the Mertons he resolved never to return there, + but he took no more oaths; it had cost him so much to keep the last; and + that befell which might have been expected, after a while, the pleasure of + being near the woman he loved, of being distinguished by her and greeted + with pleasure however slight, grew into a habit and a need. + </p> + <p> + Achilles was a man of steel, but he had a vulnerable part; and iron + natures like John Meadows have often one spot in their souls where they + are far tenderer than the universal dove-eyed, and weaker than the + omnipotent. He never spoke a word of love to Susan, he knew it would spoil + all; and she, occupied with another's image, and looking upon herself as + confessedly belonging to another, never suspected the deep passion that + filled this man's heart. But if an observer of nature had accompanied John + Meadows on market-day he might have seen—diagnostics. + </p> + <p> + All the morning his eye was cold and quick; his mouth, when silent, close, + firm, and unreadable; his voice clear, decided, and occasionally loud. But + when he got to old Merton's fireside he mellowed and softened like the sun + toward evening. There his forehead unknit itself; his voice, pitched in + quite a different key from his key of business, turned also low and + gentle, and soothed and secretly won the hearer by its deep, rich and + pleasant modulation and variety; and his eye turned deeper in color, and, + losing its keenness and restlessness, dwelt calmly and pensively for + minutes at a time upon some little household object close to Susan; + seldom, unless quite unobserved, upon Susan herself. + </p> + <p> + But the surrounding rustics suspected nothing, so calm and deep ran + Meadows. + </p> + <p> + “Dear heart,” said Susan to her father, “who would have thought Mr. + Meadows would come a mile out of his way twice a week to talk to me about + Geo—about the country where my heart is—and the folk say he + thinks of nothing but money and won't move a step without making it.” + </p> + <p> + “The folk are envious of him, girl—that is all. John Meadows is too + clever for fools, and too industrious for the lazy ones; he is a good + friend of mine, Susan; if I wanted to borrow a thousand pounds I have only + to draw on Meadows; he has told me so half a dozen times.” + </p> + <p> + “We don't want his money, father,” replied Susan, “nor anybody's; but I + think a great deal of his kindness, and George shall thank him when he + comes home—if ever he comes home to Susan again.” These last words + brought many tears with them, which the old farmer pretended not to + notice, for he was getting tired of his daughter's tears. They were always + flowing now at the least word, “and she used to be so good-humored and + cheerful-like.” + </p> + <p> + Poor Susan! she was very unhappy. If any one had said to her, “to-morrow + you die,” she would have smiled on her own account, and only sighed at the + pain the news would cause poor George. Her George was gone, her mother had + been dead this two years. Her life, which had been full of innocent + pleasures, was now utterly tasteless, except in its hours of bitterness + when sorrow overcame her like a flood. She had a pretty flower-garden in + which she used to work. When George was at home what pleasure it had been + to plant them with her lover's help, to watch them expand, to water them + in the summer evening, to smell their gratitude for the artificial shower + after a sultry day, and then to have George in, and set him admiring them + with such threadbare enthusiasm, simply because they were hers, not in the + least because they were Nature's. + </p> + <p> + I will go back, like the epic writers, and sketch one of their little + garden scenes. + </p> + <p> + One evening, after watering them all, she sat down on a seat at the bottom + of the garden, and casting her eyes over her whole domain, said, “Well, + now, I do admire flowers; don't you, George?” + </p> + <p> + “That I do,” replied George, taking another seat, and coolly turning his + back on the parterre, and gazing mildly into Susan's eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Why, he is not even looking at them!” cried Susan, and she clapped her + hands and laughed gleefully. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes, he is; leastways he is looking at one of them, and the brightest + of the lot to my fancy.” + </p> + <p> + Susan colored with pleasure. In the country compliments don't drip + constantly on beauty even from the lips of love. Then, suppressing her + satisfaction, she said, “You will look for a flower in return for that, + young man; come and let us see whether there is one good enough for you.” + So then they took hands, and Susan drew him demurely about the garden. + Presently she stopped with a little start of hypocritical admiration; at + their feet shone a marigold. Susan culled the gaudy flower and placed it + affectionately in George's buttonhole. He received it proudly, and shaking + hands with her, for it was time to part, turned away slowly. She let him + take a step or two, then called him back. “He was really going off with + that nasty thing.” She took it out of his buttonhole, rubbed it against + his nose with well-feigned anger and then threw it away. + </p> + <p> + “You are all behind in flowers, George,” said Susan; “here, this is good + enough for you,” and she brought out from under her apron, where she had + carried the furtively culled treasure, a lovely clove-pink. Pretty soul, + she had nursed and watered and cherished this choice flower this three + weeks past for George, and this was her way of giving it him at last; so a + true woman gives—(her life, if need be). George took it and smelled + it, and lingered a moment at the garden gate, and moralized on it. “Well, + Susan, dear, now I'm not so deep in flowers as you, but I like this a deal + better than the marigold, and I'll tell you for why; it is more like you, + Susan.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! why?” + </p> + <p> + “I see flowers that are pretty, but have no smell, and I see women that + have good looks, but no great wisdom nor goodness when you come nearer to + them. Now the marigold is like those lasses; but this pink is good as well + as pretty, so then it will stand for you, when we are apart, as we mostly + are—worse luck for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, George,” said Susan, dropping her quizzing manner, “I am a long way + behind the marigold or any flower in comeliness and innocence, but at + least I wish I was better.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but I do, ten times better, for—for—” + </p> + <p> + “For why, Susan?” + </p> + <p> + Susan closed the garden gate and took a step toward the house. Then, + turning her head over her shoulder, with an ineffable look of tenderness, + tipped with one tint of lingering archness, she let fall, “For your sake, + George,” in the direction of George's feet, and glided across the garden + into the house. + </p> + <p> + George stood watching her. He did not at first take up all she had + bestowed on him, for her sex has peculiar mastery over language, being + diabolically angelically subtle in the art of saying something that + expresses 1 oz. and implies 1 cwt.; but when he did comprehend, his heart + exulted. He strode home as if he trod on air and often kissed the little + flower he had taken from the beloved hand, “and with it words of so sweet + breath composed, as made the thing more rich;” and as he marched past the + house kissing the flower, need I tell my reader that so innocent a girl as + Susan was too high-minded to watch the effect of her proceedings from + behind the curtains? I hope not, it would surely be superfluous to relate + what none would be green enough to believe. + </p> + <p> + These were Susan's happy days. Now all was changed. She hated to water her + flowers now. She bade one of the farm-servants look to the garden. He + accepted the charge, and her flowers' drooping heads told how nobly he had + fulfilled it. Susan was charitable. Every day it had been her custom to + visit more than one poor person; she carried meal to one, soup to another, + linen to another, meat and bread to another, money to another—to all + words and looks of sympathy. This practice she did not even now give up, + for it came under the head of her religious duties; but she relaxed it. + She often sent to places where she used to go. Until George went she had + never thought of herself; and so the selfishness of those she relieved had + not struck her. Now it made her bitter to see that none of those she + pitied, pitied her. The moment she came into their houses it was, “<i>My</i> + poor head, Miss Merton; <i>my</i> old bones do ache so.” + </p> + <p> + “I think a bit of your nice bacon would do ME good. I'M a poor sufferer, + Miss Merton. <i>My</i> boy is 'listed. I thought as how you'd forgotten <i>me</i> + altogether. But 'tis hard for poor folk to keep a friend.” “You see, miss, + <i>my</i> bedroom window is broken in one or two places. John, he stopped + it up with paper the best way he could, but la, bless you, paper baint + like glass. It is very dull for <i>me</i>. You see, miss, I can't get + about now as I used to could, and I never was no great reader. I often + wish as some one would step in and knock me on the head, for I be no use, + I baint, neer a mossel.” No one of them looked up in her face and said, + “Lauks, how pale <i>you</i> ha got to look, miss; I hopes as how nothing + amiss haven't happened to <i>you</i>, that have been so kind to us this + many a day.” Yet suffering of some sort was plainly stamped on the face + and in the manner of this relieving angel. When they poured out their + vulgar woes, Susan made an effort to forget her own and to cheer as well + as relieve them. But she had to compress her own heart hard to do it; and + this suppression of feeling makes people more or less bitter. She had + better have out with it, and scolded them well for talking as if they + alone were unhappy; but her woman's nature would not let her. They kept + asking her for pity, and she still gulped down her own heart and gave it + them, till at last she began to take a spite against her pets; so then she + sent to most of them instead of going. She sent rather larger slices of + beef and bacon, and rather more yards of flannel than when she used to + carry the like to them herself. Susan had one or two young friends, + daughters of farmers in the neighborhood, with whom she was a favorite, + though the gayer ones sometimes quizzed her for her religious tendencies, + and her lamentable indifference to flirtation. But then she was so good + and so good-humored, and so tolerant of other people's tastes. The prattle + of these young ladies became now intolerable to Susan, and when she saw + them coming to call on her she used to snatch up her bonnet and fly and + lock herself up in a closet at the top of the house, and read some good + book as quiet as a mouse, till the servants had hunted for her and told + them she must be out. She was not in a frame of mind to sustain tarlatans, + barege, the history of the last hop, and the prophecies of the next; the + wounded deer shrunk from its gamboling associates, and indeed from all + strangers, except John Meadows. “He talks to me about something worth + talking about,” said Susan Merton. It happened one day, while Susan was in + this sad and I may say dangerous state of mind, that the servant came up + to her, and told her a gentleman was on his horse at the door, and wanted + to see Mr. Merton. + </p> + <p> + “Father is at market, Jane.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, miss, but I told the gentleman you were at home.” + </p> + <p> + “Me! what have I to do with father's visitors?” + </p> + <p> + “Miss,” replied Jane mysteriously, “it is a parson, and you are so fond of + them, I could not think to let him go away without getting a word with + anybody; and he has such a face. La, miss, you never saw such a face.” + </p> + <p> + “Silly girl, what have I to do with handsome faces?” + </p> + <p> + “But he is not handsome, miss, not in the least, only he is beautiful. You + go and see else.” + </p> + <p> + “I hate strangers' faces, but I will go to him, Jane; it is my duty, since + it is a clergyman. I will just go upstairs.” + </p> + <p> + “La, miss, what for? you are always neat, you are—nobody ever + catches you in your dishables like the rest of 'em.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll just smooth my hair.” + </p> + <p> + “La, miss, what for? it is smooth as marble—it always is.” + </p> + <p> + “Where is he, Jane?” + </p> + <p> + “In the front parlor.” + </p> + <p> + “I won't be a moment.” + </p> + <p> + She went upstairs. There was no necessity; Jane was right there; but it + was a strict custom in the country, and is, for that matter, and will be + till time and vanity shall be no more. More majorum a girl must go up and + look at herself in the glass if she did nothing more, before coming in to + receive company. + </p> + <p> + Susan entered the parlor; she came in so gently that she had a moment to + observe her visitor before he saw her. He had seated himself with his back + to the light, and was devouring a stupid book on husbandry that belonged + to her father. The moment she closed the door he saw her and rose from his + seat. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Merton?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “The living of this place has been vacant more than a month.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “It will not be filled up for three months, perhaps.” + </p> + <p> + “So we hear, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Meantime you have no church to go to nearer than Barmstoke, which is a + chapel-of-ease to this place, but two miles distant.” + </p> + <p> + “Two miles and a half, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “So then the people here have no divine service on the Lord's day.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, not for the present,” said Susan meekly, lowering her lashes, as + if the clergyman had said, “This is a parish of heathens, whereof you are + one.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor any servant of God to say a word of humility and charity to the rich, + of eternal hope to the poor, and” (here his voice sunk into sudden + tenderness) “of comfort to the sorrowful.” + </p> + <p> + Susan raised her eyes and looked him over with one dove-like glance, then + instantly lowered them. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, we are all under a cloud here,” said Susan sadly. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Merton, I have undertaken the duty here until the living shall be + filled up; but you shall understand that I live thirty miles off, and have + other duties, and I can only ride over here on Saturday afternoon and back + Monday at noon.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir!” cried Susan, “half a loaf is better than no bread! The parish + will bless you, sir, and no doubt,” added she timidly, “the Lord will + reward you for coming so far to us.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad you think so,” said the clergyman thoughtfully. “Well, let us + do the best we can. Tell me first, Miss Merton, do you think the absence + of a clergyman is regretted here?” + </p> + <p> + “Regretted, sir! dear heart, what a question. You might as well ask me do + father's turnips long for rain after a month's drought;” and Susan turned + on her visitor a face into which the innocent venerating love her sex have + for an ecclesiastic flashed without disguise. + </p> + <p> + Her companion smiled, but it was with benevolence, not with gratified + vanity. + </p> + <p> + “Let me explain my visit. Your father is one of the principal people in + the village. He can assist me or thwart me in my work. I called to invite + his co-operation. Some clergymen are jealous of co-operation; I am not. It + is a good thing for all parties; best of all for those who co-operate with + us; for in giving alms wisely they receive grace, and in teaching the + ignorant they learn themselves. Am I right?” added he rather sharply, + turning suddenly upon Susan. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir,” said Susan, a little startled, “it is for me to receive your + words, not to judge them.” + </p> + <p> + “Humph!” said the reverend gentleman rather dryly; he hated intellectual + subserviency. He liked people to think for them-selves; and to end by + thinking with him. + </p> + <p> + “Father will never thwart you, sir, and I—I will co-operate with + you, sir, if you will accept of me,” said Susan innocently. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, then let us begin at once.” He took out his watch. “I have an + hour and a half to spare, then I must gallop back to Oxford. Miss Merton, + I should like to make acquaintance with some of the people. Suppose we go + to the school, and see what the children are learning, and then visit one + or two families in the village, so I shall catch a glimpse of the three + generations I have to deal with. My name is Francis Eden. You are going to + get your bonnet?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you.” + </p> + <p> + They passed out through the garden. Mr. Eden stopped to look at the + flowers. Susan colored. + </p> + <p> + “It has been rather neglected of late,” said she apologetically. + </p> + <p> + “It must have been very well taken care of before, then,” said he, “for it + looks charming now. Ah! I love flowers dearly!” and he gave a little sigh. + </p> + <p> + They reached the school, and Mr. Eden sat down and examined the little + boys and girls. When he sat down Susan winced. How angry he will be at + their ignorance! thought Susan. But Mr. Eden, instead of putting on an + awful look, and impressing on the children that a being of another + generation was about to attack them, made himself young to meet their + minds. A pleasant smile disarmed their fears. He spoke to them in very + simple words and childish idioms, and told them a pretty story, which + interested them mightily. Having set their minds really working, he put + questions arising fairly out of his story, and so fathomed the moral sense + and the intelligence of more than one. In short, he drew the brats out + instead of crushing them in. Susan stood by, at first startled at the line + he took, then observant, then approving. Presently he turned to her. + </p> + <p> + “And which is your class, Miss Merton?” + </p> + <p> + Susan colored. + </p> + <p> + “I take these little girls when I come, sir. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Merton has not been here this fortnight,” said a pert teacher. + </p> + <p> + Susan could have beat her. What will this good man think of me now? + thought poor Susan. To her grateful relief, the good man took no notice of + the observation; he looked at his watch. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Miss Merton, if I am not giving you too much trouble,” and they left + the school. + </p> + <p> + “You wish to see some of the folk in the village, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Where shall I take you first, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Where I ought to go first.” + </p> + <p> + Susan looked puzzled. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden stopped dead short. + </p> + <p> + “Come, guess,” said he, with a radiant smile, “and don't look so scared. + I'll forgive you if you guess wrong.” + </p> + <p> + Susan looked this way and that, encouraged by his merry smile. She let out—scarce + above a whisper, and in a tone of interrogation, as who should say this is + not to be my last chance since I have only asked a question not risked an + answer— + </p> + <p> + “To the poorest, Mr. Eden?” + </p> + <p> + “Brava! she has guessed it,” cried the Reverend Frank triumphantly; for he + had been more anxious she should answer right than she had herself. “Young + lady, I have friends with their heads full of Latin and Greek who could + not have answered that so quickly as you; one proof more how goodness + brightens intelligence,” added he in soliloquy. “Here's a cottage.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, I was going to take you into this one, if you please.” + </p> + <p> + They found in the cottage a rheumatic old man, one of those we alluded to + as full of his own complaints. Mr. Eden heard these with patience, and + then, after a few words of kind sympathy and acquiescence, for he was none + of those hard humbugs who tell a man that old age, rheumatism and poverty + are strokes with a feather, he said quietly: + </p> + <p> + “And now for the other side; now tell me what you have to be grateful + for.” + </p> + <p> + The old man was taken aback and his fluency deserted him. On the question + being repeated, he began to say that he had many mercies to be thankful + for. Then he higgled and hammered and fumbled for the said mercies, and + tried to enumerate them, but in phrases conventional and derived from + tracts and sermons; whereas his statement of grievances had been + idiomatic. + </p> + <p> + “There, that will do,” said Mr. Eden smiling, “say nothing you don't feel; + what is the use? May I ask you a few questions,” added he, courteously; + then, without waiting for permission, he dived skillfully into this man's + life, and fished up all the pearls—the more remarkable passages. + </p> + <p> + Many years ago this old man had been a soldier, had fought in more than + one great battle, had retreated with Sir John Moore upon Corunna, and been + one of the battered and weary but invincible band who wheeled round and + stunned the pursuers on 'that bloody and glorious day. Mr. Eden went with + the old man to Spain, discussed with great animation the retreat, the + battle, the position of the forces, and the old soldier's personal + prowess. Old Giles perked up, and dilated, and was another man; he forgot + his rheumatism, and even his old age. Twice he suddenly stood upright as a + dart on the floor, and gave the word of command like a trumpet in some + brave captain's name; and his cheek flushed, and his eye glittered with + the light of battle. Susan looked at him with astonishment. Then when his + heart was warm and his spirits attentive Mr. Eden began to throw in a few + words of exhortation. But even then he did not bully the man into being a + Christian; gently, firmly, and with a winning modesty, he said: “I think + you have much to be thankful for, like all the rest of us. Is it not a + mercy you were not cut off in your wild and dissolute youth? you might + have been slain in battle.” + </p> + <p> + “That I might, sir; three of us went from this parish and only one came + home again. + </p> + <p> + “You might have lost a leg or an arm, as many a brave fellow did; you + might have been a cripple all your days.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “You survive here in a Christian land, in possession of your faculties; + the world, it is true, has but few pleasures to offer you—all the + better for you. Oh, if I could but make that as plain to you as it is to + me. You have every encouragement to look for happiness there, where alone + it is to be found. Then courage, corporal; you stood firm at Corunna—do + not give way in this your last and most glorious battle. The stake is + greater than it was at Vittoria, or Salamanca, or Corunna, or Waterloo. + The eternal welfare of a single human soul weighs a thousand times more + than all the crowns and empires in the globe. You are in danger, sir. + Discontent is a great enemy of the soul. You must pray against it—you + must fight against it.” + </p> + <p> + “And so I will, sir; you see if I don't.” + </p> + <p> + “You read, Mr. Giles?” Susan had told Mr. Eden his name at the threshold. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; but I can't abide them nasty little prints they bring me.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course you can't. Printed to sell, not to read, eh? Here is a book. + The type is large, clear and sharp. This is an order-book, corporal. It + comes from the great Captain of our salvation. Every sentence in it is + gold; yet I think I may safely pick out a few for your especial use at + present.” And Mr. Eden sat down, and producing from his side pockets, + which were very profound, some long thin slips of paper, he rapidly turned + the leaves of the Testament and inserted his markers; but this occupation + did not for a moment interrupt his other proceedings. + </p> + <p> + “There is a pipe—you don't smoke, I hope?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; leastways not when I han't got any baccy, and I've been out of + that this three days—worse luck.” + </p> + <p> + “Give up smoking, corporal, it is a foul habit.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, sir! you don't ever have a half-empty belly and a sorrowful heart, or + you wouldn't tell an old soldier to give up his pipe.” + </p> + <p> + “Take my advice. Give up all such false consolation, to oblige me, now.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, to oblige you, I'll try; but you don't know what his pipe is + to a poor old man full of nothing but aches and pains, or you wouldn't + have asked me,” and old Giles sighed. Susan sighed, too, for she thought + Mr. Eden cruel for once. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Merton,” said the latter sternly, his eye twinkling all the time, + “he is incorrigible; and I see you agree with me that it is idle to + torment the incurable. So” (diving into the capacious pocket) “here is an + ounce of his beloved poison,” and out came a paper of tobacco. Corporal's + eyes brightened with surprise and satisfaction. “Poison him, Miss Merton, + poison him quick, don't keep him waiting.” + </p> + <p> + “Poison him, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Fill his pipe for him, if you please.” + </p> + <p> + “That I will, sir, with pleasure.” A white hand with quick and supple + fingers filled the brown pipe. + </p> + <p> + “That is as it should be. Let beauty pay honor to courage; above all to + courage in its decay.” + </p> + <p> + The old man grinned with gratified pride. The white hand lighted the pipe, + and gave it to the old soldier. He smiled gratefully all round and sucked + his homely consolation. + </p> + <p> + “I compound with you, corporal. You must let me put you on the road to + heaven, and, in return, I must let you go there in a cloud of tobacco—ugh!” + </p> + <p> + “I'm agreeable, sir,” said Giles dryly, withdrawing his pipe for a moment. + </p> + <p> + “There,” said Mr. Eden, closing the marked Testament, “read often in this + book. Read first the verses I have marked, for these very verses have + dropped comfort on the poor, the aged and the distressed for more than + eighteen hundred years, and will till time shall be no more. And now + good-by, and God bless you.” + </p> + <p> + “God bless you, sir, wherever you go!” cried the old man with sudden + energy, “for you have comforted my poor old heart. I feel as I han't felt + this many a day. Your words are like the bugles sounding a charge all down + the line. You must go, I suppose; but do ye come again and see me. And, + Miss Merton, you never come to see me now, as you used.” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Merton has her occupations like the rest of us,” said Mr. Eden + quickly; “but she will come to see you—won't she?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes, sir!” replied Susan, hastily. So then they returned to the farm, + for Mr. Eden's horse was in the stable. At the door they found Mr. Merton. + </p> + <p> + “This is father, sir. Father, this is Mr. Eden, that is coming to take the + duty here for a while.” + </p> + <p> + After the ordinary civilities Susan drew her father aside, and, exchanging + a few words with him, disappeared into the house. As Mr. Eden was mounting + his horse, Mr. Merton came forward and invited him to stay at his house + whenever he should come to the parish. Mr. Eden hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said the farmer, “you will find no lodgings comfortable within a + mile of the church, and we have a large house not half occupied. You can + make yourself quite at home.” + </p> + <p> + “I am much obliged to you, Mr. Merton, but must not trespass too far upon + your courtesy.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” replied the farmer, “we shall feel proud if you can put up + with the like of us.” + </p> + <p> + “I will come. I am much obliged to you, sir, and to your daughter.” + </p> + <p> + He mounted his horse and bade the farmer good morning. Susan came out and + stood on the steps and curtsied low—rustic fashion—but with a + grace of her own. He took off his hat to her as he rode out of the gate, + gave her a sweet, bright smile of adieu, and went down the lane fourteen + miles an hour. Old Giles was seated outside his own door with a pipe and a + book. At the sound of horses' feet he looked up and recognized his + visitor, whom he had seen pass in the morning. He rose up erect and + saluted him, by bringing his thumb with a military wave to his forehead. + Mr. Eden saluted him in the same manner, but without stopping. The old + soldier sat down again and read and smoked. The pipe ended—that + solace was not of an immortal kind—but the book remained; he read it + calmly but earnestly in the warm air till day declined. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. + </h2> + <p> + THE next Saturday Susan was busy preparing two rooms for Mr. Eden—a + homely but bright bedroom looking eastward, and a snug room where he could + be quiet downstairs. Snowy sheets and curtains and toilet-cover showed the + good housewife. The windows were open, and a beautiful nosegay of Susan's + flowers on the table. Mr. Eden's eye brightened at the comfort and + neatness and freshness of the whole thing; and Susan, who watched him + furtively, felt pleased to see him pleased. + </p> + <p> + On Sunday he preached in the parish church. The sermon was opposite to + what the good people here had been subject to; instead of the vague and + cold generalities of an English sermon, he drove home-truths home in + business-like English. He used a good many illustrations, and these were + drawn from matters with which this particular congregation were + conversant. He was as full of similes here as he was sparing of them when + he preached before the University of Oxford. Any one who had read this + sermon in a book of sermons would have divined what sort of congregation + it was preached to—a primrose of a sermon. Mr. Eden preached from + notes and to the people—not the air. Like every born orator, he felt + his way with his audience, whereas the preacher who is not an orator + throws out his fine things, hit or miss, and does not know and feel and + care whether he is hitting or missing. “Open your hand, shut your eyes, + and fling out the good seed so much per foot—that is enough.” No. + This man preached to the faces and hearts that happened to be round him. + He established between himself and them a pulse, every throb of which he + felt and followed. If he could not get hold of them one way, he tried + another; he would have them—he was not there to fail. His discourse + was human; it was man speaking to man on the most vital and interesting + topic in the world or out of it; it was more, it was brother speaking to + brother. Hence some singular phenomena. First, when he gave the blessing + (which is a great piece of eloquence commonly reduced to a very small one + by monotonous or feeble delivery), and uttered it, like his discourse, + with solemnity, warmth, tenderness and all his soul, the people lingered + some moments in the church and seemed unwilling to go at all. Second, + nobody mistook their pew for their four-poster during the sermon. This was + the more remarkable as many of the congregation had formed a steady habit + of coming to this place once a week with the single view of snatching an + hour's repose from earthly and heavenly cares. + </p> + <p> + The next morning Mr. Eden visited some of the poorest people in the + parish. Susan accompanied him, all eyes and ears. She observed that his + line was not to begin by dictating his own topic, but lie in wait for + them; let them first choose their favorite theme, and so meet them on this + ground, and bring religion to bear on it. “Oh, how wise he is!” thought + Susan, “and how he knows the heart!” + </p> + <p> + One Sunday evening three weeks after his first official visit he had been + by himself to see some of the poor people, and on his return found Susan + alone. He sat down and gave an account of his visits. + </p> + <p> + “How many ounces of tea and tobacco did you give away, sir?” asked Susan, + with an arch smile. + </p> + <p> + “Four tea, two tobacco,” replied the reverend gentleman. + </p> + <p> + “I do notice, sir, you never carry gingerbread or the like for the + children.” + </p> + <p> + “No; the young don't want lollypops, for they have youth. Old age wants + everything, so the old are my children, and I tea and tobacco them.” + </p> + <p> + After this there was a pause. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Merton, you have shown me many persons who need consolation, but + there is one you say nothing about.” + </p> + <p> + “Have I, sir? Who? Oh, I think I know. Old Dame Clayton?” + </p> + <p> + “No, it is a young demoiselle.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I don't know who it can be.” + </p> + <p> + “Guess.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir,” said Susan, looking down. + </p> + <p> + “It is yourself, Miss Merton.” + </p> + <p> + “Me, sir! Why, what is the matter with me?” + </p> + <p> + “That you shall tell me, if you think me worthy of your confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, thank you, sir. I have my little crosses, no doubt, like all the + world; but I have health and strength. I have my father.” + </p> + <p> + “My child, you are in trouble. You were crying when I came in. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed I was not, sir!—how did you know I was crying?” + </p> + <p> + “When I came in you turned your back to me, instead of facing me, which is + more natural when any one enters a room; and soon after you made an excuse + for leaving the room, and when you came back there was a drop of water in + your right eyelash.” + </p> + <p> + “It need not have been a tear, sir!” + </p> + <p> + “It was not; it was water. You had been removing the traces of tears.” + </p> + <p> + “Girls are mostly always crying, sir; often they don't know for why, but + they don't care to have it noticed always.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor would it be polite or generous; but this of yours is a deep grief, + and alarms me for you. Shall I tell you how I know? You often yawn and + often sigh; when these two things come together at your age they are signs + of a heavy grief; then it comes out that you have lost your relish for + things that once pleased you. The first day I came here you told me your + garden had been neglected of late, and you blushed in saying so. Old Giles + and others asked you before me why you had given up visiting them; you + colored and looked down. I could almost have told them, but that would + have made you uncomfortable. You are in grief, and no common grief.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing worth speaking to you about, sir; nothing I will ever complain of + to any one.” + </p> + <p> + “There I think you are wrong; religion has consoled many griefs; great + griefs admit of no other consolation. The sweetest exercise of my office + is to comfort the heavy hearted. Your heart is heavy, my poor lamb—tell + me—what is it?” + </p> + <p> + “It is nothing, sir, that you would understand; you are very skilled and + notice-taking, as well as good, but you are not a woman, and you must + excuse me, sir, if I beg you not to question me further on what would not + interest you.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden looked at her compassionately, and merely said to her again, + “What is it?” in a low tone of ineffable tenderness. + </p> + <p> + At this Susan looked in a scared manner this way and that. “Sir, do not + ask me, pray do not ask me so;” then she suddenly lifted her hands, “My + George is gone across the sea! What shall I do! what shall I do!!” and she + buried her face in her apron. + </p> + <p> + This burst of pure Nature—this simple cry of a suffering heart—was + very touching, and Mr. Eden, spite of his many experiences, was not a + little moved. He sat silent, looking on her as an angel might be supposed + to look upon human griefs, and as he looked on her various expressions + chased one another across that eloquent face. Sweet and tender memories + and regrets were not wanting among them. After a long pause he spoke in a + tone soft and gentle as a woman's, and at first in a voice so faltering + that Susan, though her face was hidden, felt there was no common sympathy + there, and silently put out her hand toward it. + </p> + <p> + He murmured consolation. He said many gentle, soothing things. He told her + that it was very sad the immense ocean should roll between two loving + hearts, “but,” said he, “there are barriers more impassable than the sea. + Better so than that he should be here and jealousy, mistrust, caprice, or + even temper come between you. I hope he will come back; I think he will + come back.” + </p> + <p> + She blessed him for saying so. She was learning to believe everything this + man uttered. + </p> + <p> + From consolation he passed to advice. + </p> + <p> + “You must do the exact opposite of what you have been doing.” + </p> + <p> + “Must I?” + </p> + <p> + “You must visit those poor people; ay, more than ever you did; hear + patiently their griefs; do not expect much in return, neither sympathy nor + a great deal of gratitude; vulgar sorrow is selfish. Do it for God's sake + and your own single-heartedly. Go to the school, return to your flowers, + and never shun innocent society, however dull. Milk and water is a poor + thing, but it is a diluent, and all we can do just now is to dilute your + grief.” + </p> + <p> + He made her promise: “Next time I come tell me all about you and George. + 'Give sorrow words, the grief that does not speak whispers the o'erfraught + heart and bids it break.'” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! that is a true word,” sobbed Susan, “that is very true. Why a little + of the lead seems to have dropped off my heart now I have spoken to you, + sir.” + </p> + <p> + All the next week Susan bore up as bravely as she could, and did what Mr. + Eden had bade her, and profited by his example. She learned to draw from + others the full history of their woes; and she found that many a grief + bitter as her own had passed over the dwellers in those small cottages; it + did her some little good to discover kindred woes, and much good to go out + of herself a while and pity them. + </p> + <p> + This drooping flower recovered her head a little, but still the sweetest + hour in all the working days of the week was that which brought John + Meadows to talk to her of Australia. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. + </h2> + <p> + SUSAN MERTON had two unfavored lovers; it is well to observe how + differently these two behaved. William Fielding stayed at home, threw his + whole soul into his farm, and seldom went near the woman he loved but had + no right to love. Meadows dangled about the flame; ashamed and afraid to + own his love, he fed it to a prodigious height by encouraging it and not + expressing it. William Fielding was moody and cross and sad enough at + times; but at others a little spark ignited inside his heart, and a warm + glow diffused itself from that small point over all his being. I think + this spark igniting was an approving conscience commencing its uphill work + of making a disappointed lover, but honest man, content. + </p> + <p> + Meadows, on his part, began to feel content and a certain complacency take + the place of his stormy feelings. Twice a week he passed two hours with + Susan. She always greeted him with a smile, and naturally showed an + innocent satisfaction in these visits, managed as they were with so much + art and self-restraint. On Sunday, too, he had always a word or two with + her. + </p> + <p> + Meadows, though an observer of religious forms, had the character of a + very worldly man, and Susan thought it highly to his credit that he came + six miles to hear Mr. Eden. + </p> + <p> + “But, Mr. Meadows, your poor horse,” said she, one day. “I doubt it is no + Sabbath to him now.” + </p> + <p> + “No more it is,” said Meadows, as if a new light came to him from Susan. + The next Sunday he appeared in dusty shoes, instead of top-boots. + </p> + <p> + Susan looked down at them, and saw, and said nothing; but she smiled. Her + love of goodness and her vanity were both gratified a little. + </p> + <p> + Meadows did not stop there; wherever Susan went he followed modestly in + her steps. Nor was this mere cunning. He loved her quite well enough to + imitate her, and try and feel with her; and he began to be kinder to the + poor, and to feel good all over, and comfortable. He felt as if he had not + an enemy in the world. One day in Farnborough he saw William Fielding on + the other side of the street. Susan Merton did not love William, therefore + Meadows had no cause to hate him. He remembered William had asked a loan + of him and he had declined. He crossed over to him. + </p> + <p> + “Good-day, Mr. William.” + </p> + <p> + “Good-day, Mr. Meadows.” + </p> + <p> + “You were speaking to me one day about a trifling loan. I could not manage + it just then, but now—” Here Meadows paused. He had been on the + point of offering the money, but suddenly, by one of those instincts of + foresight these able men have, he turned it off thus: “but I know who + will. You go to Lawyer Crawley; he lends money to people of credit.” + </p> + <p> + “I know he does; but he won't lend it me.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “He does not like us. He is a poor sneaking creature, and my brother + George he caught Crawley selling up some poor fellow or other, and they + had words; leastways it went beyond words, I fancy. I don't know the + rights of it, but George was a little rough with him by all accounts.” + </p> + <p> + “And what has that to do with this?” said the man of business coolly. + </p> + <p> + “Why, I am George's brother.” + </p> + <p> + “And if you were George himself and he saw his way to make a shilling out + of you he would do it, wouldn't he? There, you go to Crawley and ask him + to lend you one hundred pounds, and he will lend it you, only he will make + you pay heavy interest, heavier than I should, you know, if I could manage + it myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I don't care,” said simple William; “thank you kindly, Mr. Meadows,” + and off he went to Crawley. + </p> + <p> + He found that worthy in his office. Crawley, who instantly guessed his + errand, and had no instructions from Meadows, promised himself the + satisfaction of refusing the young man. He asked, with a cringing manner + and a treacherous smile, “What security, sir?” + </p> + <p> + Poor William higgled and hammered, and offered first one thing, which was + blandly declined for this reason; then another, which was blandly declined + for that, Crawley drinking deep draughts of mean vengeance all the while + from the young man's shame and mortification, when the door opened, a man + walked in, and gave Crawley a note and vanished. Crawley opened the note; + it contained a check drawn by Meadows, and these words: “Lend W. F. the + money at ten per cent on his acceptance of your draft at two months.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley put the note and check in his pocket. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” said he to William, “you stay here, and I will see if I have + got a loose hundred in the bank to spare.” He went over to the bank, + cashed the check, drew a bill of exchange at two months' date, deducted + the interest and stamp, and William accepted it, and Crawley bowed him out + cringing, smiling, and secretly shooting poisoned arrows out of his + venomous eye in the direction of William's heels. + </p> + <p> + William thanked him warmly. + </p> + <p> + This loan made him feel happy. + </p> + <p> + He had paid his brother's debt to the landlord by sacrificing a large + portion of his grain at a time the price was low; and now he was so + cramped he had much ado to pay his labor when this loan came. The very + next day he bought several hogs—hogs, as George had sarcastically + observed, were William Fielding's hobby; he had I confidence in that + animal. Potatoes and pigs versus sheep and turnips was the theory of + William Fielding. + </p> + <p> + Now the good understanding between William and Meadows was not to last + long. William, though he was too wise to visit Grassmere Farm much, was + mindful of his promise to George, and used to make occasional inquiries + after Susan. He heard that Meadows called at the farm twice a week, and he + thought it a little odd. He pondered on it, but did not quite go the + length of suspecting anything, still less of suspecting Susan. Still, he + thought it odd; but he thought it odder, when, one market-day, old Isaac + Levi said to him: + </p> + <p> + “Do you remember the promise you made to the lion-hearted young man, your + brother?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you ask that to affront me?” + </p> + <p> + “You never visit her; and others are not so neglectful.” + </p> + <p> + “Who?” + </p> + <p> + “Go this evening and you will see.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I will go, and I will soon see if there is anything in it,” said + William, not stopping even to inquire why the old Jew took all this + interest in the affair. + </p> + <p> + That evening, as Meadows was in the middle of a description of the town of + Sydney, Susan started up. “Why, here is William Fielding!” and she ran out + and welcomed him in with much cordiality, perhaps with some excess of + cordiality. + </p> + <p> + William came in and saluted the farmer and Meadows in his dogged way. + Meadows was not best pleased, but kept his temper admirably, and, leaving + Australia, engaged both the farmers in a conversation on home topics. + Susan looked disappointed. Meadows was content with that, and the party + separated half an hour sooner than usual. + </p> + <p> + The next market evening in strolls William. Meadows again plays the same + game. This time Susan could hardly restrain her temper. She did not want + to hear about the Grassmere acres, and “The Grove,” and oxen and hogs, but + about something that mattered to George. + </p> + <p> + But when the next market evening William arrived before Mr. Meadows, she + was downright provoked and gave him short answers, which raised his + suspicions and made him think he had done wisely in coming. This evening + Susan excused herself and went to bed early. + </p> + <p> + She was in Farnborough the next market-day, and William met her and said: + </p> + <p> + “I'll take a cup of tea with you to-night, Susan, if you are agreeable.” + </p> + <p> + “William,” said Susan sharply, “what makes you always come to us on + market-day?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know. What makes Mr. Meadows come that day?” + </p> + <p> + “Because he passes our house to go to his own, I suppose; but you live but + two miles off; you can come any day that you are minded.” + </p> + <p> + “Should I be welcome, Susan?” + </p> + <p> + “What do you think, Will? Speak your mind; I don't understand you.” + </p> + <p> + “Seems to me I was not very welcome last time.” + </p> + <p> + “If I thought that I wouldn't come again,” replied Susan, as sharp as a + needle. Then instantly repenting a little, she explained: “You are welcome + to me, Will, and you know that as well as I do, but I want you to come + some other evening, if it is all the same to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Why? because I am dull other evenings, and it would be nice to have a + chat with you.” + </p> + <p> + “Would it, Susan?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course it would; but that evening I have company—and he talks to + me of Australia.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing else?” sneered the unlucky William. + </p> + <p> + Susan gave him such a look. + </p> + <p> + “And that interests me more than anything you can say to me—if you + won't be offended,” snapped Susan. + </p> + <p> + William bit his lip. + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, I won't come this evening, eh! Susan?” + </p> + <p> + “No, don't, that is a good soul.” + </p> + <p> + “Les femmes sont impitoyables pour ceux qu'elles n'aiment pas.” This is a + harsh saying, and of course not pure truth; but there is a deal of truth + in it. + </p> + <p> + William was proud, and the consciousness of his own love for her made him + less able to persist, for he knew she might be so ungenerous as to retort + if he angered her too far. So he altered the direction of his battery. He + planted himself at the gate of Grassmere Farm, and as Meadows got off his + horse requested a few words with him. Meadows ran him over with one + lightning glance, and then the whole man was on the defensive. William + bluntly opened the affair. + </p> + <p> + “You heard me promise to look on Susan as my sister, and keep her as she + is for my brother that is far away.” + </p> + <p> + “I heard you, Mr. William,” said Meadows with a smile that provoked + William as the artful one intended it should. + </p> + <p> + “You come here too often, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Too often for who?” + </p> + <p> + “Too often for me, too often for George, too often for the girl herself. I + won't have George's sweetheart talked about.” + </p> + <p> + “You are the first to talk about her; if there's scandal it is of your + making.” + </p> + <p> + “I won't have it—at a word.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows called out, “Miss Merton, will you step here.” + </p> + <p> + William was astonished at his audacity; he did not know his man. + </p> + <p> + Susan opened the parlor window. + </p> + <p> + “What is it, Mr. Meadows?” + </p> + <p> + “Will you step here, if you please?” Susan came. :Here is a young man + tells me I must not call on your father or you.” + </p> + <p> + “I say you must not do it often enough to make her talked of.” + </p> + <p> + “Who dares to talk of me?” cried Susan, scarlet. + </p> + <p> + “Nobody, Miss Merton. Nobody but the young man himself; and so I told him. + Is your father within? Then I'll step in and speak with him anyway.” And + the sly Meadows vanished to give Susan an opportunity of quarreling with + William while she was hot. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know how you came to take such liberties with me,” began Susan, + quite pale now with anger. + </p> + <p> + “It is for George's sake,” said William doggedly. + </p> + <p> + “Did George bid you insult my friends and me? I would not put up with it + from George himself, much less from you. I shall write to George and ask + him whether he wishes me to be your slave.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't ye do so. Don't set my brother against me,” remonstrated William + ruefully. + </p> + <p> + “The best thing you can do is to go home and mind your farm, and get a + sweetheart for yourself, and then you won't trouble your head about me + more than you have any business to do.” + </p> + <p> + This last cut wounded William to the quick. + </p> + <p> + “Good-evening, Susan.” + </p> + <p> + “Good-evening.” + </p> + <p> + “Won't you shake hands?” + </p> + <p> + “It would serve you right if I said no! But I won't make you of so much + importance as you want to be. There! And come again as soon as ever you + can treat my friends with respect.” + </p> + <p> + “I shan't trouble you again for a while,” said William sadly. “Good-by. + God bless you, Susan dear.” + </p> + <p> + When he was gone the tears came into Susan's eyes, but she was bitterly + indignant with him for making a scene about her, which a really modest + girl hates. On her reaching the parlor Mr. Meadows was gone, too, and that + incensed her still more against William. “Mr. Meadows is affronted, no + doubt,” said she, “and of course he would not come here to be talked of; + he would not like that any more than I. A man that comes here to us out of + pure good nature and nothing else.” + </p> + <p> + The next market-day the deep Meadows did not come. Susan missed him and + his talk. She had few pleasures, and this was one of them. But the next + after he came as usual, and Susan did not conceal her satisfaction. She + was too shy and he too wise to allude to William's interference. They both + ignored the poor fellow and his honest, clumsy attempt. + </p> + <p> + William, discomfited but not convinced, determined to keep his eye upon + them both. “I swore it and I'll do it,” said this honest fellow. “But I + can't face her tongue; it goes through me like a pitchfork; but as for + him”—and he clinched his fist most significantly; then he revolved + one or two plans in his head, and rejected them each in turn. At last a + thought struck him. “Mr. Levi! he 'twas that put me on my guard. I'll tell + him.” Accordingly he recounted the whole affair and his failure to Mr. + Levi. The old man smiled. “You are no match for either of these. You have + given the maiden offense, just offense.” + </p> + <p> + “Just offence! Mr. Levi. Now don't ye say so; why, how?” + </p> + <p> + “By your unskillfulness, my son.” + </p> + <p> + “It is all very well for you to say that, sir, but I can tell you women + are kittle folk—manage them who can? I don't know what to do, I'm + sure.” + </p> + <p> + “Stay at home and till the land,” replied Isaac, somewhat dryly. “I will + go to Grassmere Farm.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. + </h2> + <p> + “You going to leave us, Mr. Eden, and going to live in a jail? Oh! Mr. + Eden, I can't bear to think of it. You to be cooped up there among thieves + and rogues, and perhaps murderers?” + </p> + <p> + “They have the more need of me.” + </p> + <p> + “And you, who love the air of heaven so; why, sir, I see you take off your + very hat at times to enjoy it as you are walking along; you would be + choked in a prison. Besides, sir, it is only little parsons that go + there.” + </p> + <p> + “What are little parsons?” + </p> + <p> + “Those that are not clever enough or good enough to be bishops and vicars, + and so forth; not such ones as you.” + </p> + <p> + “How odd! This is exactly what the Devil whispered in my ear when the + question was first raised, but I did not expect to find you on his side.” + </p> + <p> + “Didn't you, sir? Ah! well, if 'tis your duty I know I may as well hold my + tongue. And then, such as you are not like other folk; you come like + sunshine to some dark place, and when you have warmed it and lighted it a + bit, Heaven, that sent you, will have you go and shine elsewhere. You came + here, sir, you waked up the impenitent folk in this village and comforted + the distressed and relieved the poor, and you have saved one poor + broken-hearted girl from despair, from madness, belike; and now we are not + to be selfish, we must not hold you back, but let you run the race that is + set before you, and remember your words and your deeds, and your dear face + and voice to the last hour of our lives.” + </p> + <p> + “And give me the benefit of your prayers, little sister, do not deny me + them; your prayers, that I may persevere to the end. Ay! it is too true, + Susan; in this world there is nothing but meeting and parting; it is sad. + We have need to be stout-hearted—stouter-hearted than you are. But + it will not always be so. A few short years and we who have fought the + good fight shall meet to part no more—to part no more—to part + no more!” + </p> + <p> + As he repeated these words, half mechanically, Susan could see that he had + suddenly become scarce conscious of her presence. The light of other days + was in his eye and his lips moved inarticulately. Delicate-minded Susan + left him, and with the aid of the servant brought out the tea-things and + set the little table on the grass square in her garden, where you could + see the western sun. And then she came for Mr. Eden. + </p> + <p> + “Come, sir, there is not a breath of wind this evening, so the tea-things + are set in the air. I know you like that.” + </p> + <p> + The little party sat down in the open air. The butter, churned by Susan, + was solidified cream. The bread not very white, but home-made, juicy and + sweet as milk. The tea seemed to diffuse a more flowery fragrance out of + doors than it does in, and to mix fraternally with the hundred odors of + Susan's flowers that now perfumed the air, and the whole innocent meal, + unlike coarse dinner or supper, mingled harmoniously with the scene, with + the balmy air, the blue sky and the bright emerald grass sprinkled with + gold by the descending sun. Farmer Merton soon left them, and then Susan + went in and brought out pen and ink and a large sheet of paper. + </p> + <p> + Susan sat apart working with her needle, Mr. Eden sketched a sermon and + sipped his tea, and now and then purred three words to Susan, who purred + as many in reply. And yet over this pleasant scene there hung a gentle + sadness, felt most by Susan, as with head bent down she plied her needle + in silence. “He will not sit in my garden many times more, nor write many + more notes of sermons under my eye, nor preach to us all many more + sermons; and then he is going to a nasty jail, where he won't have his + health, I'm doubtful. And then I'm fearful he won't be comfortable in his + house, with nobody to take care of him that really cares for him; servants + soon find out where there is no woman to scold them as should be, and he + is not the man to take his own part against them.” And Susan sighed at the + domestic prospects of her friend, and her needle went slower and slower. + </p> + <p> + These reflections were interrupted by the servant, who announced a + visitor. Susan laid down her work and went into the parlor, and there + found Isaac Levi. She greeted him with open arms and heightened color, and + never for a moment suspected that he was come there full of suspicions of + her. + </p> + <p> + After the first greeting a few things of little importance were said on + either side. Isaac watching to see whether Mr. Meadows had succeeded in + supplanting George, and too cunning to lead the conversation that way + himself, lay patiently in wait like a sly old fox. However, he soon found + he was playing the politician superfluously, for Susan laid bare her whole + heart to the simplest capacity. Instead of waiting for the skillful, + subtle, almost invisible cross-examination which the descendant of + Maimonides was preparing for her, she answered all his questions before + they were asked. It came out that her thought by day and night was George, + that she had been very dull, and very unhappy. “But I am better now, Mr. + Levi, thank God. He has been very good to me: he has sent me a friend, a + clergyman, or an angel in the dress of one, I sometimes think. He knows + all about me and George, sir; so that makes me feel quite at home with + him, and I can—and now Mr. Meadows stops an hour on market-days, and + he is so kind as to tell me all about Australia, and you may guess I like + to hear about—Mr. Levi, come and see us some market evening. Mr. + Meadows is capital company; to hear him you would think he had passed half + his life in Australia. Were you ever in Australia, sir, if you please?” + </p> + <p> + “Never, but I shall.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall you, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; the old Jew is not to die till he has drifted to every part in the + globe. In my old days I shall go back toward the East, and there methinks + I shall lay these wandering bones.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir, inquire after George and show him some kindness, and don't see + him wronged, he is very simple. No! no! no! you are too old; you must not + cross the seas at your age; don't think of it; stay quiet at home till you + leave us for a better world.” + </p> + <p> + “At home!” said the old man sorrowfully; “I have no home. I had a home, + but the man Meadows has driven me out of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Meadows! La, sir, as how?” + </p> + <p> + “He bought the house I live in, and next Lady-day, as the woman-worshiper + calls it, he turns me to the door.” + </p> + <p> + “But he won't if you ask him. He is a very good-natured man. You go and + ask him to be so good as let you stay; he won't gainsay you, you take my + word.” + </p> + <p> + “Susannah!” replied Isaac, “you are good and innocent; you cannot fathom + the hearts of the wicked. This Meadows is a man of Belial. I did beseech + him; I bowed these gray hairs to him to let me stay in the house where I + lived so happily with my Leah twenty years, where my children were born to + me and died from me, where my Leah consoled me for their loss a while, but + took no comfort herself and left me, too.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor old man! and what did he say?” + </p> + <p> + “He refused me with harsh words. To make the refusal more bitter he + insulted my religion and my much-enduring tribe, and at the day appointed + he turns me, at threescore years and ten, adrift upon the earth.” + </p> + <p> + “Eh, dear! how hard the world is!” cried Susan; “I had a great respect for + Mr. Meadows, but now if he comes here I know I shall shut the door in his + face.” + </p> + <p> + Isaac reflected. This would not have suited a certain subtle Eastern plan + of vengeance he had formed. “No!” said he, “that is folly. Take not + another man's quarrel on your shoulders. A Jew knows how to revenge + himself without your aid.” + </p> + <p> + So then her inquisitor was satisfied; Australia really was the topic that + made Meadows welcome. He departed, revolving Oriental vengeance. + </p> + <p> + Smooth Meadows, at his next visit, removed the impression excited against + him, and easily persuaded Susan that Levi was more in the wrong than he, + in which opinion she stood firm till Levi's next visit. + </p> + <p> + At last she gave up all hope of dijudicating, and determined to end the + matter by bringing them together and making them friends. + </p> + <p> + And now approached the day of Mr. Eden's departure. The last sermon—the + last quiet tea in the garden. On Monday afternoon he was to go to Oxford, + and the following week to his new sphere of duties, which he had selected + to the astonishment of some hundred persons who knew him superficially—knew + him by his face, by his pretensions as a scholar, a divine and a gentleman + of descent and independent means, but had not sounded his depths. + </p> + <p> + All Sunday Susan sought every opportunity of conversing with him even on + indifferent matters. She was garnering up his words, his very syllables, + and twenty times in the day he saw her eyes fill with tears apropos of + such observations as this: + </p> + <p> + “We shall have a nice warm afternoon, Susan.” + </p> + <p> + “It is to be hoped so, sir; the blackbirds are giving a chirrup or two.” + </p> + <p> + All Monday forenoon Susan was very busy. There was bread to be baked and + butter to be made. Mr. Eden must take some of each to Oxford. They would + keep Grassmere in his mind a day or two longer; and besides they were + wholesome and he was fond of them. Then there was his linen to be looked + over, and buttons sewed on for the last time. Then he must eat a good + dinner before he went, so then he would want nothing but his tea when he + got to Oxford; and the bread would be fit to eat by tea-time, especially a + small crusty cake she had made for that purpose. So with all this Susan + was energetic, almost lively; and even when it was all done and they were + at dinner, her principal anxiety seemed to be that he should eat more than + usual because he was going a journey. But when all bustle of every kind + was over and the actual hour of parting came, she suddenly burst out + crying before her father and the servant, who bade her not take on and + instantly burst out crying too from vague sympathy. + </p> + <p> + The old farmer ordered the girl out of the room directly, and without the + least emotion proceeded to make excuses to Mr. Eden for Susan. + </p> + <p> + “A young maid's eyes soon flow over,” etc. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden interrupted him. + </p> + <p> + “Such tears as these do not scald the heart. I feel this separation from + my dear kind friend as much as she feels it. But I am more than twice her + age and have passed through—I should feel it bitterly if I thought + our friendship and Christian love were to end because our path of duty + lies separate. But no, Susan, still look on me as your adviser, your elder + brother, and in some measure your pastor. I shall write to you and watch + over you, though it some distance—and not so great a distance. I am + always well horsed, and I know you will give me a bed at Grassmere once a + quarter.” + </p> + <p> + “That we will,” cried the farmer, warmly, “and proud and happy to see you + cross the threshold, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And, Mr. Merton, my new house is large. I shall be alone in it. Whenever + you and Miss Merton have nothing better to do, pray come and visit me. I + will make you as uncomfortable as you have made me comfortable, but as + welcome as you have made me welcome.” + </p> + <p> + “We will come, sir! we will come some one of these days, and thank you for + the honor.” + </p> + <p> + So Mr. Eden went from Grassmere village and Grassmere farmhouse—but + he left neither as he found them; fifty years hence an old man and woman + or two will speak to their grandchildren of the “Sower,” and Susan Merton + (if she is on earth then) of “the good Physician.” She may well do so, for + it was no vulgar service he rendered her, no vulgar malady he checked. + </p> + <p> + Not every good man could have penetrated so quickly a coy woman's grief, + nor, the wound found, have soothed her fever and deadened her smart with a + hand as firm as gentle, as gentle as firm. + </p> + <p> + Such men are human suns! They brighten and warm wherever they pass. Fools + count them mad, till death wrenches open foolish eyes; they are not often + called “my Lord,” * nor sung by poets when they die; but the hearts they + heal, and their own are their rich reward on earth—and their place + is high in heaven. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * Sometimes thought. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. + </h2> + <p> + MR. MEADOWS lived in a house that he had conquered three years ago by + lending money on it at fair interest in his own name. Mr. David Hall, the + proprietor, paid neither principal nor interest. Mr. Meadows expected this + contingency, and therefore lent his money. He threatened to foreclose and + sell the house under the hammer; to avoid this Mr. Hall said, “Pay + yourself the interest by living rent free in the house till such time as + my old aunt dies, drat her, and then I'll pay your money. I wish I had + never borrowed it.” Meadows acquiesced with feigned reluctance. “Well, if + I must, I must; but let me have my money as soon as you can—” + (aside) “I will end my days in this house.” + </p> + <p> + It had many conveniences; among the rest a very long though narrow garden + inclosed within high walls. At the end of the garden was a door which + anybody could open from the inside, but from the outside only by a Bramah + key. + </p> + <p> + The access to this part of the premises was by a short, narrow lane, very + dirty and very little used, because, whatever might have been in old + times, it led now from nowhere to nowhere. Meadows received by this + entrance one or two persons whom he never allowed to desecrate his + knocker. At the head of these furtive visitors was Peter Crawley, + attorney-at-law, a gentleman who every New Year's Eve used to say to + himself with a look of gratified amazement—“Another year gone, and I + not struck off the Rolls!!!” + </p> + <p> + Peter had a Bramah key intrusted to him. + </p> + <p> + His visits to Mr. Meadows were conducted thus: he opened the garden-gate + and looked up at the window in a certain passage. This passage was not + accessible to the servants, and the window with its blinds was a + signal-book. + </p> + <p> + Blinds up, Mr. Meadows out. + </p> + <p> + White blind down, Mr. Meadows in. + </p> + <p> + Blue blind down, Mr. Meadows in, but not alone. + </p> + <p> + The same key that opened the garden-door opened a door at the back of the + house which led direct to the passage above-mentioned. On the window-seat + lay a peculiar whistle constructed to imitate the whining of a dog. Then + Meadows would go to his book-shelves, which lined one side of the room, + and pressing a hidden spring open a door that nobody ever suspected, for + the books came along with it. To provide for every contingency, there was + a small secret opening in another part of the shelves by which Meadows + could shoot unobserved a note or the like into the passage, and so give + Crawley instructions without dismissing a visitor, if he had one. + </p> + <p> + Meadows provided against surprise and discovery. His study had double + doors. Neither of them could be opened from the outside. His visitors or + servants must rap with an iron knocker; and while Meadows went to open, + the secret visitor stepped into the passage and shut the books behind him. + </p> + <p> + It was a room that looked business. One side was almost papered with + ordnance maps of this and an adjoining county. Pigeon-holes abounded, too, + and there was a desk six feet long, chock full of little drawers—contents + indicated outside in letters of which the proprietor knew the meaning, not + I. + </p> + <p> + Between the door and the fireplace was a screen, on which, in place of + idle pictures, might be seen his plans and calculations as a land + surveyor, especially those that happened to be at present in operation or + under consideration. So he kept his business before his eye, on the chance + of a good idea striking him at a leisure moment. + </p> + <p> + “Will Fielding's acceptance falls due to-morrow, Crawley.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, what shall I do?” + </p> + <p> + “Present it; he is not ready for it, I know. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir; what next?” + </p> + <p> + “Serve him with a writ.” + </p> + <p> + “He will be preciously put about.” + </p> + <p> + “He will. Seem sorry; say you are a little short, but won't trouble him + for a month, if it is inconvenient; but he must make you safe by signing a + judgment.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! ay! Sir, may I make bold to ask what is the game with this young + Fielding?” + </p> + <p> + “You ought to know the game—to get him in my power.” + </p> + <p> + “And a very good game it is, sir! Nobody plays it better than you. He + won't be the only one that is in your power in these parts—he! he!” + And Crawley chuckled without merriment. “Excuse my curiosity, sir, but + when about is the blow to fall?” + </p> + <p> + “What is that to you?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, sir, only the sooner the better. I have a grudge against the + family.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you? then don't act upon it. I don't employ you to do your business, + but mine. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, Mr. Meadows. You don't think I'd be so ungrateful as to spoil + your admirable plans by acting upon any little feeling of my own.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think you would be so silly. For if you did, we should part.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't mention such an event, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “You have been drinking, Crawley!” + </p> + <p> + “Not a drop, sir, this two days.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a liar! The smell of it comes through your skin. I won't have it. + Do you hear what I say? I won't have it. No man that drinks can do + business—especially mine.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll never touch a drop again. They called me into the public-house—they + wouldn't take a denial.” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your prate and listen to me. The next time you look at a + public-house say to yourself, Peter Crawley, that is not a public-house to + you—it is a hospital, a workhouse, for a dunghill—for if you + go in there John Meadows, that is your friend, will be your enemy.” + </p> + <p> + “Heaven forbid, Mr. Meadows.” + </p> + <p> + “Drink this basinful of coffee.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir. Thank you, sir. It is very bitter.” + </p> + <p> + “Is your head clear now?” + </p> + <p> + “As a bell.” + </p> + <p> + “Then go and do my work, and don't do an atom more or an atom less than + your task.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir. Oh, Mr. Meadows! it is a pleasure to serve you. You are as deep + as the sea, sir, and as firm as the rock. You never drink, nor anything + else, that I can find. A man out of a thousand! No little weakness, like + the rest of us, sir. You are a great man, sir. You are a model of a man of + bus—” + </p> + <p> + “Good-morning,” growled Meadows roughly, and turned his back. + </p> + <p> + “Good-morning, sir,” said Peter mellifluously. And opening the back door + about ten inches, he wriggled out like a weasel going through a chink in a + wall. + </p> + <p> + William Fielding fell like a child into the trap. “Give me time, and it + will be all right,” is the debtor's delusion. William thanked Crawley for + not pressing him, and so compelling him to force a sale of all his hogs, + fat or lean. Crawley received his thanks with a leer, returned in four + days, got the judgment signed, and wriggled away with it to Meadows' back + door. + </p> + <p> + “You take out an arrest”—Meadows gave him a pocketbook—“put it + in this, and keep it ready in your pocket night and day.” + </p> + <p> + “I dare say it will come into use before the year is out, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope not.” + </p> + <p> + George Fielding gone to Australia to make a thousand pounds by farming and + cattle-feeding, that so he may claim old Merton's promised consent to + marry Susan. Susan observing Mr. Eden's precepts even more religiously + than when he was with her; active, full of charitable deeds, often + pensive, always anxious, but not despondent now, thanks to the good + physician. Meadows falling deeper and deeper in love, but keeping it more + jealously secret than ever; on his guard against Isaac, on his guard + against William, on his guard against John Meadows; hoping everything from + time and accidents, from the distance between the lovers, from George's + incapacity, of which he had a great opinion—“He will never make a + thousand pence”—but not trusting to the things he hoped. On the + contrary, watching with keen eye, and working with subtle threads to draw + everybody into his power who could assist or thwart him in the object his + deep heart and iron will were set on. William Fielding going down the hill + Meadows was mounting; getting the better of his passion, and substituting, + by degrees, a brother-in-law's regard. + </p> + <p> + Flowers and weeds have one thing in common—while they live they + grow. Natural growth is a slow process, to describe it day by day a + slower. For the next four months matters glided so quietly on the slopes I + have just indicated that an intelligent calculation by the reader may very + well take the place of a tedious chronicle by the writer. Moreover, the + same monotony did not hang over every part of our story. These very four + months were eventful enough to one of our characters; and through him, by + subtle and positive links, to every man and every woman who fills any + considerable position in this matter-of-fact romance. Therefore our story + drags us from the meadows round Grassmere to a massive, castellated + building, glaring red brick with white stone corners. These colors and + their contrast relieve the stately mass of some of that grimness which + characterizes the castles of antiquity; but enough remains to strike some + awe into the beholder. + </p> + <p> + Two round towers flank the principal entrance. On one side of the + right-hand tower is a small house constructed in the same style as the + grand pile. The castle is massive and grand. This, its satellite, is + massive and tiny, like the frog doing his little bit of bull—like + Signor Hervio Nano, a tremendous thick dwarf now no more. There is one + dimple to all this gloomy grandeur—a rich little flower-garden, + whose frame of emerald turf goes smiling up to the very ankle of the + frowning fortress, as some few happy lakes in the world wash the very foot + of the mountains that hem them. From this green spot a few flowers look up + with bright and wondering wide-opened eyes at the great bullying masonry + over their heads; and to the spectator of both, these sparks of color at + the castle-foot are dazzling and charming; they are like rubies, sapphires + and pink topaz in some uncouth angular ancient setting. + </p> + <p> + Between the central towers is a sharp arch, filled by a huge oak door of + the same shape and size, which, for further security or ornament, is + closely studded with large diamond-headed nails. A man with keys at his + girdle like the ancient housewives opens the huge door to you with slight + effort, so well oiled is it. You slip under a porch into an inclosed yard, + the great door shuts almost of itself, and now it depends upon the + housewifely man whether you ever see the vain, idle and every-way + objectionable world again. + </p> + <p> + Passing into the interior of the vast building, you find yourself in an + extensive aisle traversed at right angles by another of similar + dimensions, the whole in form of a cross. In the center of each aisle is + an iron staircase, so narrow that two people cannot pass, and so light and + open that it merely ornaments, not obstructs, the view of the aisle. These + staircases make two springs; the first takes them to the level of two + corridors on the first floor. Here there is a horizontal space of about a + yard, whence the continuation staircase rises to the second and highest + floor. This gives three corridors, all studded with doors opening on small + separate apartments, whereof anon. + </p> + <p> + Nearly all the inmates of this grim palace wear a peculiar costume and + disguise, one feature of which is a cap of coarse materials, with a vizor + to it, which conceals the features all but the chin and the eyes, which + last peep, in a very droll way, through two holes cut for that purpose. + </p> + <p> + They are distinguished by a courteous manner to strangers, whom they never + fail to salute in passing, with great apparent cordiality; indeed, we fear + we shall never meet in the busy world with such uniform urbanity as in + this and similar retreats. It arises from two causes. One is that here + strangers are welcome from their rarity; another, that politeness is a + part of the education of the place, which, besides its other uses, is an + adult school of manners, morals, religion, grammar, writing and cobbling. + </p> + <p> + With the exception of its halls and corridors, the building is almost + entirely divided into an immense number of the small apartments noticed + above. These are homely inside, but exquisitely clean. The furniture, + movable and fixed, none of which is superfluous, can be briefly described. + A bedstead, consisting of the side walls of the apartment; polished steel + staples are fixed in these walls, two on each side the apartment at an + elevation of about two feet and a half. The occupant's mattress (made of + cocoa bark) has two stout steel hooks at each end; these are hooked into + the staples, and so he lies across his abode. A deal table the size of a + pocket-handkerchief; also a deal tripod. A waterspout so ingeniously + contrived that, turned to the right it sends a small stream into a copper + basin, and to the left into a bottomless close stool at some distance. A + small gas-pipe tipped with polished brass. In one angle of the wall a sort + of commode, or open cupboard; on whose shelves a bright pewter plate, a + knife and fork and a wooden spoon. In a drawer of this commode yellow soap + and a comb and brush. A grating down low for hot air to come in, if it + likes, and another up high for foul air to go out, if it chooses. On the + wall a large placard containing rules for the tenant's direction, and + smaller placards containing texts from Scripture, the propriety of + returning thanks after food, etc.; a slate and a couple of leathern + kneeguards used in polishing the room. And that is all. But the deal + furniture is so clean you might eat off it. The walls are snow, the copper + basin and the brass gaspipe glitter like red gold and pale gold, and the + bed-hooks like silver hot from the furnace. Altogether it is inviting at + first sight. + </p> + <p> + To one of these snowy snug retreats was now ushered an acquaintance of + ours, Tom Robinson. A brief retrospect must dispose of his intermediate + history. + </p> + <p> + When he left us he went to the county bridewell, where he remained until + the assizes, an interval of about a month. He was tried; direct evidence + was strong against him, and he defended himself with so much ingenuity and + sleight of intellect that the jury could not doubt his sleight of hand and + morals, too. He was found guilty, identified as a notorious thief, and + condemned to twelve months' imprisonment and ten years' transportation. He + returned to the county bridewell for a few days, and then was shifted to + the castellated building. + </p> + <p> + Tom Robinson had not been in jail this four years, and, since his last + visit great changes had begun to take place in the internal economy of + these skeleton palaces and in the treatment of their prisoners. + </p> + <p> + Prisons might be said to be in a transition state. In some, as in the + county bridewell Robinson had just left, the old system prevailed in full + force. The two systems vary in their aims. Under the old, the jail was a + finishing school of felony and petty larceny. Under the new, it is + intended to be a penal hospital for diseased and contagious souls. + </p> + <p> + The treatment of prisoners is not at present invariable. Within certain + limits the law unwisely allows a discretionary power to the magistrates of + the county where the jail is; and the jailer, or, as he is now called, the + governor, is their agent in these particulars. + </p> + <p> + Hence, in some new jails you may now see the non-separate system; in + others, the separate system without silence; in others, the separate and + silent system; in others, a mixture of these, i. e., the hardened + offenders kept separate, the improving ones allowed to mix; and these + varieties are at the discretion of the magistrates, who settle within the + legal limits each jail's system. + </p> + <p> + The magistrates, in this part of their business, are represented by + certain of their own body, who are called “the visiting justices;” and + these visiting justices can even order and authorize a jailer to flog a + prisoner for offenses committed in jail. + </p> + <p> + Now, a year or two before our tale, one Captain O'Connor was governor of + this jail. Captain O'Connor was a man of great public merit. He had been + one of the first dissatisfied with the old system, and had written very + intelligent books on crime and punishment, which are supposed to have done + their share in opening the nation's eyes to the necessity of regenerating + its prisons. But after a while the visiting justices of this particular + county became dissatisfied with him; he did not go far enough nor fast + enough with the stone he had helped to roll. Books and reports came out + which convinced the magistrates that severe punishment of mind and body + was the essential object of a jail, and that it was wrong and chimerical + to attempt any cures by any other means. + </p> + <p> + Captain O'Connor had been very successful by other means, and could not + quite come to this opinion; but he had a deputy governor who did. System, + when it takes a hold of the mind, takes a strong hold, and the men of + system became very impatient of opposition, and grateful for thorough + acquiescence. + </p> + <p> + Hence it came to pass that in the course of a few months Captain O'Connor + found himself in an uncomfortable position. His deputy-governor, Mr. + Hawes, enjoyed the confidence of the visiting justices; he did not. His + suggestions were negatived; Hawes's accepted. And, to tell the truth, he + became at last useless as well as uncomfortable; for these gentlemen were + determined to carry out their system, and had a willing agent in the + prison. O'Connor was little more than a drag on the wheel he could not + hinder from gliding down the hill. At last, it happened that he had + overdrawn his account, without clearly stating at the time that the sum, + which amounted nearly to one hundred pounds, was taken by him as an + accommodation, or advance of salary. This, which though by no means + unprecedented, was an unbusiness-like though innocent omission, justified + censure. + </p> + <p> + The magistrates went farther than censure; they had long been looking for + an excuse to get rid of him and avail themselves of the zeal and energy of + Hawes. They therefore removed O'Connor, stating publicly as their reason + that he was old; and their interest put Hawes into his place. There was + something melancholy in such a close to O'Connor's public career. Fortune + used him hardly. He had been one of the first to improve prisons, yet he + was dismissed on this or that pretense, but really because he could not + keep pace with the soi-disant improvements of three inexperienced persons. + Honorable mention of his name, his doings and his words is scattered about + various respectable works by respectable men on this subject, yet he ended + in something very like discredit. + </p> + <p> + However, the public gained this by the injustice done him—that an + important experiment was tried under an active and a willing agent. + </p> + <p> + With Governor Hawes the separate and silent system flourished in —— + Jail. + </p> + <p> + The justices and the new governor were of one mind. They had been working + together about two years when Robinson came into the jail. + </p> + <p> + During this period three justices had periodically visited the jail, + perused the reports, examined, as in duty bound, the surgeon, the officers + and prisoners, and were proud of the system and its practical working + here. + </p> + <p> + With respect to Hawes the governor, their opinion of him was best shown in + the reports they had to make to the Home Office from time to time. In + these they invariably spoke of him as an active, zealous and deserving + officer. + </p> + <p> + Robinson had heard much of the changes in jail treatment, but they had not + yet come home to him. When, therefore, instead of being turned adrift + among seventy other spirits as bad as himself, and greeted with their + boisterous acclamations and the friendly pressure of seven or eight + felonious hands, he was ushered into a cell white as driven snow, and his + housewifely duties explained to him, under a heavy penalty if a speck of + dirt should ever be discovered on his little wall, his little floor, his + little table, or if his cocoa-bark mattress should not be neatly rolled up + after use, and the strap tight, and the steel hook polished like glass, + and his little brass gas-pipe glittering like gold, etc., Thomas looked + blank and had a misgiving. + </p> + <p> + “I say, guv'nor,” said he to the under-turnkey, “how long am I to be here + before I go into the yard?” + </p> + <p> + “Talking not allowed out of hours,” was the only reply. + </p> + <p> + Robinson whistled. The turnkey, whose name was Evans, looked at him with a + doubtful air, as much as to say, “Shall I let that pass unpunished or + not?” + </p> + <p> + However, he went out without any further observation, leaving the door + open; but the next moment he returned and put his head in: “Prisoners shut + their own doors,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Well!” drawled Robinson, looking coolly and insolently into the man's + face, “I don't see what I shall gain by that.” And Mr. Robinson seated + himself, and turning his back a little rudely, immersed himself + ostentatiously in his own thoughts. + </p> + <p> + “You will gain as you won't be put in the black hole for refractory + conduct, No. 19,” replied Evans, quietly and sternly. + </p> + <p> + Robinson made a wry face and pushed the door peevishly; it shut with a + spring, and no mortal power or ingenuity could now open it from the + inside. + </p> + <p> + “Well I'm blest,” said the self-immured, “every man his own turnkey now; + save the queen's pocket, whatever you do. Times are so hard. Box at the + opera costs no end. What have we got here? A Bible! my eye! invisible + print! Oh! I see; 'tisn't for us to read, 'tis for the visitors to admire—like + the new sheet over the dirty blankets! What's this hung up? + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “GRACE AFTER MEAT. +</pre> + <p> + “Oh! with all my heart, your reverence! Here, turnkey, fetch up the + venison and the sweet sauce—you may leave the water-gruel till I + ring for it. If I am to say grace let me feel it first; drat your eyes all + round, governor, turnkeys, chaplain and all the hypocritical crew!” + </p> + <p> + The next morning, at half-past five, the prison bell rang for the officers + to rise, and at six a turnkey unlocked Robinson's door, and delivered the + following in an imperious key, all in one note and without any rests: + “Prisoner to open and shake bedding, wash face, hands and neck on pain of + punishment, and roll up hammocks and clean cells and be ready to clean + corridors if required.” So chanting—slammed door—vanished. + </p> + <p> + Robinson set to work with alacrity upon the little arrangements; he soon + finished them, and then he would not have been sorry to turn out and clean + the corridor for a change, but it was not his turn. He sat, dull and + lonely, till eight o'clock, when suddenly a key was inserted into a small + lock in the center of his door, but outside; the effect of this was to + open a small trap in the door, through this aperture a turnkey shoved in + the man's breakfast without a word, “like one flinging guts to a bear” + (Scott); and on the sociable Tom attempting to say a civil word to him, + drew the trap sharply back, and hermetically sealed the aperture with a + snap. The breakfast was in a round tin, with two compartments; one pint of + gruel and six ounces of bread. These two phases of farina were familiar to + Mr. Robinson. He ate the bread and drank the gruel, adding a good deal of + salt. + </p> + <p> + At nine the chapel bell rang. Robinson was glad. Not that he admired the + Liturgy, but he said to himself, “Now I shall see a face or two, perhaps + some old pals.” + </p> + <p> + To his dismay, the warder who opened his cell bade him at the same time + put on the prison cap, with the peak down; and when he and the other male + prisoners were mustered in the corridor, he found them all like himself, + vizor down, eyes glittering like basilisks' or cats' through two holes, + features undistinguishable. The word was given to march in perfect + silence, five paces apart, to the chapel. + </p> + <p> + The sullen pageant started. + </p> + <p> + “I've heard of this, but who'd have thought they carried the game so far? + Well, I must wait till we are in chapel and pick up a pal by the voice, + while the parson is doing his patter.” + </p> + <p> + On reaching the chapel he found, to his dismay, that the chapel was as + cellular as any other part of the prison; it was an agglomeration of one + hundred sentry-boxes, open only on the side facing the clergyman, and even + there only from the prisoner's third button upward. Warders stood on + raised platforms and pointed out his sentry-box to each prisoner with very + long slender wands; the prisoner went into it and pulled the door (it shut + with a spring), and next took his badge or number from his neck and hung + it up on a nail above his head in the sentry-box. Between the reading-desk + and the male prisoners was a small area where the debtors sat together. + </p> + <p> + The female prisoners were behind a thick veil of close lattice-work. + </p> + <p> + Service concluded, the governor began to turn a wheel in his pew; this + wheel exhibited to the congregation a number, the convict whose number + corresponded instantly took down his badge (the sight and position of + which had determined the governor in working his wheel), drew the peak of + his cap over his face, and went out and waited in the lobby. When all the + sentry-boxes were thus emptied, dead march of the whole party back to the + main building; here the warders separated them, and sent them, dead + silent, vizors down, some to clean the prison, some to their cells, some + to hard labor, and some to an airing in the yard. + </p> + <p> + Robinson was to be aired. “Hurrah!” thought sociable Tom. Alas! he found + the system in the yard as well as in the chapel. The promenade was a + number of passages radiating from a common center; the sides of passage + were thick walls; entrance to passage an iron gate locked behind the + promenader. An officer remained on the watch the whole time to see that a + word did not creep out or in through one of the gates. + </p> + <p> + “And this they call out of doors,” grunted Robinson. + </p> + <p> + After an hour's promenade he was taken into his cell, where at twelve the + trap in his door was opened and his dinner shoved in and the trap snapped + to again, all in three seconds. A very good dinner, better than paupers + always get—three ounces of meat—no bone, eight ounces of + potatoes, and eight ounces of bread. After dinner three weary hours + without an incident. At about three o'clock one of the warders opened his + cell door and put his head in and swiftly withdrew it. Three more + monotonous hours, and then supper—one pint of gruel, and eight + ounces of bread. He ate it as slowly as he could to eke out a few minutes + in the heavy day. Quarter before eight a bell to go to bed. At eight the + warders came round and saw that all the prisoners were in bed. The next + day the same thing, and the next ditto, with this exception, that one of + the warders came into his cell and minutely examined it in dead silence. + The fourth day the chaplain visited him, asked him a few questions, + repeated a few sentences on the moral responsibility of every human being, + and set him some texts of Scripture to learn by heart. This visit, though + merely one of routine, broke the thief's dead silence and solitude, and he + would have been thankful to have a visit every day from the chaplain, + whose manner was formal, but not surly and forbidding like the turnkeys or + warders. + </p> + <p> + Next day the governor of the jail came suddenly into the cell and put to + Robinson several questions, which he answered with great affability; then, + turning on his heel, said bruskly, “Have you anything to say to me?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, if you please.” + </p> + <p> + “Out with it then, my man,” said the governor impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “Sir, I was condemned to hard labor; now I wanted to ask you when my hard + labor is to begin, because I have not been put upon anything yet.” + </p> + <p> + “We are kinder to you than the judges then, it seems.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir! but I am not naturally lazy, and—” + </p> + <p> + “A little hard work would amuse you just now?” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, sir, I think it would; I am very much depressed in spirits.” + </p> + <p> + “You will be worse before you are better.” + </p> + <p> + “Heaven forbid! I think if you don't give me something to do I shall go + out of my mind soon, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “That is what they all say! You will be put on hard labor, I promise you, + but not when it suits you. We'll choose the time.” And the governor went + out with a knowing smile upon his face. + </p> + <p> + The thief sat himself down disconsolately, and the heavy hours, like + leaden waves, seemed to rise and rise, and roll over his head and + suffocate him, and weigh him down, down, down to bottomless despair. + </p> + <p> + At length, about the tenth day, this human being's desire to exchange a + friendly word with some other human creature became so strong that in the + chapel during service he scratched the door of his sentry-box, and + whispered, “Mate, whisper me a word, for pity's sake.” He received no + answer; but even to have spoken himself relieved his swelling soul for a + minute or two. Half an hour later four turnkeys came into his cell, and + took him down stairs and confined him in a pitch-dark dungeon. + </p> + <p> + The prisoner whose attention he had tried to attract in chapel had told to + curry favor, and was reported favorably for the same. + </p> + <p> + The darkness in which Robinson now lay was not like the darkness of our + bedrooms at night, in which the outlines of objects are more or less + visible; it was the frightful darkness that chilled and crushed the + Egyptians soul and body; it was a darkness that might be felt. + </p> + <p> + This terrible and unnatural privation of all light is very trying to all + God's creatures, to none more so than to man, and among men it is most + dangerous and distressing to those who have imagination and excitability. + Now Robinson was a man of this class, a man of rare capacity, full of + talent and the courage and energy that vent themselves in action, but not + rich in the tough fortitude which does little, feels little and bears + much. + </p> + <p> + When they took him out of the black hole after six hours' confinement he + was observed to be white as a sheet, and to tremble violently all over, + and in this state at the word of command he crept back all the way to his + cell, his hand to his eyes, that were dazzled by what seemed to him bright + daylight, his body shaking, while every now and then a loud, convulsive + sob burst from his bosom. + </p> + <p> + The governor happened to be on the corridor, looking down over the rails + as Robinson passed him. He said to him, with a victorious sneer, “You + won't be refractory in chapel again in a hurry.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said the thief, in a low, gentle voice, despairingly. + </p> + <p> + The day after Robinson was put in the black hole the surgeon came his + rounds. He found him in a corner of his cell with his eyes fixed on the + floor. + </p> + <p> + The man took no notice of his entrance. The surgeon went up to him and + shook him rather roughly. Robinson raised his heavy eyes and looked + stupidly at him. + </p> + <p> + The surgeon laid hold of him, and placing a thumb on each side of his eye, + inspected that organ fully. He then felt his pulse; this done, he went out + with the warder. Making his report to the governor, he came in turn to + Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “No. 19 is sinking.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! is he? Fry” (turning to a warder), “what has 19's treatment been?” + </p> + <p> + “Been in his cell, sir, without labor since he came. Blackhole yesterday, + for communicating in chapel.” + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter with him?” + </p> + <p> + “Doctor says he is sinking.” + </p> + <p> + “What the devil do you mean by his sinking?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” replied the surgeon, with a sort of dry deference, “he is + dying—that is what I mean.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, he is dying, is he; d—n him, we'll stop that. Here, Fry, take + No. 19 out into the garden, and set him to work. And put him on the + corridors to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Is he to be let talk to us, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Humph! yes!” + </p> + <p> + Robinson was taken out into the garden; it was a small piece of ground + that had once been a yard; it was inclosed within walls of great height, + and to us would have seemed a cheerless place for horticulture, but to + Robinson it appeared the garden of Eden. He gave a sigh of relief and + pleasure, but the next moment his countenance fell. + </p> + <p> + “They won't let me stay here!” + </p> + <p> + Fry took him into the center of the garden, and put a spade into his hand. + “Now you dig this piece,” said he in his dry, unfriendly tone, “and if you + have time cut the edges of this grass path square.” The words were + scarcely out of his mouth before Robinson drove the spade into the soil + with all the energy of one of God's creatures escaping from system back to + nature. + </p> + <p> + Fry left him in the garden after making him pull down his vizor, for there + was one more prisoner working at some distance. + </p> + <p> + Robinson set to with energy, and dug for the bare life. It was a sort of + work he knew very little about, and a gardener would have been disgusted + at his ridges, but he threw his whole soul into it and very soon had + nearly completed his task. Having been confined so long without exercise + his breath was short, and he perspired profusely; but he did not care for + that. “Oh, how sweet this is after being buried alive,” cried he, and in + went the spade again. Presently he was seized with a strong desire to try + the other part of his task, the more so as it required more skill and + presented a difficulty to overcome. A part of the path had been shaved and + the knippers lay where they had been last used. Robinson inspected the + recent work with an intelligent eye, and soon discovered traces of a white + line on one side of the path, that served as a guide to the knippers. “Oh! + I must draw a straight line,” said Robinson out loud, indulging himself + with the sound of a human voice. “But how? can you tell me that,” he + inquired of a gooseberry bush that grew near. The words were hardly out of + his mouth before, peering about in every direction, he discovered an iron + spike with some cord wrapped round it and, not far off, a piece of chalk. + He pounced on them, and fastening the spike at the edge of the path + attempted to draw a line with the chalk, using the string as a ruler. Not + succeeding, he reflected a little, and the result was that he chalked + several feet of the line all round until it was all white; then with the + help of a stake, which he took for his other terminus, he got the chalked + string into a straight line just above the edge of the grass. Next + pressing it tightly down with his foot, he effected a white line on the + grass. He now removed the string, took the knippers, and following his + white line, trimmed the path secundum artem. “There,” said Robinson, to + the gooseberry-bush, but not very loud for fear of being heard and + punished, “I wonder whether that is how the gardeners do it. I think it + must be.” He viewed his work with satisfaction, then went back to his + digging, and as he put the finishing stroke Fry came to bring him back to + his cell. It was bedtime. + </p> + <p> + “I never worked in a garden before,” began Robinson, “so it is not so well + done as it might be, but if I was to come every day for a week, I think I + could master it. I did not know there was a garden in this prison. If ever + I build a prison there shall be a garden in it as big as Belgrave Square.” + </p> + <p> + “You are precious fond of the sound of your own voice, No. 19,” said Fry + dryly. + </p> + <p> + “We are not forbidden to speak to the warders, are we?” + </p> + <p> + “Not at proper times.” + </p> + <p> + He threw open cell-door 19, and Robinson entered. + </p> + <p> + Before he could close the door Robinson said, “Good-night and thank you.” + </p> + <p> + “G'night,” snarled Fry sullenly, as one shamed against his will into a + civility. + </p> + <p> + Robinson lay awake half the night, and awoke the next morning rather + feverish and stiff, but not the leaden thing he was the day before. + </p> + <p> + A feather turns a balanced scale. This man's life and reason had been + engaged in a drawn battle with three mortal enemies—solitude, + silence and privation of all employment. That little bit of labor and + wholesome thought, whose paltry and childish details I half blush to have + given you, were yet due to my story, for they took a man out of himself, + checked the self-devouring process, and helped elastic nature to recover + herself this bout. + </p> + <p> + The next day Robinson was employed washing the prison. The next he got two + hours in the garden again, and the next the trades'-master was sent into + his cell to teach him how to make scrubbing-brushes. The man sat down and + was commencing a discourse when Robinson interrupted him politely: + </p> + <p> + “Sir, let me see you work, and watch me try to do the same, and correct + me.” + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart,” said the trades'-master. + </p> + <p> + He remained about half an hour with his pupil, and when he went out he + said to one of the turnkeys, “There is a chap in there that can pick up a + handicraft as a pigeon picks up peas.” + </p> + <p> + The next day the surgeon happened to look in. He found Robinson as busy as + a bee making brushes, pulled his eye open again, felt his pulse, and wrote + something down in his memorandum-book. He left directions with the turnkey + that No. 19 should be kept employed, with the governor's permission. + </p> + <p> + Robinson's hands were now full; he made brushes, and every day put some of + them to the test upon the floor and walls of the building. + </p> + <p> + It happened one day as he was doing housemaid in corridor B, that he + suddenly heard unwonted sounds issue from a part of the premises into + which he had not yet been introduced, the yard devoted to hard labor. + First he heard a single voice shouting: that did not last long; then a + dead silence; then several voices, among which his quick ear recognized + Fry's and the governor's. He could see nothing; the sounds came from one + of the hard-labor cells. Robinson was surprised and puzzled. What were + these sounds that broke the silence of the living tomb? An instinct told + him it was no use asking a turnkey, so he devoured his curiosity and + surprise as best he might. + </p> + <p> + The very next day, about the same hour, both were again excited by noises + from the same quarter equally unintelligible. He heard a great noise of + water slashed in bucketsful against a wall, and this was followed by a + sort of gurgling that seemed to him to come from a human throat; this + latter, however, was almost drowned in an exulting chuckle of several + persons, among whom he caught the tones of a turnkey called Hodges and of + the governor himself. Robinson puzzled and puzzled himself, but could not + understand these curious sounds, and he could see nothing except a + quantity of water running out of one of the labor cells, and coursing + along till it escaped by one of the two gutters that drained the yard. + Often and often Robinson meditated on this, and exerted all his ingenuity + to conceive what it meant. His previous jail experience afforded him no + clew, and as he was one of those who hate to be in the dark about anything + this new riddle tortured him. + </p> + <p> + However, the prison was generally so dead dumb and gloomy that upon two + such cheerful events as water splashing and creatures laughing he could + not help crowing a little out of sympathy without knowing why. + </p> + <p> + The next day, as Robinson was working in the corridor, the governor came + in with a gentleman whom he treated with unusual and marked respect. This + gentleman was the chairman of the quarter-sessions, and one of those + magistrates who had favored the adoption of the present system. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Williams inspected the prison; was justly pleased with its exquisite + cleanness; he questioned the governor as to the health of the prisoners, + and received for answer that most of them were well, but that there were + some exceptions; this appeared to satisfy him. He went into the + labor-yard, looked at the cranks, examined the numbers printed on each in + order to learn their respective weights, and see that the prisoners were + not overburdened. + </p> + <p> + Went with the governor into three or four cells, and asked the prisoners + if they had any complaint to make. + </p> + <p> + The unanimous answer was “No!” + </p> + <p> + He then complimented the governor—and drove home to his own house, + Ashtown Park. + </p> + <p> + There, after dinner, he said to a brother magistrate, “I inspected the + jail to-day; was all over it.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning Fry, the morose, came into Robinson's cell with a more + cheerful countenance than usual. Robinson noticed it. + </p> + <p> + “You are put on the crank,” said Fry. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! am I?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course you are. Your sentence was hard labor, wasn't it? I don't know + why you weren't sent on a fortnight ago.” + </p> + <p> + Fry then took him out into the labor-yard, which he found perforated with + cells about half the size of his hermitage in the corridor. In each of + these little quiet grottoes lurked a monster, called a crank. A crank is a + machine of this sort—there springs out of a vertical post an iron + handle, which the workman, taking it by both hands, works round and round, + as in some country places you may have seen the villagers draw a bucket up + from a well. The iron handle goes at the shoulder into a small iron box at + the top of the post; and inside that box the resistance to the turner is + regulated by the manufacturer, who states the value of the resistance + outside in cast-iron letters. Thus: + </p> + <p> + 5-lb. crank. 7-lb. crank. 10, 12, etc., etc. + </p> + <p> + “Eighteen hundred revolutions per hour,” said Mr. Fry, in his voice of + routine, and “you are to work two hours before dinner.” + </p> + <p> + So saying he left him, and Robinson, with the fear of punishment before + him, lost not a moment in getting to work. He found the crank go easy + enough at first, but the longer he was at it the stiffer it seemed to + turn. And after about four hundred turns he was fain to breathe and rest + himself. He took three minutes' rest, then at it again. All this time + there was no taskmaster, as in Egypt, nor whipper-up of declining sable + energy, as in Old Kentucky. So that if I am so fortunate as to have a + reader aged ten, he is wondering why the fool did not confine his + exertions to saying he had made the turns. My dear, it would not do. + Though no mortal oversaw the thief at his task, the eye of science was in + that cell and watched every stroke and her inexorable finger marked it + down. In plain English, on the face of the machine was a thing like a + chronometer with numbers set all round and a hand which, somehow or other, + always pointed to the exact number of turns the thief had made. The crank + was an autometer, or self-measurer, and in that respect your superior and + mine, my little drake. + </p> + <p> + This was Robinson's first acquaintance with the crank. The tread-wheel had + been the mode in his time; so by the time he had made three thousand turns + he was rather exhausted. He leaned upon the iron handle and sadly + regretted his garden and his brushes; but fear and dire necessity were + upon him; he set to his task and to work again. “I won't look at the meter + again, for it always tells me less than I expect. I'll just plow on till + that beggar comes. I know he will come to the minute.” + </p> + <p> + Sadly and doggedly he turned the iron handle, and turned and turned again; + and then he panted and rested a minute, and then doggedly to his idle toil + again. He was now so fatigued that his head seemed to have come loose, he + could not hold it up, and it went round and round and round with the + crank-handle. Hence it was that Mr. Fry stood at the mouth of the den + without the other seeing him. + </p> + <p> + “Halt,” said Fry. Robinson looked up, and there was the turnkey inspecting + him with a discontented air. “I'm done,” thought Robinson, “here he is as + black as thunder—the number not right, no doubt.” + </p> + <p> + “What are ye at,” growled Fry. “You are forty over,” and the said Fry + looked not only ill-used but a little unhappy. Robinson's good behavior + had disappointed the poor soul. + </p> + <p> + This Fry was a grim oddity; he experienced a feeble complacency when + things went wrong—but never else. + </p> + <p> + The thief exulted, and was taken back to his cell. Dinner came almost + immediately. Four ounces of meat instead of three; two ounces less bread, + but a large access of potatoes, which more than balanced the account. + </p> + <p> + The next day Robinson was put on the crank again, but not till the + afternoon. He had finished about half his task, when he heard at some + little distance from him a faint moaning. His first impulse was to run out + of his cell and see what was the matter, but Hodges and Fry were both in + the yard, and he knew that they would report him for punishment upon the + least breach of discipline. So he turned and turned the crank, with these + moans ringing in his ears and perplexing his soul. + </p> + <p> + Finding they did not cease, he peeped cautiously into the yard, and there + he saw the governor himself as well as Hodges and Fry. All three were + standing close to the place whence these groans issued, and with an air of + complete unconcern. + </p> + <p> + But presently the groans ceased, and then mysteriously enough the little + group of disciplinarians threw off their apathy. Hodges and Fry went + hastily to the pump with buckets, which they filled, and then came back to + the governor; the next minute Robinson heard water dashed repeatedly + against the walls of the cell, and then the governor laughed, and Hodges + laughed, and even the gloomy Fry vented a brief grim chuckle. + </p> + <p> + And now Robinson quivered with curiosity as he turned his crank, but there + was no means of gratifying it. It so happened, however, that some ten + minutes later the governor sent Hodges and Fry to another part of the + prison, and they had not been gone long before a message came to himself, + on which he went hastily out, and the yard was left empty. Robinson's + curiosity had reached such a pitch that notwithstanding the risk he ran—for + he knew the governor would send back to the yard the very first disengaged + officer he met—he could not stay quiet. As the governor closed the + gate he ran with all speed to the cell, he darted in, and then the thief + saw what made the three honest men laugh so. He saw it, and started back + with a cry of dismay, for the sight chilled the felon to the bone. + </p> + <p> + A lad about fifteen years of age was pinned against the wall in agony by a + leathern belt passed round his shoulders and drawn violently round two + staples in the wall. His arms were jammed against his sides by a straight + waistcoat fastened with straps behind, and those straps drawn with the + utmost severity. But this was not all. A high leathern collar a quarter of + an inch thick squeezed his throat in its iron grasp. His hair and his + clothes were drenched with water which had been thrown in bucketsful over + him, and now dripped from him on the floor. His face was white, his lips + livid, his eyes were nearly glazed, and his teeth chattered with cold and + pain. + </p> + <p> + A more unprincipled man than Robinson did not exist; but burglary and + larceny do not extinguish humanity in a thinking rascal as resigning the + soul to system can extinguish it in a dull dog. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, what is this!” cried Robinson, “what are the villains doing to you?” + </p> + <p> + He received no answer; but the boy's eyes opened wide, and he turned those + glazing eyes, the only part of his body he could turn, toward the speaker. + Robinson ran up to him, and began to try and loosen him. + </p> + <p> + At this the boy cried out, almost screaming with terror, “Let me alone! + let me alone! They'll give it me worse if you do, and they'll serve you + out, too!” + </p> + <p> + “But you will die, boy. Look at his poor lips!” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, no! I shan't die! No such luck!” cried the boy impatiently and + wildly. “Thank you for speaking kind to me. Who are you? tell me quick, + and go. I am —— Josephs, No. 15, Corridor A.” + </p> + <p> + “I am Robinson, No. 19, Corridor B.” + </p> + <p> + “Good-bye, Robinson, I shan't forget you. Hark, the door! Go! go! go! go! + go!” + </p> + <p> + Robinson was already gone. He had fled at the first click of a key in the + outward door, and darted into his cell at the moment Fry got into the + yard. An instinct of suspicion led this man straight to Robinson's + hermitage. He found him hard at work. Fry scrutinized his countenance, but + Robinson was too good an actor to betray himself; only when Fry passed on + he drew a long breath. What he had seen surprised as well as alarmed him, + for he had always been told the new system discouraged personal violence + of all sorts; and in all his experience of the old jails he had never seen + a prisoner abused so savagely as the young martyr in the adjoining cell. + His own work done, he left for his own dormitory. He was uneasy, and his + heart was heavy for poor Josephs; but he dared not even cast a look toward + his place of torture, for the other executioners had returned, and Fry + followed grim at his heels like a mastiff dogging a stranger out of the + premises. + </p> + <p> + That evening Robinson spent in gloomy reflections and forebodings. “I wish + I was in the hulks or anywhere out of this place,” said he. As for + Josephs, the governor, after inspecting his torture for a few minutes, + left the yard again with his subordinates, and Josephs was left alone with + his great torture for two hours more; then Hodges came in and began to + loose him, swearing at him all the time for a little rebellious monkey + that gave more trouble than enough. The rebellious monkey made no answer, + but crawled slowly away to his dungeon, shivering in his drenched clothes, + stiff and sore, his bones full of pain, his heart full of despondency. + </p> + <p> + Robinson had now eight thousand turns of the crank per day, and very hard + work he found it; but he preferred it to being buried alive all day in his + cell; and warned by Josephs' fate, he went at the crank with all his soul, + and never gave them an excuse for calling him “refractory.” It happened, + however, one day, just after breakfast, that he was taken with a headache + and shivering; and not getting better after chapel, but rather worse, he + rang his bell and begged to see the surgeon. The surgeon ought to have + been in the jail at this hour. He was not, though, and as he had been the + day before, and was accustomed to neglect the prisoners for any one who + paid better, he was not expected this day. Soon after Fry came to the cell + and ordered Robinson out to the crank. Robinson told him he was too ill to + work. + </p> + <p> + “I must have the surgeon's authority for that, before I listen to it,” + replied Fry, amateur of routine. + </p> + <p> + “But he is not in the jail, or you would have it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then he ought to be.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, is it my fault he's shirking his duty? Send for him, and you'll see + he will tell you I am not fit for the crank to-day; my head is splitting.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, no gammon, No. 19; it is the crank or the jacket, or else the black + hole. So take which you like best.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson rose with a groan of pain and despondency. + </p> + <p> + “It is only eight thousand words you have got to say to it, and they are + not many for such a tongue as yours.” + </p> + <p> + At the end of the time Fry came to the mouth of the labor-cell with a grim + chuckle. “He will never have done his number this time.” He found Robinson + kneeling on the ground, almost insensible, the crank-handle convulsively + grasped in his hands. Fry's first glance was at this figure, that a + painter might have taken for a picture of labor overtasked; but this was + neither new nor interesting to Fry. He went eagerly to examine the meter + of the crank—there lay his heart, such as it was—and to his + sorrow he found that No. 19 had done his work before he broke down. What + it cost the poor fever-stricken wretch to do it can easier be imagined + than described. + </p> + <p> + They assisted Robinson to his cell, and that night he was in a burning + fever. The next day the surgeon happened by some accident to be at his + post, and prescribed change of diet and medicines for him. “He would be + better in the infirmary.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” said the governor. + </p> + <p> + “More air.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense, there is plenty of air here. There is a constant stream of air + comes in through this,” and he pointed to a revolving cylinder in the + window constructed for that purpose. “You give him the right stuff, + doctor,” said Hawes jocosely, “and he won't slip his wind this time.” + </p> + <p> + The surgeon acquiesced according to custom. + </p> + <p> + It was not for him to contradict Hawes, who allowed him to attend the jail + or neglect it, according to his convenience, i. e., to come three or four + times a week at different hours, instead of twice every day at fixed + hours. + </p> + <p> + It was two days after this that the governor saw Hodges come out of a cell + laughing. + </p> + <p> + “What are ye grinning at?” said he, in his amiable way. + </p> + <p> + “No. 19 is light-headed, sir, and I have been listening to him. It would + make a cat laugh,” said Hodges apologetically. He knew well enough the + governor did not approve of laughing in the jail. + </p> + <p> + The governor said nothing, but made a motion with his hand, and Hodges + opened cell 19 and they both went in. + </p> + <p> + No. 19 lay on his back flushed and restless with his eyes fixed on + vacancy. He was talking incessantly and without sequence. I should fail + signally were I to attempt to transfer his words to paper. I feel my + weakness and the strength of others who in my day have shown a singular + power of fixing on paper the volatile particles of frenzy; however, in a + word, the poor thief was talking as our poetasters write, and amid his + gunpowder, daffodils, bosh and other constellations there mingled gleams + of sense and feeling that would have made you and me very sad. + </p> + <p> + He often recurred to a girl he called Mary, and said a few gentle words to + her; then off again into the wildest flights. While Mr. Hawes and his + myrmidons were laughing at him, he suddenly fixed his eyes on some + imaginary figure on the opposite wall and began to cry out loudly, “Take + him down. Don't you see you are killing him? The collar is choking him! + See how White he is! His eyes stare! The boy will die! Murder! murder! + murder! I can't bear to see him die.” And with these words he buried his + head in the bedclothes. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes looked at Mr. Fry; Mr. Fry answered the look. “He must have seen + Josephs the other day.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! he is mighty curious. Well, when he gets well!” and, shaking his fist + at the sufferer, Mr. Hawes went out of the cell soon after. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. + </h2> + <h3> + “WHAT is your report about No. 19, doctor?” + </h3> + <p> + “The fever is gone.” + </p> + <p> + “He is well, then?” + </p> + <p> + “He is well of the fever, but a fever leaves the patient in a state of + debility for some days. I have ordered him meat twice a day—that is, + meat once and soup once.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you report him cured of his fever?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly.” + </p> + <p> + “Hodges, put No. 19 on the crank.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Even the surgeon opened his eyes at this. “Why, he is as weak as a child,” + said he. + </p> + <p> + “Will it kill him?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not; and for the best of all reasons. He can't possibly do it.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't know what these fellows can do when they are forced.” + </p> + <p> + The surgeon shrugged his shoulders and passed on to his other patients. + Robinson was taken out into the yard. “What a blessing the fresh air is!” + said he, gulping in the atmosphere of the yard. “I should have got well + long ago if I had not been stifled in my cell for want of room and air.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson went to the crank in good spirits; he did not know how weak he + was till he began to work; but he soon found out he could not do the task + in the time. He thought therefore the wisest plan would be not to exhaust + himself in vain efforts, and he sat quietly down and did nothing. In this + posture he was found by Hawes and his myrmidons. + </p> + <p> + “What are you doing there not working?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir, I am only just getting well of a fever, and I am as weak as water.” + </p> + <p> + “And that is why you are not trying to do anything, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “I have tried, sir, and it is impossible. I am not fit to turn this heavy + crank.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, I must try if I can't make you. Fetch the jacket.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! for Heaven's sake don't torture me, sir. There is nobody more willing + to work than I am. And if you will but give me a day or two to get my + strength after the fever, you shall see how I will work.” + </p> + <p> + “There! there! —— your palaver! Strap him up.” + </p> + <p> + He was in no condition to resist, and moreover knew resistance was + useless. They jammed him in the jacket, pinned him tight to the wall, and + throttled him in the collar. This collar, by a refinement of cruelty, was + made with unbound edges, so that when the victim, exhausted with the cruel + cramp that racked his aching bones in the fierce gripe of Hawes's infernal + machine, sunk his heavy head and drooped his chin, the jagged collar sawed + him directly and lacerating the flesh drove him away from even this + miserable approach to ease. Robinson had formed no idea of the torture. + The victims of the Inquisition would have gained but little by becoming + the victims of the separate and silent system in —— Jail. + </p> + <p> + They left the poor fellow pinned to the wall, jammed in the strait + waistcoat, and throttled in the round saw. Weakened by fever and unnatural + exertion, he succumbed sooner than the inquisitors had calculated upon. + The next time they came into the yard they found him black in the face, + his lips livid, insensible, throttled, and dying. Another half minute and + there would have hung a corpse in the Hawes pillory. + </p> + <p> + When they saw how nearly he was gone they were all at him together. One + unclasped the saw collar, one unbraced the waistcoat, another sprinkled + water over him—not a bucketful this time, because they would have + wetted themselves. Released from the infernal machine, the body of No. 19 + fell like a lump of clay upon the men who had reduced him to this + condition. Then these worthies were in some little trepidation; for though + they had caused the death of many men during the last two years, they had + not yet, as it happened, murdered a single one on the spot openly and + honestly like this; and they feared they might get into trouble. Adjoining + the yard was a bath-room; to this they carried No. 19. They stripped him, + and let the water run upon him from the cock, but he did not come to; then + they scrubbed him just as they would a brick floor with a hard brush upon + the back till his flesh was as red as blood; with this and the water + together he began to gasp and sigh and faintly come back from + insensibility to a new set of tortures; but so long was the struggle + between life and death that these men of business, detained thus + unconscionably about a single thief, lost all patience with him; one + scrubbed him till the blood came under the bristles, another seized him by + the hair of his head and jerked his head violently back several times, and + this gave him such pain that he began to struggle instinctively, and, the + blood now fairly set in motion, he soon moved. The last thing he + remembered was a body full of aching bones; the first he awoke to was the + sensation of being flayed alive from the crown of his head to the sole of + his foot. + </p> + <p> + The first word he heard was, “Put his clothes on his shamming carcass + </p> + <p> + “Shall we dry him, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Dry him!” roared the governor, with an oath. “No! Hasn't he given us + trouble enough?” (Another oath.) + </p> + <p> + They flung his clothes upon his red-hot dripping skin, and Hodges gave him + a brutal push. “Go to your cell.” Robinson crawled off, often wincing and + trying in vain to keep his clothes from rubbing those parts of his person + where they had scrubbed the skin off him. + </p> + <p> + Hawes eyed him with grim superiority. Suddenly he had an inspiration. + “Come back!” shouted he. “I never was beat by a prisoner yet, and I never + will. Strap him up.” At this command even the turnkeys looked amazed at + one another and hesitated. Then the governor swore horribly at them, and + Hodges without another word went for the jacket. + </p> + <p> + They took hold of him; he made no resistance; he never even looked at + them. He never took his eye off Hawes; on him his eye fastened like a + basilisk. They took him away, and pinioned, jammed and throttled him to + the wall again. Hodges was set to watch him, and a bucket of water near to + throw over him should he show the least sign of shamming again. In an hour + another turnkey came and relieved Hodges—in another hour Fry + relieved him, for this was tiresome work for a poor turnkey—in + another hour a new hand relieved Fry, but nobody relieved No. 19. + </p> + <p> + Five mortal hours had he been in the vice without shamming. The pain his + skin suffered from the late remedies, and the deadly rage at his heart, + gave him unnatural powers of resistance; but at last the infernal machine + conquered, and he began to turn dead faint; then Hodges, his sentinel at + the time, caught up the bucket and dashed the whole contents over him. The + effect was magical; the shock took away his breath for a moment, but the + next the blood seemed to glow with fire in his veins and he felt a general + access of vigor to bear his torture. When this man had been six hours in + the vise the governor and his myrmidons came into the yard and unstrapped + him. + </p> + <p> + “You did not beat me, you see, after all,” said the governor to No. 19. + The turnkeys heard and revered their chief. No. 19 looked him full in the + face with an eye glittering like a saber, but said no word. + </p> + <p> + “Sulky brute!” cried the governor, “lock him up” (oath). And that evening, + as a warder was rolling the prisoners' supper along the little natural + railway made by the two railings of Corridor B, the governor stepped the + carriage and asked for 19's tin. It was given him, and he abstracted one + half of the man's gruel. “Refractory in the yard to-day; but I'll break + him before I've done with him” (oath). + </p> + <p> + The next day brushes were wanted for the jail. This saved Robinson for + that day. It was little Josephs' turn to suffer. The governor put him on a + favorite crank of his, and gave him eight thousand turns to do in four + hours and a half. He knew the boy could not do it, and this was only a + formula he went through previous to pillorying the lad. Josephs had been + in the Pillory about an hour when it so happened that the Reverend John + Jones, the chaplain of the jail, came into the yard. Seeing a group of + warders at the mouth of the labor-cell, he walked up to them, and there + was Josephs in peine forte et dure. + </p> + <p> + “What is this lad's offense?” inquired Mr. Jones. + </p> + <p> + “Refractory at the crank,” was the reply. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Josephs,” said the reverend gentleman, “you told me you would always + do your best.” + </p> + <p> + “So I do, your reverence,” gasped Josephs; “but this crank is too heavy + for a lad like me, and that is why I am put on it to get punished.” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your tongue,” said Hodges roughly. + </p> + <p> + “Why is he to hold his tongue, Mr. Hodges?” said the chaplain quietly; + “how is he to answer my question if he holds his tongue? You forget + yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Ugh! beg your pardon, sir, but this one has always got some excuse or + other.” + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter?” roared a rough voice behind the speakers. This was + Hawes, who had approached them unobserved. + </p> + <p> + “He is gammoning his reverence, sir—that is all.” + </p> + <p> + “What has he been saying?” + </p> + <p> + “That the crank is too heavy for him, sir, and the waistcoat is strapped + too tight, it seems.” + </p> + <p> + “Who says so?” + </p> + <p> + “I think so, Mr. Hawes.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you take a bit of advice, sir? If you wish a prisoner well don't you + come between him and me. It will always be the worse for him, for I am + master here and master I will be.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes,” replied the chaplain, “I have never done or said anything in + the prison to lessen your authority, but privately I must remonstrate + against the uncommon severities practiced upon prisoners in this jail. If + you will listen to me I shall be much obliged to you—if not, I am + afraid I must, as a matter of conscience, call the attention of the + visiting justices to the question.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, parson, the justices will be in the jail to-day—you tell them + your story and I will tell them mine,” said Hawes, with a cool air of + defiance. + </p> + <p> + Sure enough, at five o'clock in the afternoon two of the visiting justices + arrived, accompanied by Mr. Wright, a young magistrate. They were met at + the door by Hawes, who wore a look of delight at their appearance. They + went round the prison with him, while he detained them in the center of + the building till he had sent Hodges secretly to undo Josephs and set him + on the crank; and here the party found him at work. + </p> + <p> + “You have been a long time on the crank, my lad,” said Hawes, “you may go + to your cell.” + </p> + <p> + Josephs touched his cap to the governor and the gentlemen and went off. + </p> + <p> + “That is a nice quiet-looking boy,” said one of the justices; “what is he + in for?” + </p> + <p> + “He is in this time for stealing a piece of beef out of a butcher's shop.” + </p> + <p> + “This time! what! is he a hardened offender? he does not look it.” + </p> + <p> + “He has been three times in prison; once for throwing stones, once for + orchard-robbing, and this time for the beef.” + </p> + <p> + “What a young villain! at his age—-” + </p> + <p> + “Don't say that, Williams,” said Mr. Wright dryly, “you and I were just as + great villains at his age. Didn't we throw stones? rather!” + </p> + <p> + Hawes laughed in an adulatory manner, but observing that Mr. Williams, who + was a grave, pompous personage, did not smile at all, he added: + </p> + <p> + “But not to do mischief like this one, I'll be bound.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Mr. Williams, with an air of ruffled dignity. + </p> + <p> + “No?” cried the other, “where is your memory? Why, we threw stones at + everything and everybody, and I suppose we did not always miss, eh? I + remember your throwing a stone through the window of a place of worship—(this + was a school-fellow of mine, and led me into all sorts of wickedness). I + say, was it a Wesleyan shop, Williams, or a Baptist? for I forget. Never + mind, you had a fit of orthodoxy. What was the young villain's second + offense?” + </p> + <p> + “Robbing an orchard, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “The scoundrel! robbing an orchard? Oh, what sweet reminiscences those + words recall. I say, Williams, do you remember us two robbing Farmer + Harris's orchard?” + </p> + <p> + “I remember your robbing it, and my character suffering for it.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't remember that; but I remember my climbing the pear-tree and + flinging the pears down, and finding them all grabbed on my descent. What + is the young villain's next—Oh! snapping a piece off a counter. Ah! + we never did that—because we could always get it without stealing + it.” + </p> + <p> + With this Mr. Wright strolled away from the others, having had what the + jocose wretch used to call “a slap at humbug.” + </p> + <p> + His absence was a relief to the others. These did not come there to utter + sense in fun but to jest in sober earnest. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Williams hinted as much, and Hawes, whose cue it was to assent in + everything to the justices, brightened his face up at the remark. + </p> + <p> + “Will you visit the cells, gentlemen,” said he, with an accent of cordial + invitation, “or inspect the book first?” + </p> + <p> + They gave precedence to the latter. + </p> + <p> + By the book was meant the log-book of the jail. In it the governor was + required to report for the justices and the Home Office all jail events a + little out of the usual routine. For instance, all punishments of + prisoners, all considerable sicknesses, deaths and their supposed causes, + etc., etc. + </p> + <p> + “This Josephs seems by the book to be an ill-conditioned fellow; he is + often down for punishment.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! he hates work. About Gillies, sir—ringing his bell and + pretending it was an accident?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! how old is he?” + </p> + <p> + “Thirteen.” + </p> + <p> + “Is this his first offense?” + </p> + <p> + “Not by a good many. I think, gentlemen, if you were to order him a + flogging it would be better for him in the end.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, give him twenty lashes. Eh: Palmer?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Palmer assented by a nod. + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon, sir,” said Hawes, “but will you allow me to make a + remark?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, Mr. Hawes, certainly!” + </p> + <p> + “I find twenty lashes all at once rather too much for a lad of that age. + Now, if you would allow me to divide the punishment into two so that his + health might not be endangered by it, then we could give him ten or even + twelve, and after a day or two as many more.” + </p> + <p> + “That speaks well for your humanity, Mr. Hawes; your zeal we have long + known.” + </p> + <p> + “Augh, sir! sir!” + </p> + <p> + “I will sign the order, and we authorize you here to divide the punishment + according to your own suggestion.” (Order signed.) + </p> + <p> + The justices then went round the cells accompanied by Hawes. They went + into the cells with an expression of a little curiosity but more + repugnance on their faces, and asked several prisoners if they were well + and contented. The men looked with the shrewdness of their class into + their visitors' faces and measured them; saw there, first a feeble + understanding, secondly an adamantine prejudice; saw that in those eyes + they were wild beasts and Hawes an angel, and answered to please Hawes, + whose eye was fixed on them all this time and in whose power they felt + they were. + </p> + <p> + All expressed their content. Some in tones so languid and empty of heart + that none but Justice Shallow could have helped seeing through the humbug. + Others did it better; and not a few overdid it, so that any but Justice + Shallow would have seen through them. These last told Messrs. Shallow and + Slender that the best thing that ever happened to them was coming to + —— Jail. They thanked Heaven they had been pulled up short in + an evil career that must have ended in their ruin body and soul. As for + their present situation, they were never happier in their lives, and some + of them doubted much whether, when they should reach the penal + settlements, the access of liberty would repay them for the increased + temptations and the loss of quiet meditation and self-communion and the + good advice of Mr. Hawes and of his reverence, the chaplain. + </p> + <p> + The jail-birds who piped this tune were without a single exception the + desperate cases of this moral hospital. They were old offenders—hardened + scoundrels who meant to rob and kill and deceive to their dying day. While + in prison their game was to be as comfortable as they could. Hawes could + make them uncomfortable; he was always there. Under these circumstances to + lie came on the instant as natural to them as to rob would have come had + some power transported them outside the prison doors with these words of + penitence on their lips. + </p> + <p> + They asked where that Josephs' cell was. Hawes took them to him. They + inspected him with a profound zoological look, to see whether it was more + wolf or badger. Strange to say, it looked neither, but a simple quiet + youth of the human genus—species snob. + </p> + <p> + “He is very small to be a ruffian,” said Mr. Palmer. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry, Josephs,” said Mr. Williams pompously, “to find your name so + often down for punishment.” + </p> + <p> + Josephs looked up, hoping to see the light of sympathy in this speaker's + eyes. He saw two owls' faces attempting eagle but not reaching up to + sparrow-hawk, and he was silent. He had no hope of being believed; + moreover, the grim eye of Hawes rested on him, and no feebleness in it. + </p> + <p> + Messrs. Shallow and Slender, receiving no answer from Josephs, who was + afraid to tell the truth, were nettled, and left the cell shrugging their + shoulders. + </p> + <p> + In the corridor they met the train just coming along the banisters with + supper. Pompous Mr. Williams tasted the prison diet on the spot. + </p> + <p> + “It is excellent,” cried he; “why the gruel is like glue.” And he fell + into a meditation. + </p> + <p> + “So far everything is as we could wish, Mr. Hawes, and it speaks well for + the discipline and for yourself.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes bowed with a gratified air. + </p> + <p> + “I will complete the inspection to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes accompanied the gentlemen to the outside gate. Here Mr. Williams + turned. For the last minute or two he had been in the throes of an idea, + and now he delivered himself of it. + </p> + <p> + “It would be well if Josephs' gruel were not made so strong for him.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Williams was not one of those who often say a great thing, but this + deserves immortality, and could I confer immortality this of Williams' + should never die! Unlike most of the things we say, it does not deserve + ever to die— + </p> + <h3> + “IT WOULD BE WELL IF JOSEPHS' GRUEL WERE NOT MADE SO STRONG FOR HIM!!” + </h3> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. + </h2> + <p> + “WILL you eat your mutton with me to-day, Palmer?” said Mr. Williams at + the gate of the jail. + </p> + <p> + “I should be very happy, but I am engaged to dine with the + lord-lieutenant.” + </p> + <p> + So Mr. Williams drove home to Ashtown Park, and had to sit down to dinner + with his own small family party. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Williams' mutton consisted of first a little strong gravy soup + lubricated and gelatinized with a little tapioca; vis-a-vis the soup a + little piece of salmon cut out of the fish's center; lobster patties, + rissoles, and two things with French names, stinking of garlic, on the + flank. + </p> + <p> + Enter a boiled turkey poult with delicate white sauce; a nice tongue, not + too green nor too salt, and a small saddle of six-tooth mutton, home-bred, + home-fed; after this a stewed pigeon, faced by greengage tart, and some + yellow cream twenty-four hours old; item, an iced pudding. A little + Stilton cheese brought up the rear with a nice salad. This made way for a + foolish trifling dessert of muscatel grapes, guava jelly and divers + kickshaws diluted with agreeable wines varied by a little glass of + Marasquino & Co., at junctures. So far so nice! + </p> + <p> + But alas! nothing is complete in this world, not even the dinner of a fair + round justice with fat capon lined. There is always some drawback or + deficiency here below—confound it! The wretch of a cook had + forgotten to send up the gruel a la Josephs. + </p> + <p> + Next day, after Mr. Williams had visited the female prisoners and + complimented Hawes on having initiated them into the art of silence, he + asked where the chaplain was. Hawes instantly dispatched a messenger to + inquire, and remembering that gentleman's threatened remonstrance, parried + him by anticipation, thus: + </p> + <p> + “By-the-by, sir, I have a little complaint to make of him.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said Mr. Williams, “what is that?” + </p> + <p> + “He took a prisoner's part against the discipline; but he doesn't know + them, and they humbug him. But, sir, ought he to preach against me in the + chapel of the jail?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not! Surely he has not been guilty of such a breach of + discipline and good taste.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! but wait, sir,” said Hawes, “hear the whole truth, and then perhaps + you will blame me. You must know, sir, that I sometimes let out an oath. I + was in the army, and we used all to swear there; and now a little of it + sticks to me in spite of my teeth, and if his reverence had done me the + honor to take me to task privately about it, I would have taken off my hat + to him; but it is another thing to go and preach at me for it before all + the jail.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course it is. Do you mean to say he did that?” + </p> + <p> + “He did, sir. Of course, he did not mention my name, but he preached + five-and-thirty minutes all about swearing, and they all knew who he was + hitting. I could see the warders grinning from ear to ear, as much as to + say, 'There's another rap for you, governor!'” + </p> + <p> + “I'll speak to him.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, sir; don't be hard on him, for he is a deserving officer; but + if you would give him a quiet hint not to interfere with me. We have all + of us plenty to do of our own in a jail, if he could but see it. Ah! here + comes the chaplain, sir. I will leave you together, if you please;” and + Mr. Hawes made off with a business air. + </p> + <p> + The chaplain came up and bowed to Mr. Williams, who saluted him in turn + somewhat coldly. There was a short silence. Mr. Williams was concocting a + dignified rebuke. Before he could get it out the chaplain began: + </p> + <p> + “I wished to speak with you yesterday, sir. + </p> + <p> + “I am at your service, Mr. Jones. What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “I want you to look into our punishments; they are far more numerous and + severe than they used to be.” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary I find them less numerous.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, there is one punished every day.” + </p> + <p> + “I have been carefully over the books, and I assure you there is a marked + decrease in the number of punishments.” + </p> + <p> + “Then they cannot be all put down.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense, Mr. Jones, nonsense!” + </p> + <p> + “And, then, the severity of these punishments, sir! Is it your wish that a + prisoner should be strapped in the jacket so tight that we cannot get a + finger between the leather and his flesh?” + </p> + <p> + “Not unless he is refractory.” + </p> + <p> + “But prisoners are very seldom refractory.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! that is news to me.” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you, sir, there are no quieter set of men than prisoners + generally. They know there is nothing to be gained by resistance.” + </p> + <p> + “They are on their good behavior before you. You don't see through them, + my good sir. They are like madmen—you would take them for lambs till + they break out. Do you know a prisoner here called Josephs?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, perfectly well.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, now, what is his character, may I ask?” + </p> + <h3> + “HE IS A MILD, QUIET, DOCILE LAD.” + </h3> + <p> + “Ha! ha! ha! I thought so. Prisoners are the refuse of the earth. The + governor knows them, and how to manage them. A discretion must be allowed + him, and I see no reason to interfere between him and refractory prisoners + except when he invites us.” + </p> + <p> + “You are aware that several attempts at suicide have been made within the + last few months?” + </p> + <p> + “Sham attempts, yes.” + </p> + <p> + “One was not sham, sir,” said Mr. Jones, gravely + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Jackson, you mean. No, but he was a lunatic, and would have made away + with himself anywhere—Hawes is convinced of that.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, I have told you the fact; I have remonstrated against the + uncommon seventies practiced in this jail—seventies unknown in + Captain O'Connor's day.” + </p> + <p> + “And I have received and answered your remonstrance, sir, and there that + matter ought to end.” + </p> + <p> + This, and the haughty tone with which it was said, discouraged and nettled + the chaplain; he turned red and said: + </p> + <p> + “In that case, sir, I have no more to say. I have discharged my + conscience.” With these words he was about to withdraw, but Mr. Williams + stopped him. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Jones, do you consider a clergyman justified in preaching at people?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not.” + </p> + <p> + “The pulpit surely ought not to be made a handle for personality. It is + not the way to make the pulpit itself respected.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't understand you, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes is much hurt at a sermon you preached against him.” + </p> + <p> + “A sermon against him—never!” + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon; you preached a whole sermon against swearing—and + he swears.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh—yes! I remember—the Sunday before last. I certainly did + reprobate in my discourse the habit of swearing, but no personality to + Hawes was intended.” + </p> + <p> + “No personality intended when you know he swears!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but the warders swear, too. Why should Mr. Hawes take it all to + himself?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! if the turnkeys swear, then it was not so strictly personal.” + </p> + <p> + “To be sure,” put in Mr. Jones inadvertently, “I believe they learned it + of the governor.” + </p> + <p> + “There you see! Well, and even if they did not, why preach against the + turnkeys? why preach at any individuals or upon passing events at all? I + can remember the time no clergyman throughout the length and breadth of + the land noticed passing events from the pulpit.” + </p> + <p> + “I am as far from approving the practice as you are, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “In those days the clergy and the laity respected one another, and there + was peace in the Church.” + </p> + <p> + “I can only repeat, sir, that I agree with you; the pulpit should be + consecrated to eternal truths, not passing events.” + </p> + <p> + “Good! very good! Well, then?” + </p> + <p> + “What Mr. Hawes complains of was a mere accident.” + </p> + <p> + “An accident, Mr. Jones? Oh, Mr. Jones!” + </p> + <p> + “An accident which I undertake to explain to Mr. Hawes himself.” + </p> + <p> + “By all means; that will be the best way of making friends again. I need + not tell you that a jail could not go on in which the governor and the + chaplain did not pull together. The fact is, Mr. Jones, the clergy, of + late, have been assuming a little too much, and that has made the laity a + little jealous. Now, although you are a clergyman, you are her majesty's + servant so long as you are here, and must co-operate with the general + system of the jail. Come, sir, you are younger than I am; let me give you + a piece of advice, 'DON'T OVERSTEP YOUR DUTY,' etc.” + </p> + <p> + In this strain Mr. Williams buz, buz, buzzed longer than I can afford him + paper, it is so dear. He pumped a stream of time-honored phrases on his + hearer, and dissolved away with him as the overflow of a pump carries away + a straw on its shallow stream down a stable-yard. + </p> + <p> + When the pump was pumped dry he stopped. + </p> + <p> + Then the chaplain, who had listened with singular politeness, got in a + word. “You forget, sir, I have resigned the chaplaincy of the jail?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! ah! yes! well, then, I need say no more; good-day, Mr. Jones.” + </p> + <p> + “Good-morning, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Soon after this up came Hawes with a cheerful countenance. + </p> + <p> + “Well, parson, are you to manage the prisoners and I to preach to them, or + are we to go on as we are?” + </p> + <p> + “Things are to go on as they are, Mr. Hawes; but that is nothing to me, I + have discharged my conscience. I have remonstrated against the seventies + practiced on our prisoners. COLD WATER HAS BEEN THROWN ON MY + REMONSTRANCES, and I shall therefore interfere no more.” + </p> + <p> + “That is the wise way to look at it, you may depend!” + </p> + <p> + “We shall see which was in the right. I have discharged my conscience. + But, Mr. Hawes, I am hurt you should say I preached a sermon against you.” + </p> + <p> + “I dare say you are, sir, but who began it; if you had not talked of + complaining to the justices of me, I should never have said a word against + you.” + </p> + <p> + “That is all settled; but it is due to my character to show you that I had + no intention of pointing at you or any living creature from the pulpit.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, make me believe that.” + </p> + <p> + “If you will do me the favor to come to my room I can prove it to you.” + </p> + <p> + The chaplain took the governor to his room and opened two drawers in a + massive table. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes,” said he, “do you see this pile of sermons in this right-hand + drawer?” + </p> + <p> + “I see them,” said Hawes, with a doleful air, “and I suppose I shall hear + some of them before long.” + </p> + <p> + “These,” said Mr. Jones, smiling with perfect good-humor at the innocuous + sneer, “are sermons I composed when I was curate of Little-Stoke. Of late + I have been going regularly through my Little-Stoke discourses, as you may + see. I take one from the pile in this drawer, and after first preaching it + in the jail I place it in the left drawer on that smaller pile.” + </p> + <p> + “That you mayn't preach it again by accident; well, that is business.” + </p> + <p> + “If you look into the left pile near the top, you will find the one I + preached against profane discourse, with the date at which it was first + composed.” + </p> + <p> + “Here it is, sir—Little-Stoke, May 15, 1847.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Hawes, now was that written against you?—come!” + </p> + <p> + “No! I confess it could not; but look here, if a man sends a bullet into + me, it doesn't matter to me whether he made the gun on purpose or shot me + out of an old one that he had got by him.” + </p> + <p> + “But I tell you that I took the sermon out in its turn, and knew no more + what it was about until I opened it in the pulpit, than I knew what this + one is about which I am going to preach next Sunday morning—it was + all chance.” + </p> + <p> + “It was my bad luck, I suppose,” said Hawes a little sulkily. + </p> + <p> + “And mine, too. Could I anticipate that a discourse composed for and + preached to a rural congregation would be deemed to have a personal + application here?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, no!” + </p> + <p> + “I have now only to add that I extremely regret the circumstance.” + </p> + <p> + “Say no more, sir. When a gentleman expresses his regret to another + gentleman, there is an end of the grievance. + </p> + <p> + “I will take care the sort of thing never happens again.” + </p> + <p> + “Enough said, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “It never can, however, for I shall preach but one more Sunday here.” + </p> + <p> + “And I'm very sorry for it, Mr. Jones.” + </p> + <p> + “And after this occurrence I am determined to write both sermons for the + occasion, so there is sure to be nothing personal in them.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that is the surest way. Well, sir, you and I never had but this one + little misunderstanding, and now that is explained, we shall part + friends.” + </p> + <p> + “A glass of ale, Mr. Hawes?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't care if I do, sir.” (The glasses were filled and emptied.) “I + must go and look after my chickens; the justices have ordered Gillies to + be flogged. You will be there, I suppose, in half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, if my attendance is not absolutely necessary—” + </p> + <p> + “We will excuse you, sir, if not convenient.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you—good-morning!” and the reconciled officials parted. + </p> + <p> + Little Gillies was hoisted to receive twenty lashes; at the twelfth the + governor ordered him down. + </p> + <p> + He broke off the tale as our magazines do, with a promise—“To be + continued.” + </p> + <p> + Little Gillies, like their readers, cried out, “No, sir. Oh, sir! please + flog me to an end, and ha' done with it. I don't feel the cuts near so + much now—my back seems dead like.” + </p> + <p> + Little Gillies was arguing against himself. Hawes had not divided his + punishment with the view of lessening his pain. It was droll, but more sad + than droll to hear the poor little fellow begging Hawes to flog him to an + end, to flog him out; with similar idioms. + </p> + <p> + “Hold your [oath] noise!” Hawes shrunk with disgust from noise in his + prison, and could not comprehend why the prisoners could not take their + punishments without infringing upon the great and glorious silence of + which the jail was the temple and he the high priest. “The beggars get no + good by kicking up a row,” argued he. + </p> + <p> + “Hold your noise!—take him to his cell!” + </p> + <p> + Whether it was because he had desecrated the temple with noise, or from + the accident of having attracted the governor's attention, the weight of + the system fell on this small object now. + </p> + <p> + Gillies was ordered to make a fabulous number of crank revolutions—fabulous, + at least, in connection with his tender age; he was put on the lightest + crank, but the lightest was heavy to thirteen years. Not being the infant + Hercules, he could not perform this labor; so Hawes put him in jacket and + collar almost the whole day. His young and supple frame was in his favor, + but once or twice he could hardly help shamming, and then they threw half + a bucket over him. + </p> + <p> + The next day he was put on the crank, and not being able to complete the + task that was set him before dinner, he was strapped up until the evening. + The next day the governor tried another tack. He took away his meat soup + and gruel, and gave him nothing but bread and water. Strange to say, this + change of diet did not supply the deficiency; he could not do the infant + Hercules his work even on bread and water. Then the governor deprived the + obstinate little dog of his chapel. “If you won't work, I'm [participle] + if you shall pray.” The boy missed the recreation of hearing Mr. Jones hum + the Liturgy; missed it in a way you cannot conceive. Your soporific was + his excitement; think of that. + </p> + <p> + Little Gillies became sadly dispirited, and weaker at the crank than + before; ergo, the governor sentenced him to be fourteen days without bed + or gas. + </p> + <p> + But when they took away his bed and did not light his gas little Gillies + began to lose his temper; he made a great row about this last stroke of + discipline. “I won't live such a life as this,” said little Gillies, in a + pet. “Why don't the governor hang me at once?” + </p> + <p> + “What is that noise?” roared the governor, who was in the corridor and had + long ears. + </p> + <p> + “It is No. 50 kicking up a row at having his bed and gas taken,” replied a + turnkey, with a note of admiration in his voice. + </p> + <p> + The governor bounced into the cell. “Are you grumbling at that, you + rebellious young rascal? you forget there are a dozen lashes owing you + yet.” Now the boy had not forgotten, but he hoped the governor had. “Well, + you shall have the rest to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + With these words ringing in his ears, little Gillies was locked up for the + night at six o'clock. His companions darkness and unrest-for a prisoner's + bed is the most comfortable thing he has, and the change from it to a + stone floor is as great to him as it would be to us—darkness and + unrest, and the cat waiting to spring on him at peep of day. Quae cum ita + erant, as the warder put the key into his cell the next morning he heard a + strange gurgling; he opened the door quickly, and there was little Gillies + hanging; a chair was near him on which he had got to suspend himself by + his handkerchief from the window; he was black in the face, but struggling + violently, and had one hand above his head convulsively clutching the + handkerchief. Fry lifted him up by the knees and with some difficulty + loosed the handkerchief. + </p> + <p> + Little Gillies, as soon as his throat could vent a sound, roared with + fright at the recent peril, and then cried a bit, finally expressed a hope + his breakfast would not be taken from him for this act of insubordination. + </p> + <p> + This infraction of discipline was immediately reported to the governor. + </p> + <p> + “Little brute,” cried Hawes, viciously, “I'll work him!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! he knew I was at hand, sir,” said Fry, “or he would not have tried + it.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course he would not; I remember last night he was grumbling at his bed + being taken away. I'll serve him out!” + </p> + <p> + Soon after this the governor met the chaplain and told him the case. “He + shall make you an apology”—imperative mood him. + </p> + <p> + “Me, an apology!” + </p> + <p> + “Of course—you are the officer that has the care of his soul and he + shall apologize to you for making away with it or trying it on.” + </p> + <p> + This resolution was conveyed to Gillies with fearful threats, so when the + chaplain visited him he had got his lesson pat. + </p> + <p> + “I beg your reverence's pardon for hanging myself,” began he at sight, + rather loud and as bold as brass. + </p> + <p> + “Beg the Almighty's pardon, not mine.” + </p> + <p> + “No! the governor said it was yours I was to beg,” demurred Gillies. + </p> + <p> + “Very well. But you should beg God's pardon more than mine.” + </p> + <p> + “For why, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “For attempting your life, which was His gift.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! I needn't beg His pardon; He doesn't care what becomes of me; if He + did He wouldn't let them bully me as they do day after day, drat 'em.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to see one so young as you so hardened. I dare say the + discipline of the jail is bitter to you, it is to all idle boys; but you + might be in a much worse place—and will if you do not mend.” + </p> + <p> + “A worse place than this, your reverence! Oh, my eye!” + </p> + <p> + “And you ought to be thankful to Heaven for sending the turnkey at that + moment (here I'm sorry to say little Gillies grinned satirically), or you + would be in a worse place. Would you rather be here or in hell?” half + asked, half explained the reverend gentleman in the superior tone of one + closing a discussion forever. + </p> + <p> + “In hell!!!” replied Gillies, opening his eyes with astonishment at the + doubt. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Jones was dumfounded; of all the mischances that befall us in argument + this coup perplexes us most. He looked down at the little ignorant wretch, + and decided it would be useless to waste theology on him. He fell instead + into familiar conversation with him, and then Gillies, with the natural + communicativeness of youth, confessed to him “that he had heard the warder + at the next cell before he ventured to step off the chair and suspend + himself.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! but you ran a great risk, too. Suppose he had not come into your + cell—suppose he had been called away for a minute.” + </p> + <p> + “I should have been scragged, and no mistake,” said the boy, with a + shiver. Throttling had proved no joke. “But I took my chance of that,” + added Gillies. “I was determined to give them a fright; besides, if he + hadn't come, it would all be over by now, sir, and all the better for me, + I know.” + </p> + <p> + Further communication was closed by the crank, which demanded young + Hopeful by its mouthpiece, Fry. After dinner, to his infinite disgust, he + received the other moiety of his flogging; but by a sort of sulky + compensation his bed was kicked into his cell again at night by Fry acting + under the governor's orders. + </p> + <p> + “That was not a bad move, hanging myself a little—a very little,” + said the young prig. He hooked up his recovered treasure; and, though + smarting all over, coiled himself up in it, and in three minutes forgot + present pain, past dangers and troubles to come. + </p> + <p> + The plan pursued with Robinson was to keep him at low-water mark by + lowering his diet; without this, so great was his natural energy and + disposition to work, that no crank excuse could have been got for + punishing him, and at this period he was too wise and self-restrained to + give any other. But after a few days of unjust torture he began to lose + hope; and with hope patience oozed away too, and his enemy saw with grim + satisfaction wild flashes of mad rage come every now and then to his eye, + harder and harder to suppress. “He will break out before long,” said Hawes + to himself, “and then—” + </p> + <p> + Robinson saw the game, and a deep dark hatred of his enemy fought on the + side of his prudence. This bitter raging struggle of contending passions + in the thief's heart harmed his soul more than had years of burglary and + petty larceny. All the vices of the old jail system are nothing compared + with the diabolical effect of solitude on a heart smarting with daily + wrongs. + </p> + <p> + Brooding on self is always corrupting; but to brood on self and wrongs is + to ripen for madness, murder and all crime. Between Robinson and these + there lay one little bit of hope—only one, but it was a reasonable + one. There was an official in the jail possessed of a large independent + authority; and paid (Robinson argued) to take the side of humanity in the + place. This man was the representative of the national religion in the + jail, as Hawes was of the law. Robinson was too sharp at picking up + everything in his way, and had been too often in prisons and their chapels + not to know that cruelty and injustice are contrary to the Gospel, and to + the national religion, which is in a great measure founded thereon. He + therefore hoped and believed the chaplain of the jail would come between + him and his persecutor if he could be made to understand the case. Now it + happened just after the justices had thrown cold water on Mr. Jones's + little expostulation that Robinson was pinned to the wall, jammed in the + waistcoat, and throttled in the collar. He had been thus some time, when, + casting his despairing eyes around they alighted upon the comely, + respectable face of Mr. Jones. Mr. Jones was looking gravely at the + victim. + </p> + <p> + Robinson devoured him with his eyes and his ears. He heard him say in an + undertone: + </p> + <p> + “What is this for?” + </p> + <p> + “Hasn't done his work at the crank,” was the answer. + </p> + <p> + Then Mr. Jones, after taking another look at the sufferer, gave a sigh and + walked away. Robinson's hopes from this gentleman rose; moreover, part of + his sermon next Sunday inveighed against inhumanity; and Robinson, who had + no conception the sermon was several years old, looked on it as aimed at + Hawes and his myrmidons and as the precursor of other and effective + remonstrances. Not long after this, to his delight, the chaplain visited + him alone. He seized this opportunity of securing the good man's + interference in his favor. He told him in glowing words the whole story of + his sufferings; and with a plain and manly eloquence appealed to him to + make his chapel words good and come between the bloodhounds and their + prey. + </p> + <p> + “Sir, there are twenty or thirty poor fellows besides me that will bless + your four bones night and day, if you will but put out your hand and save + us from being abused like dogs and nailed to the wall like kites and + weasels. We are not vermin, sir, we are men. Many a worse man is abroad + than we that are caged here like wild beasts. Our bodies are men's bodies, + sir, and our hearts are men's hearts. You can't soften <i>their</i> + hearts, for they haven't such a thing about them; but only just you open + your mouth and speak your mind in right-down earnest, and you will shame + them into treating us openly like human beings, let them hate us and scorn + us at bottom as they will. We have no friend here, sir, but you, not one; + have pity on us! have pity on us!” + </p> + <p> + And the thief stretched out his hands, and fixed his ardent, glistening + eyes upon the successor of the apostles. + </p> + <p> + The successor of the apostles hung his head and showed plainly that he was + not unmoved. A moment of suspense followed—Robinson hung upon his + answer. At length Mr. Jones raised his head and said, with icy coldness: + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes is the governor of this jail. I have no power to interfere with + his acts, supported as they are by the visiting justices; and I have but + one advice to give you: Submit to the discipline and to Mr. Hawes in + everything; it will be the worse for you if you don't.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he went out abruptly, leaving his petitioner with his eyes + fixed ruefully upon the door by which his last hope had left him. + </p> + <p> + The moment the reverend official had got outside the door, his + countenance, which had fallen, took a complacent air. He prided himself + that he had conquered an impulse, an idle impulse. + </p> + <p> + “The poor fellow is in the right,” said he to himself as he left the cell; + “but if I had let him see I thought so, he might have been encouraged to + resist, and then he would have only suffered all the more.” + </p> + <p> + And so, having done what he calculated was the expedient thing to do, he + went his way satisfied and at peace with Mr. Hawes and all mankind. + </p> + <p> + When he glided away and took hope with him, disdain, despair and frenzy + gushed from the thief's boiling bosom in one wild moan; and with that moan + he dashed himself on his face on the floor, though it was as hard as Hawes + and cold as Jones. + </p> + <p> + Thus he lay crushed in blank despair a moment, the next he rose fiercely + to his knees, he looked up through the hole they called his window, and + saw a little piece of blue sky no bigger than a Bible, he held his hand up + to that blue sky, he fixed his dilating eye on that blue sky, and with one + long raging yell of horrible words hurled from a heart set on fire by + wrongs and despair and tempting fiends, he cursed the successor of the + apostles before the Majesty of Heaven. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. + </h2> + <p> + SOLITUDE is no barrier whatever to sin. Such prayers as Robinson's are a + disgrace to those who provoke them, but a calamity to him who utters them. + Robinson was now a far worse man than ever he had been out of prison. The + fiend had fixed a claw in his heart, and we may be sure he felt the recoil + of his ill prayers. He hated the human race, which produced such creatures + as Hawes and nothing to keep them in check. + </p> + <p> + “From this hour I speak no more to any of those beasts!” + </p> + <p> + Such was his resolve, made with clinched teeth and nails. And he curled + himself up like a snake and turned his back upon mankind, and his face to + the wall. Robinson had begun his career in this place full of hopes. He + hoped by good conduct to alleviate his condition as he had done in other + jails; conscious of various talents, he hoped by skill as well as by good + conduct to better his condition even in a jail. Such hopes are a part of + our nature, and were not in his case unreasonable. These hopes were soon + extinguished. He came down to a confident hope that by docility and good + conduct he should escape all evils except those inseparable from a + prisoner's lot. + </p> + <p> + When he discovered that Hawes loved to punish his prisoners, and indeed + could hardly get through the day without it, and that his crank was an + unavoidable trap to catch the prisoners and betray them to punishment, he + sunk lower and lower in despondency, till at last there was but one bit of + blue hope in all his horizon. He still hoped something against tyranny and + cruelty from the representative of the gospel of mercy in the place. But + when his reverence told him nothing was to be expected from that quarter, + his last hope went out and he was in utter darkness. + </p> + <p> + Yet Mr. Jones was not a hypocrite nor a monster; he was only a commonplace + man—a thing molded by circumstances instead of molding them. In him + the official outweighed the apostle, for a very good reason—he was + commonplace. This was his defect. His crime was misplacing his commonplace + self. A man has a right to be commonplace in the middle of the New Forest, + or in the great desert, or at Fudley-cum-Pipes in the fens of + Lincolnshire. But at the helm of a struggling nation, or in the command of + an army in time of war, or at the head of the religious department of a + jail, fighting against human wolves, tigers and foxes, to be commonplace + is an iniquity and leads to crime. + </p> + <p> + The man was a humane man. It was not in his nature to be cruel to a + prisoner, and his humanity was, like himself, negative not positive, + passive not active—of course; it was commonplace humanity. + </p> + <p> + After looking on in silence for a twelvemonth or two he remonstrated + against Hawes's barbarity. He would have done more; he would have stopped + it—if it could have been stopped without any trouble. Cold water was + thrown on his remonstrance; he cooled directly! + </p> + <p> + Now cold water and hot fire have been thrown on men battling for causes no + higher nor holier than this, yet neither has fire been able to wither nor + water to quench their honest zeal. But this good soul on being sprinkled + laid down his arms; he was commonplace. Moreover, he was guilty of + something beside cowardice. He let a small egotistical pique sully as well + as betray a great cause. “The justices have thrown cold water on my + remonstrance—very well, gentlemen, torture your prisoners ad + libitum; I shall interfere no more; we shall see which was in the right, + you or I.” + </p> + <p> + This was a narrow little view of wide and terrible consequences; it was + infinitesimal egotism—the spirit and essence of commonplace. + </p> + <p> + His inclinations were good, but feeble—he was commonplace. His heart + was good, but tepid—he was commonplace. Had he loved the New + Testament and the Saviour of mankind, he would have fought Hawes tooth and + nail; he could not have helped it. But he did not love either; he only + liked them—he was commonplace. When the thief cursed this man, he + was guilty of an extravagance as well as a crime; the man was not worth + cursing—he was commonplace. + </p> + <p> + The new chaplain arrived soon after these events. The new chaplain was + accompanied by his friend, the Rev. James Lepel, chaplain of a jail in the + north of England. After five years' unremitting duty he was now enjoying a + week's leave of absence. + </p> + <p> + The three clergymen visited the cells. Mr. Lepel cross-examined several + prisoners. The new chaplain spoke little, but seemed observant, and once + or twice made a note. Now it so happened that almost the last cell they + entered was Tom Robinson's. They found him sitting all of a heap in a + corner, moody and sullen. + </p> + <p> + At sight of three black coats and white ties the thief opened his eyes, + and with a sort of repugnance turned his back on the intruders. + </p> + <p> + “Come, my lad,” said the turnkey sternly, “no tricks, if you please. Turn + round,” cried he savagely, “and make your bow to the gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson wheeled round with flashing eyes, and checking an evident desire + to dash at them, instantly made a bow so very low, so very obsequious, + and, by a furtive expression, so contemptuous, that Mr. Lepel colored with + indignation and moved toward the door in silence. + </p> + <p> + The turnkey muttered, “He has been very strange this few days past. Mr. + Fry thinks he is hardly safe.” Then, turning to the new chaplain, the man, + whose name was Evans, said, “Better not go into his cell, sir, without one + of us with you.” + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter with him?” inquired the reverend gentleman. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I don't know as there is anything the matter with him; only he has + been disciplined once or twice, and it goes down the wrong way with some + of them at first starting. Governor says he will have to be put in the + dark cell if he does not get better.” + </p> + <p> + “The dark cell? hum! Pray what is the effect of the dark cell on a + prisoner?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, it cows them more than anything.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are your dark cells?” + </p> + <p> + “They are down below, sir. You can look at them after the kitchen.” + </p> + <p> + “I must go into the town,” said Mr. Lepel, looking at his watch. “I + promised to dine with my relations at three o'clock.” + </p> + <p> + “Come and see the oubliettes first. We have seen everything else.” + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart!” + </p> + <p> + They descended below the ground-floor, and then Evans unlocked a massive + tight-fitting door opening upon what appeared to be a black substance; + this was, however, no substance—but vacancy without any degree of + light. The light crossing the threshold from the open door seemed to cut a + slice out of it. + </p> + <p> + The newcomers looked into it. Mr. Lepel with grim satisfaction, the other + with awe and curiosity. + </p> + <p> + “When shall you be back, Lepel?” inquired he thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, before nine o'clock.” + </p> + <p> + “Then perhaps you will both do me the honor to drink a cup of tea with + me,” said Mr. Jones, courteously. + </p> + <p> + “With pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + “Good-by, then, for the present,” said the new chaplain. + </p> + <p> + “Why, where are you going?” + </p> + <p> + “In here.” + </p> + <p> + “What, into the dark cell?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” + </p> + <p> + “Well!” ejaculated Evans. + </p> + <p> + “You won't stay there long.” + </p> + <p> + “Until you return, Lepel.” + </p> + <p> + “What a fancy!” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Jones looked not a little surprised. The turnkey grinned. The reverend + gentleman stepped at once into the cell and was lost to sight. + </p> + <p> + “Do not let me out before eight o'clock,” said his voice, “and you, Lepel, + inquire for me as soon as you return, for I feel a little nervous. Now + shut the door.” + </p> + <p> + The door was closed on the reverend gentleman, and the little group + outside, after looking at one another with a humorous expression, + separated, and each went after his own affairs. + </p> + <p> + Evans lingered behind, and took a look at the massy door, behind which for + the first time a man had gone voluntarily, and after grave deliberation + delivered himself at long intervals of the two following profound + reflections: + </p> + <p> + “Well! I'm blest!!” + </p> + <p> + “Well! I'm blowed!!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. + </h2> + <p> + MR. LEPEL returned somewhat earlier than he had intended. On entering the + jail it so happened that he met the governor, and seized this opportunity + of conversing with him. + </p> + <p> + He expressed at once so warm an admiration of the jail and the system + pursued in it, that Hawes began to take a fancy to him. + </p> + <p> + They compared notes, and agreed that no system but the separate and silent + had a leg to stand on; and as they returned together from visiting the + ground-floor cells, Mr. Lepel had the honor of giving a new light to Hawes + himself. + </p> + <p> + “If I could have my way the debtors should be in separate cells. I would + have but one system in a jail.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes laughed incredulously. “There would be a fine outcry if we treated + the debtors the same as we do the rogues.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes,” said the other firmly, “an honest man very seldom finds his + way into any part of a jail. Extravagant people and tradesmen who have + abused the principle of credit, deserve punishment, and above all require + discipline and compulsory self-communion to bring them to amend their + ways.” + </p> + <p> + “That is right, sir,” cried Hawes, a sudden light breaking on him, “and it + certainly is a mistake letting them enjoy themselves.” + </p> + <p> + “And corrupt each other.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes. A prison should be confinement. + </p> + <p> + Lepel. And seclusion from all but profitable company. + </p> + <p> + Hawes. It is not a place of amusement. + </p> + <p> + Lepel. There should be no idle conversation. + </p> + <p> + “And no noise,” put in Hawes hastily. + </p> + <p> + “However, this prison is a model for all the prisons in the land, and I + shall feel quite sad when I go back to my duty in Cumberland.” + </p> + <p> + “Cumberland? Why, you are our new chaplain, aren't ye?” + </p> + <p> + “No! I am not so fortunate, I am a friend of his; my name is Lepel.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you are Mr. Lepel, and where is our one? I heard he had been all over + the jail.” + </p> + <p> + “What, have you not seen him?” + </p> + <p> + “No! he has never been near me. Not very polite, I think.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! oh!” + </p> + <p> + “Hallo! what is wrong!” + </p> + <p> + “I think I know where he is; he is not far off. I will go and find him if + you will excuse me.” + </p> + <p> + “No! we won't trouble you. Here, Hodges, come here. Have you seen the new + chaplain—where is he?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, Evans tells me he is—” click! + </p> + <p> + “Confound you, don't stand grinning. Where is he?” + </p> + <p> + “In the black hole, sir!” + </p> + <p> + “What d'ye mean by the black hole? The dust hole?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I mean the dark cells.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why don't you say the dark cells? Has he been there long?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lepel answered the question. “Ever since three o'clock, and it is + nearly nine; and we are both of us to drink tea with Mr. Jones.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes showed no hurry. “What did he want to go in them for?” + </p> + <p> + “I have no idea, unless it was to see what it is like.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but I like that!” said Hawes. “That is entering into the system. + Let us see how he comes on.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes, Mr. Lepel and Hodges went to the dark cells; on their way they + were joined by Evans. + </p> + <p> + The governor took out his own keys, and Evans having indicated the cell, + for there were three, he unlocked it and threw the door wide open. They + all looked in, but there was nothing to be seen. + </p> + <p> + “I hope nothing is the matter,” said Mr. Lepel, in considerable agitation, + and he groped his way into the cave. As he put out his hand it was taken + almost violently by the self-immured, who cried: + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Lepel!” and held him in a strong but tremulous grasp. Then, after a + pause, he said more calmly: “The light dazzles me! the place seems on fire + now! Perhaps you will be kind enough to lend me your arm, Lepel.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lepel led him out; he had one hand before his eyes, which he gradually + withdrew while speaking. He found himself in the middle of a group with a + sly sneer on their faces mixed with some curiosity. + </p> + <p> + “How long have I been there?” asked he quietly. + </p> + <p> + “Six hours; it is nine o'clock.” + </p> + <p> + “Only six hours! incredible!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, I suppose you are not sorry to be out?” + </p> + <p> + “This is Mr. Hawes, the governor,” put in Mr. Lepel. + </p> + <p> + Hawes continued jocosely, “What does it feel like, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “I shall have the honor of telling you that in private, Mr. Hawes. I + think, Lepel, we have an engagement with Mr. Jones at nine o'clock.” So + saying, the new chaplain, with a bow to the governor, took his friend's + arm and went to tea with Mr. Jones. + </p> + <p> + “There, now,” said Hawes to the turnkeys, “that is a gentleman. He doesn't + blurt everything out before you fellows; he reserves it for his superior + officer.” + </p> + <p> + Next morning the new chaplain requested Mr. Lepel to visit the prisoner's + cells in a certain order, and make notes of their characters as far as he + could guess them. He himself visited them in another order and made his + notes. In the evening they compared these. We must be content with an + extract or two. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + MR. LEPEL'S. THE NEW CHAPLAIN'S. + + Rock, No. 37.— A very promising 37, Rock.— Professes penitence. + subject, penitent and resigned. Asked him suddenly what sins + Says, “if the door of the prison weighed most on his conscience. + was left open he would not go No answer. Prepared with an + out.” Has learned 250 texts, and abstract penitence, but no + is learning fifteen a day. particulars: reason obvious. + + Mem. With this man speak on any + topic rather than religion at + present. Pray for this + self-deceiver as I would for a + murderer. + + Josephs, No. — An interesting Josephs.— An amiable boy; seems + boy, ignorant, but apparently out of health and spirits. + well-disposed. In ill health. Says he has been overworked + The surgeon should be consulted and punished for inability. Shall + about him. intercede with the governor for + him. + + Mem. Pale and hollow-eyed; pulse + feeble. + + Strutt, No. — Sullen, impenitent Strutt.— This poor man is in + and brutal. Says it is no use his a state of deep depression. I + learning texts, they won't stay much fear the want of light + in his head. Discontented; wants and air and society is crushing + to go out in the yard. The best him. He is fifty years old. + one can hope for here is that the + punishment, which he finds so Mem. Inquire whether separate + severe, will deter him in future. confinement tries men harder + Says he will never come here after a certain age. Talked + again, but doubts whether he to him; told him stories with + shall get out alive. Gave him all the animation I could. + some tracts. Stayed half an hour with him. + He brightened up a little, and + asked me to come again. Nothing + to be done here at present but + amuse the poor soul. + + Mem. Watch him jealously. + + Jessup.— The prisoner whose Jessup.— Like Rock, professes + term, owing to his excellent extravagant penitence, indifference + conduct, is reduced from twelve to personal liberty, and love of + months to nine months, so that Scripture. He overdoes it greatly. + he goes out next week. Having However, it appears he has gained + discovered that the news had his point by it. He has induced + not been conveyed to him, I asked Mr. Jones to plead for him in + Mr. Hawes to let me be the bearer. mitigation of punishment, and + When I told him, his only remark next week he leaves prison for + was, with an air of regret: a little while. + “Then I shall not finish my + Gospels!” I begged for an He asked me to hear some texts. + explanation, when he told I said, “No, my poor fellow; they + me that for eight months he will do you as much good whether I + had been committing the Gospels hear you them or not.” By a light + to heart, and that he was just that flashed into his eye I saw + beginning St. John, which now he he comprehended the equivoque; + should never finish. I said he but he suppressed his intelligence + must finish it at home in the and answered piously, + intervals of honest labor. His “That they will, your reverence.” + countenance brightened, and he + said he would. +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + A most cheering case, and one of + the best proofs of the efficacy + of the separate and silent system + I have met with for some time. I + fear I almost grudge you the + possession of such an example. +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Robinson— A bad subject, Robinson.—This man wears a + rebellious and savage; refuses to singular look of scorn as well + speak. Time and the discipline as hatred, which, coupled with + will probably break him of this; his repeated refusals to speak + but I do not think he will ever to me, provoked me so that I + make a good prisoner! felt strongly tempted to knock + him down. How unworthy, to be + provoked at anything a great + sufferer can say or do; every + solitary prisoner must surely be + a great sufferer. + + My judgment is quite at fault + here. I know no more than a child + what is this man's character, and + the cause of his strange conduct. + + Mem. Inquire his antecedents of + the turnkeys. Oh, Lord, enlighten + me, and give me wisdom for the + great and deep and difficult task + I have so boldly undertaken! +</pre> + <p> + The next day the new chaplain met the surgeon in the jail and took him + into Josephs' cell. + </p> + <p> + “He only wants a little rest and nourishing food; he would be the better + for a little amusement, but—” and the man of science shrugged his + shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “Can you read?” said Mr. Lepel. + </p> + <p> + “Very little, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Let the schoolmaster come to him every day,” suggested that experienced + individual. He knew what separate confinement was. What bores a boy out of + prison amuses him in it. + </p> + <p> + Hawes gave a cold consent. So poor little Josephs had a richer diet and + rest from crank and pillory, and the schoolmaster spent half an hour every + day teaching him; and above all, the new chaplain sat in his cell and told + him stories that interested him—told him how very wicked some boys + had been; what a many clever wicked things they had done and not been + happy, then how they had repented and learned to pray to be good, and how + by Divine help they had become good, and how some had gone to heaven soon + after, and were now happy and pure as the angels; and others had stayed on + earth and were good and honest and just men; not so happy as those others + who were dead, but content (and that the wicked never are), and waiting + God's pleasure to go away and be happy forever. + </p> + <p> + Josephs listened to the good chaplain's tales and conversation with + wonderful interest, and his face always brightened when that gentleman + came into his cell. The schoolmaster reported him not quick, but docile. + These were his halcyon days. + </p> + <p> + But Robinson remained a silent basilisk. The chaplain visited him every + day, said one or two kind words to him and retired without receiving a + word or a look of acknowledgment. One day, surprised and hurt by this + continued obduracy, the chaplain retired with an audible sigh. Robinson + heard it, and ground his teeth with satisfaction. Solitary, tortured and + degraded, he had still found one whom he could annoy a little bit. + </p> + <p> + The governor and the new chaplain agreed charmingly; constant civilities + passed between them. The chaplain assisted Mr. Hawes to turn the phrases + of his yearly report; and Mr. Hawes more than repaid him by consenting to + his introducing various handicrafts into the prison—at his own + expense, not the county's. + </p> + <p> + Parson must have got a longer purse than most of us, thought Hawes, and it + increased his respect. + </p> + <p> + Hawes shrugged his shoulders, as much as to say, “You are just flinging + your money into the dirt;” but the other, interpreting his look, said: + </p> + <p> + “I hope more good from this than from all the sermons I shall preach in + your chapel.” + </p> + <p> + Probably Mr. Hawes would not have been so indifferent had he known that + this introduction of rational labor was intended as the first step toward + undermining and expelling the sacred crank. + </p> + <p> + This clergyman had a secret horror and hatred of the crank. He called it a + monster got by folly upon science to degrade labor below theft; for theft + is immoral, but crank labor is immoral and idiotic, too, said he. The + crank is a diabolical engine to keep thieves from ever being anything but + thieves. He arrived at this conclusion by a chain of reasoning for which + there is no room in a narrative already smothered in words. + </p> + <p> + This antipathy to the crank quite overpowered him. He had been now three + weeks in the jail, and all that time only thrice in the labor-yard. It cut + his understanding like a knife to see a man turn a handle for hours and + nothing come of it. + </p> + <p> + However, one day, from a sense of duty, he forced himself into the + labor-yard and walked wincing down the row. + </p> + <p> + “These are our schoolmen,” said he. “As the schoolmen labored most + intellectually and scientifically—practical result, nil, so these + labor harder than other men—result, nil. This is literally 'beating + the air.' The ancients imagined tortures particularly trying to nature, + that of Sisyphus to wit; everlasting labor embittered by everlasting + nihilification. We have made Sisyphism vulgar. Here are fifteen Sisyphi. + Only the wise or ancients called this thing infernal torture; our old + women call it salutary discipline.” + </p> + <p> + He was running on in this style, heaping satire and sorrow upon the crank, + when suddenly, at the mouth of one of the farthest cells, he stopped and + threw up his hands with an ejaculation of astonishment and dismay. There + was a man jammed in a strait waistcoat, pinned against the wall by a + strap, and throttling in a huge collar; his face was white, his lips + livid, and his eyes rolling despairingly. It was Thomas Robinson. This + sight took away the chaplain's breath. When he recovered himself, “What is + this?” said he to the turnkeys, sternly. + </p> + <p> + “Prisoner refractory at the crank,” answered Hodges, doggedly. + </p> + <p> + The clergyman walked up to Robinson and examined the collar, the waistcoat + and the strap. “Have you the governor's authority for this act?” said he + firmly. + </p> + <p> + “Rule is if they won't do their work, the jacket.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you the governor's authority for this particular act?” + </p> + <p> + “In a general way we have.” + </p> + <p> + “In a word, you are not acting under his authority, and you know it. Take + the man down this moment.” + </p> + <p> + The men hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “If you don't I shall.” + </p> + <p> + The turnkeys, a little staggered by his firmness, began to confer in + whispers. The chaplain, who was one of your decided men, could not wait + the consultation. He sprang to Robinson's head and began to undo the + collar. The others, seeing this decided move, came and helped him. The + collar and the strap being loosed, the thief's body, ensacked as it was, + fell helplessly forward. He had fainted during the discussion; in fact, + his senses were shut when the chaplain first came to the cell. The + chaplain caught him, and being a very strong man, saved him from a + dangerous fall and seated him gently with his back to the wall. Water was + sprinkled in his face. The chaplain went hastily to find the governor. He + came to him pale and out of breath. + </p> + <p> + “I found the turnkeys outraging a prisoner.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said the governor. It was a new idea to him that anything could + be an outrage on a prisoner. + </p> + <p> + “They confessed they had not your authority, so I took upon me to undo + their act.” + </p> + <p> + “Humph!” + </p> + <p> + “I now leave the matter in your hands, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I will see into it, sir.” + </p> + <p> + The chaplain left Mr. Hawes abruptly, for he was seized with a sudden + languor and nausea; he went to his own house and there he was violently + sick. Shaking off as quickly as he could this weakness, he went at once to + Robinson's cell. He found him coiled up like a snake. He came hastily into + the cell with the natural effusion of a man who had taken another man's + part. + </p> + <p> + “I want to ask you one question: What had you done that they should use + you like that?” + </p> + <p> + No answer. + </p> + <p> + “It is not from idle curiosity I ask you, but that I may be able to advise + you, or intercede for you if the punishment should appear too severe for + the offense.” + </p> + <p> + No answer. + </p> + <p> + “Come, I would wait here ever so long upon the chance of your speaking to + me if you were the only prisoner, but there are others in their solitude + longing for me; time is precious; will you speak to one who desires to be + your friend?” + </p> + <p> + No answer. + </p> + <p> + A flush of impatience and anger crossed the chaplain's brow. In most men + it would have found vent in words. This man but turned away to hide it + from its object. He gulped his brief ire down and said only, “So then I am + never to be any use to you,” and went sorrowfully away. + </p> + <p> + Robinson coiled himself up a little tighter, and hugged his hatred of all + mankind closer, like a treasure that some one had just tried to do him out + of. + </p> + <p> + As the chaplain came out of his cell he was met by Hawes, whose + countenance wore a gloomy expression that soon found its way into words. + </p> + <p> + “The chaplain is not allowed to interfere between me and the prisoners in + this jail.” + </p> + <p> + “Explain, Mr. Hawes.” + </p> + <p> + “You have been and ordered my turnkeys to relax punishment.” + </p> + <p> + “You forget, Mr. Hawes, I explained to you that they were acting without + the requisite authority from you.” + </p> + <p> + “That is all right, and I have called them to account, but then you are + not to order them either; you should have applied to me.” + </p> + <p> + “I see, I see! Forgive me this little breach of routine where a human + being's sufferings would have been prolonged by etiquette.” + </p> + <p> + “Ugh! Well, it must not occur again.” + </p> + <p> + “I trust the occasion will not.” + </p> + <p> + “For that matter, you will often see refractory prisoners punished in this + jail. You had better mind your own business in the jail, it will find you + work enough.” + </p> + <p> + “I will, Mr. Hawes; to dissuade men from cruelty is a part of it.” + </p> + <p> + “If you come between me and the prisoners, sir, you won't be long here.” + </p> + <p> + The new chaplain smiled. + </p> + <p> + “What does it matter whether I'm here or in Patagonia, so that I do my + duty wherever I am?” said he with a fine mixture of good-humor and spirit. + </p> + <p> + Hawes turned his back rudely and went and reduced Robinson's supper fifty + per cent. + </p> + <p> + “Evans, is that sort of punishment often inflicted here?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, yes. It is a common punishment of this jail.” + </p> + <p> + “It must be very painful.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, it's a little <i>on</i>comfortable that is all; and then we've + got such a lot here we are obliged to be down on 'em like a sledge-hammer, + or they'd eat us up alive.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you got the things, the jacket, collar, etc.?” + </p> + <p> + “I know where to find them,” said Evans with a sly look. + </p> + <p> + “Bring them to me directly to this empty cell.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” higgled Evans, “in course I don't like to refuse your + reverence.” + </p> + <p> + “Then don't refuse me,” retorted the other, sharp as a needle. + </p> + <p> + Evans went off directly and soon returned with the materials. The chaplain + examined them a while; he then took off his coat. + </p> + <p> + “Operate on me, Evans.” + </p> + <p> + “Operate on you, sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! There, don't stand staring, my good man; hold up the waistcoat—now + strap it tight—tighter—no nonsense—Robinson was strapped + tighter than that yesterday. I want to know what we are doing to our + fellow-creatures in this place. The collar now.” + </p> + <p> + “But, sir, the collar will nip you. I tell you that beforehand.” + </p> + <p> + “Not more than it nips my prisoners. Now strap me to the wall. Why do you + hesitate?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know whether I am doing right, sir, you being a parson. Perhaps I + shall have no luck after this.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't be silly, Evans. Volenti non fit injuria—that means, you may + torture a bishop if he bids you.” + </p> + <p> + “There you are, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! here I am. Now go away and come in half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + “I think I had better stay, sir. You will soon be sick of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Go, and come in half an hour,” was the firm reply. + </p> + <p> + Our chaplain felt that if the man did not go he should not be five minutes + before he asked to be released, and he was determined to know “what we are + doing.” + </p> + <p> + Evans had not been gone ten minutes before he bitterly repented letting + him go, and when that worthy returned he found him muttering faintly, “It + is in a good cause-it is in a good cause—” + </p> + <p> + Evans wore a grin. + </p> + <p> + “You shall pay for that grin,” said the chaplain to himself. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, have you had enough of it?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Evans; you may loose me,” said the other with affected nonchalance. + </p> + <p> + “What is it like, sir? haw! haw!” + </p> + <p> + “It is as you described it, <i>on</i>comfortable; but the knowledge I have + gained in it is invaluable. You shall share it.” + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart, sir; you can tell me what it is like.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no! such knowledge can never be imparted by description; you shall + take your turn in the jacket.” + </p> + <p> + “Not if I know it.” + </p> + <p> + “What, not for the sake of knowledge?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! I can guess what it is like.” + </p> + <p> + “But you will oblige me?” + </p> + <p> + “Some other way, sir, if you please.” + </p> + <p> + “Besides, I will give you a guinea.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! that alters the case, sir. But only for half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + “Only for half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + Evans was triced up and pinned to the wall; the chaplain took out a guinea + and placed it in his sight, and walked out. + </p> + <p> + In about ten minutes he returned, and there was Evans, his face drawn down + by pain. + </p> + <p> + “Well, how do you like it?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! pretty well, sir; it isn't worth making an outcry about.” + </p> + <p> + “Only a little <i>on</i>comfortable.” + </p> + <p> + “That is all; if it wasn't for the confounded cramp.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us compare notes,” said the chaplain, sitting down opposite. “I found + it worse than uncomfortable. First there was a terrible sense of utter + impotence, then came on racking cramps, for which there was no relief + because I could not move.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “What?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, sir! mum—mum—dear guinea!” + </p> + <p> + “The jagged collar gave me much pain, too; it rasped my poor throat like a + file.” + </p> + <p> + “Why the dickens didn't you tell me all this before, sir,” said Evans + ruefully; “it is no use now I've been and gone into the same oven like a + fool.” + </p> + <p> + “I had my reasons for not telling you before; good-by for the present.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't stay over the half hour, for goodness' sake, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “No! adieu for the present.” + </p> + <p> + He did not go far. He listened and heard the plucky Evans groan. He came + hastily in. + </p> + <p> + “Courage, my fine fellow, only eight minutes more and the guinea is yours. + </p> + <p> + “How many more minutes, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Eight.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, oh! undo me, sir, if you please.” + </p> + <p> + “What! forfeit the guinea for eight minutes—seven, it is only seven + now.” + </p> + <p> + “Hang the guinea, let me down, sir, if there's pity in you.” + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart,” said the reverend gentleman, pocketing the guinea, + and he loosed Evans with all speed. + </p> + <p> + The man stretched his limbs with ejaculations of pain between every + stretch, and put his handkerchief on very gingerly. He looked sulky and + said nothing. The other watched him keenly, for there was something about + him that showed his mind was working. + </p> + <p> + “There is your guinea.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no! I didn't earn it.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, if you think that (putting it to the lips of his pocket), let me make + you a present of it” (handing it out again). Evans smiled. “It is a good + servant. That little coin has got me one friend more for these poor + prisoners. You don't understand me, Evans. Well, you will. Now, look at + me; from this moment, sir, you and I stand on a different footing from + others in this jail. We know what we are doing when we put a prisoner in + that thing; the others don't. The greater the knowledge, the greater the + guilt. May we both be kept from the crime of cruelty. Good-night!” + </p> + <p> + “Good-night, your reverence!” said the man gently, awed by his sudden + solemnity. + </p> + <p> + The chaplain retired. Evans looked after him, and then down into his own + hand. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I'm blowed!—Well, I'm blest!—Got a guinea, though!!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. + </h2> + <p> + GOVERNOR HAWES had qualities good in themselves, but ill-directed, and + therefore not good in their results—determination for one. He was + not a man to yield a step to opposition. He was a much greater man than + Jones. He was like a torrent, to whose progress if you oppose a great + stone it brawls and struggles past it and round it and over it with more + vigor than before. + </p> + <p> + “I will be master in this jail!” was the creed of Hawes. He docked + Robinson's supper one half, ditto his breakfast next day, and set him a + tremendous task of crank. Now in jail a day's food and a day's crank are + too nicely balanced to admit of the weights being tampered with. So + Robinson's demi-starvation paved the way for further punishment. At one + o'clock he was five hundred revolutions short, and instead of going to his + dinner he was tied up in the infernal machine. Now the new chaplain came + three times into the yard that day, and the third time, about four + o'clock, he found Robinson pinned to the wall, jammed in the waistcoat and + griped in the collar. His blood ran cold at sight of him, for the man had + been hours in the pillory and nature was giving way. + </p> + <p> + “What has he done?” + </p> + <p> + “Refractory at crank.” + </p> + <p> + “I saw him working at the crank when I came here last.” + </p> + <p> + “Hasn't made his number good, though.” + </p> + <p> + “Humph! You have the governor's own orders?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “How long is he to be so?” + </p> + <p> + “Till fresh orders.” + </p> + <p> + “I will see the effect of this punishment on the prisoner and note it down + for my report.” And he took out his note-book and leaned his back against + the wall. + </p> + <p> + The simple action of taking out a notebook gave the operators a certain + qualm of doubt. Fry whispered Hodges to go and tell the governor. On his + return Hodges found the parties as he had left them, except Robinson—he + was paler and his lips turning bluer. + </p> + <p> + “Your victim is fainting,” said the chaplain sternly. + </p> + <p> + “Only shamming, sir,” said Fry. “Bucket, Hodges.” + </p> + <p> + The bucket was brought and the contents were flung over Robinson. + </p> + <p> + The chaplain gave a cry of dismay. The turnkeys both laughed at this. + </p> + <p> + “You see he was only shamming, sir,” said Hodges. “He is come to the + moment the water touched him.” + </p> + <p> + “A plain proof he was not shamming. A bucket of water thrown over any one + about to faint would always bring them to; but if a man had made up his + mind to sham, he could do it in spite of water. Of course you will take + him down now?” + </p> + <p> + “Not till fresh orders.” + </p> + <p> + “On your peril be it if any harm befalls this prisoner—you are + warned.” + </p> + <p> + At this juncture Hawes came into the yard. His cheek was flushed and his + eye glittered. He expected and rather hoped a collision with his + reverence. + </p> + <p> + “Well, what is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, sir; only his reverence is threatening us.” + </p> + <p> + “What is he threatening you for?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes, I told these men that I should hold them responsible if any + harm came to the prisoner for their cruelty. I now tell you that he has + just fainted from bodily distress caused by this infernal engine, and I + hold you, Mr. Hawes, responsible for this man's life and well-being, which + are here attacked contrary to the custom of all her majesty's prisons, and + contrary to the intention of all punishment, which is for the culprit's + good, not for his injury either in soul or body. + </p> + <p> + “And what will you do?” said Hawes, glaring contemptuously at the + turnkeys, who wore rather a blank look. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes,” replied the other gravely, “I have spoken to warn you, not to + threaten you.” + </p> + <p> + “What I do is done with the consent of the visiting justices. They are my + masters, and no one else.” + </p> + <p> + “They have not seen a prisoner crucified.” + </p> + <p> + “Crucified! What d'ye mean by crucified?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you see that the torture before our eyes is crucifixion?” + </p> + <p> + “No! I don't. No nails!” + </p> + <p> + “Nails were not always used in crucifixion; sometimes cords. Don't deceive + yourself with a name; nothing misleads like a false name. This punishment + is falsely called the jacket—it is jacket, collar, straps, applied + with cruelty. It is crucifixion minus nails but plus a collar.” + </p> + <p> + “Whatever it is, the justices have seen and approved it. Haven't they, + Fry?” + </p> + <p> + “That they have, sir; scores of times.” + </p> + <p> + “Then may Heaven forgive them and direct me.” And the chaplain entered the + cell despondently, and bent his pitying eye steadily on the thief, who + seemed to him at the moment a better companion than the three honest but + cruel men. + </p> + <p> + He waited there very, very sorrowful and thoughtful for more than half an + hour. Then Hawes, who left the yard as soon as he had conquered his + opponent, sent in Evans with an order to take Robinson to his dormitory. + </p> + <p> + The chaplain saw the man taken down from the wall, and that done went + hastily to his own house; there, the contest being over, he was seized + with a violent sickness and trembling. To see a fellow-creature suffer and + not be able to relieve him was death to this man. He was game to the last + drop of his blood so long as there was any good to be done, but action + ended, a reaction came, in which he was all pity and sorrow and distress + because of a fellow-creature's distress. No one that saw his firmness in + the torture-cell would have guessed how weak he was within, and how + stoutly his great heart had to battle against a sensitive nature and + nerves tuned too high. + </p> + <p> + He gave half an hour to the weakness of nature, and then he was all duty + once more. + </p> + <p> + He went first into Robinson's cell. He found him worse than ever: despair + as well as hatred gleamed in his eye. + </p> + <p> + “My poor fellow, is there no way for you to avoid these dreadful + punishments?” + </p> + <p> + No answer. + </p> + <p> + It is to be observed, though, that Robinson had no idea how far the + chaplain had carried his remonstrance against his torture; that + remonstrance had been uttered privately to the turnkeys and the governor. + Besides, the man was half stupefied when the chaplain first came there. + And now he was in such pain and despair. He was like the genii confined in + the chest and thrown into the water by Soliman. Had this good friend come + to him at first starting, he would have thrown himself into his arms; but + it came too late now. He hated all mankind. He had lost all belief in + genuine kindness. Like Orlando, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + He thought that all things had been savage here. +</pre> + <p> + The chaplain, on the other hand, began to think that Robinson was a + downright brute, and one on whom kindness was and would be wasted. Still, + true to his nature, he admitted no small pique. He reasoned gently and + kindly with him—very kindly. + </p> + <p> + “My poor soul,” said he, “have you so many friends in this hard place that + you can afford to repulse one who desires to be your friend and to do you + good?” No answer. “Well, then, if you will not let me comfort you, at + least you cannot prevent my praying for you, for you are on the road to + despair and will take no help.” + </p> + <p> + So, then, this good creature did actually kneel upon the hard stones of + the cell and offer a prayer—a very short but earnest one. + </p> + <p> + “Oh God, to whom all hearts are open, enlighten me that I may understand + this my afflicted brother's heart, and learn how to do him good, and + comfort him out of Thy word—Thy grace assisting me.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson looked down at him with wild, staring but lack-luster eyes and + open mouth. He rose from the floor, and casting a look of great benignity + on the sullen brute, he was about to go, when he observed that Robinson + was trembling in a very peculiar way. + </p> + <p> + “You are ill,” said he hastily, and took a step toward him. + </p> + <p> + At this Robinson, with a wild and furious gesture, waved him to the door + and turned his face to the wall; then this refined gentleman bowed his + head, as much as to say you shall be master of this apartment and dismiss + any one you do not like, and went gently away with a little sigh. And the + last that he saw was Robinson trembling with averted face and eyes bent + down. + </p> + <p> + Outside he met Evans, who said to him half bluntly half respectfully, “I + don't like to see you going into that cell, sir; the man is not to be + trusted. He is very strange.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean? do you fear for his reason?” + </p> + <p> + “Why not, sir? We have sent a pretty many to the lunatic asylum since I + was a warder here.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” + </p> + <p> + “And some have broke prison a shorter way than that,” said the man very + gloomily. + </p> + <p> + The chaplain groaned—and looked at the speaker with an expression of + terror. Evans noticed it and said gravely: + </p> + <p> + “You should not have come to such place as this, sir; you are not fit for + it.” + </p> + <p> + “Why am I not fit for it?” + </p> + <p> + “Too good for it, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “You talk foolishly, Mr. Evans. In the first place, 'too good' is a + ludicrous combination of language, in the next the worse a place is the + more need of somebody being good in it to make it better. But I suppose + you are one of those who think that evil is naturally stronger than good. + Delusion springs from this, that the wicked are in earnest and the good + are lukewarm. Good is stronger than evil. A single really good man in an + ill place is like a little yeast in a gallon of dough; it can leaven the + mass. If St. Paul or even George Whitfield had been in Lot's place all + those years there would have been more than fifty good men in Sodom; but + this is out of place. I want you to give me the benefit of your + experience, Evans. When I went to Robinson and spoke kindly to him he + trembled all over. What on earth does that mean?” + </p> + <p> + “Trembled, did he, and never spoke?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes!—Well?” + </p> + <p> + “I'm thinking, sir! I'm thinking. You didn't touch him?” + </p> + <p> + “Touch him, no; what should I touch him for?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, don't do it, sir. And don't go near him. You have had an escape, + you have. He was in two minds about pitching into you.” + </p> + <p> + “You think it was rage! Humph! it did not give me that impression.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir, did you ever go to pat a strange dog?” + </p> + <p> + “I have done myself that honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, if he wags his tail you know it is all right; but say he puts his + tail between his legs, what will he do if you pat him?” + </p> + <p> + “Bite me. Experto crede.” + </p> + <p> + “No! if you are ever so expert he will bite you or try. Now putting of his + tail between his legs, that passes for a sign of fear in a dog, all one as + trembling does in a man. Do you see what I am driving at?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you had better leave the spiteful brute to himself?” + </p> + <p> + “No! that would be to condemn him to the worst companion he can have.” + </p> + <p> + “But if he should pitch into you, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Then he will pitch into a man twice as strong as himself, and a pupil of + Bendigo. Don't be silly, Evans.” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + SUNDAY. +</pre> + <p> + Hodges. Pity you wasn't in chapel, Mr. Fry. + </p> + <p> + Fry. Why? + </p> + <p> + Hodges. The new chaplain! + </p> + <p> + Fry. Well, what did he do? + </p> + <p> + Hodges. He waked 'em all up, I can tell you. Governor couldn't get a wink + all the sermon. + </p> + <p> + Fry. What did he tell you? + </p> + <p> + Hodges. Told us he loved us. + </p> + <p> + Fry. Loved who? + </p> + <p> + Hodges. All of us. Governor, turnkeys, and especially the prisoners, + because they were in trouble. “My Master loves you, though He hates your + sins,” says he; and “I love every mother's son of you.” What d'ye think of + that? He loves the whole biling! Told 'em so, however. + </p> + <p> + Fry. Loves 'em, does he? Well, that's a new lay! After all, there's no + accounting for tastes, you know. Haw! haw! + </p> + <p> + Hodges. Haw! haw! ho! + </p> + <p> + This same Sunday afternoon, soon after service, the chaplain came to + Robinson's cell. Evans unlocked it, looking rather uneasy, and would have + come in with the reverend gentleman; but he forbade him and walked quickly + into the cell, as Van Amburgh goes among his leopards and panthers. He had + in his hand a little box. + </p> + <p> + “I have brought you some ointment—some nice cooling ointment,” said + he, “to rub on your neck. I saw it was frayed by that collar.” + </p> + <p> + (Pause.) No answer. + </p> + <p> + “Will you let me see you use it?” + </p> + <p> + No answer. + </p> + <p> + “Come!” + </p> + <p> + No answer. + </p> + <p> + The chaplain took the box off the table, opened it and went up to Robinson + and began quietly to apply some of the grateful soothing ointment to his + frayed throat. The man trembled all over. The chaplain kept his eye calm + but firm upon him, as on a dog of doubtful temper. Robinson put up his + hand in a feeble sort of way to prevent the other from doing him good. His + reverence took the said hand in a quiet but powerful grasp, and applied + the ointment all the same. Robinson said nothing, but he was seized with + this extraordinary trembling. + </p> + <p> + “Good-by,” said his reverence kindly. “I leave you the box; and see, here + are some tracts I have selected for you. They are not dull; there are + stories in them, and the dialogue is pretty good. It is nearer nature than + you will find it in works of greater pretension. Here a carpenter talks + something like a carpenter, and a footman something like a footman, and a + factory-girl something like a girl employed in a factory. They don't all + talk book—you will be able to read them. Begin with this one, 'The + Wages of Sin are Death.' Good-by!” And with these words and a kind smile + he left the cell. + </p> + <p> + “From the chaplain, sir,” said Evans to the governor, touching his hat. + </p> + <p> + “DEAR SIR—Will you be good enough to send me by the bearer a copy of + the prison rules, especially those that treat of the punishments to be + inflicted on prisoners? + </p> + <p> + “I am, + </p> + <p> + “Yours, etc.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes had no sooner read this innocent-looking missive, than he burst out + into a tide of execrations; he concluded by saying, “Tell him I have not + got a spare copy; Mr. Jones will give him his.” + </p> + <p> + This answer disappointed the chaplain sadly; for Mr. Jones had left the + town, and was not expected to return for some days. The hostile spirit of + the governor was evident in this reply. The chaplain felt he was at war, + and his was an energetic but peace-loving nature. He paced the corridor, + looking both thoughtful and sad. The rough Evans eyed him with interest, + and he also fell into meditation and scratched his head, invariable + concomitant of thought with Evans. + </p> + <p> + It was toward evening, and his reverence still paced the corridor, + downhearted at opposition and wickedness, but not without hope, and full + of lovely and charitable wishes for all his flock, when the melancholy Fry + suddenly came out of a prisoner's cell radiant with joy. + </p> + <p> + “What is amiss?” asked the chaplain. + </p> + <p> + “This is the matter,” said Fry, and he showed him a deuce of clubs, a five + of hearts and an ace of diamonds, and so on; two or three cards of each + suit. “A prisoner has been making these out of his tracts!” + </p> + <p> + “How could he do that?” + </p> + <p> + “Look here, sir. He has kept a little of his gruel till it turned to + paste, and then he has pasted three or four leaves of the tracts together + and dried them, and then cut them into cards.” + </p> + <p> + “But the colors—how could he get them?” + </p> + <p> + “That is what beats me altogether; but some of these prisoners know more + than the bench of bishops.” + </p> + <p> + “More evil, I conclude you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “More of all sorts, sir. However, I am taking them to the governor, and he + will fathom it, if any one can.” + </p> + <p> + “Leave one red card and one black with me.” + </p> + <p> + While Fry was gong the chaplain examined the cards with curiosity and that + admiration of inventive resource which a superior mind cannot help + feeling. There they were, a fine red deuce of hearts and a fine black four + of spades—cards made without pasteboard and painted without paint. + But how? that was the question. The chaplain entered upon this question + with his usual zeal; but happening to reverse one of the cards, it was his + fate to see on the back of it: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “THE WAGES OF SIN ARE DEATH.” + + A Tract. +</pre> + <p> + He reddened at the sight. Here was an affront! “The sulky brute could + amuse himself cutting up my tracts!” + </p> + <p> + Presently the governor came up with his satellites. + </p> + <p> + “Take No. 19 out of his cell for punishment.” + </p> + <p> + At this word the chaplain's short-lived anger began to cool. They brought + Robinson out. + </p> + <p> + “So you have been at it again,” cried the governor in threatening terms. + “Now you will tell me where you got the paint to make these beauties + with?” + </p> + <p> + No answer. + </p> + <p> + “Do you hear, ye sulky brute?” + </p> + <p> + No answer, but a glittering eye bent on Hawes. + </p> + <p> + “Put him in the jacket,” cried Hawes with an oath. + </p> + <p> + Hodges and Fry laid each a hand upon the man's shoulder and walked him + off. + </p> + <p> + “Stop!” cried Hawes suddenly; “his reverence is here, and he is not + partial to the jacket.” + </p> + <p> + The chaplain was innocent enough to make a graceful grateful bow to Hawes. + </p> + <p> + “Give him the dark cell for twenty-four hours,” continued Hawes with a + malicious grin. + </p> + <p> + The thief gave a cry of dismay and shook himself clear of the turnkeys. + </p> + <p> + “Anything but that,” cried he with trembling voice. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! you have found your tongue, have you?” + </p> + <p> + “Any punishment but that,” almost shrieked the despairing man. “Leave me + my reason. You have robbed me of everything else. For pity's sake leave me + my reason!” + </p> + <p> + The governor made a signal to the turnkeys; they stepped toward the thief. + The thief sprung out of their way, his eye rolling wildly as if in search + of escape. Seeing this the two turnkeys darted at him like bulldogs, one + on each side. This time, instead of flying, the thief was observed to move + his body in a springy way to meet them; with two motions rapid as light + and almost contemporaneous, he caught Hodges between the eyes with his + fist and drove his head like a battering-ram into Fry's belly. Smack! + ooff! and the two powerful men went down like ninepins. + </p> + <p> + In a moment all the warders within sight or hearing came buzzing round, + and Hodges and Fry got up, the latter bleeding; both staring confusedly. + Seeing himself hemmed in, Robinson offered no further resistance. He + plumped himself down on the ground and there sat, and they had to take him + up and carry him to the dark cells. But as they were dragging him along by + the shoulders he caught sight of the governor and chaplain looking down at + him over the rails of Corridor B. At sight of the latter the thief + wrenched himself free from his attendants, and screamed to him: + </p> + <p> + “Do you see this, you in the black coat? You that told us the other day + you loved us, and now stand coolly there and see me taken to the black + hole to be got ready for the mad-house? D'ye hear?” + </p> + <p> + “I hear you,” replied the chaplain gravely and gently. + </p> + <p> + “You called us your brothers, you.” + </p> + <p> + “I did, and do.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, here is one of your brothers being taken to hell before your + eyes. I go there a man, but I shall come out a beast, and that cowardly + murderer by your side knows it, and you have not a word to say. That is + all a poor fellow gets by being your brother. My curse on you all! + butchers and hypocrites!” + </p> + <p> + “Give him twelve hours more for that,” roared Hawes. “—— his + eyes, I'll break him, —— him.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah,” yelled the thief, “you curse me, do you? d'ye hear that? The son of + a —— appeals to Heaven against me! What? does this lump of + dirt believe there is a God? Then there must be one.” Then suddenly + flinging himself on his knees, he cried, “If there is a God who pities + them that suffer, I cry to Him on my knees to torture you as you torture + us. May your name be shame, may your life be pain, and your death + loathsome! May your skin rot from your flesh, your flesh from your bones, + your bones from your body, and your soul split forever on the rock of + damnation!” + </p> + <p> + “Take him away,” yelled Hawes, white as a sheet. + </p> + <p> + They tore him away by force, still threatening his persecutor with + outstretched hand and raging voice and blazing eyes, and flung him into + the dark dungeon. + </p> + <p> + “Cool yourself there, ye varmint,” said Fry spitefully. Even his flesh + crept at the man's blasphemies. + </p> + <p> + Meantime, the chaplain had buried his face in his hands, and trembled like + a woman at the frightful blasphemies and passions of these two sinners. + </p> + <p> + “I'll make this place hell to him. He shan't need to go elsewhere,” + muttered Hawes aloud between his clinched teeth. + </p> + <p> + The chaplain groaned. + </p> + <p> + The governor heard him and turned on him: “Well, parson, you see he + doesn't thank you for interfering between him and me. He would rather have + had an hour or two of the jacket and have done with it.” + </p> + <p> + The chaplain sighed. He felt weighed down in spirit by the wickedness both + of Hawes and of Robinson. He saw it was in vain at that moment to try to + soften the former in favor of the latter. He moved slowly away. Hawes eyed + him sneeringly. + </p> + <p> + “He is down upon his luck,” thought Hawes; “his own fault for interfering + with me. I liked the man well enough, and showed it, if he hadn't been a + fool and put his nose into my business.” + </p> + <p> + Half an hour had scarce elapsed when the chaplain came back. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes, I come to you as a petitioner.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said Hawes, with a supercilious sneer very hard to bear. + </p> + <p> + The other would not notice it. “Pray, do not think I side with a + refractory prisoner if I beg you, not to countermand, but to modify + Robinson's punishment.” + </p> + <p> + “What for?” + </p> + <p> + “Because he cannot bear so many hours of the dark cell.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it too much to ask that you will give him six hours a day for four + days instead of twenty-four at a stretch?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know whether it is too much for you to ask. I should say by what + I see of you that nothing is; but it is too much for me to grant. The man + has earned punishment; he has got it, and you have nothing to do with it + at all.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I have the care of his soul, and how can I do his soul good if he + loses his reason?” + </p> + <p> + “Stuff! his reason's safe enough, what little he has.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not say stuff! Do not be rash where the stake is so great, or + confident where you have no knowledge. You have never been in the dark + cell, Mr. Hawes; I have, and I assure you it tried my nerves to the + uttermost. I had many advantages over this poor man. I went in of my own + accord, animated by a desire of knowledge, supported by the consciousness + of right, my memory enriched by the reading of five-and-twenty years, on + which I could draw in the absence of external objects; yet so dreadful was + the place that, had I not been fortified by communion with my omnipresent + God, I do think my reason would have suffered in that thick darkness and + solitude. I repeated thousands of lines of Homer, Virgil and the Greek + dramatists; then I came to Shakespeare, Corneille, Racine and Victor Hugo; + then I tried to think of a text and compose a sermon; but the minutes + seemed hours, leaden hours, and they weighed my head down and my heart + down, and so did the Egyptian darkness, till I sought refuge in prayer, + and there I found it.” + </p> + <p> + “You pulled through it and so will he; and now I think of it, it is too + slight a punishment to give a refractory, blaspheming villain no worse + than a pious gentleman took on him for sport,” sneered Hawes. “You heard + his language to me, the blaspheming dog?” + </p> + <p> + “I did! I did! and therefore pray you to pity his sinful soul, exasperated + by the severities he has already undergone. Oh, sir! the wicked are more + to be pitied than the good; and the good can endure trials that wreck the + wicked. I would rather see a righteous man thrown into that dismal dungeon + than this poor blaspheming sinner.” + </p> + <p> + “The deuce you would!” + </p> + <p> + “For the righteous man has a strong tower that the sinner lacks. He is fit + to battle with solitude and fearful darkness; an unseen light shines upon + his soul, an unseen hand sustains him. The darkness is no darkness to him, + for the Sun of righteousness is nigh. In the deep solitude he is not + alone, for good angels whisper by his side. 'Yea, though he walk through + the valley of the shadow of death, yet shall he fear no evil, for God is + with him; his rod and his staff they comfort him.' The wicked have not + this comfort. To them darkness and solitude must be too horrible. Satan—not + God—is their companion. The ghosts of their past crimes rise and + swell the present horror. Remorse and despair are added to the double + gloom of solitude and darkness. You don't know what you are doing when you + shut up a poor lost sinner of excitable temperament in that dreadful hole. + It is a wild experiment on a human frame. Pray be advised, pray be warned, + pray let your heart be softened and punish the man as he deserves—but + do not destroy him! oh, do not! do not destroy him!” + </p> + <p> + Up to this moment Hawes had worn a quiet, malicious grin. At last his rage + broke through this veil. He turned round black as night upon the chaplain, + who was bending toward him in earnest gasping yet sweet and gentle + supplication. + </p> + <p> + “The vagabond insulted me before all my servants, and that is why you take + his part. He would send me to hell if he had the upper hand. I've got the + upper hand, and so he shall taste it instead of me, till he goes down on + his marrowbones to me with my foot on his viper's tongue. —— + him!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! do not curse him, above all now that he is in trouble and + defenseless.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me alone, sir, and I'll let you,” retorted Hawes savagely. “If I + curse him you can pray for him. I don't hinder you. Good-night;” and Mr. + Hawes turned his back very rudely. + </p> + <p> + “I will pray for him—and for you!” + </p> + <p> + “Ugh!” + </p> + <p> + So then the chaplain retired sorrowfully to his private room, and here, + sustained no longer by action, his high-tuned nature gave way. A cold + languor came over him. He locked the door that no one might see his + weakness, and then, succumbing to nature, he fell first into a sickness + and then into a trembling, and more than once hysterical tears gushed from + his eyes in the temporary prostration of his spirit and his powers. + </p> + <p> + Such are the great. Men know their feats but not their struggles! + </p> + <p> + Meantime Robinson lay in the dark cell with a morsel of bread and water, + and no bed or chair, that hunger and unrest might co-operate with darkness + and solitude to his hurt. To this horrid abode it is now our fate to + follow a thief and a blasphemer. We must pass his gloomy portal, over + which might have been inscribed what Dante has written over the gates of + hell: + </p> + <h3> + “ALL YE WHO ENTER HERE—ABANDON HOPE!!” + </h3> + <p> + At six o'clock Robinson was thrust in, and his pittance of bread and water + with him; the door, which fitted like mosaic, was closed. The steps + retreated carrying away hope and human kind; there was silence, and the + man shivered in the thick black air that seemed a fluid, not an + atmosphere. + </p> + <p> + When the door closed his heart was yet beating with rage and wild desire + of vengeance. He nursed this rage as long as he could, but the thick + darkness soon cooled him and cowed him. He sat down upon the floor, he ate + his pittance very slowly, two mouthfuls a minute. “I will be an hour + eating it,” said he, “and then an hour will have passed.” He thought he + was an hour eating it, but in reality he was scarce twenty minutes. The + blackness seemed to smother him. “I will shut it out,” said he. He took + out his handkerchief and wrapped his head in it. “What a weak fool I am,” + cried he, “when we are asleep it does not matter to us light or dark; I + will go to sleep.” He lay down, his head still wrapped up, and tried to + sleep. So passed the first hour. + </p> + <p> + Second hour. He rose from the stone floor after a vain attempt to sleep. + “Oh, no!” cried he, “sleep is for those who are well and happy, and who + could enjoy themselves as well awake; it won't come to me to save a poor + wretch from despair. I must tire myself, and I am too cold to sleep. Here + goes for a warm.” He groped to the wall, and keeping his hand on it went + round and round like a caged tiger. “Hawes hopes to drive me to Bedlam. + I'll do the best I can for myself to spite him. May he lie in a place + narrower than this, and almost as dark, with his jaw down and his toes up + before the year is out, curse him!” But the poor wretch's curses quavered + away into sobs and tears. “Oh, what have I done to be used so as I am + here? They drive me to despair, then drive me to hell for despairing. + Patience, or I shall go mad. Patience! Patience!” This hour was passed + cursing and weeping and groping for warmth and fatigue—in vain. + </p> + <p> + Third hour. The man sat rocking himself to and fro, trying not to think of + anything. For now the past, too, was coming with all its weight upon him; + every minute he started up as if an adder had stung him; crawled about his + cell seeking refuge in motion and finding none; then he threw himself on + the floor and struggled for sleep. Sleep would not come so sought; and now + his spirits were quite cowed. He would cringe to Hawes; he would lick the + dust at his feet to get out of this horrible place; who could he get to go + and tell the governor he was <i>penitent</i>. He listened at the door; he + rapped; no one came. He put his ear to the ground and listened; no sound—blackness, + silence, solitude. “They have left me here to die,” shrieked the + despairing man, and he flung himself on the floor and writhed upon the + hard stone. “It must be morning, and no one comes near me; this is my + tomb!” Fear came upon him, and trembling and a cold sweat bedewed his + limbs; and once more the past rushed over him with tenfold force; days of + happiness and comparative innocence now forfeited forever. His whole life + whirled round before his eyes in a panorama, scene dissolving into scene + with inconceivable rapidity; thus passed more than two hours; and now + remorse and memory concentrated themselves on one dark spot in this man's + history. “She is in the tomb,” cried he, “and all through me, and that is + why I am here. This is my grave. Do you see me, Mary?—she is here. + The spirits of the dead can go anywhere.” Then he trembled and cried for + help. Oh! for a human voice or a human footstep!—none. His nerves + and senses were now shaken. He cried aloud most piteously for help. “Mr. + Fry, Mr. Hodges, help! help! help! The cell is full of the dead, and + devils are buzzing round me waiting to carry me away—they won't wait + much longer.” He fancied something supernatural passed him like a wind. He + struck wildly at it. He flung himself madly against the door to escape it; + he fell back bruised and bleeding and lay a while in stupor. + </p> + <p> + Sixth hour. Robinson was going mad. The blackness and solitude and silence + and remorse and despair were more than his excitable nature could bear any + longer. He prayed Hawes to come and abuse him. He prayed Fry to bring the + jacket to him. “Let me but see a man, or hear a man!” He screamed, and + cursed, and prayed, and dashed himself on the ground and ran round the + cell wounding his hands and his face. Suddenly he turned deadly calm. He + saw he was going mad—better die than so—“I shall be a beast + soon—I will die a man”—he tore down his collar—he had on + cotton stockings; he took one off—he tied it in a loose knot round + his naked throat—he took a firm hold with each hand. + </p> + <p> + And now he was quiet and sorrowed calmly. A man to die in the prime of + life for want of a little light and a word from a human creature to keep + him from madness. + </p> + <p> + Then as the thought returned, clinching his teeth, he gathered the ends of + the stocking and prepared with one fierce pull to save his shaken reason + and end his miserable days. Now at this awful moment, While his hands + griped convulsively the means of death, a quiet tap on the outside of the + cell door suddenly rang through the dead stillness, and a moment after a + human word forced its way into the cave of madness and death— + </p> + <h3> + “BROTHER!” + </h3> + <p> + When this strange word pierced the thick door and came into the hell-cave, + feeble as though wafted over water from a distance, yet distinct as a bell + and bright as a sunbeam, Robinson started, and quaked with fear and doubt. + Did it come from the grave, that unearthly tone and word? + </p> + <p> + Still holding the ends of the stocking, he cried out wildly in a loud but + quavering voice: + </p> + <p> + “Who—o—o calls Thomas Sinclair brother?” The distant voice + rang back— + </p> + <p> + “Francis Eden!” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!—where are you, Francis Eden?” + </p> + <p> + “Here! within a hand's-breadth of you;” and Mr. Eden struck the door. + “Here!” + </p> + <p> + “There! are you there?” and Robinson struck the door on his side. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, here!” + </p> + <p> + “Ha! don't go away, pray don't go away!” + </p> + <p> + “I don't mean to. Take courage—calm your fears—a brother is + close by you!” + </p> + <p> + “A brother!—again! now I know who it must be, but there is no + telling voices here.” + </p> + <p> + “What were you doing?” + </p> + <p> + “What was I doing? Oh! don't ask me—I was going mad—where are + you?” + </p> + <p> + “Here!” (rap). + </p> + <p> + “And I am here close opposite; you won't go away yet a while?” + </p> + <p> + “Not till you bid me—compose yourself—do you hear me?—calm + yourself, compose yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “I will try, sir!—thank you, sir—I will try. What o'clock is + it?” + </p> + <p> + “Half-past twelve.” + </p> + <p> + “Night or day?” + </p> + <p> + “Night.” + </p> + <p> + “Friday night, or Saturday?” + </p> + <p> + “Thursday.” + </p> + <p> + “How came you to be in the prison at this hour?” + </p> + <p> + “I was anxious about you.” + </p> + <p> + “You were what?” + </p> + <p> + “Fearful about you.” + </p> + <p> + “What! did you give up your sleep only to see after me?” + </p> + <p> + “Are you not glad I came?” + </p> + <p> + “Is a shipwrecked sailor glad when a rope is flung him? I hold on to life + and reason by you!” + </p> + <p> + “Is not this better than sleeping?—Did you speak?” + </p> + <p> + “No! I am thinking! I am trying to make you out. Were you ever a p——(hum)?” + </p> + <p> + “Was I ever what? the door is so thick!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! nothing, sir; you seem to know what a poor fellow suffers in the dark + cell.” + </p> + <p> + “I have been in it!” + </p> + <p> + “Whee-ugh-whee!—what a shame! what did they put you in for?” + </p> + <p> + “They didn't put me in. I went in.” + </p> + <p> + “The devil you did!” muttered the immured. + </p> + <p> + “What? Speak out.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, your reverence,” bawled Robinson. “Why did you go into such a + cur—into such a hole?” + </p> + <p> + “It was my duty to know what a fellow-creature suffers there, lest, + through inexperience, I might be cruel. Ignorance is the mother of + cruelty!” + </p> + <p> + “I hear you, sir. + </p> + <p> + “And cruelty is a fearful crime in His eyes, whose servant I am.” + </p> + <p> + “I am thinking, sir; I am putting two or three things together—I see—” + </p> + <p> + “Speak more slowly and articulately.” + </p> + <p> + “I will; I see what you are now—you are a Christian.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope so!” + </p> + <p> + “I might have guessed as much, and I did suspect it; but I couldn't know, + I had nothing to go by. I never fell in with a Christian before.” + </p> + <p> + “Where did you go to look for them?” asked Mr. Eden, his mouth twitching. + </p> + <p> + “I have been in many countries, and my eyes open; and I've heard and read + of Christians, and I've met hypocrites; but never met a living Christian + till to-night.” Then, after a pause, “Sir, I want to apologize to you!” + </p> + <p> + “What for!” + </p> + <p> + “For my ignorant and ungrateful conduct to you in my cell.” + </p> + <p> + “Let bygones be bygones!” + </p> + <p> + “Could you forgive me, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “You punished yourself, not me; I forgive you.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson was silent. + </p> + <p> + After a pause Mr. Eden tapped. + </p> + <p> + “What are you doing?” + </p> + <p> + “I am thinking over your goodness to me.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you better now?” + </p> + <p> + “That I am. The place was a tomb; since you came it is only a closet. I + can't see your face—I feel it, though; and your voice is music to + me. Have you nothing to say to me, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “I have many things to say to you; but this is not the time. I want you to + sleep.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Sleep is the balm of mind and body—you need sleep.” + </p> + <p> + “And you, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “I shall sit here.” + </p> + <p> + “You will take your death of cold.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I have my greatcoat.” + </p> + <p> + There was a long pause. + </p> + <p> + Robinson tapped. “Sir, grant me a favor.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “Go home to your bed.” + </p> + <p> + “What, leave you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall you not miss me?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, but you must go. The words you have spoken will stay with me + while you are gone.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall stay.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, no! I can't bear it—it isn't fair!” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “It isn't fair that a gentleman like you should be kept shivering at an + unfortunate man's door like me. I am not quite good for nothing, sir, and + this will disgrace me in my own eyes.” + </p> + <p> + “I am on the best side of the door; don't trouble your head about me.” + </p> + <p> + “I shouldn't, sir, if you had not about me—but kindness begets + kindness. Go to your comfortable bed.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “You will make me more unhappy than I am, if you stay here in the cold.” + </p> + <p> + Now, at the beginning of this argument Mr. Eden was determined not to go; + but on reflection he made up his mind to, for this reason: “This,” said he + to himself, “is an act of uncommon virtue and self-denial in this poor + fellow. I must not balk it, for it will be good for his soul; it is a step + on the right road. This good and, I might say, noble act is a + foundation-stone on which I ought to try and build an honest man and a + Christian.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, as you are so considerate I will go.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you.” + </p> + <p> + “Can I do nothing for you before I go?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; you have done all a man can; yes, you can do something—you + spoke a word to me when you came; it is a word I am not worthy of, but + still if you could leave me that word it would be a companion for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Brother!” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you.” + </p> + <p> + When he heard Mr. Eden's steps grow fainter and fainter, and at last + inaudible, Robinson groaned; the darkness turned blacker and the solitude + more desolate than ever. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden paced the corridors in meditation. “It is never too late to + mend!” he said. “This man seemed an unredeemable brute, yet his heart was + to be touched by persevering kindness; and once touched, how much of + goodness left in his fallen nature—genuine gratitude, and even the + embers of self-respect. 'I hate myself for my conduct in the cell; it + would disgrace me in my own eyes if I let you shiver at my door.' Poor + fellow, my heart yearns toward him for that. 'Go, or you will make me more + unhappy.' Why, that was real delicacy. I must not let him suffer for it. + In an hour I will go back to him. If he is asleep, well and good; if not, + there I stay till morning.” + </p> + <p> + He went to his room and worked. The hour soon glided by to him; not so to + the poor prisoner. At two in the morning Mr. Eden came softly back to the + dark cell to see whether Robinson was asleep. He scratched the door with a + key. A loud, unsteady voice cried out, “What is that?” + </p> + <p> + “It is I, brother.” + </p> + <p> + “Why are you not in your bed?” + </p> + <p> + “I couldn't sleep for anxiety. Come, chat with me till you feel sleepy. + How did you color those cards?” + </p> + <p> + “I found a coal and a bit of brick in the yard. I pounded them and mixed + them with water and laid them on with a brush I had made and hid.” + </p> + <p> + “Very ingenious! Are you cold?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “Because your voice trembles.” + </p> + <p> + “Does it?” + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “Can't you guess?” + </p> + <p> + “No! But I remember you used to tremble when I spoke to you in the cell. + Why was that? Have your nerves been shaken by ill-usage, my poor fellow?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no! it is not that.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, then!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir! you know all a poor fellow feels. You can guess what made me + tremble, and makes me tremble now, like an aspen I do.” + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed! pray tell me! Are we not friends?” + </p> + <p> + “The best ever I had, or ever shall.” + </p> + <p> + “Then tell me.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll try; but it is a long story, and the door is so thick.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! but I hear you better now. I have got used to your voice. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir; but I've no words to speak to you as I ought. Why did I use to + tremble when you used to speak kind to me? Sir, when I first came here I + hadn't a bad heart. I was a felon, but I was a man. They turned me to a + brute by cruelty and wrong. You came too late, sir. It wasn't Tom Robinson + you found in that cell. I had got to think all men were devils They + poisoned my soul! I hated God and man! + </p> + <p> + “The very chaplain before you said good, kind words in church, but out of + it he was Hawes' tool! Then you came and spoke good, kind words. My heart + ran to meet them; then it drew back all shivering and said, this is a + hypocrite, too! I was a fool and a villain to think so for a moment, and + perhaps I didn't at bottom, but I was turned to gall. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir! you don't know what it is to lose hope, to find out that do what + you will you can't be right, can't escape abuse and hatred and torture. + Treat a man like a dog and you make him one! + </p> + <p> + “But you came. Your voice, your face, your eye were all pity and kindness. + I hoped, but I was afraid to hope! I had seen but two things—butchers + and hypocrites. Then I had sworn in my despair never to speak again, and I + wouldn't speak to you. Fool! How kind and patient you were. Sir, once when + you left me you sighed as you closed the cell door. I came after you to + beg your pardon, when it was too late; indeed I did, upon my honor. And + when you would rub the ointment on my throat in spite of my ingratitude, I + could have worshipped you; but my pride held me back like an iron hand. + Why did I tremble? that was the devil and my better part fighting inside + me for the upper hand. And another thing, I did not dare speak to you. I + felt that if I did I should give way altogether, like a woman or a child. + I feel so now. For, oh! can't you guess what it must be to a poor fellow + when all the rest are savage as wolves and one is kind as a woman? Oh! you + have been a friend to me. You don't know all you have done. You have saved + my life. When you came here a stocking was knotted round my throat; a + minute later the man you call your brother—God bless you—would + have been no more. There, I never meant you should know that, and now it + has slipped out. My benefactor! my kind friend! my angel! for you are an + angel and not a man. What can I do to show you what I feel? What can I + say? There, I tremble all over now as I did then. I'm choking for words, + and the cruel, thick door keeps me from you. I want to put my neck under + your foot, for I can't speak. All I say isn't worth a button. Words! + words! words! give me words that mean something. They shan't keep me from + you, they shan't! they shan't! My stubborn heart was between us once, now + there is only a door. Give me your hand! give me your hand before my heart + bursts.” + </p> + <p> + “There! there!” + </p> + <p> + “Hold it there!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! yes!” + </p> + <p> + “My lips are here close opposite it. I am kissing your dear hand. There! + there! there! I bless you! I love you! I adore you! I am kissing your + hand, and I am on my knees blessing you and kissing. Oh, my heart! my + heart! my heart!” + </p> + <p> + There was a long silence, disturbed only by sobs that broke upon the night + from the black cell. Mr. Eden leaned against the door with his hand in the + same place; the prisoner kissed the spot from time to time. + </p> + <p> + “Your reverence is crying, too!” was the first word spoken, very gently. + </p> + <p> + “How do you know?” + </p> + <p> + “You don't speak, and my heart tells me you are shedding a tear for me; + there was only that left to do for me.” + </p> + <p> + Then there was another silence, and true it was that the good man and the + bad man mingled some tears through the massy door. These two hearts + pierced it, and went to and fro through it, and melted in spite of it, and + defied and utterly defeated it. + </p> + <p> + “Did you speak, dear sir?” + </p> + <p> + “No! not for the world! Weep on, my poor sinning, suffering brother. + Heaven sends you this blessed rain; let it drop quietly on your parched + soul, refresh you, and shed peace on your troubled heart. Drop, gentle dew + from heaven, upon his spirit; prepare the dry soul for the good seed!” + </p> + <p> + And so the bad man wept abundantly; to him old long-dried sources of + tender feeling were now unlocked by Christian love and pity. + </p> + <p> + The good man shed a gentle tear or two of sympathy—of sorrow, too, + to find so much goodness had been shut up, driven in and wellnigh quenched + forever in the poor thief. + </p> + <p> + To both these holy drops were as the dew of Hermon on their souls. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + O lacryrnarum fons tenero sacros + Ducentium ortus ex animo; quater + Felix in imo qui scatentem + Pectore te pia Nynmpha sensit. +</pre> + <p> + Robinson was the first to break silence. + </p> + <p> + “Go home, sir, now; you have done your work, you have saved me. I feel at + peace. I could sleep. You need not fear to leave me now.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall sit here until you are asleep, and then I will go. Do you hear + this?” and he scratched the door with his key. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, when I do so and you do not tap in reply I shall know you are + asleep.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson, whose heart was now so calmed, felt his eyes get heavier and + heavier. After a while he spoke to Mr. Eden but received no reply. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps he is dozing,” thought Robinson. “I won't disturb him.” + </p> + <p> + Then he composed himself, lying close to the door to be near his friend. + </p> + <p> + After a while Mr. Eden scratched the door with his key. There was no + answer; then he rose softly and went to his own room. + </p> + <p> + Robinson slept—slept like an infant after this feverish day. His + body lay still in a hole dark and almost as narrow as the grave, but his + spirit had broken prison. Tired nature's sweet restorer descended like a + dove upon his wet eyelids, and fanned him with her downy wings, and + bedewed the hot heart and smarting limbs with her soothing, vivifying + balm. + </p> + <p> + At six o'clock Evans went and opened Robinson's cell door. He was on the + ground sleeping, with a placid smile on his face. Evans looked down at him + with a puzzled air. While contemplating him he was joined by Fry. + </p> + <p> + “Ugh!” grunted that worthy, “seems to agree with him.” And he went off and + told Hawes. + </p> + <p> + Directly after chapel, which he was not allowed to attend, came an order + to take Robinson out of the dark cell and put him on the crank. + </p> + <p> + The disciplinarian, defeated in his attempt on Robinson, was compensated + by a rare stroke of good fortune—a case of real refractoriness even + this was not perfect, but it answered every purpose. + </p> + <p> + In one of the labor cells they found a prisoner seated with the utmost + coolness across the handle of his crank. He welcomed his visitants with a + smile, and volunteered a piece of information—“It is all right.” + </p> + <p> + Now it couldn't be all right, for it was impossible he could have done his + work in the time. Hawes looked at the face of the crank to see how much + had been done, and lo! the face was broken and the index had disappeared. + As Mr. Hawes examined the face of the crank, the prisoner leered at him + with a mighty silly cunning. + </p> + <p> + This personage's name was Carter; it may be as well to explain him. Go + into any large English jail on any day in any year you like, you shall + find there two or three prisoners who have no business to be in such a + place at all—half-witted, half-responsible creatures, missent to + jail by shallow judges contentedly executing those shallow laws they ought + to modify and stigmatize until civilization shall come and correct them. + </p> + <p> + These imbeciles, if the nation itself was not both half-witted and a + thoughtless, ignorant dunce in all matters relating to such a trifle + (Heaven forgive us!) as its prisons, would be taken to the light not + plunged into darkness; would not be shut up alone with their no-minds to + accumulate the stupidity that has undone them, but forced into collision + with better understandings; would not be closeted in a jail, but in a mild + asylum with a school attached. + </p> + <p> + The offenses of these creatures is seldom theft, hardly ever violence. + This idiot was sentenced to two years' separate confinement for being the + handle with which two knaves had passed base coin. The same day the same + tribunal sentenced a scoundrel who was not an idiot, and had beaten and + kicked his wife to the edge of the grave—to fourteen years' + imprisonment? no—to four months. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Carter had observed that Fry looked at a long iron needle on the face + of the crank and that when he had been lazy somehow this needle pointed + out the fact to Fry. He could not understand it, but then the world was + brimful of things he could not understand one bit. It was no use standing + idle till he could comprehend rerum naturam—bother it. In short, Mr. + Carter did what is a dangerous thing for people in his condition to do, he + cogitated, and the result of this unfamiliar process was that he broke the + glass of the crank face, took out the index, shied the pieces of glass + carefully over the wall, secreted the needle, took about ten turns of the + crank, and then left off and sat down, exulting secretly. + </p> + <p> + When they came, as usual, and went to consult the accusing needle, he + chuckled and leered with foolish cunning. But his chuckle died away into a + most doleful quaver when he found himself surrounded, jacketed, strapped + and collared. He struggled furiously at first, like some wild animal in a + net; and when resistance was hopeless the poor, half-witted creature + lifted up his voice and uttered loud, wild-beast cries of pain and terror + that rang through the vast prison. + </p> + <p> + These horrible cries brought all the warders to the spot, and Mr. Eden. + There he found Carter howling, and Hawes in front of him, cursing and + threatening him with destruction if he did not hold his noise. + </p> + <p> + He might as well have suspended a dog from a branch by the hind leg and + told him he mustn't howl. + </p> + <p> + This sight drove a knife through Mr. Eden's heart. He stood among them + white as a sheet. He could not speak; but his pale face was a silent + protest against this enormity. His look of horror and righteous + indignation chilled and made uneasy the inquisitors, all but Hawes. + </p> + <p> + “Hold your noise, ye howling brute, or I'll”—and he clapped his hand + before Carter's mouth. + </p> + <p> + Carter seized his thumb with his teeth and bit it to the bone. Hawes + yelled with pain and strove furiously to get his hand away, but Carter + held it like a tiger. Hawes capered with agony and yelled again. The first + to come to his relief was Mr. Eden. He was at the biped's side in a + moment, and pinched his nose. Now, as his lungs were puffing like a + blacksmith's bellows, his mouth flew open the moment the other + breathing-hole was stopped, and Hawes got his bleeding hand away. + </p> + <p> + He held it with the other and shook it, and moaned dismally, like a great + girl; but suddenly looking up he saw a half grin upon the faces of his + myrmidons. + </p> + <p> + For the contrast of a man telling another who was in pain not to make a + row, and the next moment making an abominable row himself for no better + reason, was funny. + </p> + <p> + For all this occurred ten times quicker in action than in relation. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes's conversion to noise came rapidly in a single sentence, after + this fashion: + </p> + <p> + “—— you! hold your infernal noise. Oh! Augh! Ah! E E! E E! + Aah! Oh! Oh!; E E!E E! O O!O O! O O! O O! O O!O O!” + </p> + <p> + So Fry and Hodges and Evans and Davis grinned. + </p> + <p> + For all these men had learned from Hawes to laugh at pain—(another's). + One man alone did not even smile. He was an observer, and did not expect + any one to be great at bearing pain who was rash in inflicting it; + moreover, he suffered with all who suffer. He was sorry for the pilloried + biped, and sorry for the bitten brute. + </p> + <p> + He then gave them another lesson. “All you want the poor thing to do is to + suffer in silence. Withdraw twenty yards from him.” He set the example by + retreating; the others, Hawes included, being off their guard, obeyed + mechanically the superior spirit. + </p> + <p> + Carter's cries died away into a whimpering moan. The turnkeys looked at + one another, and with a sort of commencement of respect at Mr. Eden. + </p> + <p> + “Parson knows more than we do.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes interrupted this savagely. + </p> + <p> + “Ye fools! couldn't you see it was the sight of your ugly faces made him + roar, not the jacket? Keep him there till further orders;” and he went off + to plaster his wounded hand. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden sat down and covered his face. He was as miserable as this vile + world can make a man who lives for a better. The good work he was upon was + so difficult in itself, and those who ought to have helped fought against + him. + </p> + <p> + When with intelligence, pain and labor he had built up a little good, + Hawes was sure to come and knock it down again; and this was the way to + break his heart. + </p> + <p> + He had been taking such pains with this poor biped; he had played round + his feeble understanding to find by what door a little wisdom and goodness + could be made to enter him. At last he had found that pictures pleased him + and excited him, and awakened all the intelligence he had. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden had a vast collection of engravings and photographs. His plan + with Carter was to show him some engraving presenting a fact or anecdote. + First he would put under his eyes a cruel or unjust action. He would point + out the signs of suffering in one of the figures. Carter would understand + this because he saw it. Then Mr. Eden would excite his sympathy. “Poor so + and so!” would Mr. Eden say in a pitying voice. “Poor so and so!” would + biped Carter echo. After several easy lessons he would find him a picture + of some more moderate injustice, and so raise the shadow of a difficulty + and draw a little upon Carter's understanding as well as sympathy. Then + would come pictures of charity, of benevolence and other good actions. + These and their effects upon the several figures Carter was invited to + admire, and so on to a score of topics. The first thing was to make Carter + think and talk, which he did in the happy-go-lucky way of his class, + uttering nine mighty simple remarks, and then a bit of superlative wisdom, + or something that sounded like it. And when he had shot his random bolts, + Mr. Eden would begin and treat each picture as a text, and utter much + wisdom on it in simple words. + </p> + <p> + He found Carter's mind in a state of actual lethargy. He got it out of + that; he created an excitement and kept it up. He got at his little bit of + mind through his senses. Honor to all the great arts! The limit to their + beauty and their usefulness has never yet been found and never will. + Painting was the golden key this thinker held to the Bramah lock of an + imbecile's understanding the ponderous wards were beginning to revolve—when + a blockhead came and did his best to hamper the lock. + </p> + <p> + In English, Eden was gradually making the biped a man: comes Hawes and + turns him a brute. The whimpering moans of Carter were thoroughly animal, + and the poor biped's degradation as well as his suffering made Mr. Eden + wretched. + </p> + <p> + To-day for the first time the chaplain saw a prisoner crucified without + suffering that peculiar physical weakness which I have more than once + noticed. Poor soul, he was so pleased at this that he thanked Heaven for + curing him of that contemptible infirmity, so he called it. But he had to + pay for this victory. He never felt so sick at heart as now. He turned for + relief to the duties he had in his zeal added to a chaplain's acknowledged + routine. He visited his rooms and all his rational work-people. + </p> + <p> + The sight of all the good he was doing by teaching the sweets of + anti-theft was always a cordial to him. + </p> + <p> + Almost the last cell he visited was Thomas Robinson's. The man had been + fretting and worrying himself to know why he did not come before. As soon + as the door was opened he took an eager step to meet him, then stopped + irresolutely, and blushed and beamed with pleasure mixed with a certain + confusion. He looked volumes but waited out of respect for his reverence + to address him. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden held out his hand to him with a frank manner and kind smile. At + this Robinson tried to speak but could only stammer; something seemed to + rise in his throat and block up the exit of words. + </p> + <p> + “Come,” said Mr. Eden, “no more of that; be composed, and I will sit down, + for I am tired.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson brought him his stool, and Mr. Eden sat down. + </p> + <p> + They conversed, and after some kind inquiries, Mr. Eden came to the grand + purport of this visit, which, to the surprise and annoyance of Robinson, + was to reprobate severely the curses and blasphemies he had uttered as + they were dragging him to the dark cell. And so threatening and severe was + Mr. Eden, that at last poor Robinson whined out: + </p> + <p> + “Sir, you will make me wish I was in the dark cell again, for then you + took my part; now you are against me.” + </p> + <p> + “There is a time for everything under the sun. When you were in the dark + cell, consolation and indulgence were the best things for your soul, and I + gave them you as well as I could. You are not in the dark cell now, and, + out of the same love for you, I tell you that if God took you this night + the curses you uttered yesterday would destroy you to all eternity.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope not, your reverence!” + </p> + <p> + “Away with delusive hopes, they war against the soul. I tell you those + curses that came from a tongue set on fire of hell have placed you under + the ban of Heaven. Are you not this Hawes's brother, his brother every way—two + unforgiven sinners?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir,” said Robinson, truckling, “of course I know I am a great + sinner, a desperate sinner, not worthy to be in your reverence's company. + But I hope,” he added, with sudden sincerity and spirit, “you don't think + I am such an out-and-out scoundrel as that Hawes.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes would tell me you are the scoundrel and he a zealous servant of + morality and order; but these comparisons are out of place. I am now + deferring not to the world's judgment but to a higher, in whose eye Mr. + Hawes and you stand on a level—two unforgiven sinners; if not + forgiven you will both perish everlastingly, and to be forgiven you must + forgive. God is very forgiving—He forgives the best of us a thousand + vile offenses. But He never forgives unconditionally. His terms are our + repentance and our forgiveness of those who offend us one-millionth part + as deeply as we offend Him. Therefore in praying against Hawes you have + prayed against yourself. Give me your slate. No; take it yourself. Write—” + </p> + <p> + Robinson took his pencil with alacrity. He wrote a beautiful hand, and + wanted to show off this accomplishment to his reverence. + </p> + <p> + “Forgive us our sins as we forgive them that trespass against us.'” + </p> + <p> + “It is down, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Now particularize.” + </p> + <p> + “Particularize, your reverence?” + </p> + <p> + “Write under 'us' 'our' and 'we,' 'me',' my' and 'I'; respectively.” + </p> + <p> + “All right, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Now under 'them' write 'Mr. Hawes.'” + </p> + <p> + “Ugh! Yes, your reverence, 'Mr. Hawes.'” + </p> + <p> + “And under the last four words write, 'his cruelty to me.'” + </p> + <p> + This was wormwood to Mr. Robinson. “'His cruelty to me!'” + </p> + <p> + “Now read your work out.” + </p> + <p> + “'Forgive me my sins as I forgive Mr. Hawes his cruelty to me.'” + </p> + <p> + “Now ponder over those words. Keep them before your eye here, and try at + least and bow your stubborn heart to them. Fall on them and be broken, or + they will fall on you and grind you to powder.” He concluded in a terrible + tone; then, seeing Robinson abashed, more from a notion he was in a rage + with him than from any deeper sentiment, he bade him farewell kindly as + ever. + </p> + <p> + “I know,” said he, “I have given you a hard task. We can all gabble the + Lord's Prayer, but how few have ever prayed it! But at least try, my poor + soul, and I will set you an example. I will pray for my brother Robinson + and my brother Hawes, and I shall pray for them all the more warmly that + at present one is a blaspheming thief and the other a pitiless blockhead.” + </p> + <p> + The next day being Sunday, Mr. Eden preached two sermons that many will + remember all their lives. The first was against theft and all the shades + of dishonesty. I give a few of his topics. The dry bones he covered with + flesh and blood and beauty. The tendency of theft was to destroy all moral + and social good. For were it once to prevail so far as to make property + insecure, industry would lose heart, enterprise and frugality be crushed, + and at last the honest turn thieves in self-defense. Nearly every act of + theft had a baneful influence on the person robbed. + </p> + <p> + Here he quoted by name instances of industrious, frugal persons, whose + savings having been stolen, they had lost courage and good habits of + years' standing, and had ended ill. Then he gave them a simile. These + great crimes are like great trunk railways. They create many smaller ones. + Some flow into them, some out of them. Drunkenness generally precedes an + act of theft; drunkenness always follows it; lies flow from it in streams, + and perjury rushes to its defense. + </p> + <p> + It breeds, too, other vices that punish it, but never cure it—prodigality + and general loose living. The thief is never the richer by this vile act + which impoverishes his victim; for the money obtained by this crime is + wasted in others. The folly of theft; its ill economy. What high qualities + are laid out to their greatest disadvantage by the thief; acuteness, + watchfulness, sagacity, determination, tact. These virtues, coupled with + integrity, enrich thousands every year. How many thieves do they enrich? + How many thieves are a shilling a year the better for the hundreds of + pounds that come dishonestly into their hands. + </p> + <p> + “In —— Jail (Mr. Lepel's), there is now a family that have + stolen, first and last, property worth eighteen thousand pounds. The + entire possessions of this family are now two pair of shoes. The clothes + they stand in belong to Government; their own had to be burned, so foul + were they. Eighteen thousand pounds had they stolen—to be beggars; + and this is the rule, not the exception, as you all know. Why is this your + fate and your end? Because a mightier power than man's has determined that + thieving shall not thrive. The curse of God is upon theft!” + </p> + <p> + Then came life-like pictures of the honest man and the thief. The one with + an eye that faced you, with a conscious dignity and often a cheerful + countenance; the other with a shrinking eye, a conscious meanness, and + never with a smile from the heart; sordid, sly and unhappy—for theft + is misery. No wonder this crime degrades a man when it degrades the very + animals; Look at a dog who has stolen. Before this, when he met his master + or any human friend he used to run up to greet them with wagging tail and + sparkling eye. Now see him. At sight of any man he crawls meanly away, + with cowering figure and eye askant, the living image of the filthy sin he + has committed. He feels he has no longer a right to greet a man, for he is + a thief. + </p> + <p> + And here the preacher gathered images, facts and satire, and hurled a + crushing hailstorm of scorn upon the sordid sin. Then he attacked the + present situation (his invariable custom). + </p> + <p> + “Not all the inmates of a jail were equally guilty on their arrival there. + A large proportion of felons were orphans or illegitimate children; + others, still more unfortunate, were the children of criminals who had + taught them crime from their cradles. Great excuses were to be made for + the general mass of criminals; excuses that the ignorant, shallow world + could not be expected to make; but the balance of the Sanctuary is not + like the world's clumsy balance; it weighs all men to a hair. Excuses will + be made for many of you in heaven up to a certain point. And what is that + point? The day of your entrance into prison. But now plead no more the ill + example of parents and friends, for here you are cut off from it. + </p> + <p> + “Plead no more that you cannot read, for here you have been taught to + read. + </p> + <p> + “Plead no more the dreadful power of vicious habits that began when you + were unguarded, for those habits have now been cut away from you by force + and better habits substituted. + </p> + <p> + “Plead no more ignorance of God's Word, for here day by day it is poured + into your ears. + </p> + <p> + “Your situation has other less obvious advantages. Here you are little + exposed to the soul's most dangerous enemy—self-deception. The world + destroys thousands of sinners by flattery. Half the great sinners upon + earth are what is called respectable. The world tells them they are good—they + believe it, and so die as they have lived, and are lost eternally. The + world, intending to be more unkind to you, is far more kind; it tells <i>you</i> + the truth—that you are desperate sinners. Here, then, where + everything opens your eyes, oh! fight not against yourselves. Repent, or + fearful will be the fresh guilt heaped upon your heads! Even these words + of mine must do you good or do you harm. I tremble when I tell you so. It + is an awful thing to think.” The preacher paused. “You know that I love + you—that I would give my life to save one soul of all those I see + before me now! Have pity on me and on yourselves! Let me not be so + unfortunate as to add to your guilt—I, whose heart yearns to do you + good! Oh, my poor brothers and sisters, do not pity yourselves so much + less than I pity you—do not love yourselves so much less than I love + you! Why will ye die! Repent, and be forgiven! + </p> + <p> + “Some of you profess attachment to me—some talk of gratitude. There + are some of my poor brothers and sisters in this jail that say to me, 'Oh, + I wish I could do something for you, sir!' Perhaps you have noticed that I + have never answered these professions. Well, I will answer them now once + for all.” + </p> + <p> + While the preacher paused there was a movement observed among the + prisoners. + </p> + <p> + “Would you make me very—very sad? Remain impenitent! Would you make + me happy? Repent, and turn to God! Not to-morrow, or next day, but on your + knees in your own cells the moment you go hence. You don't know, you can't + dream what happiness you will confer on me if you do this!” + </p> + <p> + Then, suddenly opening his arms with wonderful grace and warmth and + energy, he cried, “My poor wandering sheep, come—come to the + heavenly fold! Let me gather you as a hen gathers her chickens under her + wing. You are my anxiety, my terror—be my joy, my consolation here, + and hereafter the brightest jewels in my heavenly crown.” + </p> + <p> + In this strain he soared higher than my poor earth-clogged wings can + follow him. He had lashed sin severely, so he had earned a right to show + his love for the sinner. Gracious words of entreaty and encouragement + gushed from him in a crystal stream with looks and tones of more than + mortal charity. Men might well doubt was this a man, or was it + Christianity speaking? Christianity, born in a stable, was she there, + illuminating a jail? For now for a moment or two the sacred orator was + more than mortal; so high above earth was his theme, so great his swelling + words. He rose, he dilated to heroic size, he flamed with sacred fire. His + face shone like an angel's, and no silver trumpet or deep-toned organ + could compare with his thundering, pealing, melting voice, that poured the + soul of love and charity and heaven upon friend and foe. Then seemed it as + though a sudden blaze of music and light broke into that dark abode. Each + sinful form stretched wildly forth to meet them—each ear hung aching + on them—each glistening eye lived on them, and every heart panted + and quivered as this great Christian swept his immortal harp—among + thieves and homicides and oppressors—in that sad house of God. + </p> + <p> + “What did you think of the sermon, Fry?” + </p> + <p> + Fry. Liked the first part, sir, where he walked into thieving. Don't like + his telling 'em he loves 'em. 'Tisn't to be supposed a gentleman could + really love such rubbish as that. Sounds like palaver. + </p> + <p> + Hawes. Now I liked it all, though it spoiled my nap. + </p> + <p> + Fry. Well, sir, it is very good of you to like it, for I don't think you + like the man. + </p> + <p> + Hawes. The man is all very well in his place. He ought to be bottled up in + one of the dark cells all the week, and then brought up and uncorked in + chapel o' Sundays. It is as good as a romance is a sermon of his. + </p> + <p> + Fry. That it is, sir. Comes next after the Newgate Calendar, don't it now? + But there's one thing about all his sermons I can't get over. + </p> + <p> + Hawes. And what is that? + </p> + <p> + Fry. Preaches at 'em so. + </p> + <p> + Hawes. Why, ye fool, that is the beauty of him. How is he to hit 'em if he + doesn't hit at 'em? + </p> + <p> + Fry. Mr. Jones usen't. + </p> + <p> + Hawes. Oh, Jones! He shot his arrow up in the air and let it fall wherever + the wind chose to blow it, and then, if it came down on the wrong man's + head he'd say, never mind, my boy, accident!—pure accident! No! give + me a chap that hits out straight from the shoulder. Can't you see this is + worth a hundred Joneses beating about the bush and droning us all asleep. + </p> + <p> + Fry. So he is, sir. So he is. But then I think he didn't ought to be quite + so personal. Fancy his requesting such a lot as ours to repent their sins + and go to heaven just to oblige him. There's a inducement! I call that + himper dig from the pulpit. + </p> + <p> + “What d'ye call it?” growled Hawes snappishly. + </p> + <p> + “Himper dig!” replied Fry stoutly. + </p> + <p> + In the afternoon Mr. Eden preached against cruelty. + </p> + <p> + “No crime is so thoroughly without excuse as this. Other crimes have + sometimes an adequate temptation, this never. The path to other crimes is + down-hill; to cruelty is up-hill. In the very act, Nature, who is on the + side of some crimes, cries out within us against this monstrous sin. The + blood of our victim flowing from our blows, its groans and sighs and + pallor, stay the uplifted arm and appeal to the furious heart. Wonderful + they should ever appeal in vain. Cruelty is not one of our pleasant vices, + and the opposite virtues are a garden of delights: 'Mercy is twice + blessed, it blesseth him that gives and him that takes.' God has written + His abhorrence of this monstrous sin in letters of fire and blood on every + page of history.” + </p> + <p> + Here he ransacked history, and gave them some thirty remarkable instances + of human cruelty, and of its being punished in kind so strangely, and with + such an exactness of retribution, that the finger of God seemed visible + writing on the world—“God hates cruelty.” + </p> + <p> + At the end of his examples he instanced two that happened under his own + eye—a favorite custom of this preacher. + </p> + <p> + “A man was tried in London for cruelty to animals; he was acquitted by a + legal flaw, though the evidence was clear against him. This man returned + homeward triumphant. The train in which he sat was drawn up by the side of + a station. An express-train passed on the up-line at full speed. At the + moment of passing the fly-wheel of the engine broke; a large fragment was + driven into the air and fell upon the stationary train. It burst through + one of the carriages and killed a man upon the spot. That man was seated + between two other men, neither of whom received the slightest injury. The + man so singled out was the cruel man who had evaded man's justice, but + could not escape His hand who created the beasts as well as man, and who + abhors all men who are cruel to any creature He has formed. + </p> + <p> + “A man and his wife conspired to rob and murder their friend and constant + guest. Determined to escape detection, they coldly prepared for the deed + of blood. Long before the murder they dug a hole in the passage leading + from their parlor to their dining-room, and this hole was to receive the + corpse of the man with whom meantime these heartless wretches eat bread + day after day and drank his health at their own board. Several times the + unfortunate man walked with his host and hostess over this concealed hole, + his destined tomb, before the time came to sacrifice him. At last they + murdered him and buried him in the grave they had prepared for him. The + deed done, spite of all their precaution fear fell on them and hatred, and + they fled from the house where the corpse was and from each other, one to + the north, one to the south. Fled they ever so fast, or so far apart, + justice followed to the north, justice followed to the south, and dragged + the miscreants together again and flung them into one prison. They were + convicted and condemned to death. There came a fatal morning to this + guilty pair, when the sun rose upon them and found them full of health and + strength, yet in one short hour they must be dead. They were taken into + the prison chapel according to custom, and from the chapel they must pass + at once to the gallows. Now it so happened that the direct path from the + chapel to the gallows was blocked up by some repairs that were going on in + the prison, so the condemned were obliged to make a long circuit. It was + one of the largest of our old prisons, a huge, irregular building, + constructed with no simplicity of design, and one set of officers did not + always know at once what was going on in a distant department. Hence it + befell that in a certain passage of the jail the condemned and their + attendants came suddenly upon a new-made grave! Stones had been taken up, + and a grave dug in this passage. The workmen had but just completed it. + The grave filled up the passage, which was narrow and but little used. The + men who accompanied the murderers paused, abashed and chilled. The + murderers paused and looked at one another; no words can describe that + look! Planks were put down, and they walked over their own grave to their + death. Is there a skeptic who tells me this was chance? Then I tell him he + is a credulous fool to believe that chance can imitate omniscience, + omnipotence and holiness so inimitably. In this astounding fact of exact + retribution I see nothing that resembles chance. I see the arm of God and + the finger of God. His arm dragged the murderers to the gallows, His + finger thrust the heartless, cruel miscreants across the grave that was + yawning for their doomed bodies! Tremble, ye cruel, God hates ye! Men + speak of a murder—and sometimes, by way of distinction, they say 'a + cruel murder.' See, now, what a crime cruelty must be, since it can + aggravate murder, the crime before which all other sins dwindle into + nothing.” + </p> + <p> + Of minor cruelties that do not attack life itself the most horrible he + thought was cruelty to women. Here the man must trample on every manly + feeling, on the instinct and the traditions of sex, on the opinion of + mankind, on the generosity that goes with superior strength and courage. A + man who is cruel to a woman is called a brute, but if the brutes could + speak they would appeal against this phrase as unjust to them. What animal + but man did you ever see maltreat a female of his species? The brutes are + not such beasts as bad, cruel men are. Or if you ever saw such a + monstrosity the animal that did it was some notorious coward, such as the + deer, which I believe is now and then guilty in a trifling degree of this + dirty sin, being a rank coward. But who ever saw a lion or a dog or any + courageous animal let himself down to the level of a cowardly man so far + as this? + </p> + <p> + Here sprang from his lips a true and tender picture of a wife. The narrow + and virtuous circle of her joys, her many sufferings, great and little—no + need of being cruel to her; she must suffer so much without that. The + claims to pity and uncommon consideration every woman builds up during a + few years of marriage! Her inestimable value in the house! How true to the + hearth she is unless her husband corrupts her or drives her to despair! + How often she is good in spite of his example! How rarely she is evil but + by his example! God made her weaker that man might have the honest + satisfaction and superior joy of protecting and supporting her. To torture + her with the strength so intrusted him for her good is to rebel against + heaven's design—it is to be a monster, a coward, and a fool! + </p> + <p> + “There was one more kind of cruelty it was his duty to touch upon—harsh + treatment of those unhappy persons to whom it has not pleased God to give + a full measure of reason. + </p> + <p> + “This is a sacred calamity to which the intelligent and the good in all + ages and places have been tender and pitiful. In some countries these + unfortunates are venerated, and being little able to guard themselves are + held to be under Heaven's especial protection. This is a beautiful belief + and honors our fallen nature. Yet in Christian England, I grieve and blush + to say, cruelty often falls on their unprotected heads. Who has not seen + the village boys follow and mock these afflicted persons? Youth is cruel + because the great parent of cruelty is general ignorance and inexperience + of the class of suffering we inflict. Men who have come to their full + reason have not this excuse. What! persecute those whom God hath smitten, + but whom He still loves, and will take vengeance on all who maltreat them. + On such and on all of you who are cruel, shame and contempt will fall + sooner or later even in this world, and at that solemn day when the cruel + and their victims shall meet the Judge of the quick and the dead, He on + whose mercy hangs your eternal fate will say to you, 'Have ye shown + mercy?' Oh! these words will crush your souls. Madmen! know ye not that + the most righteous man on earth can only be saved by God's mercy, not by + His justice? Would you forfeit all hope, all chance, all possibility of + that mercy, by merciless cruelty to your brothers and sisters of the race + of Adam? Does the day of judgment seem to you uncertain or so distant that + you dare be cruel here during the few brief days you have to prepare + yourself for eternity? If you are under this delusion here I tear it from + your souls. That day is at hand, at the door.” + </p> + <p> + Then, in a moment, by the magic of eloquence, the great day of retribution + was no longer faint and distant, but upon them in all its terrors; and + they who in the morning had leaned forward eagerly to catch the message of + mercy now shrank and cowered from the thunder that pealed over their + heads, and the lightning of awful words that showed them by flashes the + earth quaking and casting forth her dead—the sea trembling and + casting forth her dead—the terrible trumpet pealing from pole to + pole-the books opened—the dread Judge seated—and hell yawning + for the guilty. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, how did you like this sermon?” said Fry, respectfully. + </p> + <p> + “He won't preach many more such, (imperative mood) him. I'll teach him to + preach at people from the pulpit.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is what I say, sir, but you said you liked to hear him preach + at folk.” + </p> + <p> + “So I do,” replied Hawes angrily, “but not at me, ye fool!” + </p> + <p> + This afternoon two of the prisoners rang their bells, and on the warder + coming to them begged in much agitation to see the chaplain. Mr. Eden was + always at the prisoners' orders and came to both of these; one was a man + about thirty, the other a mere boy. The same evening Mr. Hawes sat down, + his features working wrathfully, and dispatched a note to Mr. Locock, one + of the visiting justices and a particular admirer of his. + </p> + <p> + Meeting Mr. Eden in the prison, he did not return that gentleman's salute. + This was his way of implying war; events were thickening, a storm was + brewing. This same evening there was a tap at Mr. Eden's private door and + Evans entered the room. The man's manner was peculiar. He wore outside a + dogged look, as if fighting against some inward feeling; he entered + looking down most perniciously at the floor. “Well, Evans?” + </p> + <p> + Evans approached, his eyes still glued upon the floor. He shoved a printed + paper roughly into Mr. Eden's hand, and said in a tone of sulky reproach, + “Saw ye fret because ye could not get it, and couldn't bear to see ye + fret.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Evans, thank you!” + </p> + <p> + “You are very welcome, sir,” said Evans, with momentary deference and + kindness. Then turning suddenly at the door in great wrath, with a + tendency to whimper, he roared out, “Ye'll get me turned out of my place, + that's what ye'll do!” and went off apparently in tremendous dudgeon. The + printed paper contained “the rules of the prison,” a copy of which Mr. + Eden had asked from Hawes and been refused. Evans had watched his + opportunity, got them from another warder in return for two glasses of + grog outside the jail. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden fell to and studied the paper carefully till bed-time. As he read + it his eye more than once flashed with satisfaction in spite of a great + despondency that had now for a day or two been creeping upon him. + </p> + <p> + This depression dated from biped Carter's crucifixion or soon after. He + struggled gallantly against it; it appeared in none of his public acts. + But when alone his heart seemed to have turned to lead. A cold, languid + hopelessness most foreign to his high, sanguine nature weighed him to the + earth, and the Dead Sea rolled over his spirit. + </p> + <p> + Earnest Mr. Hawes hated good Mr. Eden; one comfort, by means of his + influence with the justices he could get him turned out of the prison. + Meantime what could he do to spite him? Begin by punishing a prisoner—that + is the only thing that stings him. With these good intentions earnest + Hawes turned out and looked about for a prisoner to punish; unfortunately + for poor Josephs the governor's eye fell upon him as he came out of the + chapel. The next minute he was put on a stiff crank, which led in due + course to the pillory. When he had been in about an hour and a half, Hawes + winked to Fry, and said to him under his breath, “Let the parson know.” + </p> + <p> + Fry strolled into the prison. He met Mr. Eden at a cell door. “Josephs + refractory again, sir,” said he, with mock civility. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden looked him in the face, but said nothing. He went to his own + room, took a paper off the table, and came into the yard. Josephs was + beginning to sham and a bucket had just been thrown over him amid the + coarse laughter of Messrs. Fry, Hodges and Hawes. Evans, who happened to + be in attendance, stood aloof with his eyes fixed on the ground. + </p> + <p> + As soon as he saw Mr. Eden coming Hawes gave a vindictive chuckle. + </p> + <p> + “Another bucket,” cried he, and taking it himself, he contrived to + sprinkle Mr. Eden as well as to sluice his immediate victim. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden took no notice of this impertinence, but to the surprise of all + there he strode between the victim and his tormentors, and said sternly, + “Do you know that you are committing an illegal assault upon this + prisoner?' + </p> + <p> + “No, I don't,” said Hawes, with a cold sneer. + </p> + <p> + “Then I shall show you. Here are the printed rules of the prison; you have + no authority over a prisoner but what these rules give you. Now show me + where they permit you to pillory a prisoner?” + </p> + <p> + “They don't forbid it, that is enough.” + </p> + <p> + “No! it is not. They don't forbid you to hang him, or to sear him with a + hot iron, but they tell you in this paragraph what punishments you may + inflict, and that excludes all punishments of your own invention. You may + neither hang him nor burn him nor famish him nor crucify him, all these + acts are equally illegal. So take warning, all of you here—you are + all servants of the law—don't let me catch you assaulting a prisoner + contrary to the law, or you shall smart to the uttermost. Evans, I command + you, in the name of the law, release that prisoner.” + </p> + <p> + Evans, thus appealed to, fidgeted and turned color, and his hands worked + by his side. “Your reverence!” cried he, in an imploring tone, and stayed + where he was. On this Mr. Eden made no more ado, but darted to Josephs' + side and began to unfasten him with nimble fingers. + </p> + <p> + Hawes stood dumfounded for a minute or two, then recovering himself he + roared out: + </p> + <p> + “Officers, do your duty!” + </p> + <p> + Fry and Hodges advanced upon Mr. Eden, but before they could get at him + the huge body of Evans interposed itself. The man was pale but doggedly + resolved. + </p> + <p> + “Mustn't lay a finger on his reverence,” said he, almost in a whisper, but + between his clinched teeth and with the look of a bulldog over a bone. + </p> + <p> + “What, do you rebel against me, Evans?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir,” answered Evans softening his tone, “but nobody must affront his + reverence. Look here, sir, his reverence knows a great deal more than I + do, and he says this is against the law. He showed you the Act, and you + couldn't answer him except by violence, which ain't no answer at all. Now + I am the servant of the law, and I know better than go against the law.” + </p> + <p> + “There, I want no more of your chat. Loose the prisoner.” + </p> + <p> + “Seems to me he is loosed,” said Fry. + </p> + <p> + “Go to the 5-lb. crank, Josephs, and let me see how much you can do in + half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + “That I will, your reverence,” and off he ran. + </p> + <p> + “Now, sir,” said Hawes sternly, “I put up with this now because it must + end next week. I have written to the visiting justices, and they will + settle whether you are to be master in the jail or I.” + </p> + <p> + “Neither, Mr. Hawes. The law shall be your master and mine.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good! but there's a hole in your coat; for, as clever as you are, + every jail has its customs as well as its rules.” + </p> + <p> + “Which customs, if illegal, are abuses, and shall be swept out of it.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll promise you one thing—the justices shall sweep you out of the + jail.” + </p> + <p> + “How can you promise that?” + </p> + <p> + “Because they only see with my eyes, and, hear with my ears; they would do + a great deal more for me than kick out a refractory chaplain.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden's eye flashed, he took out his note-book. + </p> + <p> + “Present Fry, Hodges, Evans. Mr. Hawes asserts that the visiting justices + see only with his eyes and hear with his ears.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes laughed insolently, but a little uneasily. + </p> + <p> + “In spite of your statement that the magistrates are unworthy of their + office, I venture to hope, for the credit of the county, there will not be + found three magistrates to countenance your illegal cruelties. But should + there be—” + </p> + <p> + “Ay; what then?” + </p> + <p> + “I shall go higher and appeal to the Home Secretary.” + </p> + <p> + “Ha! ha! He won't take any notice of you.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I shall appeal to the sovereign.” + </p> + <p> + “And if she takes you for a madman?” + </p> + <p> + “I shall appeal to the people. Oh! Mr. Hawes, I give you my honor this + great question whether or not the law can penetrate a prison shall be + sifted to the bottom. Pending my appeals to the Home Office, the sovereign + and the people, I have placed a thousand pounds in my solicitor's hands—” + </p> + <p> + “A thousand pounds! have you, sir? What for, if I am not too curious?” + </p> + <p> + “For this, sir. Each prisoner whom you have pilloried and starved and + assaulted contrary to law shall bring an action of assault against you the + moment he leaves prison. He shall have counsel, and the turnkeys and + myself shall be subpoenaed as evidence. When once we get you into court + you will find that a prison is the stronghold of law, not a den of + lawlessness.” + </p> + <p> + He then turned sharp on the warders. + </p> + <p> + “I warn you against all your illegal practices. Mr. Hawes's orders shall + neither excuse nor protect you. You owe your first obedience to the crown + and the law. Here are your powers and your duties; you can all read. Here + it is ruled that a prisoner shall receive four visits a day from the + governor, chaplain and two turnkeys; these four visits are to keep the man + from breaking down under the separate and silent system. You have all been + breaking this rule, but you shall not. I shall report you Evans, you Fry, + and you Hodges, and you Mr. Hawes, to the authorities, if after this + warning you leave a single prisoner unvisited and unspoken with.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you done preaching, parson?” + </p> + <p> + “Not quite, jailer.” + </p> + <p> + He tapped the printed paper. + </p> + <p> + “Here is a distinct order that sick prisoners shall be taken out of their + cells into the infirmary, a vast room where they have a much better chance + of recovering than in those stinking cells ventilated scientifically, + i.e., not ventilated at all. Now there are seven prisoners dangerously ill + at this moment; yet you smother these unfortunates in their solitary + cells, instead of giving them the infirmary and nurses according to the + law. Let these seven persons be in the infirmary before post-time this + evening, or to-morrow I report you to the Secretary of State.” + </p> + <p> + With these words he went off leaving them all looking at one another. “He + is coming back again,” said Fry. + </p> + <p> + He did come back again with heightened color and flashing eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Here is the prisoners' diet,” cried he, tapping the printed rules; “it is + settled to an ounce by law, and I see no authority given to the jailer to + tamper with it under any circumstances. Yet I find you perpetually robbing + prisoners of their food. Don't let me catch either jailer or turnkeys at + this again. Jailers and turnkeys have no more right to steal a prisoner's + food than to rob the till of the Bank of England. He receives it defined + in bulk and quality from the law's own hand, and the wretch who will rob + him of an ounce of it is a felon without a felon's excuse; and as a felon + I will proceed against him by the dog-whip of the criminal law, by the + gibbet of the public press, and by every weapon that wit and honesty have + ever found to scourge cruelty and theft since civilization dawned upon the + earth.” + </p> + <p> + He was gone and left them all turned to statues. A righteous man's wrath + is far more terrible than the short-lived passion of the unprincipled. It + is rarer, and springs from a deeper source than temper. Even Hawes + staggered under this mortal defiance so fierce and unexpected. For a + moment he regretted having pushed matters so far. + </p> + <p> + This scene let daylight in upon shallow, earnest Hawes, and showed him a + certain shallow error he had fallen into. Because insolence had no earthly + effect on the great man's temper he had concluded that nothing could make + him boil over. A shade of fear was now added to rage, hatred and a desire + for vengeance. + </p> + <p> + “Fry, come to my house.” + </p> + <p> + Evans had a wife and children, and these hostages to fortune weighed down + his manly spirit. He came to Hawes as he was going out and said + submissively, though not graciously: + </p> + <p> + “Very sorry, sir, to think I should disobey you, but when his reverence + said it was against the law—” + </p> + <p> + “That is enough, my man,” replied Hawes quietly; “he has bewitched you, it + seems. When he is kicked out you will be my servant again, I dare say.” + </p> + <p> + The words and the tone were not ill-humored. It was not Hawes's cue to + quarrel with a turnkey. + </p> + <p> + Evans looked suddenly up, for his mind was relieved by Mr. Hawes's + moderation; he looked up and saw a cold, stern eye dwelling on him with a + meaning that had nothing to do with the words spoken. + </p> + <p> + Small natures read one another. + </p> + <p> + Evans saw his fate inscribed in Hawes's eye. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. + </h2> + <p> + HAWES and Fry sat in council. A copy of the prison rules was before them, + and the more they looked at them after Mr. Eden's interpretation, the less + they liked them: they were severe and simple; stringent against the + prisoners on certain points; stringent in their favor on others. + </p> + <p> + “The sick-list must go to the infirmary, I believe,” said Hawes, + thoughtfully. “He'd beat us there. The justices will support me on every + other point, because they must contradict themselves else. I'll have that + fellow out of the jail, Fry, before a month is out, and meantime what can + I do to be revenged on him?” + </p> + <p> + “Punish 'em all the more,” suggested the simple-minded Fry. + </p> + <p> + “No, that won't do; better keep a little quiet now till he is out of the + jail. Fine it would look if he was really to bribe these vermin to bring + actions against me, and subpoena himself and that sneaking dog, Evans.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, but if you turn him out he will do it all the more.” + </p> + <p> + “You fool, can't you see the difference? If he comes into court a servant + of the crown every lie he tells will go for gospel. But if he comes a + disgraced servant, cashiered for refractory conduct, why then we could + tell the jury it is all his spite at being turned off.” + </p> + <p> + “You know a thing or two, sir,” whined the doleful Fry. + </p> + <p> + Hawes passed him a fresh tumbler of grog, and pondered deeply and + anxiously. But suddenly an idea flashed on him that extinguished his other + meditations. “Give me the rules.” He ran his eye rapidly over them. “Why, + no! of course not, what a fool I was not to see that half an hour ago.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Finish your grog first, and then I have a job for you.” He sat down and + wrote two lines on a slip of paper. + </p> + <p> + “Have you done?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Then take this order.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And the printed rules in your hand—here, take 'em.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And take Hodges and Evans with you, and tell me every word that sneaking + dog, Evans, says and everything he does.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir. But what are we all three to do?” + </p> + <p> + “Execute this order!” + </p> + <p> + An ebullition of wrath was as rare with Mr. Eden as an eruption of + Vesuvius. His deep-rooted indignation against cruelty remained; it was a + part of his nature. But his ruffled feathers smoothed themselves the + moment little Hawes & Co. were out of his eye. He even said to + himself, “What is the matter with me? one moment so despondent, the next + irascible. I hardly know myself. I must take a little of my antidote.” So + saying he proceeded to visit some of those cells into which he had + introduced rational labor (anti-theft he called it). Here he found + cheerful looks as well as busy hands. Here industry was relished with a + gusto inconceivable to those who have never stagnated body and soul in + enforced solitude and silence. Here for the time at least were honest + converts to anti-theft. He had seen them dull and stupid, brutalized, + drifting like inanimate bodies on the heavy waters of the Dead Sea. He had + drawn them ashore and put life into them. He had taught their glazed eyes + to sparkle with the stimulus of rational and interesting work, and those + same eyes rewarded him by beaming on him with pleasure and gratitude + whenever he came. This soothed and cheered his weary spirit vexed by the + wickedness and stupidity that surrounded him and obstructed the good work. + </p> + <p> + His female artisans gave him a keen pleasure, for here he benefited a sex + as well as a prisoner. He had long been saying that women are as capable + as men of a multitude of handicrafts, from which they are excluded by + man's jealousy and grandmamma's imbecility. And this wise man hoped to + raise a few Englishwomen to the industrial level of Frenchwomen and + Englishmen; not by writing and prattling that the sex are at present men's + equals in intelligence and energy, which is a stupid falsehood calculated + to keep them forever our inferiors by persuading them they need climb no + higher than they have climbed. + </p> + <p> + His line was very different. “At present you are infinitely man's inferior + in various energy,” said he. “Dependents are inferiors throughout the + world.” + </p> + <p> + If they were not so at first starting such a relation would make them so + in two months. + </p> + <p> + “Try and be more than mere dependents on men,” was his axiom. “Don't <i>talk</i> + that you are his equal, and then open that eloquent mouth to be fed by his + hand—do something! It is by doing fifty useful and therefore + lucrative things to your one that man becomes your creditor, and a + creditor will be a superior to the world's end. Out of these fifty things + you might have done twenty as well as he can do them, and ten much better; + and those thirty, added to the domestic duties in which you do so much + more than your share, would go far to balance the account and equalize the + sexes.” + </p> + <p> + Thus he would sometimes talk to the more intelligent of his hussies; but + he did a great deal more than talk. He supplied from himself that + deficiency of inventive power and enterprise which is woman's weak point; + and he tilled those wide powers of masterly execution which they possess + unknown to grandpapa Cant and grandmamma Precedent. As this clear head had + foreseen, his women came out artisans. The eye that could thread a needle + proved accurate enough for anything. Their supple, taper fingers soon + learned to pick up type and place it quite as quick as even the stiff + digits of the male, all one size from knuckle to nail. The same with + watch-making and other trades reputed masculine; they beat the men's heads + off at learning many kinds of fingerwork new to both; their singular + patience stood them in good stead here; they undermined difficulties that + the males tried to jump over and fell prostrate. + </p> + <p> + A great treat was in store; one of the fruit-trees he had planted in the + huge fallow of —— Jail was to be shaken this afternoon. Two or + three well-disposed prisoners had been set to review their past lives + candidly, and to relate them simply, with reflections. Of these Mr. Eden + cut out every one which had been put in to please him, retaining such as + were sober and seemed genuine to his lynx eye. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden knew that some men and women listen more to their fellows than + their superiors—to the experiences and sentiments of those who are + in their own situation, than to those who stand higher but farther away. + He had found out that a bad man's life honestly told is a beacon. So he + set “roguery teaching by examples.” + </p> + <p> + There were three male narratives in the press and two female. For a day or + two past the printers (all women) had been setting up the type and now the + sheets were to be struck off. + </p> + <p> + There was no little expectation among the prisoners. They were curious to + see their compeers in print, and to learn their stories, and see how they + would tell them; and as for the writers, their bodies were immured, but + their minds fluttered about on tip-toe round the great engine of + publicity, as the author of the “Novum Organon” fluttered when he first + went into print, and as the future authoress of “Lives and Careers of + Infants in Arms” will flutter. + </p> + <p> + The press stood in the female-governor's room. One she-artisan, duly + taught before, inked the type and put in a blank sheet. + </p> + <p> + No. 2 pulled the bar of the press toward her, and at the moment of contact + threw herself back with sudden vigor and gave the telling knip; the types + were again covered with ink, the sheet reversed, and No. 3 (one of the + writers) drew out a printed sheet—two copies of two stories + complete. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! oh! oh!” cried No. 3, flushing with surprise and admiration, “how + beautiful! See, your reverence, here is mine—'Life of an Unfortunate + Girl.'” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I see it. And pray what do you mean by an unfortunate girl?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir! you know.” + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunate means one whom we are bound to respect as well as pity. Has + that been your character?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” was the mournful reply. + </p> + <p> + “Then why print a falsehood? Falsehoods lurk in adjectives as well as + substantives. Misapplied terms are strongholds of self-deception. Nobody + says, 'I am unfortunate, therefore I abhor myself and repent in dust and + ashes.' Such words are fortifications to keep self-knowledge and its + brother repentance from the soul.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir! what am I to call myself?” She hid her face in her hands. + </p> + <p> + “My dear, you told me a week ago you were—a penitent.” + </p> + <p> + “So I am, indeed I am. Sir, may I change it to 'a penitent girl?'” + </p> + <p> + “You would make me very happy if you could do it with truth.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I can, indeed I can.” And she took out “an unfortunate,” and put in + “a penitent.” + </p> + <p> + “There,” said she, glowing with exultation and satisfaction, “'Life of a + Penitent Girl.'” + </p> + <p> + Oh; it was a pretty sight. Their little hearts were all in it. Their + little spirits rose visibly as the work went on—such beaming eyes—such + glowing cheeks and innocent looks of sparkling triumph to their friend and + father, who smiled back like Jupiter, and quizzings of each other to + stimulate to greater speed. + </p> + <p> + In went the sheets, on went the press, out came the tales, up grew the + pile, amid quips and cranks and rays of silver-toned laughter, social + labor's natural music. They were all so innocent and so happy, when the + door was unceremoniously opened, and in burst Fry and Hodges, followed by + Evans crawling with his eyes on the ground. + </p> + <p> + The work-women looked astonished, but did not interrupt their work. Fry + came up to Mr. Eden and gave him a slip of paper on which Hawes had + written an order that all work not expressly authorized by the law should + be expelled from the jail on the instant. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden perused the order, and the color rose to the roots of his hair. + By way of comment Fry put the prison-rules under his eye. + </p> + <p> + “Anything about printing, or weaving, or watchmaking in these rules, sir?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden was silent. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps you will cast your eye over 'em and see, sir,” continued Fry + slyly. “Shouldn't like to offend the law again.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden took the paper, but not to read it—he knew it by heart. It + was to hide his anguish from the enemy. Hawes had felled him with his own + weapon. He put down the paper and showed his face, which was now stern and + composed. + </p> + <p> + “What we are doing is against the letter of the law, as your pillory and + your starvation of prisoners are against both letter and spirit. Mr. Hawes + shall find no excuse for his illegal practices in any act of mine.” + </p> + <p> + He then turned to the artisans. “Girls, you must leave off.” + </p> + <p> + “Leave off, sir?” cried No. 3 faintly. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, no words; obey the prison-rules; they do not allow it.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, my birds,” shouted Hodges roughly to the women. “Stand clear, we + want this gear.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you want of it, Mr. Hodges?” + </p> + <p> + “Only to put it outside the prison-gate, sir. That is the order.” + </p> + <p> + The printing-press, representative of knowledge, enemy of darkness, + stupidity, cruelty; organ of civilization—was ignominiously thrust + to the door. + </p> + <p> + This feat performed, they went to attack anti-theft. + </p> + <p> + “Will you come along with us, sir, to see it is all legal?” sneered Fry. + </p> + <p> + “I will come to see that insolence is not added to cruelty.” + </p> + <p> + At the door of Mary Baker's cell Mr. Eden hung back as Hodges and Fry + passed in. At last, after a struggle, he entered the cell. The turnkeys + had gathered up the girl's work and tools, and were coming out with them, + while the artisan stood desolate in the middle of the cell. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir,” cried she to Mr. Eden, “I am glad you are here. These + blackguards have broke into my cell, and they are robbing it.” + </p> + <p> + “Hush, Mary; what they are doing is the law, and we were acting against + the law.” + </p> + <p> + “Were we, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. It is a bad law, and will be changed; but till it is changed we must + obey it. You are only one victim among many. Be patient, and pray for help + to bear it.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, your reverence. Are they all to be robbed of their tools?” + </p> + <p> + “All.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor things!” said Mary Baker. + </p> + <p> + “Evans, it is beyond my strength—I am but a man; I can bear even + this, but I can't bear to see it done. I can't bear it! I can't bear it!” + </p> + <p> + And his reverence turned his back on the moral butchers, and crept away to + his own room. There he sank into a chair and laid his brow upon the table + with his hands stretched out before him and his whole frame trembling most + piteously. + </p> + <p> + Eden and Hawes are not level antagonists—one takes things to heart, + the other to temper. + </p> + <p> + In this bitter hour it seemed to him impossible that he could ever + counteract the pernicious Hawes. + </p> + <p> + “There is but one chance left for these poor souls. I shall try it, and it + will fail. Well! let it fail! Were there a thousand more chances against + me than there are I must battle to the last. Let me mature my plan;” and + he fell into a sad but stern reverie. + </p> + <p> + He lay thus crushed, though not defeated, more than two hours in silence. + Had Hawes seen him he would have exulted at his appearance. + </p> + <p> + “A man from the jail to speak to you, sir.” + </p> + <p> + A heavy rap at the parlor door, and Evans came in sheepishly smoothing + down his hair. Mr. Eden turned his head as he lay on the sofa and motioned + him to a seat. + </p> + <p> + “I couldn't sleep till I had spoken to you. I obeyed your orders, sir. We + have undone your work.” + </p> + <p> + “How did the poor souls bear it?” + </p> + <p> + “Some cried, some abused us, one or two showed they were better than we + are.” + </p> + <p> + “How?” + </p> + <p> + “They prayed Heaven to forgive us and hoped we might never come to know + what they felt. I wish I'd never seen the inside of a jail. Fry got a + scratched face in one cell, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to hear that. I shall have to scold her; who was it?” + </p> + <p> + “You won't scold her; you won't have the heart.” + </p> + <p> + “I will scold her whether I have the heart or not. Who was it?” + </p> + <p> + “No. 57, a gal that had some caterpillars.” + </p> + <p> + “Silkworms!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, silkworms, and it seems she has got to be uncommon fond of + them, calls 'em her children, poor soul. When we came in and went to take + them away she stood up for 'em and said we had no right—his + reverence gave them her.” + </p> + <p> + “Well?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, of course they made short work and took them away by force. + Then I saw the girl turn white and her eye getting wildish; however, I + don't know as it would have come to anything, but with them snatching away + the leaves and the grubs one of them fell on the ground. The poor girl she + goes to lift it up and Fry he sees her and put his foot on it before she + could get to it.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” + </p> + <p> + “I dare say he didn't stop to think, you know; but I don't envy him having + done it. Well, sir, he paid for it. The girl just gave one sort of a yell—you + could not call it anything else—and she went right at his head, both + claws going and as quick one after another as a cat. The blood squirted + like a fountain—I never saw anything like it. She'd have killed him + if it hadn't been for Hodges and me.” + </p> + <p> + “Killed him? nonsense—a great strong fellow!” + </p> + <p> + “No nonsense at all, sir. She was stronger than he was for a moment or two + and that moment would have done his business. She meant killing. Sir,” + said Evans, lowering his voice, “her teeth were making for his jugular + when I wrenched her away, and it was like tearing soul from body to get + her off him, and she snarling and her teeth gnashing for him all the + time.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden winced. + </p> + <p> + “The wretched creature! I was putting her on the way to heaven, and in one + moment they made a fiend of her. Evans, you are not the same man you were + a month ago.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, that I am not. When I think of what a brute I used to be to them + poor creatures, I don't seem to know myself.” + </p> + <p> + “What has changed you?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you know very well.” + </p> + <p> + “Do I? No; I have a guess; but—” + </p> + <p> + “Why your sermons, to be sure.” + </p> + <p> + “My sermons?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir. Why, how could I hear them and my heart be as hard as it used? + They would soften a stone.” + </p> + <p> + A faint streak of surprise and simple satisfaction crossed Mr. Eden's + sallow face. + </p> + <p> + “But it isn't your sermons only—it is your life, as the saying is. I + was no better than Hawes and Fry and the rest. I used to look on a + prisoner as so much dirt. But when I saw a gentleman like you respect + them, and say openly you loved them, I began to take a thought, and says + I, Hallo! if his reverence respects them so, an ignorant brute like Jack + Evans isn't to look down on them.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! confess, too, that half hour in the jacket opened your eyes and so + your heart.” + </p> + <p> + “It did, sir; it did. I was like a good many more that misuse prisoners. I + didn't know how cruel I was.” + </p> + <p> + “You are on my side, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I am on your side, and I am come here mainly to speak my mind to + you. Sir, it goes to my heart to see you lost and wasted in such a place + as this.” + </p> + <p> + “You think I do no good here?” + </p> + <p> + “No! no! sir. Why I am a proof the other way. But you would do more good + anywhere else. Everybody says you are a bright and a shining light, sir. + Then why stay where there is dirty water thrown over you every day? + Besides, it is killing you! I don't want to frighten you, sir; but if you + could only see how you are changed since you came here—” + </p> + <p> + “I do feel very ill.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course you do; you are ill, and you will be worse if you don't get out + of this dreadful place. If you are so fond of prisons, sir, you can go + from here to another prison. There is more than one easy-going chaplain as + would be glad to change with you. + </p> + <p> + “Do you think so?” said Mr. Eden faintly, lying on his back on the sofa. + </p> + <p> + “Not a doubt of it. If it warn't for Hawes you would convert half this + prison; but you see, the governor is against you, and he is stronger than + you. So it is no good to go wasting yourself. Now, what will be the + upshot? Why, you'll break your heart to begin, and lose your health; and + when all is done, at a word from Hawes the justices will turn you out of + the jail—and send me after you for taking your part.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you advise?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, cut it.” + </p> + <p> + “Cut it?” + </p> + <p> + “Turn your back on the whole ignorant lot, and save yourself for better + things. Why, you will win many a battle yet, your reverence, if you don't + fling yourself away this time,” said Evans in tones of homely cheerfulness + and encouragement. + </p> + <p> + There was a deal of good sense in the rough fellow's words and a homely + sympathy not intruded but rather, as it were, forcing its way against the + speaker's intention. All this co-operated powerfully with Mr. Eden's + present inclination and feeling as he lay sick and despondent upon the + couch. + </p> + <p> + “So that is really your advice?” inquired Mr. Eden, feebly and + regretfully. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, your reverence, that is my advice.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden rose in a moment like an elastic spring, and whirled round in + front of Evans. “And this is my answer—RETRO SATANAS!” shouted he, + with two eyes flashing like a pair of sabers in the sun. + </p> + <p> + “Mercy on us,” roared Evans, recoiling so hastily that he rolled over a + chair, “what is that?” and he sat upon the floor a long way off, with eyes + like saucers, and repeated in a whisper, “what is that?” + </p> + <p> + “A quotation,” replied the other grimly. + </p> + <p> + “A quotation! now only think of that” said Evans, much relieved. “Sounded + like cussing and swearing in Latin.” + </p> + <p> + “Come here, my good friend, and sit beside me.” + </p> + <p> + Evans came gingerly. + </p> + <p> + “Well, but ye mustn't thunder at me in Latin any more.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I won't.” + </p> + <p> + “It isn't fair; how can I stand up against Latin?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, come here and I'll have at you in the vulgar tongue. Aha! So you + come in robust health and spirits and tempt a poor, broken, sick creature + to mount the white feather; to show his soldierly qualities by running + from the foe to some cool spot where there are no enemies, and there + fighting the good fight in peace. Evans, you are a good creature, but you + are a poor creature. Yes, Hawes is strong, yet I will resist him. And I am + weak—yet I will resist. He will get the justices on his side—yet + I will resist. I am sick and dispirited—yet I will resist. The + representative of humanity and Christianity in a stronghold of darkness + and cruelty and wrong must never sag with doubt nor shake with fear. I + will fight with pen and hand and tongue against these outlaws, so long as + there is a puff of wind in my body, and a drop of indomitable blood in my + veins.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt you are game enough,” mourned Evans; “I wish you wern't.” + </p> + <p> + “And as for you, you came here to seduce a sick, broken creature from his + Master's service; you shall remain to be enlisted in it yourself instead.” + </p> + <p> + Evans shuffled uneasily on his chair at these words. “I think I am on your + side,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Half! but it is no use being half anything; your hour is come to choose + between all right and all wrong.” + </p> + <p> + “I wouldn't be long choosing if it warn't for one thing.” + </p> + <p> + “And what is that one thing which can outweigh the one thing needful?” + </p> + <p> + “My wife and my four children; if I get myself turned out of this jail how + am I to find bread for that small lot?” + </p> + <p> + “And do you think shilly-shallying between two stools will secure your + seat? You have gone too far with me to retract; don't you see that the + jailer means to get you dismissed the next time the justices visit the + jail for business? Can't you read your fate in the man's eye?” + </p> + <p> + Evans groaned. “I read it, I read it, but I didn't want to believe it.” + </p> + <p> + “He set a trap for you half an hour after you had defended me.” + </p> + <p> + “He did! I told my wife I was a gone coon, but she overpersuaded me; 'Keep + quiet,' said she, 'and 'twill blow over.' But you see it in the same light + as I did, don't you, sir?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden smiled grimly in assent. + </p> + <p> + “You are a doomed man,” said he coolly; “half measures can't save you, but + whole measures may—perhaps.” + </p> + <p> + “What is to be done, sir?” asked Evans helplessly. + </p> + <p> + “Your only chance is to go heart and hand with me in the project which + occupies me now.” + </p> + <p> + “I will, sir,” cried Fluctuans, with a sudden burst of resolution, “for + I'm druv in a corner. So please tell me what is your project?” + </p> + <p> + “To get Mr. Hawes dismissed from this jail.” + </p> + <p> + As he uttered these words the reverend gentleman had a severe spasm which + forced him to lie back and draw his breath hard. Evans uttered something + between a cry of dismay and a groan of despair, and stared down upon this + audacious invalid with wonder and ire at his supernatural but absurd cool + courage. + </p> + <p> + “Turn our governor out of this jail? Now hark to that. You might as well + try to move a mountain; and look at you lying there scarce able to move + yourself, and talking like that.” + </p> + <p> + “Pour me out a cup of tea, Mr. Faintheart; I am in great pain—thank + you.” + </p> + <p> + He took the cup, and as he stirred it he said coolly, “Did you ever read + of Marshal Saxe, Mr. Faintheart? He fought the battle of Fontenoy as he + lay a dying. He had himself carried on his bed of death from one part of + the field to another; at first the fight went against him, but he spurned + craven counsels with his expiring heart; he saw the enemy's blunder with + his dying eye, and waved his troops on to victory with his dying hand. + This is one of the great feats of earth. But the soldiers of Christ are as + stout-hearted as any man that ever carried a marshal's baton or a + sergeant's pike. Yes! I am ill, and I feel as if I were dying, Evans; but + living or dying I am the Lord's. I will fight for Him to the last gasp, + and I will thrust this malefactor from his high office with the last + action of my hand—Will you help me, or will you not?” + </p> + <p> + “I will, sir! I will! What on earth can I do?” + </p> + <p> + “You can turn the balanced scale and win the day!” + </p> + <p> + “Can I, sir?” cried Evans, greatly puzzled. + </p> + <p> + “You will find some wine in that cupboard, my man; fill yourself a + tumbler. I will sip my tea, and explain myself. You think this Hawes is a + mountain;—no! he is a large pumpkin hollow at the core. You think + him strong;—no! he but seems so, because some of the many at whose + mercy he is are so weak. There is a flaw in Hawes, which must break him + sooner or later. He is a felon. The law hangs over his head by a single + hair; he has forfeited his office, and will be turned out of it the moment + we can find among his many superiors one man with one grain either of + honesty or intelligence.” + </p> + <p> + “But how shall we find that, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “By looking for it everywhere, till we find it somewhere. Mr. Hawes tells + me, in other words, that the visiting justices do not possess the one + grain we require. I profit by the intelligence the enemy was weak enough + to give me, and I go—not to the visiting justices. To-morrow, if my + case is ready, I send a memorial to the Home-Office, accuse Hawes of + felonious practices, and demand an inquiry.” + </p> + <p> + Evans's eye sparkled; he began to gather strength from the broken man. + </p> + <p> + “But now comes the difficulty. A man should never strike a feeble blow. My + appeal will be read by half-educated clerks. If I don't advance something + that the small official mind can take in, I shall never reach the heads of + the office. It would be madness to begin by attacking national prejudices, + by combating a notion so stupid, and therefore so deep-rooted, as that + prisoners have no legal rights. No! the pivot of my assault must be + something that a boy can afford to be able to comprehend for eighty pounds + a year and a clerk's desk in a Government office. Now, Mr. Hawes has, for + many months past, furnished false reports to the justices and to the + Home-Office. Here is the true stepping-stone to an inquiry, here is the + fact to tell on the official mind; for the man's cruelty and felonious + practices are only offenses against God and the law; but a false report is + an offense against the office. And here I need your help.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall have it, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I want to be able to prove this man's reports to be lies. I think such a + proof exists,” said Mr. Eden, very thoughtfully. “Now, if it does, you + alone can get hold of it for me. One of the turnkeys notes down every + punishment of a prisoner in a small pocket-book, for I have seen him.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; Fry does—never misses!” + </p> + <p> + “What becomes of those notes?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know.” + </p> + <p> + “What if he keeps a book and enters everything in it?” + </p> + <p> + “But if he had, shouldn't we have caught a glimpse of it?” + </p> + <p> + “Humph! A man does not take notes constantly and destroy them. Fry, too, + is an enthusiast in his way. I am sure he keeps a record, and if he does + it is a true one, for he has no object in tampering with his own facts. + Bring me such a book or any record kept by Fry; let me have it for twelve + hours and Hawes shall be turned out of the jail and you stay in it.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir!” cried Evans, in great excitement, “if there is such a thing you + shall see it to-morrow morning.” + </p> + <p> + “No! to-night! come, you have an hour before you. Do you want the sinews + of war? here, take this five pounds with you; you may have to buy a sight + of it; but if you ask him whether I am right in telling you it is not the + custom of jails to crucify prisoners in the present century, perhaps the + barbarian will produce his record of abuses to prove to you that it is. + Work how you please; but be wary—be intelligent, and bring me Fry's + ledger—or never look me in the face again.” + </p> + <p> + He waved his hand, and Evans strode out of the room animated with a spirit + not his own. He who had animated him lay back on the sofa prostrated. Half + an hour elapsed, no Evans; a quarter of an hour more, still no Evans; but + just before the hour struck, in he burst out of breath but red with + triumph. + </p> + <p> + “Your reverence is a witch—you can see in the dark—look here, + sir!” and he flung a dirty ledger on the table. “Here's all the money, + sir. He did not get a farthing of it. I flattered the creature's pride, + and he dropped the cheese into my hand like the old carrion crow when they + asked him for one of his charming songs. But he had no notion it was going + out of the jail; so you'll bring it in and give it me back the first thing + to-morrow, sir. I must run back, time's up!—Good-night, your + reverence. Am I on your side or whose?” + </p> + <p> + “Good-night, my fine fellow; you shan't be turned out of the jail now. + Good-night.” + </p> + <p> + He wanted him gone. He went to a drawer and took out his own book, a copy + of Hawes's public log-book, which he had made as soon as he came into the + jail, with the simple view of guiding himself by the respectable + precedents he innocently expected to find there. He lighted candles, + placed his sheets by the side of Fry's well-thumbed ledger, and plunged + into a comparison. + </p> + <p> + It was as he expected. On one side lay the bare, simple, brutal truth in + Fry's hand, on the other the same set of facts colored, molded and cooked + in every imaginable way to bear inspection, with occasional suppressions + where the deed and consequences were too frightful to bear coloring, + molding, extenuating or cooking. + </p> + <p> + The book was a thick quarto, containing a strict record of the prison for + four years; two years of Captain O'Connor, and two of Hawes, the worthy + who had supplanted him. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden was a rapid penman; he set to, and by half-past eleven o'clock he + had copied the first part; for under O'Connor there were comparatively few + punishments. Then he attacked Hawes's reign. Sheet after sheet was filled + and numbered. He threw them on another table as each was filled. Three + o'clock; still he wrote with all his might. Four o'clock; black spots + danced before his eyes, and his fingers ached, and his brow burned, and + his feet were ice. Still the light, indefatigable pen galloped along the + paper. Meantime the writer's feelings were of the most mixed and + extraordinary character. Often his eye flashed with triumph, as Fry + exposed the dishonesty and utter mendacity of Hawes. Oftener still it + dilated with horror at the frightful nature of the very revelations. At + six o'clock Fry's record was all copied out. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden shaved and took his bath, and ran into the town. He knocked up a + solicitor, with whom he was acquainted. + </p> + <p> + “I want you to make my will, while your son attests this copy of this + ledger.” + </p> + <p> + “But my son is in bed.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! he can read in bed. Which is his room?” + </p> + <p> + “That one.”—Rap! (Come in.) + </p> + <p> + “Here, Mr. Edward, compare these two, and correct or attest this as a true + copy—Twenty minutes' work—Two guineas; here they are on your + drawers;” and he chucked the documents on the bed, opened the shutters, + and drew the bed-curtains; and passing his arm under the father's, he drew + him into his own office, opened the shutters, put paper before him, and + dictated a will. Three bequests (one to Evans), and his mother residuary + legatee. The will written, he ran upstairs, made father and son execute + it, and then darted out, caught a fly that was going to the railway, + engaged it; upstairs again. The work was done, copy attested. + </p> + <p> + “Half a crown if you are at the jail in five minutes.” + </p> + <p> + Galloped off with his two documents-entered the jail—went to his own + room—sent for Evans—gave him Fry's book, and ordered himself + the same breakfast the prisoners had. + </p> + <p> + “I am bilious, and no wonder. I have been living too luxuriously; if I had + been content with the diet my poor brothers live on, I should be in better + health. It serves me just right.” + </p> + <p> + Then he sat down and wrote a short memorial to the Secretary for the Home + Department, claiming an inquiry into the jailer's conduct. + </p> + <p> + “I have evidence on the spot to show that for two years he has been guilty + of illegal practices. That he has introduced into the prison an unlawful + instrument of torture. That during his whole period of office he has + fabricated partial, colored and false reports of his actions in the + prison, and also of their consequences; that he has suppressed all mention + of no less than seven attempts at suicide, and has given a false color, + both with respect to the place of death, the manner of death and the cause + of death of some twenty prisoners besides. That his day-book, kept in the + prison for the inspection and guide of the magistrates, is a tissue of + frauds, equivocations, exaggerations, diminutions and direct falsehoods; + that his periodical reports to the Home Office are a tissue of the same + frauds, suppressions, inventions, and direct falsehoods. + </p> + <p> + “The truth, therefore, is inaccessible to you, except by a severe inquiry + conducted on the spot. That inquiry I pray for on public grounds, and if + need be, demand in my own person, as her majesty's servant driven to this + strait. + </p> + <p> + “I am responsible to her majesty for the lives and well-being of the + prisoners, and yet unable, without your intervention, to protect them + against illegal violence covered by organized fraud.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden copied this, and sent the copy at once to Mr. Hawes with two + lines to this effect, that the duplicate should not leave the town till + seven in the evening, so Mr. Hawes had plenty of time to write to the Home + Secretary by same post, and parry or meet this blow if he thought it worth + his while. + </p> + <p> + It now remained only to post the duplicate for the Home Office. Mr. Eden + directed it and waxed it, but even as he leaned over it sealing it the + room suddenly became dark to him, and his head seemed to weigh a ton. With + an instinct of self-preservation he made for the sofa, which was close + behind him, but before he could reach it his senses had left him, and he + fell with his head and shoulders upon the couch but his feet on the floor, + the memorial tight in his hand. He paid the penalty of being a blood-horse—he + ran till he dropped. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII. + </h2> + <p> + “Two ladies to see you,” grunted the red-haired servant, throwing open the + door without ceremony; and she actually bounced out again without seeing + anything more than that her master was lying on the sofa. + </p> + <p> + Susan Merton and her aunt came rapidly and cheerfully into the room. + </p> + <p> + “Here we are, Mr. Eden, Aunt Davies and I—Oh!” The table being + between the sofa and the door the poor gentleman's actual condition was + not self-evident from the latter, but Susan was now in the middle of the + room and her gayety gave way in a moment to terror. + </p> + <p> + “Why, the man has fainted!” cried Mrs. Davies hurriedly. Susan clasped her + hands together and turned very pale; but for all that she was the first at + Mr. Eden's head; “he is choking! he is choking! help me, aunt, help me!” + but even while crying for help her nimble fingers had untied and flung + away Mr. Eden's white neck-tie, which, being high and stiff, was doing him + a very ill turn, as the air forcing itself violently through his nostrils + plainly showed. + </p> + <p> + “Take his legs, aunt; oh! oh! oh!” + </p> + <p> + “Don't be a fool, girl, it is only a faint.” Susan flew to the window and + threw it open, then flew back and seized one end of the couch. Her aunt + comprehended at a glance, and the two carried it with its burden to the + window. + </p> + <p> + “Open the door, aunt,” cried Susan, as she whipped out her scent-bottle + and with her finger wetted the inside of his nostrils with the spirit as + the patient lay in the thorough draught. Susan sobbed with sorrow and + fear, but her emotion was far from disabling her. + </p> + <p> + She poured some of her scent into a water-glass and diluted it largely. + She made her aunt take a hand-screen from the mantel-piece. She plunged + her hand into the liquid and flung the drops sharply into Mr. Eden's face; + and Mrs. Davies fanned him rapidly at the same time. + </p> + <p> + These remedies had a speedy effect. First the film cleared from the + patient's bright eye, then a little color diffused itself gradually over + his cheek, and last his lips lost their livid tint. As soon as she saw him + coming to, Susan composed herself; and Mr. Eden, on his return to + consciousness, looked up and saw a beautiful young woman looking down on + him with a cheerful, encouraging smile and wet cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” sighed he, and put out his hand faintly to welcome Susan; “but what—how + do I come here?” + </p> + <p> + “You have been a little faint,” said Susan smiling, “but you are better + now, you know!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, thank you! how good of you to come! Who is this lady?” + </p> + <p> + “My aunt, sir—a very notable woman. See, she is setting your things + to rights already. Aunt, I wonder at you!” + </p> + <p> + She then dipped the corner of her handkerchief in scent, and slightly + coloring now that her patient was conscious, she made the spirit enter his + nostrils. + </p> + <p> + He gave a sigh of languid pleasure—“That is so invigorating.” Then + he looked upward—“See how good God is to me! in my sore need He has + sent me help. Oh! how pleasant is the face of a friend. By-the-way, I took + you for an angel at first,” added he naively. + </p> + <p> + “But you have come to your senses now, sir! ha! ha! ha!” cried busy, merry + Mrs. Davies, hard at work. For as soon as the patient began visibly to + return to life, she had turned her back on him and fallen on the + furniture. + </p> + <p> + “I hope you are come to stay with me.” As Susan was about to answer in the + negative, Mrs. Davies made signals for a private conference; and after + some whispering, Susan replied, “that her aunt wanted to put the house in + apple-pie order, and that she, Susan, felt too anxious about him to go + until he should be quite recovered.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case, ladies,” said he, “I consecrate to you my entire second + floor, three rooms,” and he rang the bell and said to the servant, “Take + your orders from these ladies, and show them the second floor.” + </p> + <p> + While his visitors were examining their apartments, Mr. Eden sought a + little rest, and had no sooner dropped upon his bed than sleep came to his + relief. + </p> + <p> + He slept for nearly four hours; at first soundly, then dozing and + dreaming. While he slept a prisoner sent for him, but Susan would not have + him awakened for that. + </p> + <p> + By-and-by Susan went into the town, leaving her aunt sole guardian. + </p> + <p> + “Now, aunt,” said she, “don't let him be disturbed whoever comes for him. + It is as much as his life is worth!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, I won't! there.” + </p> + <p> + Susan had not been long gone when a turnkey called, and was shown into the + parlor where Mrs. Davies was very busy. He looked about him and told her + he had called for a book Mr. Eden promised him. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Eden is asleep.” + </p> + <p> + “Asleep at this time of day?” said the man incredulously. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, asleep,” answered Mrs. Davies sharply; “is he never to have any + sleep?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, perhaps you will tell him Mr. Fry has come for the book as + requested.” + </p> + <p> + “Couldn't think of disturbing him for that, Mr. Fry,” replied Mrs. Davies, + not intermitting her work for a single moment. + </p> + <p> + “Very well, ma'am!” said Mr. Fry, in dudgeon. “I never was here before, + and I shan't ever come again—that is all—” and off he went. + Mrs. Davies showed her dismay at this threat by dusting on without once + taking her eye or her mind off her job. + </p> + <p> + It was eight o'clock. Mr. Eden woke and found it almost dark. + </p> + <p> + He rose immediately. “Why, I have slept the day away,” thought he in + dismay, “and my memorial to the Home Office; it is past post time, and I + have not sent it.” He came hastily downstairs and entered the parlor; he + found it in a frightful state. All the chairs were in the middle of the + room, every part of which was choked up except a pathway three feet broad + that ran by the side of the wall all round it. From this path all access + into the interior was blocked by the furniture, which now stood upon an + area frightfully diminished by this loss of three feet taken from each + wall. Mrs. Davies was a character—a notable woman. Mr. Eden's heart + sank at the sight. + </p> + <p> + To find himself put to rights gives a bachelor an innocent pleasure, but + the preliminary process of being put entirely to wrongs crushes his soul. + “Another fanatic let loose on me,” thought he, “and my room is like a road + that is just mended, as they call it.” He peered about here and there + through a grove of chairs whose legs were kicking in the air as they sat + bosom downward upon their brethren, but he could see no memorial. He rang + the bell and inquired of the servant whether she had seen it. While he was + describing it to her Mrs. Davies broke in: + </p> + <p> + “I saw it—I picked it up off the floor—it was lying between + the sofa and the table.” + </p> + <p> + “And what did you do with it?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, dusted it, to be sure.” + </p> + <p> + “But where did you put it?” + </p> + <p> + “On the table, I suppose.” + </p> + <p> + Another search and no memorial. + </p> + <p> + “Somebody has taken it.” + </p> + <p> + “But who? has anybody been in this room since?” + </p> + <p> + “Plenty. You don't get much peace here, I should say; but Susan gave the + order you were not to be disturbed.” + </p> + <p> + “This won't do,” thought Mr. Eden. + </p> + <p> + “Who has been here?” said he to the servant. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Fry is the only one that came into this room.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Fry!” said Mr. Eden, with some surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Ay! ay!” cried Mrs. Davies. “I remember now there was an ill-looking + fellow of that name here talking to me, pretending you had promised him a + book.” + </p> + <p> + “But I did promise him a book.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you did, did you! well he looked like a thief, perhaps he has—goodness + gracious me, I hope there was no money in it,” and Mrs. Davies lost her + ruddy color in a moment. + </p> + <p> + “No! no! it was only a letter, but of great importance.” + </p> + <p> + Another violent search at the risk of shins and hands. + </p> + <p> + “That Fry has taken it. I never saw such a hang-dog looking fellow.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden was much vexed; but he had a trick of blaming himself, Heaven + only knows where he caught it. “My own forgetfulness; even if the paper + had not been lost I had allowed post-time to go by—and Mr. Hawes + will anticipate me with the Home Secretary.” He sighed. + </p> + <p> + In so severe a struggle he was almost as reluctant to give an unfair + advantage as to take one. + </p> + <p> + He ordered a fire in his little back parlor; and with a sigh sat down to + rewrite his memorial and to try and recover, if he could, the exact words, + and save the next post that left in the morning. + </p> + <p> + As Mr. Eden sat trying to recover the words of his memorial, Hawes was + seated in Mr. Williams' study at Ashtown Park, concerting with that worthy + magistrate the best way of turning the new chaplain out of —— + Jail. He found no difficulty. Mr. Williams had two very strong prejudices, + one in favor of Hawes personally, the other in favor of the system pursued + this two years in that jail. Egotism was here, too, and rendered these + prejudices almost impregnable. Williams had turned out O'Connor and his + milder system, and put in Hawes and his more rigorous one. Hawes was “my + man—his system mine.” + </p> + <p> + He told his story, and Williams burned to avenge his injured friend, whose + patron and director he called himself, and whose tool he was. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing can be done until the twenty-fifth, when Palmer returns. We must + be all there for an act of this importance. Do your duty as you always + have, carry out the discipline, and send for me if he gives you any great + annoyance in the meantime.” + </p> + <p> + That zealous servant of her majesty, earnest Mr. Hawes, had never taken a + day's holiday before. No man could accuse him of indolence, carelessness, + or faint discharge of the task he had appointed himself. He perverted his + duties too much to neglect them. He had been reluctant to leave the prison + on a personal affair. The drive, however, was pleasant, and he returned + freshened and animated by assurances of support from the magistrate. + </p> + <p> + As he strode across the prison yard to inspect everything before going to + his house, he felt invulnerable and sneered at himself for the momentary + uneasiness he had let a crack-brained parson give him. He went home; there + was a nice fire, a clean-swept hearth, a glittering brass kettle on the + hob for making toddy, and three different kinds of spirits in huge cruets. + For system reigned in the house as well as the jail, with this difference, + that the house system was devoted to making self comfortable the jail + system to making others wretched. + </p> + <p> + He rang the bell. In came the servant with slippers and candles unlighted, + for he was wont to sip his grog by fire-light. He put on his slippers. + Then he mixed his grog. Then he noticed a paper on the table, and putting + it to the fire he found it was sealed. So he lighted the candles and + placed them a little behind him. Then he stirred his grog and sipped it, + and placing it close beside him, leaned back with a grunt of satisfaction, + opened the paper, read it first slowly, then all in a flutter, started up + as if he was going to act upon some impulse; but the next moment sat down + again and stared wildly a picture of stupid consternation. + </p> + <p> + Meantime, as Mr. Eden with a heavy heart was writing himself out—nauseous + task—Susan stood before him with a color like a rose. She was in a + brown cloak, from under which she took out a basket brimful of little + packages, some in blue, some in white paper. + </p> + <p> + “These are grits,” said she, “and these are arrowroot.” + </p> + <p> + “I know—one of the phases of the potato.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! for shame, Mr. Eden. Well, I never! And I posted your letter, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “What letter? what letter?” + </p> + <p> + “The long one. I found it on the table.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't mean you posted that letter?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, it was to go, wasn't it?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it was to go, but it was wonderfully intelligent of you.” + </p> + <p> + “La! Mr. Eden, don't talk so; you make me ashamed. Why, there was + 'immediate' written on it in your own hand. Was I to wake you up to ask + whether that meant it was to stay here immediate, or go to London + immediate?” Then she pondered a moment. “He thinks I am a fool,” said she, + in quiet explanation, without a shade of surprise or anger. + </p> + <p> + “Well! Susan, my dear friend, you don't know what a service you have done + me!” + </p> + <p> + Susan glittered with pleasure. + </p> + <p> + “There!” cried he, “you have spared me this most unpleasant task,” and he + flung his unfinished papers into a basket. Mr. Eden congratulated himself + in his way, i.e., thanked Heaven Susan had come there; the next thing was, + he had a twinge of conscience. “I half suspected Fry of taking it in the + interest of Hawes, his friend. Poor Fry, who is a brute, but as honest a + man as myself, every bit. He shall have his book, at all events. I'll put + his name on it that I mayn't forget it again.” Mr. Eden took the book from + its shelf, wrapped it in paper, and wrote on the cover, “For Mr. Fry from + F. Eden.” As the incidents of the day are ended, I may as well relate what + this book was and how Fry came to ask for it. + </p> + <p> + The book was “Uncle Tom,” a story which discusses the largest human topic + that ever can arise; for the human race is bisected into black and white. + Nowadays a huge subject greatly treated receives justice from the public, + and “Uncle Tom” is written in many places with art, in all with red ink + and with the biceps muscle. + </p> + <p> + Great by theme, and great by skill, and greater by a writer's soul + honestly flung into its pages, “Uncle Tom,” to the surprise of many that + twaddle traditional phrases in reviews and magazines about the art of + fiction, and to the surprise of no man who knows anything about the art of + fiction, was all the rage. Not to have read it was like not to have read + the <i>Times</i> for a week. + </p> + <p> + Once or twice during the crucifixion of a prisoner Mr. Eden had said + bitterly to Fry, “Have you read 'Uncle Tom?'” + </p> + <p> + “No!” would Fry grunt. + </p> + <p> + But one day that the question was put to him he asked, with some + appearance of interest, “Who is Uncle Tom?” + </p> + <p> + Then Mr. Eden began to reflect. “Who knows? The cases are in a great + measure parallel. Prisoners are a tabooed class in England, as are blacks + in some few of the United States. The lady writes better than I can talk. + If she once seizes his sympathies by the wonderful power of fiction, she + will touch his conscience through his heart. This disciple of Legree is + fortified against me; Mrs. Stowe may take him off his guard. He said slyly + to Fry, 'Not know Uncle Tom! Why it is a most interesting story—a + charming story. There are things in it, too, that meet your case.'” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a book you will like. Shall I lend it you?” + </p> + <p> + “If you please, sir. Nights are drawing in now.” + </p> + <p> + “I will, then.” + </p> + <p> + And he would; but that frightful malady, jaundice, among its other feats, + impairs the patient's memory; and he forgot all about it. So Fry, whose + curiosity was at last excited, came for the book. The rest we know. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII. + </h2> + <p> + MR. HAWES went about the prison next day morose and melancholy. He spoke + to no one, and snapped those who spoke to him. He punished no prisoner all + day, but he looked at them as a wolf at fortified sheep. He did not know + what to do to avert the blow he had drawn so perseveringly on his own + head. At one time he thought of writing to the Home Office and aspersing + his accuser; then he regretted his visit to Ashtown Park. “What an unlucky + dog I am! I go to see a man that I was sure of before I went, and while I + am gone the —— parson steals a march on me. He will beat me! + If I hadn't been a fool I should have seen what a dangerous devil he is. + No putting him out of temper and no putting him out of heart! He will beat + me! The zealous services of so many years won't save me with an ungrateful + Government. I shall lose my stipend!” + </p> + <p> + For a while even stout-hearted, earnest Mr. Hawes was depressed with gloom + and bitter foreboding; but he had a resource in trouble good Mr. Eden in + similar case had not. + </p> + <p> + In the despondency of his soul he turned—to GROG. + </p> + <p> + Under the inspiration of that deity he prepared for a dogged defense. He + would punish no more prisoners, let them do what they might, and then if + an inquiry should take place he would be in case to show that by his past + severities he had at last brought his patients to such perfection that + weeks had elapsed without a single punishment. With this and the justices' + good word he would weather the storm yet. + </p> + <p> + Thus passed three days without one of those assaults on prisoners he + called punishment; but this enforced forbearance made him hate his + victims. He swore at them, he threatened them all round, and with deep + malice he gave open orders to punish which he secretly countermanded, so + that in fact he did punish, for blows suspended over the head fall upon + the soul. Thus he made his prisoners share his gloom. He was unhappy; he + was dull; robbed of an excitement which had become butter to his daily + bread. + </p> + <p> + All prison life is dull. Chaplain, turnkeys, jailers, all who live in + prisons are prisoners. Barren of mental resources, too stupid to see far + less read the vast romance that lay all round him, every cell a volume; + too mindless to comprehend his own grand situation on a salient of the + State and of human nature, and to discern the sacred and endless pleasures + to be gathered there, this unhappy dolt, flung into a lofty situation by + shallow blockheads, who like himself saw in a jail nothing greater nor + more than a “place of punishment,” must still like his prisoners and the + rest of us have some excitement to keep him from going dead. What more + natural than that such a nature should find its excitement in tormenting, + and that by degrees this excitement should become first a habit then a + need? Growth is the nature of habit, not of one sort or another but of all—even + of an unnatural habit. Gin grows on a man—charity grows on a man—tobacco + grows on a man—blood grows on a man. + </p> + <p> + At a period of the Reign of Terror the Parisians got to find a day weary + without the guillotine. If by some immense fortuity there came a day when + they were not sprinkled with innocent blood the poor souls s'ennuyaient. + This was not so much thirst for any particular liquid as the habit of + excitement. Some months before, dancing, theaters, boulevard, etc., would + have made shift to amuse these same hearts, as they did some months after + when the red habit was worn out. Torture had grown upon stupid, earnest + Hawes; it seasoned that white of egg, a mindless existence. + </p> + <p> + Oh! how dull he felt these three deplorable days, barren of groans, and + white faces, and livid lips, and fellow-creatures shamming,* and the + bucket. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * A generic term for swooning, or sickening, or going mad, + in a prison. +</pre> + <p> + Mr. Hawes had given a sulky order that the infirmary should be prepared + for the sick, and now on the afternoon of the third day the surgeon had + met him there by appointment. + </p> + <p> + “Will they get well any quicker here?” asked Hawes ironically. + </p> + <p> + “Why, certainly,” replied the other. + </p> + <p> + Hawes gave a dissatisfied grunt. + </p> + <p> + “I hate moving prisoners out of the cells; but I suppose I shall get you + into trouble if I don't.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” said the other, with an inquiring air; “how?” + </p> + <p> + “Parson threatens you very hard for letting the sick ones lie in their + cells,” said Hawes slyly. “But never mind, old boy—I shall stand + your friend and the justices mine. We shall beat him yet,” said Hawes, + assuming a firmness he did not feel lest this man should fall away from + him and perhaps bear witness against him. + </p> + <p> + “I think you have beat him already,” replied the other calmly. + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “I have just come from Mr. Eden. He sent for me.” + </p> + <p> + “What, isn't he well?” + </p> + <p> + “I wish he'd die! But there is no chance of that.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, there is always a chance of a man dying who has got a bilious + fever.” + </p> + <p> + “Why you don't mean he is seriously ill?” cried Hawes in excitement. + </p> + <p> + “I don't say that, but he has got a sharp attack.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes examined the speaker's face. It was as legible as a book from + the outside. He went from the subject to one or two indifferent matters, + but he could not keep long from what was uppermost. + </p> + <p> + “Sawyer,” said he, “you and I have always been good friends.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Mr. Hawes.” + </p> + <p> + “I have never been hard upon you. You ought to be here every day, but the + pay is small and I have never insisted on it, because I said he can't + afford to leave patients that pay.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Mr. Hawes, and I am much obliged to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you? Then tell me—between ourselves now—how ill is he?” + </p> + <p> + “He has got bilious fever consequent upon jaundice.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes lowered his voice. “Is he in danger?” + </p> + <p> + “In danger? Why, no, not at present.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! then it is only an indisposition after all.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a great deal more than that—it is fever and bile.” + </p> + <p> + “Can't you tell me in two words how ill he is?” + </p> + <p> + “Not till I see how the case turns.” + </p> + <p> + “When will you be able to say then?” + </p> + <p> + “When the disorder declares itself more fully.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes exploded in an oath. “You humbugs of doctors couldn't speak plain to + save yourselves from hanging.” + </p> + <p> + There was some truth in this ill-natured excuse. After fifteen years given + to the science of obscurity Mr. Sawyer literally could not speak plain all + in one moment. + </p> + <p> + The next morning there was no service in the chapel, the chaplain was in + bed. This spoke for itself, and Hawes wore a look of grim satisfaction at + the announcement. + </p> + <p> + But this was not all. In the afternoon came a letter from Mr. Williams + with a large inclosure signed by her majesty's secretary's secretary, and + written by her secretary's secretary's secretary. + </p> + <p> + Its precise contents will be related elsewhere. Its tendency may be + gathered from this. + </p> + <p> + Hawes had no sooner read it than exultation painted itself on his + countenance. + </p> + <p> + “Close the infirmary and bring me the key. And you, Fry, put these numbers + on the cranks to-morrow.” He scribbled with his pencil, and gave him a + long list of the proscribed. + </p> + <p> + No Mr. Eden shone now upon Mr. Robinson's solitude. He waited, and waited, + and hoped till the day ended, but no! The next day the same thing. He + longed for Mr. Eden's hour to come; it came, but not with it came his one + bit of sunshine, his excitement, his amusement, his consolation, his + friend, his brother, his all. And so one heavy day succeeded another, and + Robinson became fretful, and very, very sad. One day, as he sat + disconsolate and foreboding in his cell, he heard a stranger's voice + talking to Fry outside. And what was more strange, Fry appeared to be + inviting this person to inspect the cells. The next moment his door was + opened, and a figure peeped timidly into the cell from behind Fry, whose + arm she clutched in some anxiety. Robinson looked up—it was Susan + Merton. She did not instantly know him in his prison dress and his curly + hair cut short; he hung his head, and this action and the recognition it + implied made her recognize him. “Oh!” cried she, “it is Mr. Robinson!” + </p> + <p> + The thief turned his face to the wall. Even he was ashamed before one who + had known him as Mr. Robinson; but the next moment he got up and said + earnestly, + </p> + <p> + “Pray, Miss Merton, do me a favor—you had always a kind heart Ask + that man what has become of Mr. Eden—he will answer you.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Robinson,” cried Susan, “I have no need to ask Mr. Fry. I am staying + at Mr. Eden's house. He is very ill, Mr. Robinson.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! I feared as much! he never would have deserted me else. What is the + trouble?” + </p> + <p> + “You may well say trouble! it is the prison that has fretted him to + death,” cried Susan, half bitterly, half sorrowfully. + </p> + <p> + “But he will get well! it is not serious?” inquired Robinson anxiously. + </p> + <p> + Fry pricked his ears. + </p> + <p> + “He is very ill, Mr. Robinson,” and Susan sighed heavily. + </p> + <p> + “I'll pray for him. He has taught me to pray—all the poor fellows + will pray for him that know how. Miss Merton, good for nothing as I am, I + would die for Mr. Eden this minute if I could save his life by it.” + </p> + <p> + Susan thought of this speech afterward. Now she but said, “I will tell him + what you say.” + </p> + <p> + “And won't you bring me one word back from his dear mouth?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! I will! good-by, Mr. Robinson.” Robinson tried to say good-by, but + it stuck in his throat, Susan retired, and his cell seemed darker than + ever. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden lay stricken with fever. He had been what most of us would have + called ill long before this. The day of Carter's crucifixion was a fatal + day to him. On that day for the first time he saw a crucifixion without + being sick after it. The poor soul congratulated himself so on this; but + there is reason to think that same sickness acted as a safety-valve to his + nature; when it ceased the bile overflowed and mixed with his blood, + producing that horrible complaint jaundice. Even then if the causes of + grief and wrong had ceased he might perhaps have had no dangerous attack. + But everything was against him; constant grief, constant worry and + constant preternatural exertions to sustain others while drooping himself. + Even those violent efforts of will by which he thrust back for a time the + approaches of his malady told heavily upon him at last. The thorough-bred + horse ran much longer than a cocktail would, but he could not run forever. + </p> + <p> + He lay unshaven, hollow-eyed and sallow. Mrs. Davies and Susan watched him + by turns, except when he compelled them to go and take a little rest or + amusement. The poor thing's thoughts were never on himself, even when he + was light-headed, and this was often, though not for long together. It was + generally his poor prisoners, and what he was going to do for them. + </p> + <p> + This is how Susan Merton came to visit Robinson. One day, seeing his great + interest in all that concerned the prison, and remembering there was a + book addressed to one of the officers, Susan, who longed to do something, + however small, to please him, determined to take this book to its + destination. Leaving Mrs. Davies with a strict injunction not to stir from + Mr. Eden's room till she came back, she went to the prison and knocked + timidly at the great door. It was opened instantly, and as Susan fancied, + fiercely, by a burly figure. Susan, suppressing an inclination to run + away, asked tremulously: + </p> + <p> + “Does Mr. Fry live here?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Can I speak to him?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. Come in, miss.” + </p> + <p> + Susan stepped in. + </p> + <p> + The man slammed the door. + </p> + <p> + Susan wished herself on its other side. + </p> + <p> + “My name is Fry. What is your pleasure with me?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Fry, I am so glad I have found you. I am come here from a friend of + yours.” + </p> + <p> + “From a friend of mine??!!” said Fry, with a mystified air. + </p> + <p> + “Yes; from Mr. Eden. Here is the book, Mr. Fry; poor Mr. Eden could not + bring it you himself, but you see he has written your name on the cover + with his own hand.” + </p> + <p> + Fry took the book from Susan's hand, and in so doing observed that she was + lovely; so to make her a return for bringing him “Uncle Tom,” and for + being so pretty, Fry for once in his life felt generous, and repaid her by + volunteering to show her the prison—indulgent Fry! + </p> + <p> + To his surprise Susan did not jump at this remuneration. On the contrary, + she said hastily: + </p> + <p> + “Oh! no! no! no!” + </p> + <p> + Then, seeing by his face that her new acquaintance thought her a madwoman, + she added: + </p> + <p> + “That is, yes! I think I should like to see it a little—a very + little—but if I do you must keep close by me, Mr. Fry.” + </p> + <p> + “Why of course I shall keep with you,” replied Fry somewhat + contemptuously. “No strangers admitted except in company of an officer.” + </p> + <p> + Susan still hung fire. + </p> + <p> + “But you mustn't go to show me the very wicked ones.” + </p> + <p> + “Why they are all pretty much of a muchness for that.” + </p> + <p> + “I mean the murderers—I couldn't bear such a sight.” + </p> + <p> + “Got none,” said Fry sorrowfully; “parted with the last of that sort four + months ago—up at eight down at nine you understand, miss.” + </p> + <p> + Happily Susan did not understand this brutal allusion; and, not to show + her ignorance, she said nothing, but passed to a second stipulation—“And, + Mr. Fry, I know the men that set fire to Farmer Dean's ricks are in this + jail; I won't see them; they would give me such a turn, for that seems to + me the next crime after murder to destroy the crops after the very weather + has spared them.” + </p> + <p> + Fry smiled superior; then he said sarcastically: + </p> + <p> + “Don't you be frightened, some of our lot are beauties; your friend the + parson is as fond of some of 'em as a cow is of her calf.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! then show me those ones.” Fry took her to one or two cells. Whenever + he opened a cell door she always clutched him on both ribs, and this + tickled Fry, so did her simplicity. + </p> + <p> + At last he came to Robinson's cell. + </p> + <p> + “In here there is a sulky chap.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! then let us go on to the next.” + </p> + <p> + “But this is one his reverence is uncommon fond of,” said Fry, with a + sneer and a chuckle; so he flung open the door, and if the man had not + hung his head Susan would hardly have recognized in his uniform corduroy + and close-cropped hair the vulgar Adonis who had sat glittering opposite + her at table the last time they met. + </p> + <p> + After the interview which I have described, Susan gratified Fry by + praising the beautiful cleanliness of the prison, and returned, leaving a + pleasant impression even on this rough hide and “Uncle Tom” behind her. + </p> + <p> + When she got home she found her patient calm but languid. + </p> + <p> + While she was relating her encounter with Robinson, and her previous + acquaintance with him, the knock of a born fool at a sick man's door made + them all start. It was Rutila, with a long letter bearing an ample seal. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden took it with brightening eye, read it, and ground it almost + convulsively in his hand. “Asses!” cried he; but the next moment he + groaned and bowed his head. Her majesty's secretary's secretary's + secretary had written to tell him that his appeal for an inquiry had + traveled out of the regular course; it ought to have been made in the + first instance to the visiting justices, whose business it was to conduct + such inquiries, and that it lay with these visiting justices to apply to + the Home Office for an extraordinary inquiry if they found they could not + deal with the facts in the usual way. The office, therefore, had sent + copies of his memorial to each of the visiting justices, who at their next + inspection of the jail would examine into the alleged facts, and had been + requested to insert the results in their periodical report. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden sat up in bed, his eye glittering. “Bring me my writing-desk.” + </p> + <p> + It was put on the bed before him, but with many kind injunctions not to + worry himself. He promised faithfully. He wrote to the Home Office in this + style: + </p> + <p> + “A question of life and death cannot be played with as you have + inconsiderately proposed; nor can a higher jurisdiction transfer an appeal + to a lower one without the appellant's consent. Such a course is still + more out of order when the higher judge is a salaried servant of the State + and the lower ones are amateurs. This was so self-evident that I did not + step out of the direct line to cast reflections upon unpaid servants. You + have not seen what is self-evident—you drive me, therefore, to + explanations. + </p> + <p> + “I offered you evidence that this jailer is a felon, who has hoodwinked + the visiting justices and has deceived you. But between you and the + justices is this essential difference: they have been hoodwinked in spite + of their own eyes, their own ears, and contact with that mass of living + and dying evidence, the prisoners. You have been deceived without a single + opportunity of learning the truth. + </p> + <p> + “Therefore I appealed, and do appeal, not to convicted incompetency, but + to those whose incompetency remains to be proved. Perhaps you will + understand me better if I put it thus: I still accuse the jailer of more + than a hundred felonious assaults upon prisoners, of attacks upon their + lives by physical torture, by hunger, thirst, preposterous confinement in + dark dungeons, and other illegal practices; and I now advance another step + and accuse the visiting justices of gross dereliction of their duty, of + neglecting to ascertain the real practice of the jailer in some points, + and in others of encouraging, aiding and abetting him in open violations + of the prison rules printed and issued by Act of Parliament. Of these + rules, which are the jail code, I send you a copy. I note the practices of + the jail by the side of the rules of the jail. By comparing the two you + may calculate the amount of lawless cruelty perpetrated here in each + single day; then ask yourself whether an honest man who is on the spot can + wait four or five months till justice, crippled by routine, comes hobbling + instead of sweeping to their relief. + </p> + <p> + “For Heaven's sake, bring to bear upon a matter vital to the State + one-half the intelligence, zeal and sense of responsibility you will throw + this evening into some ambiguous question of fleeting policy of + speculative finance. Here are one hundred and eighty souls to whose + correction, cure and protection the State is pledged. No one of all these + lives is safe a single day. In six weeks I have saved two lives that were + gone but for me. I am now sick and enfeebled by the exertions I have had + to make to save lives, and am in no condition to arrest the progress of + destruction. I tell you that more lives will fall if you do not come to my + aid at once! and for every head that falls from this hour I hold you + responsible to God and the State. + </p> + <p> + “If I fail to prove my several accusations, as a matter of course I shall + be dismissed from my office deservedly; and this personal risk entitles me + not only to petition for, but to demand an inquiry into the practice of + —— Jail. And in the queen's name, whose salaried servant I am, + I do demand it on the instant and on the spot.” + </p> + <p> + Thus did flesh and blood address gutta-percha. + </p> + <p> + The excitement of writing this letter did the patient no good. A reaction + came, and that night his kind nurses were seriously alarmed about him. + They sent for the surgeon, who felt his pulse and his skin and looked + grave. However, he told them there was no immediate danger, and wrote a + fresh prescription. + </p> + <p> + The patient would eat nothing but bread and water and gruel; but he took + all the doctor's medicines, which were raking ones; only at each visit and + prescription he cross-examined him as to what effect he hoped to produce + by his prescription, and compared the man's expectations with the result. + </p> + <p> + This process soon brought him to the suspicion that in his case + Aesculapius's science was guess-work. But we go on hoping and hoping + something from traditional remedies, even when they fail and fail and fail + before our eyes. + </p> + <p> + He was often light-headed, and vented schemes of charity and benevolence + ludicrous by their unearthly grandeur. One day he was more than + light-headed—he was delirious, and frightened his kind nurses; and + to this delirium succeeded great feebleness, and this day for the first + time Susan made up her mind that it was Heaven's will earth should lose + this man, of whom, in truth, earth was scarce worthy. She came to his side + and said tenderly, + </p> + <p> + “Let me do something for you. Shall I read to you, or sing you a hymn?” + Her voice had often soothed and done him good. “Tell me what I can do for + you!” + </p> + <p> + The man smiled gratefully, then looked imploringly in her eyes, and said, + “Dear Susan, go for me into the prison and pay Strutt and Robinson each a + visit. Strutt the longest, he is the oldest. Poor things! they miss me + sadly.” + </p> + <p> + Susan made no foolish objection. She did what she was asked, and came back + and told him all they had said and all she had said; and how kind + everybody was to her in the prison; and how they had all asked how he was + to-day. + </p> + <p> + “They are very good,” said he feebly. + </p> + <p> + Soon after he dosed; and Susan, who always wore a cheerful look to his + face, could now yield to her real feelings. + </p> + <p> + She sat at some little distance from the bed and tried to work, and every + now and then looked up to watch him, and again and again her eyes were + blinded; and she laid down her work, for her heart said to her, “A few + short days and you will see him no more.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Davies, too, was grave and sad. She had made the house neat and clean + from cellar to garret, and now he who should have enjoyed it lay there + sick unto death. + </p> + <p> + “Susan,” said she, “I doubt I have been sent here to set his house in + order against his—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! don't tell me that,” cried Susan, and she burst into a fit of + sobbing, for Mrs. Davies had harped her own fear. + </p> + <p> + “Take care, he is waking, Susan. He must not see us.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no!” and the next moment she was by her patient's side with a + cheerful look and voice and manner well calculated to keep any male heart + from sinking, sick or well. + </p> + <p> + Heavy heart and hopeful face! such a nurse was Susan Merton. This kind + deception became more difficult every day. Her patient wasted and wasted; + and the anxious look that is often seen on a death-stricken man's face + showed itself. Mrs. Davies saw it and Susan saw it; but the sick man + himself as yet had never spoken of his decease; and both Mrs. Davies and + Susan often wondered that he did not seem to see his real state. + </p> + <p> + But one day it so happened that he was light-headed and greatly excited, + holding a conversation. His eye was flashing, and he spoke in bursts, and + then stopped a while and seemed to be listening in irritation to some + arguments with which he did not agree. The enthusiast was building a + prison in the air. A prison with a farm, a school, and a manufactory + attached. Here were to be combined the good points of every system, and + others of his own. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said he, in answer to his imaginary companion, “there shall be both + separation and silence for those whose moral case it suits—for all, + perhaps, at first—but not for all always. Away with your Morrison's + pill-system; your childish monotony of moral treatment in cases varying + and sometimes opposed. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but I would. I would allow a degree of intercourse between such as + were disposed to confirm each other in good. Watch them? why, of course—and + closely, too. + </p> + <p> + “Intelligent labor for every creature in the place. No tickets-of-leave to + let the hypocritical or self-deceiving ones loose upon the world. + </p> + <p> + “No, I test their repentance first with a little liberty. + </p> + <p> + “How? Why fly them with a string before I let them fly free! + </p> + <p> + “Occupation provided outside the prison-gates; instead of ticket-of-leave + let the candidate work there on parole and come into the prison at night. + </p> + <p> + “Some will break parole and run away? All the better. Then you know their + real character. Telegraph them. You began by photographing them—send + their likenesses to every town—catch them—cell them. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! And pray what would these same men have done had you given them + the ticket-of-leave instead? + </p> + <p> + “By the present plan your pseudo-convert commits a dozen crimes before his + hypocrisy is suspected; by ours a single offense warns you and arms you + against him. + </p> + <p> + “Systems avail less than is supposed. For good or ill all depends on your + men—not your machinery. + </p> + <p> + “We have got rid of the old patch that rotted our new garment. When I + first was chaplain of a jail—” + </p> + <p> + His mind had gone forward some years. “Then we were mad—thought a + new system could be worked by men of the past, by jailers and turnkeys + belonging to the dark and brutal age that came before ours. + </p> + <p> + “Those dark days are passed. Now we have really a governor and warders + instead of jailers and turnkeys. The nation has discovered these are high + offices, not mean ones. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Lepel, yes! Our officers are men picked out of all England for + intelligence and humanity. They co-operate with me. Our jail is one of the + nation's eyes—it is a school, thank Heaven, it is not a dungeon!—I + am in bed!” + </p> + <p> + With these last words he had come to himself, and oh, the sad contrast! + Butcherly blockheads in these high places, and himself lying sick and + powerless, unable to lift a hand for the cause he loved. + </p> + <p> + The sigh that burst from him seemed to tear his very heart; but the very + next moment he put his hands humbly together and said, “God's will be + done!” Yet one big tear gathered in his lion eye and spite of all trickled + down his cheek while he said, “God's will be done.” + </p> + <p> + Susan saw it, and turned quickly away and hid her face; but he called her, + and though his lip quivered his voice was pretty firm. + </p> + <p> + “Dear friend, God can always find instruments. The good work will be done, + though not by me.” + </p> + <p> + So then Susan judged, by these few words, and the tear that trickled from + his closed eyes, that he saw what others saw and did not look to live now. + </p> + <p> + She left the room in haste not to agitate him by the sorrow she could no + longer restrain or conceal. The patient lay quiet, languidly dozing. + </p> + <p> + Now about four o'clock in the afternoon the surgeon came to the door; but + what surprised Susan was that a man accompanied him whom she only just + knew by sight, and who had never been there before—the turnkey + Hodges. The pair spoke together in a low tone, and Susan, who was looking + down from an upper window, could not hear what they said; but the + discussion lasted a minute or two before they rang the bell. Susan came + down herself and admitted them: but as she was leading the way upstairs + her aunt suddenly bounced out of the parlor looking unaccountably red, and + said: + </p> + <p> + “I will go up with them, Susan.” + </p> + <p> + Susan said, “If you like, aunt,” but felt some little surprise at Mrs. + Davies's brisk manner. + </p> + <p> + At the sick man's door Mrs. Davies paused, and said dryly, with a look at + Hodges, “Who shall I say is come with you?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hodges, one of the warders, is come to inquire after his reverence's + health,” replied the surgeon smoothly. + </p> + <p> + “I must ask him first whether he will receive a stranger.” + </p> + <p> + “Admit him,” was Mr. Eden's answer. The men entered the room, and were + welcomed with a kind but feeble smile from the sick man. + </p> + <p> + “Sit down, Hodges.” + </p> + <p> + The surgeon felt his pulse and wrote a prescription; for it is a tradition + of the elders that at each visit the doctor must do some overt act of + medicine. After this he asked the patient how he felt. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden turned an eloquent look upon him in reply. + </p> + <p> + “I must speak to Hodges,” said he. “Come near me, Hodges,” said he in a + kind voice, “perhaps I may not have any more opportunities of giving you a + word of friendly exhortation.” Here a short, dissatisfied, contemptuous + grunt was heard at the window-seat. + </p> + <p> + “Did you speak, Mrs. Davies?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I didn't,” was the somewhat sharp reply. + </p> + <p> + “We should improve every occasion, Mrs. Davies, and I want this poor man + to know that a dying man may feel happy and hope everything from God's + love and mercy, if he has loved and pitied his brothers and sisters of + Adam's race.” + </p> + <p> + When he called himself a dying man, Hodges, who was looking uncomfortable + and at the floor, raised his head, and the surgeon and he interchanged a + rapid look; it was observed, though not by Mr. Eden. + </p> + <p> + That gentleman, seeing Hodges wear an abashed look, which he + misunderstood, and aiming to improve him for the future, not punish him + for the past, said, “But first let me thank you for coming to see me,” and + with these words he put his hand out of the bed with a kind smile to + Hodges. His gentle intention was roughly interrupted. Mrs. Davies flung + down her work and came like a flaming turkey-cock across the floor in a + moment, and seized his arm and flung it back into the bed. + </p> + <p> + “No, ye don't! ye shan't give your hand to any such rubbish.” + </p> + <p> + “Mrs. Davies!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Mrs. Davies; you don't know what they've come here for—I + overheard ye at the door! You have got an enemy in that filthy jail, + haven't you, sir? Well! this man comes from him to see how bad you are—they + were colloguing together backward and forward ever so long, and I heard + 'em—it is not out of any kindness or good will in the world. Now + suppose you march out the way you came in!” screamed Mrs. Davies. + </p> + <p> + “Mrs. Davies, be quiet and let me speak?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course I will, sir,” said the woman with a ludicrously sudden calm and + coaxing tone. + </p> + <p> + There was a silence; Mr. Eden eyed the men. Small guilt peeped from them + by its usual little signs. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden's lip curled magnificently. + </p> + <p> + “So you did not come to see me—you were sent by that man. (Mrs. + Davies, be quiet; curiosity is not a crime, like torturing the + defenseless.) Mr. Hawes sent you that you might tell him how soon his + victims are like to lose their only earthly defender.” + </p> + <p> + The men colored and stammered; Mrs. Davies covered her face with her apron + and rocked herself on her chair. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden flowed gently on. + </p> + <p> + “Tell your master that I have settled all my worldly affairs, and caused + all my trifling debts to be paid. + </p> + <p> + “Tell him that I have made my will! (I have provided in it for the turnkey + Evans—he will know why.) + </p> + <p> + “Tell him you found my cheeks fallen away, my eye hollow, and my face + squalid. + </p> + <p> + “Tell him my Bible was by my side, and even the prison was mingling with + other memories as I drifted from earth and all its thorns and tears. All + was blunted but the Christian's faith and trust in his Redeemer. + </p> + <p> + “Tell him that there is a cold dew upon my forehead. + </p> + <p> + “Tell him that you found me by the side of the river Jordan, looking + across the cold river to the heavenly land, where they who have been + washed in the blood of the Lamb walk in white garments, and seem, even as + I gaze, to welcome and beckon me to join them. + </p> + <p> + “And then tell him,” cried he, in a new voice like a flash of lightning, + “that he has brought me back to earth. You have come and reminded me that + if I die a wolf is waiting to tear my sheep. I thank you, and I tell you,” + roared he, “as the Lord liveth and as my soul liveth, I will not die but + live—and do the Lord's work—and put my foot yet on that + caitiff's neck who sent you to inspect my decaying body, you poor tools—THE + DOOR!” + </p> + <p> + He was up in the bed by magic, towering above them all, and he pointed to + the door with a tremendous gesture and an eye that flamed. Mrs. Davies + caught the electric spark, in a moment she tore the door open, and the + pair bundled down the stairs before that terrible eye and finger. + </p> + <p> + “Susan—Susan!” Susan heard his elevated voice, and came running in + in great anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “They say there is no such thing as friendship between a man and a woman. + Prove to me this is a falsehood!” + </p> + <p> + “It is, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Do me a service.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!—what is it?” + </p> + <p> + “Go a journey for me.” + </p> + <p> + “I will go all round England for you, Mr. Eden,” cried the girl, panting + and flushing. + </p> + <p> + “My writing-desk!—it is to a village sixty miles from this, but you + will be there in four hours; in that village lives the man who can cure + me, if any one can.” + </p> + <p> + “What will you take with you?” asked Mrs. Davies, all in a bustle. + </p> + <p> + “A comb and brush, and a chemise.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll have them down in a twinkling.” + </p> + <p> + The note was written. + </p> + <p> + “Take this to his house, see him, tell him the truth, and bring him with + you to-morrow—it will be fifty pounds out of his pocket to leave his + patients—but I think he will come. Oh, yes! he will come—for + auld lang syne.” + </p> + <p> + “Good-by, Mr. Eden—God bless you, aunt. I want to be gone; I shall + bring him if I have to carry him in my arms.” And with these words Susan + was gone. + </p> + <p> + “Now, good Mrs. Davies, give me the Bible. Often has that book soothed the + torn nerves as well as the bleeding heart—and let no one come here + to grieve or vex me for twenty-four hours—and fling that man's + draught away, I want to live.” + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Davies had heard Hodges and Fry aright. Mr. Eden by her clew had + interpreted the visit aright, with this exception, that he overrated his + own importance in Mr. Hawes's eyes. For Hawes mocked at the chaplain's + appeal to the Home Office ever since the office had made his tools the + virtual referees. + </p> + <p> + Still a shade of uneasiness remained. During the progress of this long + duel Eden had let fall two disagreeable hints. One was that he would spend + a thousand pounds in setting such prisoners as survived Hawes's discipline + to indict him, and the other that he would appeal to the public press. + </p> + <p> + This last threat had touched our man of brass; for if there is one thing + upon earth that another thing does not like, your moral malefactor, who + happens to be out of the law's reach, hates and shivers at the New Bailey + in Printing-house Yard. So, upon the whole, Mr. Hawes thought that the + best thing Mr. Eden could do would be to go to heaven without any more + fuss. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that will be the best for all parties.” + </p> + <p> + He often questioned the doctor in his blunt way how soon the desired event + might be expected to come off, if at all. The doctor still answered per + ambages, ut mos oraculis. + </p> + <p> + “I see I must go myself—No, I won't, I'll send Fry. Ah, here is + Hodges. Go and see the parson, and come back and tell me whether he is + like to live or like to die. Mr. Sawyer here can't speak English about a + patient; he would do it to oblige me if he could, but—him, he + can't.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't much like the job,” demurred Hodges sulkily. + </p> + <p> + “What matters what you like? You must all do things you don't like in a + prison, or get into trouble.” + </p> + <p> + More accustomed to obey than to reflect, Hodges yielded, but at Mr. Eden's + very door, his commander being now out of sight, his reluctance revived; + and this led to an amicable discussion in which the surgeon made him + observe how very ferocious and impatient of opposition the governor had + lately become. + </p> + <p> + “He can get either of us dismissed if we offend him.” + </p> + <p> + So the pair of cowards did what they were bid—and got themselves + trod upon a bit. It only remains to be said that as they trudged back + together a little venom worked in their little hearts. They hated both + duelists—one for treating them like dogs, the other for sending them + where they had got treated like dogs; and they disliked each other for + seeing them treated like dogs. One bitterness they escaped, it did not + occur to them to hate themselves for being dogs. + </p> + <p> + If you force a strong-willed stick out of its bent, with what fury it + flies back ad statum quo or a little farther when the coercion is removed. + So hard-grained Hawes, his fears of the higher powers removed, returned + with a spring to his intermitted habits. + </p> + <p> + There was no incarnate obstacle now to “discipline.” There was a + provisional chaplain, but that chaplain was worthy Mr. Jones, who having + visited the town for a month, had consented for a week or two to supply + the sick man's place, and did supply it so far as a good clock can replace + a man. Viewing himself now as something between an officer and a guest he + was less likely to show fight than ever. + </p> + <p> + Earnest Hawes pilloried, flung into black dungeons, stole beds and + gas-light, crushed souls with mysterious threats, and bodies with a + horrible mixture of those tortures that madden and those other tortures + that exhaust. No Spanish Inquisitor was ever a greater adept at this + double move than earnest Hawes. The means by which he could make any + prisoner appear refractory have already been described, but in the case of + one stout fellow whom he wanted to discipline he now went a step farther. + He slipped into the yard and slyly clogged one of the cranks with a weight + which he inserted inside the box and attached to the machinery. This + contrivance would have beaten Hercules and made him seem idle to any one + not in the secret. In short this little blockhead bade fair to become one + of Mr. Carlyle's great men. He combined the earnest sneak with the earnest + butcher. + </p> + <p> + Barbarous times are not wholly expunged as book-makers affect to fear. + Legislators, moralists and writers (I don't include book-makers under that + title) try to clap their extinguishers on them with God's help; but they + still contrive to shoot some lurid specimens of themselves into civilized + epochs. Such a black ray of the narrow, self-deceiving, stupid, bloody + past was earnest Hawes. + </p> + <p> + Not a tithe of his exploits can be recorded here, for though he played + upon many souls and bodies, he repeated the same notes—hunger, + thirst, the blackness of darkness, crucifixion, solitude, loss of sleep—so + that a description of all his feats would be a catalogue of names + subjected to the above tortures, and be dry as well as revolting. + </p> + <p> + I shall describe therefore only the grand result of all, and a case or two + that varied by a shade the monotony of discipline. He kept one poor lad + without any food at all from Saturday morning till Sunday at twelve + o'clock, and made him work; and for his Sunday dinner gave the famished + wretch six ounces of bread and a can of water. He strapped one prisoner up + in the pillory for twenty-four hours, and directed him to be fed in it. + This prisoner had a short neck, and the cruel collar would not let him + eat, so that the tortures of Tantalus were added to crucifixion. The + earnest beast put a child of eleven years old into a strait-waistcoat for + three days, then kept him three days on bread and water, and robbed him of + his bed and his gas for fourteen days. We none of us know the meaning of + these little punishments so vast beyond our experience; but in order to + catch a glimmer of the meaning of the last item, we must remember first + that the cells admit but little light, and that the gas is the prisoner's + sunlight for the hour or two of rest from hard toil that he is allowed + before he is ordered to bed, and next that a prisoner has but two sets of + clothes—those he stands upright in, and his bed-clothes; these are + rolled up inside the bed every morning. When therefore a prisoner was + robbed of his bed, he was robbed of the means of keeping himself warm as + well as of that rest without which life soon comes to a full stop. + </p> + <p> + Having victimized this child's tender body as aforesaid Mr. Hawes made a + cut at his soul. He stopped his chapel. + </p> + <p> + One ought not to laugh at a worm coming between another worm and his God + and saying, “No! you shall not hear of God to-day—you have + displeased a functionary whose discipline takes precedence of His;” and it + is to be observed, that though this blockhead did not in one sense + comprehend the nature of his own impious act any more than a Hottentot + would, yet as broad as he saw he saw keenly. + </p> + <p> + The one ideaed-man wanted to punish, and deprivation of chapel is a bitter + punishment to a prisoner under the separate and silent system. + </p> + <p> + And lay this down as a rule, whenever in this tale a punishment is + recorded as having been inflicted by Hawes, however light it may appear to + you who never felt it, bring your intelligence to bear on it—weigh + the other conditions of a prisoner's miserable existence it was added to, + and in every case you will find it was a blow with a sledge-hammer; in + short, to comprehend Hawes and his fraternity it is necessary to make a + mental effort and comprehend the meaning of the word “accumulation.” + </p> + <p> + The first execution of biped Carter took place about a week after Mr. Eden + was laid prostrate. + </p> + <p> + It is not generally very difficult to outwit an imbecile, and the governor + enmeshed Carter, made him out refractory and crucified him. The poor soul + did not hallo at first, for he remembered they had not cut his throat the + last time, as he thought they were going to do (he had seen a pig first + made fast—then stuck). But when the bitter cramps came on he began + to howl and cry most frightfully; so that Hawes, who was talking to the + surgeon in the center of the building, started and came at once to the + place. Mr. Sawyer came with him. They tried different ways of quieting + him, in vain. They went to a distance, as Mr. Eden had suggested, but it + was no use; he was howling now from pain, not fear. + </p> + <p> + “Gag him!” roared Hawes, “it is scandalous; I hate a noise.” + </p> + <p> + “Better loose him,” suggested the surgeon. + </p> + <p> + Hawes blighted him with a look. “What; and let him beat me?” + </p> + <p> + “There is no gag in the prison,” said Fry. + </p> + <p> + “A pretty prison without a gag in it!” said Hawes; the only reflection he + was ever heard to cast on his model jail; then, with sudden ferocity he + turned on Sawyer. “What is the use of you; don't you know anything for + your money? can't all your science stop this brute's windpipe, you!” + </p> + <p> + Science thus blandly invoked came to the aid of inhumanity. + </p> + <p> + “Humph! have you got any salt?” + </p> + <p> + “Salt!” roared Hawes, “what is the use of salt? Oh! ay, I see! run and get + a pound, and look sharp with it.” + </p> + <p> + They brought the salt. + </p> + <p> + “Now, will you hold your noise?—then, give it him.” + </p> + <p> + The scientific operator watched his opportunity, and when the poor biped's + mouth was open howling, crammed a handful of salt into it. He spat it out + as well as he could, but some of it dissolved by the saliva found its way + down his throat. The look of amazement and distress that followed was most + amusing to the operators. + </p> + <p> + “That was, a good idea, doctor,” cried Hawes. + </p> + <p> + The triumph was premature. Carter's cries were choked for a moment by his + astonishment. But the next, finding a fresh torture added to the first, he + howled louder than ever. Then the governor seized the salt, powdered a + good handful, and avoiding his teeth crammed it suddenly into the poor + creature's mouth. He spat it furiously out, and the brine fell like + sea-spray upon all the operators, especially on Hawes, who swore at the + biped, and called him a beast, and promised him a long spell of the cross + for his nastiness. After Hawes, Fry must take his turn; and so now these + three creatures, to whom Heaven had given reason, combined their strength + and their sacred reason to torture and degrade one of those whom the + French call “betes du bon Dieu”—a heaven-afflicted—heaven-pitied + brother. + </p> + <p> + They respected neither the hapless wight nor his owner. Whenever he opened + his mouth with the instinct that makes animals proclaim their hurts and + appeal for pity on the chance of a heart being within hearing, then did + these show their sense of his appeal thus: One of the party crammed the + stinging salt down his throat; the others watched him, and kept clear of + the brine that he spat vehemently out, and a loud report of laughter + followed instantly each wild grimace and convulsion of fear and torture. + Thus they employed their reason, and flouted as well as tortured him who + had less. + </p> + <p> + “Haw! haw! haw! haw! haw!” + </p> + <p> + No lightning came down from heaven upon these merry souls. The idiot's + spittle did not burn them when it fell on them. ALL THE WORSE FOR THEM! + </p> + <p> + They left Carter for hours in the pillory, and soon a violent thirst was + added to his sufferings. Prolonged pain brings on cruel thirst, and many a + poor fellow suffered horribly from it during the last hours of his + pillory. But in this case the salt he had swallowed made it more vehement. + Most men go through life and never know thirst. It is a frightful torture, + as any novice would have learned who had seen Carter at six in the evening + of this cruel day. The poor wretch's throat was so parched he could hardly + breathe. His eyes were all bloodshot and his livid tongue lolled + stringless and powerless out of his gasping mouth. He would have given + diamonds for drops of water. + </p> + <p> + The earnest man going his rounds of duty saw his pitiable state and + forbade relief till the number of hours he had appointed for his + punishment should be completed. Discipline before all! + </p> + <p> + There was one man in the jail, just one, who could no longer view this + barbarity unmoved. His heart had been touched and his understanding + wakened, and he saw these prodigies of cruelty in their true light. But he + was afraid of Hawes, and unfortunately the others by an instinct felt + their comrade was no longer one of them and watched him closely. But his + intelligence was awakened with his humanity. After much thought he hit + upon this; he took the works out of his watch—an old hunting watch—and + stolling into the yard, dipped the case into the bucket, then closed it; + and soon after getting close to Carter, and between him and Fry, he + affected to examine the prisoner's collar, and then hastily gave him a + watchful of cold water. Carter sucked it with frightful avidity, and small + as the draught was no mortal can say what consequences were averted by it. + </p> + <p> + Evans was dreadfully out of spirits. His ally lay dying and his enemy + triumphed. He looked to be turned out of the jail at the next meeting of + magistrates. But when he had given the idiot his watch to drink out of an + unwonted warmth and courage seemed to come into his heart. + </p> + <p> + This touch of humanity coming suddenly among the most hellish of all + fiends—men of system—was like the little candle in a window + that throws its beams so far when we are bewildered in a murky night. For + the place was now a moral coal-hole. The dungeons at Rome that lie under + the wing of Roderick Borgia's successors are not a more awful remnant of + antiquity or a fouler blot on the age, on the law, on the land, and on + human nature. + </p> + <p> + A thick, dark pall of silence and woe hung over its huge walls. If a voice + was heard above a whisper it was sure to be either a cry of anguish or a + fierce command to inflict anguish. Two or three were crucified every day; + the rest expected crucifixion from morning till night. No man felt safe an + hour; no man had the means of averting punishment; all were at the mercy + of a tyrant. Threats frightful, fierce and mysterious hung like weights + over every soul and body. Whenever a prisoner met an officer he cowered + and hurried crouching by like a dog passing a man with a whip in his hand; + and as he passed he trembled at the thunder of his own footsteps, and + wished to Heaven they would not draw so much attention to him by ringing + so clear through that huge silent tomb. When an officer met the governor + he tried to slip by with a hurried salute lest he should be stopped, + abused and sworn at. + </p> + <p> + The earnest man fell hardest upon the young; boys and children were + favorite victims; but his favorites of all were poor Robinson and little + Josephs. These were at the head of the long list he crucified, he parched, + he famished, he robbed of prayer, of light, of rest and hope. He + disciplined the sick; he closed the infirmary again. That large room, + furnished with comforts, nurses and air, was an inconsistency. + </p> + <p> + “A new prison is a collection of cells,” said Hawes. The infirmary was a + spot in the sun. The exercise yard in this prison was a twelve-box stable + for creatures concluded to be wild beasts. The labor-yard was a + fifteen-stall stable for ditto. The house of God an eighty-stalled stable, + into which the wild beasts were dispersed for public worship made private. + Here, in early days, before Hawes was ripe, they assembled apart and + repeated prayers, and sang hymns on Sunday. But Hawes found out that + though the men were stabled apart their voices were refractory and mingled + in the air, and with their voices their hearts might, who knows? He + pointed this out to the justices, who shook their skulls and stopped the + men's responses and hymns. These animals cut the choruses out of the + English liturgy with as little ceremony and as good effect as they would + have cut the choruses out of Handel's “Messiah,” if the theory they were + working had been a musical instead of a moral one. + </p> + <p> + So far so good; but the infirmary had escaped Justice Shallow and Justice + Woodcock. Hawes abolished that. + </p> + <p> + Discipline before all. Not because a fellow is sick is he to break + discipline. + </p> + <p> + So the sick lay in their narrow cells gasping in vain for fresh air, + gasping in vain for some cooling drink, or some little simple delicacy to + incite their enfeebled appetite. + </p> + <p> + The dying were locked up at the fixed hour for locking up, and found dead + at the fixed hour for opening. How they had died—no one knew. At + what hour they had died—no one knew. Whether in some choking + struggle a human hand might have saved them by changing a suffocating + position or the like—no one knew. + </p> + <p> + But this all knew—that these our sinful brethren had died, not like + men, but like vultures in the great desert. They were separated from their + kith and kin, who however brutal would have said a kind word and done a + tender thing or two for them at that awful hour; and nothing allowed them + in exchange, not even the routine attentions of a prison nurse; they were + in darkness and alone when the king of terrors came to them and wrestled + with them. All men had turned their backs on them, no creature near to + wipe the dews of death, to put a cool hand to the brow, or soften the + intensity of the last sad sigh that carried their souls from earth. Thus + they passed away, punished lawlessly by the law till they succumbed, and + then, since they were no longer food for torture, ignored by the law and + abandoned by the human race. + </p> + <p> + They locked up one dying man at eight o'clock. At midnight the thirst of + death came on him. He prayed for a drop of water, but there was none to + hear him. Parched and gasping the miserable man got out of bed and groped + for his tin mug, but before he could drink the death agony seized him. + When they unlocked him in the morning they found him a corpse on the floor + with the mug in his hand and the water spilled on the floor. They wrenched + the prison property out of its dead hand, and flung the carcass itself + upon the bed as if it had been the clay cast of a dog, not the remains of + a man. + </p> + <p> + All was of a piece. The living tortured; the dying abandoned; the dead + kicked out of the way. Of these three the living were the most + unfortunate, and among the living Robinson and Josephs. Never since the + days of Cain was existence made more bitter to two hapless creatures than + to these—above all to Josephs. + </p> + <p> + His day began thus: Between breakfast and dinner he was set five thousand + revolutions of a heavy crank; when he could not do it his dinner was taken + away and a few crumbs of bread and a can of water given him instead. + Between his bread and water time and six o'clock if the famished, worn-out + lad could not do five thousand more revolutions and make up the previous + deficiency he was punished ad libitum. As the whole thing from first to + last was beyond his powers, he never succeeded in performing these + preposterous tasks. He was threatened, vilified and tortured every day and + every hour of it. + </p> + <p> + Human beings can bear great sufferings if you give them periods of ease + between; and beneficent nature allows for this, and when she means us to + suffer short of death she lashes us at intervals; were it otherwise we + should succumb under a tithe of what we suffer intermittently. + </p> + <p> + But Hawes, besides his cruelty, was a noodle. He belonged to a knot of + theorists into whose hands the English jails are fast falling; a set of + shallow dreamers, who being greater dunces and greater asses than four men + out of every six that pass you in Fleet Street or Broadway at any hour, + think themselves wiser than Nature and her Author. Josephs suffered body + and spirit without intermission. The result was that his flesh withered on + his bones; his eyes were dim and seemed to lie at the bottom of two + caverns; he crawled stiffly and slowly instead of walking. He was not + sixteen years of age, yet Hawes had extinguished his youth and blotted out + all its signs but one. Had you met this figure in the street you would + have said: + </p> + <p> + “What, an old man and no beard?” + </p> + <p> + One day as Robinson happened to be washing the corridor with his beaver + up, what he took for a small but aged man passed him, shambling stiffly, + with joints stiffened by perpetual crucifixion and rheumatism, that had + ensued from perpetually being wetted through. This figure had his beaver + down. At sight of Robinson he started and instantly went down on his knee + and untied both shoe strings; then while tying them again slowly he + whispered: + </p> + <p> + “Robinson, I am Josephs; don't look toward me.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson, scrubbing the wall with more vigor than before, whispered, “How + are they using you now, boy?” + </p> + <p> + “Hush! don't speak so loud. Robinson—they are killing me. + </p> + <p> + “The ruffians! They are trying all they know to kill me, too.” + </p> + <p> + “Fry coming.” + </p> + <p> + “Hist!” said Robinson as Josephs crept away; and having scraped off a + grain of whitewash with his nail he made a little white mark on his + trouser just above his calf, for Josephs to know him by, should they meet + next time with visors both down. Josephs gave a slight and rapid signal of + intelligence as he disappeared. Two days after this they met on the + staircase. The boy, who now looked at every prisoner's trowsers for the + white mark, recognized Robinson at some distance and began to speak before + they met. + </p> + <p> + “I can't go on much longer like this.” + </p> + <p> + “No more can I.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall go to father.” + </p> + <p> + “Why where is he?” + </p> + <p> + “He is dead.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't care how soon I go there either, but not till I have sent Hawes + on before—not for all the world. Pass me, and then come back.” + </p> + <p> + They met again. + </p> + <p> + “Keep up your heart, boy, till his reverence gets well, or goes to heaven. + If he lives he will save us somehow. If he dies—I'll tell you a + secret. I know where there is a brick I think I can loosen. I mean to + smash that beast's skull with it, and then you will be all right, and my + heart will feel like a prince.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! don't do that,” said Josephs piteously. “Better far us he should + murder us than we him.” + </p> + <p> + “Murder!” cried Robinson contemptuously. And there was no time to say any + more. + </p> + <p> + After this many days passed before these two could get a syllable + together. But one day after chapel as the men were being told off to their + several tasks Robinson recognized the boy by his figure, and jogging his + elbow withdrew a little apart; Josephs followed him, and this time + Robinson was the first speaker. + </p> + <p> + “We shall never see Mr. Eden alive again, boy,” said he in a faltering + voice. Then in a low gloomy tone he muttered, “I have loosened the brick. + The day I lose all hope that day I send Hawes home.” And the thief pointed + toward the cellar. + </p> + <p> + “The day you have no more hope, Robinson; that day has come to me this + fortnight and more. He tells me every day he will make my life hell to me, + and I am sure it has been nothing else ever since I came here.” + </p> + <p> + “Keep up your heart, boy; he hasn't long to live.” + </p> + <p> + “He will live too long for me. I can't stay here any longer. You and I + shan't often chat together again; perhaps never.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't talk so, laddie. Keep up your heart—for my sake.” + </p> + <p> + One bitter tearing sob was all the reply. And so these two parted. + </p> + <p> + This was just after breakfast. At dinner-time Josephs, not having + performed an impossible task, was robbed of his dinner. A little bread and + water was served out to him in the yard, and he was set on the crank again + with fearful menaces. In particular Mr. Hawes repeated his favorite threat—“I'll + make your life hell to you.” Josephs groaned; but what could a boy of + fifteen do, overtasked and famished for a month past and fitter now for a + hospital than for hard labor of any sort? At three o'clock his progress on + the crank was so slow that Mr. Hawes ordered him to be crucified on the + spot. + </p> + <p> + His obedient myrmidons for the fiftieth time seized the lad and crushed + him in the jacket, throttled him in the collar, and pinned him to the + wall, and this time, the first time for a long while, the prisoner + remonstrated loudly. + </p> + <p> + “Why not kill me at once and put me out of my misery!” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your tongue.” + </p> + <p> + “You know I can't do the task you set me. You know it as well as I do.” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your tongue, you insolent young villain. Strap him tighter, Fry.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh no! no! no! don't go to strap me tighter or you will cut me in half—don't, + Mr. Fry. I will hold my tongue, sir.” Then he turned his hollow, mournful + eyes on Hawes and said gently, “It can't last much longer, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “It shall last till I break you, you obstinate, whining dog. You are + hardly used, are you? Wait till to-morrow. I'll show you that I have only + been playing with you as yet. But I have got a punishment in store for you + that will make you wish you were in hell.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes stood over the martyr fiercely threatening him. The martyr shut his + eyes. It seemed as though the enraged Hawes would end by striking him. He + winced with his eyes. He could not wince with any other part of his body, + so tight was it jammed together and jammed against the wall. + </p> + <p> + Hawes however did but repeat his threat of some new torture on the morrow + that should far eclipse all he had yet endured; and shaking his fist at + his helpless body left him with his torture. + </p> + <p> + One hour of bitter, racking, unremitting anguish had hardly rolled over + this young head ere his frame, weakened by famine and perpetual violence, + began to give the usual signs that he would soon sham—swoon we call + it when it occurs to any but a prisoner. As my readers have never been in + Mr. Hawes's man-press, and as attempts have been made to impose on the + inexperience of the public and represent the man-press as restriction not + torture, I will shortly explain why sooner or later all the men that were + crucified in it ended by shamming. + </p> + <p> + Were you ever seized at night with a violent cramp? Then you have + instantly with a sort of wild and alarmed rapidity changed the posture + which had cramped you; ay though the night was ever so cold you have + sprung out of bed sooner than lie cramped. If the cramp would not go in + less than half a minute that half-minute was long and bitter. As for + existing cramped half an hour, that you never thought possible. Imagine + now the severest cramp you ever felt artificially prolonged for hours and + hours. Imagine yourself cramped in a vise, no part of you movable a hair's + breadth, except your hair and your eyelids. Imagine the fierce cramp + growing and growing, and rising like a tide of agony higher and higher + above nature's endurance, and you will cease to wonder that a man always + sunk under Hawes's man-press. Now, then, add to the cramp a high circular + saw raking the throat, jacket straps cutting and burning the flesh of the + back—add to this the freezing of the blood in the body deprived so + long of all motion whatever (for motion of some sort or degree is a + condition of vitality), and a new and far more rational wonder arises, + that any man could be half an hour cut, sawed, crushed, cramped, Mazeppa'd + thus, without shamming—still less be four, six, eight hours in it, + and come out a living man. + </p> + <p> + The young martyr's lips were turning blue, his face was twitching + convulsively, when a word was unexpectedly put in for him by a bystander. + </p> + <p> + The turnkey Evans had been half sullenly half sorrowfully watching him for + some minutes past. + </p> + <p> + A month or two ago the lips of a prisoner turning blue and his skin + twitching told Evans nothing. He saw these things without seeing them. He + was cruel from stupidity—from blockhead to butcher there is but a + step. Like the English public he <i>realized</i> nothing where prisoners + were concerned. But Mr. Eden had awakened his intelligence, and his heart + waked with it naturally. + </p> + <p> + Now when he saw lips turning blue and eyes rolling in sad despair, and + skin twitching convulsively, it occurred to him—“this creature must + be suffering very badly,” and the next step was “let me see what is + hurting him so.” + </p> + <p> + Evans now stood over Josephs and examined him. “Mr. Fry,” said he + doggedly, “is not this overdoing it?” + </p> + <p> + “What d'ye mean, we are to obey orders, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course, but there was no need to draw the jacket straps so tight as + all this. Boy's bellows can't hardly work for 'em.” + </p> + <p> + He now passed his hand round the hollow of the lad's back. + </p> + <p> + “I thought so,” cried he; “I can't get my finger between the straps and + the poor fellow's flesh, and, good heavens I can feel the skin rising like + a ridge on each side of the straps; it is a black, burning shame to use + any Christian like this.” + </p> + <p> + These words were hardly out of the turnkey's mouth when a startling cry + came suddenly from poor Josephs; a sudden, wild, piercing scream of + misery. In that bitter, despairing cry burst out the pent-up anguish of + weeks, and the sense of injustice and cruelty more than human. The poor + thing gave this one terrible cry. Heaven forbid that you should hear such + a one in life, as I hear his in my heart, and then he fell to sobbing as + if his whole frame would burst. + </p> + <p> + They were not much, these rough words of sympathy, but they were the first—the + first words, too, of humanity and reason a turnkey had spoken in his favor + since he came into this hell. Above all, the first in which it had ever + been hinted or implied that his flesh was human flesh. The next moment he + began to cry, but that was not so easy. He soon lost his breath and + couldn't cry though his very life depended on it. Tears gave relief. Dame + Nature said, “Cry, my suffering son, cry now, and relieve that heart + swelling with cruelty and wrong.” + </p> + <p> + But Hawes's infernal machine said, “No, you shall not cry. I give you no + room to cry in.” The cruel straps jammed him so close his swelling heart + could but half heave. The jagged collar bit his throat so hard he could + but give three or four sobs and then the next choked him. The struggle + between Nature panting and writhing for relief, and the infernal + man-press, was so bitter strong that the boy choked and blackened and + gasped as one in the last agony. + </p> + <p> + “Undo him,” cried Evans hastily, “or we shall kill him among us.” + </p> + <p> + “Bucket,” said the experienced Fry quite coolly. + </p> + <p> + The bucket was at hand—its contents were instantly discharged over + Josephs' head. + </p> + <p> + A cry like a dying hare—two or three violent gasps—and he was + quiet, all but a strong shiver that passed from head to foot; only with + the water that now trickled from his hair down his face scalding tears + from his young eyes fell to the ground undistinguished from the water by + any eye but God's. + </p> + <p> + At six o'clock Hawes came into the yard and ordered Fry to take him down. + Fry took this opportunity of informing against Evans for his mild + interference. + </p> + <p> + “He will pay for that along with the rest,” said Hawes with an oath. + </p> + <p> + Then he turned on Josephs, who halted stiffly by him on his way to his + cell. + </p> + <p> + “I'll make your life hell to you, you young vagabond—you are hardly + used, are you? all you have ever known isn't a stroke with a feather to + what I'll make you know by-and-by. Wait till to-morrow comes, you shall + see what I can do when I am put to it.” + </p> + <p> + Josephs sobbed, but answered nothing, and crawled sore, stiff, dripping, + shivering to his cell. In that miserable hole he would at least be at + peace. + </p> + <p> + He found the gas lighted. He was glad, for he was drenched through and + bitterly cold. He crept up to the little gaslight and put his dead white + hands over it and got a little warmth into them; he blessed this spark of + light and warmth; he looked lovingly down on it, it was his only friend in + the jail, his companion in the desolate cell. He wished he could gather it + into his bosom; then it would warm his heart and his blighted flesh and + aching, shivering bones. + </p> + <p> + While he hung shivering over his spark of light and warmth and comfort, a + key was put into his door. “Ah! here's supper,” thought he, “and I am so + hungry.” It was not supper, it was Fry who came in empty-handed, leaving + the door open. Fry went to his gaslight and put his finger and thumb on + the screw. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! it burns all right, Mr. Fry,” said Josephs, “it won't go any higher, + thank you.” + </p> + <p> + “No, it won't,” said Fry dryly, and turned it out, leaving the cell in + utter darkness. + </p> + <p> + “There, I told you so,” said Josephs pettishly, “now you have been and + turned it out.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I have been and turned it out,” replied Fry with a brutal laugh, + “and it won't be turned on again for fourteen days, so the governor says, + however, and I suppose he knows,” and Fry went out chuckling. + </p> + <p> + Josephs burst out sobbing and almost screaming at this last stroke; it + seemed to hurt him more than his fiercer tortures. He sobbed so wildly and + so loud that Mr. Jones, passing on the opposite corridor, heard him and + beckoned to Evans to open the cell. + </p> + <p> + They found the boy standing in the middle of his dungeon shaking with cold + in his drenched clothes and sobbing with his whole body. It was frightful + to see and hear the agony and despair of one so young in years, so old in + misery. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Jones gave him words of commonplace consolation. Mr. Jones tried to + persuade him that patience was the best cure. + </p> + <p> + “Be patient, and do not irritate the governor any more—the storm + will pass.” + </p> + <p> + He seemed to Josephs as one that mocketh. Jones's were such little words + to fling in the face of a great despair; to chatter unreasonable + consolation was to mock his unutterable misery of soul and body. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Jones was one of those who sprinkle a burning mountain with a + teaspoonful of milk and water, and then go away and make sure they have + put it out. When he was gone with this impression, Evans took down the + boy's bed and said: + </p> + <p> + “Don't ye cry now like that; it makes me ill to hear any Christian cry + like that.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mr. Evans! oh! oh! oh! oh! What have I done? Oh, my mother! my + mother! my mother!” + </p> + <p> + Evans winced. What! had he a mother, too? If she could see him now! and + perhaps he was her darling though he was a prisoner. He shook the + bed-clothes out and took hold of the shivering boy and with kind force + made him lie down; then he twisted the clothes tight round him. + </p> + <p> + “You will get warm, if you will but lie quiet and not think about it.” + </p> + <p> + Josephs did what he was bid. He could not still his sobs, but he turned + his mournful eyes on Evans with a look of wonder at meeting with kindness + from a human being, and half doubtingly put out his hand. So then Evans, + to comfort him, took his hand and shook it several times in his hard palm, + and said: + </p> + <p> + “Good-night. You'll soon get warm, and don't think of it—that is the + best way;” and Evans ran away in the middle of a sentence, for the look of + astonishment the boy wore at his humanity went through the man's penitent + heart like an arrow. + </p> + <p> + Josephs lay quiet and his sobs began gradually to go down, and, as Evans + had predicted, some little warmth began to steal over his frame; but he + could not comply with all Evans's instructions; he could not help thinking + of it. For all that, as soon as he got a little warm, Nature, who knew how + much her tortured son needed repose, began to weigh down his eyelids, and + he dozed. He often started, he often murmured a prayer for pity as his + mind acted over again the scenes of his miserable existence; but still he + dozed, and sleep was stealing over him. Sleep! life's nurse sent from + heaven to create us anew day by day!—sleep! that has blunted and + gradually cured a hundred thousand sorrows for one that has yielded to any + moral remedy—sleep! that has blunted and so cured by degrees a + million fleshly ills for one that drugs or draughts have ever reached—sleep + had her arm round this poor child and was drawing him gently, gently, + slowly, slowly to her bosom—when suddenly his cell seemed to him to + be all in a blaze, and a rough hand shook him, and a harsh voice sounded + in his ear. + </p> + <p> + “Come, get up out of that, youngster,” it said, and the hand almost jerked + him off the floor. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter?” inquired Josephs yawning. + </p> + <p> + “Matter is, I want your bed.” + </p> + <p> + Josephs rose half stupid, and Hodges rolled up his bed and blanket. + </p> + <p> + “Are you really going to rob me of my bed?” inquired Josephs slowly and + firmly. + </p> + <p> + “Rob you, you young dog? Here is the governor's order. No bed and gas for + fourteen days.” + </p> + <p> + “No bed nor gas for fourteen days! Ha! ha! ha! ha! ha!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you laugh at that, do you?” + </p> + <p> + “I laugh at Mr. Hawes thinking to keep me out of bed for fourteen days, a + poor wornout boy like me. You tell Hawes I'll find a bed in spite of him + long before fourteen days.” + </p> + <p> + Hodges looked about the cell for this other bed. “Come,” said he, “you + must not chaff the officers. The governor will serve you out enough + without your giving us any of your sauce.” + </p> + <p> + Hodges was going with the bed. Josephs stopped him. The boy took this last + blow quite differently from the gas; no impatience or burst of sorrow now. + </p> + <p> + “Won't you bid me good-by, Mr. Hodges?” asked he. + </p> + <p> + “Why not? Good-night.” + </p> + <p> + “That isn't what I mean. Mr. Evans gave me his hand.” + </p> + <p> + “Did he? what for?” + </p> + <p> + “And so must you. Oh, you may as well, Mr. Hodges. I never came to you and + took away your little bit of light and your little bit of sleep. So you + can take my hand if I can give it you. You will be sorry afterward if you + say no.” + </p> + <p> + “There it is—what the better are you for that, you young fool? I'll + tell you what it is, you are turning soft. I don't know what to make of + you. I shall come to your cell the first thing in the morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, do, Mr. Hodges,” said Josephs, “and then you won't be sorry you shook + hands at night.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment the boy's supper was thrust through the trap-door; it was + not the supper by law appointed, but six ounces of bread and a can of + water. + </p> + <p> + Hodges, now that he had touched the prisoner's hand, felt his first spark + of something bordering on sympathy. He looked at the grub half ashamed and + made a wry face. Josephs caught his look and answered it. + </p> + <p> + “It is as much as I shall want,” said he very calmly, and he smiled at + Hodges as he spoke, a sweet and tender but dogged smile; a smile to live + in a man's memory for years. + </p> + <p> + The door was closed with a loud snap, and Josephs was left to face the + long night (it was now seven o'clock) in his wet clothes, which smoked + with the warmth his late bed had begun to cherish; but they soon ceased to + smoke as the boy froze. + </p> + <p> + Night advanced. Josephs walked about his little cell, his teeth + chattering, then flung himself like a dead log on the floor, and finding + Hawes's spirit in the cold, hard stone, rose and crawled shivering to and + fro again. + </p> + <p> + Meantime we were all in our nice soft beds; such as found three blankets + too little added a dressing-gown of flannel, or print lined with wadding + or fleecy hosiery, and so made shift. In particular all those who had the + care of Josephs took care to lie warm and soft. Hawes, Jones, Hodges, Fry, + Justices Shallow and Woodcock, all took the care of their own carcasses + they did not take of Josephs' youthful frame. + </p> + <p> + “Be cold at night? Not if we know it; why you can't sleep if you are not + thoroughly warm!!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX. + </h2> + <h3> + MIDNIGHT! + </h3> + <p> + Josephs was crouched shivering under the door of his cell, listening. + </p> + <p> + “All right now. I think they are all asleep; now is the time.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes, Hodges, Jones, Fry, were snoring without a thought of him they had + left to pass the live-long night, clothed in a sponge, cradled on a stone. + </p> + <h3> + DORMEZ, MESSIEURS! TOUT EST TRANQUILLE; DORMEZ! + </h3> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX. + </h2> + <h3> + PAST one o'clock! + </h3> + <p> + The moon was up, but often obscured; clouds drifted swiftly across her + face; it was a cold morning—past one o'clock. Josephs was at his + window standing tiptoe on his stool. Thoughts coursed one another across + his broken heart as fast as the clouds flew past the moon's face. But + whatever their nature, the sting was now out of them. The bitter sense of + wrong and cruelty was there, but blunted. Fear was nearly extinct, for + hope was dead. + </p> + <p> + There was no tumult in his mind now; he had gone through all that, and had + got a step beyond grief or pain. + </p> + <p> + Thus ran his thoughts: “I wonder what Hawes was going to do with me + to-morrow. Something worse than all I have gone through, he said. That + seems hard to believe. But I don't know. Best not give him the chance. He + does know how to torture one. Well, he must keep it for some other poor + fellow. I hope it won't be Robinson. I'll have a look at out-a-doors + first. Ah! there is the moon. I wonder does she see what is done here. And + there is the sky; it is a beautiful place. Who would stay here under Hawes + if they could get up there? God lives up there! I am almost afraid He + won't let a poor wicked boy like me come where He is. And they say this is + a sin, too. He will be angry with me—but I couldn't help it. I shall + tell Him what I went through first, and perhaps He will forgive me. His + reverence told me He takes the part of those that are ill-used. It will be + a good job for me if 'tis so. Perhaps He will serve Hawes out for this + instead of me. I think I should if I was Him. I know He can't be so cruel + as Hawes; that is my only chance, and I'm going to take it. + </p> + <p> + “Some folk live to eighty; I am only fifteen; that is a long odds, I dare + say it is five times as long as fifteen. It is hard—but I can't help + it. Hawes wouldn't let me live to be a man; he is stronger than I am. Will + it be a long job, I wonder. Some say it hurts a good deal; some think not. + I shall soon know—but I shall never tell. That doesn't trouble me, + it is only throttling when all is done; and ain't I throttled every day of + my life. Shouldn't I be throttled to-morrow if I was such a spoon as to + see to-morrow. I mustn't waste much more time or my hands will be crippled + with cold and then I shan't be able to. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Evans will be sorry. I can't help it. Bless him for being so good to + me; and bless Mr. Eden. I hope he will get better, I do. My handkerchief + is old, I hope it won't break; oh, no! there is no fear of that. I don't + weigh half what I did when I came here. + </p> + <p> + “My mother will fret—but I can't help it. Oh dear! oh dear! oh dear! + I hope some one will tell her what I went through first; and then she will + say, 'Better so than for my body to be abused worse than a dog every day + of my life.' I can't help it! and I should be dead any way before the + fourteen days were out. + </p> + <p> + “Now is as good a time as any other; no one is stirring, no. Please + forgive me, mother. I couldn't help it. Please forgive me, God Almighty, + if you care what a poor boy like me does or is done to—I couldn't + help it.” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ....... +</pre> + <h3> + IL EST DEUX HEURES; TOUT EST TRANQUILLE; DORMEZ, MAITRES, DORMEZ! + </h3> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI. + </h2> + <p> + IT was a bright morning. The world awoke. The working Englishman, dead + drunk at the public-house overnight, had got rid of two-thirds of his + burning poison by the help of man's chief nurse, sleep; and now he must + work off the rest, grumbling at this the kind severity of his lot. Warm + men, respectable men, among whom justices of the peace and other + voluptuous disciplinarians, were tempted out of delicious beds by the + fragrant berry, the balmy leaf, snowy damask, fire glowing behind polished + bars—in short, by multifarious comfort set in a frame of gold. They + came down. + </p> + <p> + “How did you sleep, dear sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Pretty well,” said one with a doubtful air. “Scarce closed my eyes all + night,” snarled another. + </p> + <p> + Another had been awakened by the barking of a dog, and it was full half an + hour before he could lose the sense of luxurious ease in unconsciousness + again. He made an incident of this, and looked round the table for + sympathy, and obtained it, especially from such as were toadies. + </p> + <p> + Now all these had slept as much as nature required. No. 1, ar hyd y nos—like + a top. No. 2, eight hours out of the nine. The ninth his sufferings had + been moderate; they had been confined to this—a bitter sense of two + things; first, that he was lying floating in a sea of comforts; secondly, + that the moment he should really need sleep, sleep was at his service. + </p> + <p> + In —— Jail, governor, turnkeys, chaplain, having had something + to do the day before, slept among Class 1, and now turned out of their + warm beds as they had turned into them, without a shade of anxiety or even + recollection of him whom they had left last evening at eight to pass the + livelong night in a sponge—upon a stone. + </p> + <p> + Up rose refreshed with sleep that zealous officer, Hawes. He was in the + prison at daybreak, and circulated with inspecting eye all through it. + Went into the kitchen—saw the gruel making—docked Josephs and + three more of half their allowance; then into the corridors, where on one + of the snowy walls he found a speck; swore; had it instantly removed. + Thence into the labor-yard, and prepared a crank for an athletic prisoner + by secretly introducing a weight, and so making the poor crank a + story-teller, and the prologue to punishment. Returning to the body of the + prison, he called out, “Prisoners on the list for hard labor to be taken + to the yard.” + </p> + <p> + He was not answered with the usual alacrity, and looked up to repeat his + summons, when he observed a cell open and two turnkeys standing in earnest + conversation at the door. He mounted the stairs in great heat. + </p> + <p> + “What are you all humbugging there for, and why does not that young rascal + turn out to work? I'll physic him, —— him!” + </p> + <p> + The turnkeys looked in their chief's face with a strange expression of + stupid wonder. Hawes caught this—his wrath rose higher. + </p> + <p> + “What d'ye stand staring at me like stuck pigs for? Come out, No. 15, + —— you all! why don't you bring him out to the crank?” + </p> + <p> + Hodges answered gloomily from the cell, “Come and bring him yourself, if + you can.” + </p> + <p> + At such an address from a turnkey, Hawes, who had now mounted the last + stair, gave a snort of surprise and wrath—then darted into the cell, + threatening the most horrible vengeance on the bones and body of poor + Josephs, threats which he confirmed with a tremendous oath. But to that + oath succeeded a sudden dead stupid staring silence; for running fiercely + into the cell with rage in his face, threats and curses on his tongue, he + had almost stumbled over a corpse. + </p> + <p> + It lay in the middle of the cell—stark and cold, but peaceful. Hawes + stood over it. If he had not stopped short his foot would have been upon + it. His mouth opened but no sound came. He stood paralyzed. A greater than + he was in that cell, and he was dumb. He looked up—Hodges and Fry + were standing silent, looking down on the body. Fry was grave; Hodges + trembled. Part of a handkerchief fluttered from the bar of the window. A + knife had severed it. The other fragment lay on the floor near the body, + where Hodges had dropped it. Hawes took this in at a glance and + comprehended it all. This was not the first or second prisoner that had + escaped him by a similar road. For a moment his blood froze in him. He + wished to Heaven he had not been so severe upon the poor boy. + </p> + <p> + It was but for a moment. The next he steeled himself in the tremendous + egotism that belongs to and makes the deliberate manslayer. + </p> + <p> + “The young viper has done this to spite me,” said he. And he actually cast + a look of petulant anger down. + </p> + <p> + At this precise point the minds that had borne his company so long began + to part from it. Fry looked in his face with an expression bordering on + open contempt, and Hodges shoved rudely by him and left the cell. + </p> + <p> + Hodges leaned over the corridor in silence. One of the inferior turnkeys + asked him a question dictated by curiosity about the situation in which he + had found the body. “Don't speak to me!” was the fierce, wild answer. And + he looked with a stupid wild stare over the railings. + </p> + <p> + So wild and white and stricken was this man's face that Evans, who was + exchanging some words with a gentleman on the basement floor, happening to + catch sight of it, interrupted himself and hallooed from below, “What, is + there anything the matter, Hodges?” Hodges made no reply. The man seemed + to have lost his speech for some time past. + </p> + <p> + “Let us go and see,” said the gentleman; and he ascended the steps + somewhat feebly, accompanied by Evans. + </p> + <p> + “What is it, Hodges?” + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” answered the man impatiently. “Go in there and you'll see + what it is!” + </p> + <p> + “I don't like this, sir,” said Evans. “Oh! I am fearful there is something + unfortunate has happened. You mustn't come in, sir. You stay here, and + I'll go in and see.” He entered the cell. + </p> + <p> + Meantime a short conference had passed between Hawes and Fry. + </p> + <p> + “This is a bad business, Fry.” + </p> + <p> + “And no mistake.” + </p> + <p> + “Had you any idea of this?” + </p> + <p> + “No! can't say I had.” + </p> + <p> + “If the parson ever gets well he will make this a handle to ruin you and + me.” + </p> + <p> + “Me, sir! I only obey orders.” + </p> + <p> + “That won't save you. If they get the better of me you will suffer along + with me.” + </p> + <p> + “I shouldn't wonder. I told you you were carrying it too far, but you + wouldn't listen to me.” + </p> + <p> + “I was wrong, Fry. I ought to have listened to you, for you are the only + one that is faithful to me in the jail.” + </p> + <p> + “I know my duty, sir, and I try to do it.” + </p> + <p> + “What are we to do with him, Fry?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don't think he ought to lie on the floor. I'd let him have his + bed now, I think.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right. I'll send for it. Ah! here is Evans. Go for No. 15's bed.” + </p> + <p> + Evans, standing at the door, had caught but a glimpse of the object that + lay on the floor, but that glimpse was enough. He went out and said to + Hodges, “Wasn't it you that took Josephs' bed away last night?” The man + cowered under the question. “Well, you are to go and fetch it back, the + governor says.” Hodges went away for it without a word. Evans returned to + the cell. He came and kneeled down by Josephs and laid his hand upon him. + “I feared it! I feared it!” said he. “Why he has been dead a long time. + Ah! your reverence, why did you come in when I told you not? Poor Josephs + is no more, Sir.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden, who had already saluted Mr. Hawes with grave politeness, though + without any affectation of good-will, came slowly up, and sinking his + voice to a whisper in presence of death said in pitiful accents, “Poor + child! he was always sickly. Six weeks ago I feared we should lose him, + but he seemed to get better.” He was now kneeling beside him. “Was he long + ill, sir?” asked he of Hawes. “Probably he was, for he is much wasted. I + can feel all his bones.” Hardened as they were, Hawes and Fry looked at + one another in some confusion. Presently Mr. Eden started back. “Why, what + is this? he is wet. He is wet from head to foot. What is the cause of + this? Can you tell me, Mr. Hawes?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes did not answer, but Evans did. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid it is the bucket, your reverence. They soused him in the yard + late last night.” + </p> + <p> + “Did they?” said Mr. Eden, looking the men full in the face. “Then they + have the more to repent of this morning. But stay. Why then he was not + under the doctor's hands, Evans?” + </p> + <p> + “La! bless you, no. He was harder worked and worse fed than any man in the + jail.” + </p> + <p> + “At work last night! Then at what hour did he die? He is stiff and cold. + This is a very sudden death. Did any one see this boy die?” + </p> + <p> + The men gave no answer, but the last words—“Did any one see this boy + die?”—seemed to give Evans a new light. + </p> + <p> + “No!” he cried. “No one saw him die. Look here, sir. See what is dangling + from the window—his handkerchief.” + </p> + <p> + “And this mark round his throat, Evans. He has destroyed himself.” And Mr. + Eden recoiled from the corpse. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! you may forgive him, sir,” said Evans. “We should all have done the + same. No human creature could live the life they led him. Who could live + upon bread and water and punishment? It is a sorrowful sight, but it is a + happy release for him. Eh! poor lad,” said Evans, laying his hand upon the + body; “I liked thee well, but I am glad thou art gone. Thou hast escaped + away from worse trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, it is no use sniveling, Evans,” put in Hawes. “I am as sorry for + this job as you are. But who would have thought he was so determined? He + gave us no warning.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you believe that, sir,” cried Evans to Mr. Eden. “He gave them + plenty of warning. I heard him with my own ears tell you you were killing + him; not a day for the last fortnight he did not tell you so, Mr. Hawes.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I didn't believe him, you see.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean you didn't care.” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your tongue, Evans! You are disrespectful. How dare you speak to me, + you insolent dog? Hold your tongue!” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I won't hold my tongue over this dead body.” + </p> + <p> + “Be silent, Evans,” said Mr. Eden. “This is no place for disputes. Evans, + my heart is broken. While there is life there is hope; but here, what hope + is there? Many in this place live in crime, but this one has died in + crime; he of whom I had such good hopes has died in crime—died by + his own hand; he has murdered his own soul; my heart is broken!—my + heart is broken!” The good man's anguish was terrible. + </p> + <p> + Evans consoled him. “Don't go on so, sir! pray don't. Josephs is where + none of us but you shall ever get to; he is in heaven as sure as we are + upon earth. He was the best lad in the place; there wasn't a drop of gall + in him; who ever heard a bad word from him? and he did not kill himself + till he found he was to die whether or no; so then he shortened his own + death-struggle, and he was right.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't understand you.” + </p> + <p> + “I dare say not, sir; but those two understand me. Oh, it is no use to + look black at me now, Mr. Hawes; I shall speak my mind though my head was + to be cut off. I have been a coward; I thought too much of my wife and + children; but I am a man now. Eh! poor lad, thou shan't be maligned now + thou art dead, as well as tormented alive. Sir, he that lies here so pale + and calm was not guilty of self-destruction. He was driven to death!—don't + speak to me, sir, but look at me, and hear the truth, as it will come out + the day all of us in this cell are damned, except you—and him!” + </p> + <p> + The man fell suddenly on his knees, took the dead boy's hand in his left + hand and held his right up, and in this strange attitude, which held all + his hearers breathless, he poured out a terrible tale. + </p> + <p> + His boiling heart and the touch of him, whom now too late he defended like + a man, gave him simple but real eloquence, and in few words, that scalded + as they fell, he told as powerfully as I have feebly by what road Josephs + had been goaded to death. + </p> + <p> + He brought the dark tale down to where he left the sufferer rolled up in + the one comfort left him on earth, his bed; and then turning suddenly and + leaving Josephs he said sternly: + </p> + <p> + “And now, sir, ask the governor where is the bed I wrapped the wet boy up + in, for it isn't here.” + </p> + <p> + “You know as much as I do!” was Hawes's sulky reply. + </p> + <p> + But at this moment Hodges came into the cell with the bed in question in + his arms. + </p> + <p> + “There is his bed,” cried he, “and what is the use of it now? If you had + left it him last night it would be better for him and for me, too,” and he + flung the bed on the floor. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! it was you took it from him, was it?” said Evans. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am here to obey orders, Jack Evans; do you do nothing but what + you like in this place?” + </p> + <p> + “Let there be no disputing in presence of death!” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “One thing only is worth knowing or thinking of now; whether there is hope + for this our brother in that world to which he has passed all unprepared. + Hodges, you saw him last alive!” + </p> + <p> + Hodges groaned. “I saw him last at night, and first in the morning.” + </p> + <p> + “I entreat you to remember all that passed at night between you!” + </p> + <p> + “Then cover up his face—it draws my eyes to it.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden covered the dead face gently with his handkerchief. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes met me in the corridor and sent me to take away his bed. I + found him dozing, and I took—I did what I was ordered.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden sighed. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me what <i>he</i> said and did.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir! when I showed him the order, 'fourteen days without bed and + gas,' he bursts out a laughing—” + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens!” + </p> + <p> + “And says he, 'I don't say for gas, but you tell Mr. Hawes I shan't be + without bed nothing nigh so long as that.'” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden and Evans exchanged a meaning glance; so did Fry and Hawes. + </p> + <p> + “Then I said, 'No! I shan't tell Mr. Hawes anything to make him punish you + any more, because you are punished too much as it is,' says I—” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad you said that. But tell me what <i>he</i> said. Did he + complain? did he use angry or bitter words?—you make me drag it out + of you.” + </p> + <p> + “No! he didn't! He wasn't one of that sort! The next thing was, he asked + me to give him my hand. Well, I was surprised like at his asking for my + hand, and I doing him such an ill-turn. So then he said, 'Mr. Hodges,' + says he, 'why not? I never took away your bed from under you, so you can + give me your hand, if I can give you mine.'” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! what a beautiful nature! Ah! these are golden words. I hope for the + credit of human nature you gave him your hand?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, of course I did, sir. I had no malice; it was ignorance, and owing + to being so used to obey the governor.” + </p> + <p> + Here Mr. Hawes, who had remained quiet all this time, now absorbed in his + own reflections, now listening sullenly to these strange scenes in which + the dead boy seemed for a time to have eclipsed his importance, burst + angrily in. + </p> + <p> + “I have listened patiently to you, Mr. Eden, to see how far you would go; + but I see if I wait till you leave off undermining me with my servants, I + may wait a long while.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden turned round impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “You! who thinks of you or such as you in presence of such a question as + lies here. I am trying to learn the fate of this immortal soul, and I did + not see you—or think of you—or notice you were here.” + </p> + <p> + “That is polite! Well, sir, the governor is somebody in most jails, but it + seems he is to be nobody here so long as you are in it, and that won't be + long. Come, Fry, we have other duties to attend to.” So saying he and his + lieutenant went out of the cell. + </p> + <p> + Hodges went, too, but not with them. + </p> + <p> + The moment they were gone—“Well, sir,” burst out Evans, “don't you + see that the real murderer is not that stupid, ignorant owl, Hodges?” + </p> + <p> + “Hush! Evans! this is no time or place for unkindly thoughts; thank Heaven + that you are free from their guilt, and leave me alone with him.” + </p> + <p> + He was left alone with the dead. + </p> + <p> + Evans looked through the peep-hole of the cell an hour later. He was still + on his knees fearing, hoping, vowing, and, above all, praying—beside + the dead. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII. + </h2> + <p> + MR. EDEN, when he reappeared in the prison, was sallow and his limbs + feeble, but his fatal disease was baffled, and a few words are due to + explain how this happened. The Malvern doctor came back with Susan within + twenty hours of her departure. She ushered him into Mr. Eden's room with + blushing joy and pride. + </p> + <p> + The friends shook hands. Mr. Eden thanked him for coming, and the doctor + cut him short by demanding an accurate history of his disorder, and the + remedies that had been applied. Mr. Eden related the rise and progress of + his complaint, and meantime the doctor solved the other query by smelling + a battalion of empty phials. + </p> + <p> + “The old story,” said he with a cheerful grin. “You were weak—therefore + they gave you things to weaken you. You could not put so much nourishment + as usual into your body—therefore they have been taking strength + out. Lastly, the coats of your stomach were irritated by your disorder—so + they have raked it like blazes. This is the mill-round of the old + medicine; from irritation to inflammation, from inflammation to + mortification, and decease of the patient. Now, instead of irritating the + irritated spot, suppose we try a little counter-irritation.” + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor then wetted a towel with cold water, wrung it half dry, and + applied it to Mr. Eden's stomach. + </p> + <p> + This experiment he repeated four times with a fresh towel at intervals of + twenty minutes. He had his bed made in Mr. Eden's room. “Tell me if you + feel feverish.” + </p> + <p> + Toward morning Mr. Eden tossed and turned, and the doctor rising found him + dry and hot and feverish. Then he wetted two towels, took the sheets off + his own bed, and placed one wet towel on a blanket; then he made his + patient strip naked, and lie down on this towel, which reached from the + nape of his neck to his loins. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” cried Mr. Eden, “horrible!” + </p> + <p> + Then he put the other towel over him in front. + </p> + <p> + “Ugh! That is worse; you are a bold man with your remedies. I shiver to + the bone.” + </p> + <p> + “You won't shiver long.” + </p> + <p> + He laid hold of one edge of the blanket and pulled it over him with a + strong, quick pull, and tucked it under him. The same with the other side; + and now Mr. Eden was in a blanket prison—a regular strait-waistcoat—his + arms pinned to his sides. Two more blankets were placed loosely over him. + </p> + <p> + “Mighty fine, doctor; but suppose a fly or a gnat should settle on my + face?” + </p> + <p> + “Call me and I'll take him off.” + </p> + <p> + In about three quarters of an hour Dr. Gulson came to his bedside again. + </p> + <p> + “How are you now?” + </p> + <p> + “In Elysium.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you shivering?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing of the kind.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you hot?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing of the sort. I am Elysian. Please retreat. Let no mere mortals + approach. Come not near our fairy king,” murmured the sick man. “I am + Oberon, slumbering on tepid roses in the garden whence I take my name,” + purred our divine, mixing a creed or two. + </p> + <p> + “Well, you must come out of this paradise for the present.” + </p> + <p> + “You wouldn't be such a monster as to propose it.” + </p> + <p> + Spite of his remonstances, he was unpacked, rubbed dry, and returned to + his own bed, where he slept placidly till nine o'clock. The next day fresh + applications of wet cloths to the stomach, and in the evening one of the + doctor's myrmidons arrived from Malvern. The doctor gave him full and + particular instructions. + </p> + <p> + The next morning Mr. Eden was packed again. He delighted in the operation, + but remonstrated against the term. + </p> + <p> + “Packed!” said he to them; “is that the way to speak of a Paradisiacal + process under which fever and sorrow fly and calm complacency steals over + mind and body?” + </p> + <p> + A slight diminution of all the unfavorable symptoms, and a great increase + of appetite relieved the doctor's anxiety so far that he left him under + White's charge. So was the myrmidon called. + </p> + <p> + “Do not alter your diet—it is simple and mucilaginous—but + increase the quantity by degrees.” + </p> + <p> + He postponed his departure till midnight. Up to the present time he had + made rather light of the case, and as for danger he had pooh-poohed it + with good-humored contempt. Just before he went he said: + </p> + <p> + “Well, Frank, I don't mind telling you now that I am very glad you sent + for me, and I'll tell you why. Forty-eight hours more of irritating + medicines, and no human skill could have saved your life.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! my dear friend, you are my good angel—you can have no + conception how valuable my life is.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes, I can!” + </p> + <p> + “And you have saved that life. Yes! I am weak still, but I feel I shall + live. You have cured me.” + </p> + <p> + “In popular language, I have. But between ourselves nobody ever cures + anybody. Nature cures all that are cured. But I patted Nature on the back; + the others hit her over the head with bludgeons and brick-bats.” + </p> + <p> + “And now you are going. I must not keep you or I shall compromise other + lives. Well, go and fulfill your mission. But first think—is there + anything I can do in part return for such a thing as this, old friend?” + </p> + <p> + “Only one that I can think of. Outlive me, old friend.” + </p> + <p> + A warm and tender grasp of the hand on this, and the Malvern doctor jumped + into a fly, and the railway soon whirled him into Worcestershire. + </p> + <p> + His myrmidon remained behind and carried out his chief's orders with + inflexible severity, unsoftened by blandishments, unshaken by threats. + </p> + <p> + In concert with Susan he closed the door upon all harassing + communications. + </p> + <p> + One day Evans came to tell the invalid how the prisoners were maltreated. + Susan received him, wormed from him his errand, and told him Mr. Eden was + too ill to see him, which was what my French brethren call <i>une sainte + mensonge</i>—I a fib. + </p> + <p> + A slow but steady cure was effected by these means: applications of water + in various ways to the skin, simple diet, and quiet. A great appetite soon + came; he ate twice as much as he had before the new treatment, and would + have eaten twice as much as he did, but the myrmidon would not let him. + Whenever he was feverish the myrmidon packed him, and in half an hour the + fever was gone. His cheeks began to fill, his eyes to clear and brighten, + only his limbs could not immediately recover their strength. + </p> + <p> + As he recovered, his anxiety to be back among his prisoners increased + daily, but neither Susan nor the myrmidon would hear of it. They acted in + concert, and stuck at nothing to cure their patient. They assured him all + was going on well in the prison. They meant well; but for all that, every + lie, great or small, is the brink of a precipice the depth of which + nothing but Omniscience can fathom. + </p> + <p> + He believed them, yet he was uneasy; and this uneasiness increased with + his returning strength. At last one morning, happening to awake earlier + than usual, he stole a march on his nurses, and taking his stick walked + out and tottered into the jail. + </p> + <p> + He found Josephs dead under the fangs of Hawes, and the whole prison + groaning. + </p> + <p> + Now the very day his symptoms became more favorable it so happened that he + had received a few lines from the Home Office that had perhaps aided his + recovery by the hopes they inspired. + </p> + <p> + “The matter of your last communication is forwarded to the 'Inspector of + Prisons.' He is instructed to inquire strictly into your statements and + report to this office.” + </p> + <p> + The short note concluded with an intimation that the tone in which Mr. + Eden had conveyed his remonstrances was intemperate, out of place, and + WITHOUT PRECEDENT. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden was rejoiced. + </p> + <p> + The “Inspector of Prisons” was a salaried officer of the crown, + enlightened by a large comparison of many prisons, and, residing at a + distance, was not open to the corrupting influences of association and + personal sympathy with the governor, as were the county magistrates. + </p> + <p> + Day after day Mr. Eden rose in hope that day would not pass without the + promised visit from the “Inspector of Prisons.” Day after day no + inspector. At last Mr. Eden wrote to him to inquire when he was coming. + </p> + <p> + The letter traveled about after him, and after a considerable delay came + his answer. It was to this effect. That he was instructed to examine into + charges made against the governor of —— Jail; but that he had + no instructions to make an irregular visit for that purpose. His progress + would bring him this year to —— Jail in six weeks' time, when + he should act on his instructions, but these did not justify him in + varying from the routine of his circuit. + </p> + <p> + Six weeks is not long to wait for help in a matter of life and death, + thought the eighty pounders, the clerks who execute England. + </p> + <p> + Three days of this six weeks had scarce elapsed when two prisoners were + driven a step each farther than their wretched fellow sufferers who were + to follow them in a week or two. Of these, one, “a mild, quiet, docile + boy,” was driven to self-slaughter; and another, one of the best-natured + rogues in the place, was driven to manslaughter. + </p> + <p> + This latter incident Mr. Eden prevented. I will presently relate how; it + was not by postponing his interference for six weeks. + </p> + <p> + When Mr. Eden rose from his knees beside the slaughtered boy he went home + at once and wrote to the Home Secretary. On the envelope he wrote + “private,” and inside to this effect: + </p> + <p> + “Two months ago I informed you officially that prisoners are daily + assaulted, starved, and maltreated to the danger of their lives by the + governor of —— Jail. I demanded of you an inquiry on the spot. + In reply you evaded my demand, and proposed to refer me to the visiting + justices. + </p> + <p> + “In answer I declined these men for referees on two grounds, viz., that I + had lodged an appeal with a higher jurisdiction than theirs, and that they + were confederates of the criminal; and to enforce the latter objection I + included your proposed referees in my charges, and once more demanded of + you in the queen's name an examination of her unworthy servants on the + instant and on the spot. + </p> + <p> + “On this occasion I warned you in these words: + </p> + <p> + “'Here are 180 souls, to whose correction, care and protection the State + is pledged. No one of these lives is safe a single day; and for every head + that falls from this hour I hold you responsible to God and the State.' + </p> + <p> + “Surely these were no light words, yet they fell light on you. + </p> + <p> + “In answer you promised us the 'Inspector of Prisons,' but you gave him no + instructions to come to us. You fooled away time when time was human life. + Read once more my words of warning, and then read these: + </p> + <p> + “This morning a boy of fifteen was done to death by Mr. Hawes. Of his + death you are not guiltless. You were implored to prevent it, you could + have prevented it, and you did not prevent it. The victim of jail cruelty + and of the maladministration in government offices lies dead in his cell. + </p> + <p> + “In three days I shall commit his body to the dust; but his memory never—until + he is avenged and those who are in process of being murdered like him + receive the protection of the State. + </p> + <p> + “If in the three days between this boy's murder and his burial your direct + representative and agent does not come here and examine this jail and sift + the acts of those who govern it, on the fourth day I lay the whole case + before her majesty the queen and the British nation, by publishing it in + all the journals. Then I shall tell her majesty that, having thrice + appealed in vain to her representatives, I am driven to appeal to herself; + with this I shall print the evidence I have thrice offered you of this + jailer's felonies and their sanguinary results. That lady has a character; + one of its strong, unmistakable features is a real, tender, active + humanity. + </p> + <p> + “I read characters; it is a part of my business; and, believe me, this + lady once informed of the crimes done in her name will repudiate and abhor + alike her hireling's cruelty and her clerks' and secretaries' indifference + to suffering and slaughter. Nor will the public hear unmoved the awful + tale. Shame will be showered on all connected with these black deeds, even + on those who can but be charged with conniving at them. + </p> + <p> + “To be exposed to national horror on the same column with the greatest + felon in England would be a cruel position, a severe punishment for a man + of honor, whose only fault perhaps is that he has mistaken an itch for + eminence for a capacity for business, and so serves the State without + comprehending it. But what else can I do? I, too, serve the State, and I + comprehend what I owe it, and the dignity with which it intrusts me, and + the deep responsibility it lays on me. I therefore cannot assent to future + felonies any more than I have to past and present, but must stop them, and + will stop them—how I can. + </p> + <p> + “So, sir, I offer you the post of honor or a place of shame. Choose! for + three whole days you have the choice. Choose! and may God enlighten you + and forgive me for waiting these three days. + </p> + <p> + “I have the honor to be, etc., etc.” + </p> + <p> + To this letter, whose tone was more eccentric, more flesh and blood, and + WITHOUT PRECEDENT, than the last, came an answer in a different hand from + the others. + </p> + <p> + “—acknowledged receipt of the chaplain's letter. + </p> + <p> + “Since a human life has succumbed under the discipline of —— + Jail, an inquiry follows immediately as a matter of course. The other + inducements you have held out are comparatively weak and something more + than superfluous. How far they are in good taste will be left to your own + cooler consideration. A person connected with the Home Department will + visit your jail with large powers soon after you receive this. + </p> + <p> + “He is instructed to avail himself of your zeal and knowledge. + </p> + <p> + “Be pleased to follow this course. Select for him the plainer facts of + your case. If on the face of the business he sees ground for deeper + inquiry, a commission will sit upon the jail, and meanwhile all suspected + officers will be suspended. You will consider yourself still in direct + correspondence with this office, but it is requested, on account of the + mass of matter daily submitted to us, that your communications may be + confined to facts, and those stated as concisely as possible.” + </p> + <p> + On reading this Mr. Eden colored with shame as well as pleasure. “How + gentleman-like all this is!” thought he. “How calm and superior to me, + who, since I had the jaundice, am always lowering my office by getting + into a heat! And I to threaten this noble, dignified creature with the <i>Times</i>. + I am thoroughly ashamed of myself. Yet what could I do? I had tried + everything short of bullying and failed. But I now suspect —— + never saw my two first letters. Doubtless the rotten system of our public + offices is more to blame than this noble fellow.” + </p> + <p> + Thus accusing himself Mr. Eden returned with somewhat feeble steps to the + jail. One of the first prisoners he visited was Thomas Robinson. He found + that prisoner in the attitude of which he thought he had cured him, coiled + up like a snake, moody and wretched. The man turned round with a very bad + expression on his face, which soon gave way to a look of joy. He uttered a + loud exclamation, and springing unguardedly up, dropped a brickbat which + rolled toward Mr. Eden and nearly hit him. + </p> + <p> + Robinson looked confused, and his eyes rose and fell from Mr. Eden's face + to the brickbat. + </p> + <p> + “How do you do?” + </p> + <p> + “Not so well as before you fell ill, sir. It has been hard times with us + poor fellows since we lost you.” + </p> + <p> + “I fear it has.” + </p> + <p> + “You have just come back in time to save a life or two. There is a boy + called Josephs. I hope the day won't go over without your visiting him, + for they are killing him by inches.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know that?” + </p> + <p> + “I heard him say so.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden groaned. + </p> + <p> + “You look pale, my poor fellow.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be better now,” replied the thief, looking at him affectionately. + </p> + <p> + “What is this?” + </p> + <p> + “This, sir—what, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “This brick?” + </p> + <p> + “Well! why—it is a brick, sir! + </p> + <p> + “Where did you get it?” + </p> + <p> + “I found it in the yard.” + </p> + <p> + “What were you going to do with it?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! I wasn't going to do any ill with it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why that guilty look when you dropped it. Come, now—I am in no + humor to be hard upon you. Were you going to make some more cards?” + </p> + <p> + “Now, sir, didn't I promise you I never would do that again;” and Robinson + wore an aggrieved look. “Would I break a promise I made to you?” + </p> + <p> + “What was it for then?” + </p> + <p> + “Am I bound to criminate myself, your reverence?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not to your enemy! but to your friend, and to him who has the + care of your soul—yes!” + </p> + <p> + “Let me ask you a question first, sir. Which is worth most, one life or + twenty?” + </p> + <p> + “Twenty.” + </p> + <p> + “Then if by taking one life you can save twenty, it is a good action to + put that one out of the way?” + </p> + <p> + “That does not follow.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! doesn't it? I thought it did. There's a man in this prison that + murders men wholesale. I thought if I could any way put it out of his + power to kill any more what a good action it would be!” + </p> + <p> + “A good action! so then this brick—” + </p> + <p> + “Was for Hawes's skull, your reverence.” + </p> + <p> + “This, then, is the fruit of all my teaching. You will break my heart + among you. + </p> + <p> + “Don't say so, sir! pray don't say so! I won't touch a hair of his head + now you are alive; but I thought you were dead or dying, so what did it + matter then what I did? Besides, I was driven into a corner; I could only + kill that scoundrel or let him kill me. But you are alive, and you will + find some way of saving my life as well as his.” + </p> + <p> + “I will try. But first abandon all thoughts of lawless revenge. 'Vengeance + is mine, I will repay, saith the Lord.' Come, promise me.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, sir, is it likely I would offend you for the pleasure of dirtying my + fingers with that rascal's blood? Don't let such a lump of dirt as him + make mischief between you and me, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand! with you any unchristian sentiment is easily driven out—by + another. Hatred is to give way to contempt.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, but you are alive, and I don't think of Hawes now one way or + other—with such scum as that out of sight is out of mind. When did + you begin to get better, sir? and are you better? and shall I see your + blessed face in my cell every day as I used?” And the water stood in the + thief's eyes. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden smiled and sighed. “Your mind is like an eel—Heaven help + the man that tries to get hold of it to do it any lasting good. You and I + must have a good pray together some day.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! your reverence, that would do me good soul and body,” said Mr. + Supple. + </p> + <p> + “Let me now feel your pulse; it is very low. What is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “Starvation, overwork, and solitude. I feel myself sinking.” + </p> + <p> + “If I could amuse your mind.” + </p> + <p> + “Even you could hardly do that, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Hum! I have brought you a quire of paper and one of Mr. Gillott's + swan-quill pens and a penny ink-bottle.” + </p> + <p> + “What for?” + </p> + <p> + “You are to write a story.” + </p> + <p> + “But I never wrote one in my life.” + </p> + <p> + “Then this will be the first.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I'll try, sir. I've tried a hundred things in my life and they none + of them proved so hard as they looked. What kind of story?” + </p> + <p> + “The only kind of story that is worth a button—a true story—the + story of Thomas Robinson, alias Scott, alias Lyon, alias etc.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you should have brought a ream instead of a quire.” + </p> + <p> + “No! I want to read it when it is written. Now write the truth—do + not dress or cook your facts. I shall devour them raw with twice the + relish, and they will do you ten times the good. And intersperse no + humbug, no sham penitence. When your own life lies thus spread out before + you like a map, you will find you regret many things you have done, and + view others with calmer and wiser eyes; for self-review is a healthy + process. Write down these honest reflections, but don't overdo it—don't + write a word you don't feel. It will amuse you while you are at it.” + </p> + <p> + “That it will.” + </p> + <p> + “It will interest me more than the romance of a carpet writer who never + saw life, and it may do good to other prisoners.” + </p> + <p> + “I want to begin.” + </p> + <p> + “I know you do, creature of impulse! Let me feel your pulse again. Ah! it + has gained about ten.” + </p> + <p> + “Ten, your reverence? Fifty, you mean. It is you for putting life into a + poor fellow and keeping him from despair. It is not the first time you + have saved me. The devil hates you more than all the other parsons, for + you are as ingenious in good as he is in mischief.” + </p> + <p> + In the midst of this original eulogy Mr. Eden left the cell suddenly with + an aching heart, for the man's words reminded him that for all his skill + and zeal a boy of fifteen years lay dead of despair hard by. He went, but + he left two good things behind him—occupation and hope. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII. + </h2> + <p> + THE inexperienced in jails would take for granted that the death of + Josephs gave Mr. Hawes's system a fatal check. No such thing. He was + staggered. So was Pharaoh staggered several times, yet he always recovered + himself in twenty-four hours. Hawes did not take so long as that. A + suicide was no novelty under his system. Six hours after he found his + victim dead he had a man and a boy crucified in the yard, swore horribly + at Fry, who, for the first time in his life, was behind time, and tore out + of his hands “Uncle Tom,” which was the topic that had absorbed Fry and + made him two minutes behind him; went home and wrote a note to his friend + Williams informing him of the suicide that had taken place, and reflecting + severely upon Josephs for his whole conduct, with which this last offense + against discipline was in strict accordance. Then he had his grog, and + having nothing to do he thought he would see what was that story which had + prevailed so far over the stern realities of system as to derange that + piece of clock work that went by the name of Fry. He yawned over the first + pages, but as the master hand unrolled the great chromatic theory, he + became absorbed, and devoured this great human story till his candles + burned down in their sockets and sent him to bed four hours later than + usual. + </p> + <p> + The next morning soon after chapel a gentleman's servant rode up to the + jail and delivered a letter for Mr. Hawes. It was from Justice Williams. + That worthy expressed in polysyllables his sorrow at the death of Josephs + after this fashion: + </p> + <p> + “A circumstance of this kind is always to be deplored, since it gives + occasion to the enemies of the system to cast reflections, which, however + unphilosophical and malignant, prejudice superficial judgments against our + salutary discipline.” + </p> + <p> + He then went on to say that the visiting justices would be at the jail the + next day at one o'clock to make their usual report, in which Mr. Hawes + might be sure his zeal and fidelity would not pass unnoticed. He concluded + by saying that Mr. Hawes must on that occasion present his charges against + the chaplain in a definite form, and proceedings would be taken on the + spot. + </p> + <p> + “Aha! aha! So I shall get rid of him. Confound him! he makes me harder + upon the beggars than I should be. Fry, put these numbers on the cranks + and bring me your report after dinner.” + </p> + <p> + With these words Mr. Hawes vanished, and to the infinite surprise of the + turnkeys was not seen in the jail for many hours. At two o'clock, as he + was still not in the prison, Fry went to his house. He found Mr. Hawes + deep in a book. + </p> + <p> + “Brought the report, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Give it to me. Humph! No. 40 and 45 refractory at the crank. No. 65 + caught getting up to his window; says he wanted to feel the light. 65—that + is one of the boys, isn't it?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “How old is the young varmint?” + </p> + <p> + “Eleven, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “No. 14 heard to speak to a prisoner that was leaving the jail, his term + being out. What did he say to him?” + </p> + <p> + “Said 'Good-by! God bless you!'” + </p> + <p> + “I'll shut his mouth. Confound the beggars! how fond they are of talking. + I think they would rather go without their food than without their jaw. + </p> + <p> + “No. 19 caught writing a story. It is that fellow Robinson, one of the + parson's men. I'll write something on his skin. How did he get the things + to write with?” + </p> + <p> + “Chaplain gave them him.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! I am glad of that. You brought them away, of course?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; here they are. He made a terrible fuss about parting with + them.” + </p> + <p> + “What did he say?” + </p> + <p> + “He said Heaven was to judge between me and him.” + </p> + <p> + “Blaspheming dog! —— him! I'll break him. What else?” + </p> + <p> + “'Get out of my sight,' said he, 'for fear I do you a mischief.' So then + down he pops on his knees in a corner and turns his back on me, like an + ignorant brute that he is.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind, Fry, I'll break him.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose we shall see you in the prison soon, shan't we, sir? The place + looks strange to me without you.” + </p> + <p> + “By-and-by—by-and-by. This confounded book sticks to me like a + leech. How far had you got when you lent it me?” + </p> + <p> + “Got just to the most interesting part,” said Fry dolefully, “where he + comes under a chap called Legree; and then you took it away.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you'll have it again as soon as I have done with it. I say, what do + you think of this book? is it true do you think?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! it is true—I'd take my oath of that.” + </p> + <p> + “Why how do you know?” + </p> + <p> + “Because it reads like true.” + </p> + <p> + “That is no rule, ye fool.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, what do you think?” + </p> + <p> + This question staggered Hawes for a moment. However he assumed an oracular + look, and replied, “I think some of it is true and some isn't.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think it is true about their knocking down blackee in one lot, and + his wife in another, and sending 'em a thousand miles apart?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that is true enough! I daresay.” + </p> + <p> + “And running them down with bloodhounds?” + </p> + <p> + “Why not; they look upon the poor devils as beasts. If you tell a Yankee a + nigger is a man he thinks you are poking fun at him.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a cursed shame!” + </p> + <p> + “Of course it is! but I'll tell you what I can't swallow in this book. + Hem! did you ever fall in with any Yankees?” + </p> + <p> + “One or two, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Were they green at all?” + </p> + <p> + “That they weren't. They were rather foxy, I should say.” + </p> + <p> + “Rather. Why one of them would weather upon any three Englishmen that ever + were born. Now here is a book that as good as tells me it is a Yankee + custom to disable their beasts of burden. Gammon! they can't afford to do + it. I believe,” continued this candid personage (who had never been in any + of the States), “they are the cruelest set on the face of the earth, but + then they are the 'cutest (that is their own word), and they are a + precious sight too 'cute to disable the beast that carries the grist to + the mill.” + </p> + <p> + “Doesn't seem likely—now you put it to me.” + </p> + <p> + “Have a glass of grog, Fry.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And there is the paper. Run your eye over it and don't speak to me for + ten minutes, for I must see how Tom gets on under this bloody-minded + heathen.” + </p> + <p> + Fry read the paper; but although he moistened it with a glass of grog, he + could not help casting envious glances from his folio at Mr. Hawes's + duodecimo. + </p> + <p> + Fibs mixed with truth charm us more than truth mixed with fibs. + </p> + <p> + Presently an oath escaped from Mr. Hawes. + </p> + <p> + “Sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, it is only this infernal—humph!” + </p> + <p> + Presently another expletive. “I'll tell you what it is, Fry, if somebody + doesn't knock this thundering Legree on the head, I'll put the book on the + fire.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but if it isn't true, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “But it is true, every word of it, while you are reading it, ye fool. What + heathens there are in the world! First they sell a child out of his + mother's arms. She cuts sooner than be parted. They hunt her and come up + with her; but she knows what they are, and trusts her life and the child + to one of their great thundering frozen rivers as broad as the British + Channel sooner than fall into their hands. That is like a woman, Fry. A + fig for me being drowned if the kid is drowned with me; and I don't even + care so much for the kid being drowned if I go down with him—and the + cowardly vermin dogs and men stood barking on the bank and dursn't follow + a woman; but your cruel ones are always cowards. And now the rips have got + hold of this Tom. A chap with no great harm in him that I see, except that + he is a —— sniveler and psalm-singer, and makes you sick at + times, but he isn't lazy; and now they are mauling him because he couldn't + do the work of two. A man can but do his best, black or white, and it is + infernal stupidity as well as cruelty to torment a fellow because he can't + do more than he can do. And all this because over the same flesh and blood + there is the sixteenth of an inch of skin a different color. Wonder + whether a white bear takes a black one for a hog, or a red fox takes a + blue one for a badger. Well, Fry, thank your stars that you were born in + Britain. There are no slaves here, and no buying and selling of human + flesh; and one law for high and low, rich and poor, and justice for the + weak as well as the strong.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir,” said Fry deferentially—“are you coming into the jail, + sir?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied Hawes sturdily, “I won't move till I see what becomes of the + negro, and what is done to this eternal ruffian.” + </p> + <p> + “But about the prisoners in my report, sir,” remonstrated Fry. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you can see to that without my coming,” replied Hawes with + nonchalance. “Put 40 and 45 in the jacket four hours apiece. Mind there's + somebody by with the bucket against they sham.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Put the boy on bread and water—and to-morrow I'll ask the justices + to let me flog him. No. 14—humph! stop his supper—and his bed—and + gas.” + </p> + <p> + “And Robinson?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, give him no supper at all—and no breakfast—not even bread + and water, d'ye hear. And at noon I'll put him with his empty belly in the + black-hole—that will cow him down to the ground—there, be + off!” + </p> + <p> + Next morning Mr. Hawes sat down to breakfast in high spirits. This very + day he was sure to humiliate his adversary, most likely get rid of him + altogether. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden, on the contrary, wore a somber air. Hawes noticed it, mistook + it, and pointed it out to Fry. “He is down upon his luck; he knows he is + coming to an end.” + </p> + <p> + After breakfast Mr. Eden went into Robinson's cell. He found him haggard. + “Oh, I am glad you are come, sir; they are starving me! No supper last + night, no breakfast this morning, and all for—hum.” + </p> + <p> + “For what?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, then—having paper in my cell, and for writing—doing + what you bade me—writing my life.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden colored and winced. The cruelty and the personal insult combined + almost took away his breath for a moment. “Heaven grant me patience a + little longer,” said he aloud. Then he ran out of the cell, and returned + in less than a minute with a great hunch of bread and a slice of ham. “Eat + this,” said he, all fluttering with pity. + </p> + <p> + The famished man ate like a wolf; but in the middle he did stop to say, + “Did one man ever save another so often as you have me! Now my belly is + full I shall have strength to stand the jacket, or whatever is to come + next.” + </p> + <p> + “But you are not to be tormented further than this, I hope?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, sir!” replied Robinson, “you don't know the scoundrel yet. He is not + starving me for nothing. This is to weaken me till he puts the weight on + that is to crush me.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you exaggerate his personal dislike to you and your own importance—we + all do that.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” sighed Robinson, “I hope I do. Any way now my belly is full I have + got a chance with him.” + </p> + <p> + The visiting justices met in the jail. The first to arrive was Mr. + Woodcock. In fact he came at eleven o'clock, an hour before the others. + Had Mr. Hawes expected him so soon, he would have taken Carter down, who + was the pilloried one this morning; but he was equal to the emergency. He + met Mr. Woodcock with a depressed manner, as of a tender but wise father, + who in punishing his offspring had punished himself, and said in a low, + regretful voice, “I am sorry to say I have been compelled to punish a + prisoner very severely.” + </p> + <p> + “What is his offense?” + </p> + <p> + “Being refractory and breaking his crank. You will find him in the + labor-yard. He was so violent we were obliged to put him in the jacket.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall see him. The labor-yard is the first place I go to.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes knew that, Mr. Woodcock. + </p> + <p> + The justice found Carter in that state of pitiable torture, the sight of + which made Mr. Eden very ill. He went up to him and said, “My poor fellow, + I am very sorry for you; but discipline must be maintained, and you are + now suffering for fighting against it. Make your submission to the + governor, and then I dare say he will shorten your punishment as far as he + thinks consistent with his duty.” + </p> + <p> + Carter, it may well be imagined, made no answer. It is doubtful whether + the worthy magistrate expected or required one. An occasion for misjudging + a self-evident case of cruelty had arrived. This worthy seized the + opportunity, received an ex-parte statement for Gospel, and misjudged, + spite of his senses. + </p> + <p> + Item. An occasion for twaddling had come, and this good soul seized it and + twaddled into a man's ear who was fainting on the rack. + </p> + <p> + At this moment the more observant Hawes saw the signs of shamming coming + on. So he said hastily, “Oh, he will come to soon, and then he will be + taken down;” and moved away. Mr. Woodcock followed him without one grain + of suspicion or misgiving. + </p> + <p> + The English State has had many opportunities of gauging the average + intellects of its unpaid jurists. By these it has profited so well that it + intrusts blindly to this gentleman and his brethren the following + commission:— + </p> + <p> + They are to come into a place of darkness and mystery, a place locked up; + a place which, by the folly of the nation and the shallow egotists who are + its placemen and are called its statesmen, is not subject to the only + safeguard of law and morals—daily inspection by the great + unprejudiced public. They are to come into this, the one pitch-dark hole + that is now left in the land. They are to come here once in two months, + and at this visit to see all that has been done there in the dark since + their last visit. Their eagle eye is not to be hoodwinked by appearances + got up to meet their visit. They are to come and comprehend with one + piercing glance the past months as well as the present hour. Good. Only + for this task is required, not the gullibility that characterizes the + many, but the sagacity that distinguishes the few. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Woodcock undertook not to be deceived as to what had been done in the + jail while he was forty miles distant—and Hawes gulled him under his + own eyes. + </p> + <p> + What different men there are in the world, and how differently are the + same things seen by them! The first crucifixion Eden saw he turned as sick + as a dog—the first crucifixion Woodcock saw he twaddled in the + crucified's ear, left him on the cross, and went on his way well pleased. + </p> + <p> + Hawes, finding what sort of a man he had to deal with, thought within + himself, “Why should I compromise discipline in any point?” He said to Mr. + Woodcock, “There is another prisoner whom I am afraid I must give an hour + in the dark cell.” + </p> + <p> + “What has he been doing?” + </p> + <p> + “Scribbling a lot of lies upon some paper he got from the chaplain.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes's brief and unkind definition of autobiography did Robinson's + business. Mr. Woodcock simply observed that the proposed punishment was by + no means a severe one for the offense. + </p> + <p> + They visited several cells. Woodcock addressed the prisoners in certain + words, accompanied with certain tones and looks, that were at least as + significant as his words, and struck the prisoners as more sincere. + </p> + <p> + The words. + </p> + <p> + “If you have anything to complain of here, now is the time to say so, and + your complaint shall be sifted.” + </p> + <p> + The tones and looks. + </p> + <p> + “I know you are better off here than such scum as you deserve, but you + have a right to contradict me if you like; only mind, if you don't prove + it to my satisfaction, who am not the man to believe anything you say, you + had better have held your tongue.” + </p> + <p> + Meantime Mr. Hawes said nothing, but fixed his eye on the rogue, and that + eye said, “One word of discontent and the moment he is gone I massacre + you.” Then followed in every case the old theatrical business according to + each rogue's measure of ability. They were in the Elysian fields; one + thing alone saddened them; some day or other they must return to the + world. + </p> + <p> + Fathers, sent by your apprehensive wives to see whether Dicky is well used + at that school or not, don't draw Dicky into a corner of the playground, + and with tender kisses and promises of inviolable secrecy coax him to open + his little heart to you, and tell you whether he is really happy; leave + such folly to women—it is a weakness to wriggle into the truth as + they do. + </p> + <p> + No! you go like a man into the parlor with the schoolmaster—then + have Dicky in—let him see the two authorities together on good terms—then + ask him whether he is happy and comfortable and well used. He will tell + you he is. Go home rejoicing—but before you go into the drawing-room + do pray spend twenty minutes by the kitchen fire, and then go upstairs to + the boy's mother—and let her eat you, for you belong to the family + of the Woodcocks. + </p> + <p> + “We are passing one cell.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! that one is empty,” replied Hawes. + </p> + <p> + Not quite empty; there was a beech coffin standing in that cell, and the + corpse of a murdered thief lay waiting for it. + </p> + <p> + At twelve o'clock the justices were all assembled in their room. “We will + send you a message in half an hour, Mr. Hawes.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes bowed and retired, and bade Fry to take Robinson to the dark + cell. The poor fellow knew resistance was useless. He came out at the word + of command, despair written on his face. Of all the horrors of this hell + the dark cell was the one he most dreaded. He looked up to Hawes to see if + anything he could say would soften him. No! that hardened face showed + neither pity nor intelligence; as well appeal to a stone statue of a mule. + </p> + <p> + At this moment Mr. Eden came into the jail. Robinson met him on the + ground-floor, and cried out to him, “Sir, they are sending me to the black + hole for it. I am a doomed man; the black hole for six hours.” + </p> + <p> + “No!” roared Hawes from above, “for twelve hours; the odd six is for + speaking in prison.” Robinson groaned. + </p> + <p> + “I will take you out in three,” said Mr. Eden calmly. Hawes heard and + laughed aloud. + </p> + <p> + “Give me your hand on that, sir, for pity's sake,” cried Robinson. Mr. + Eden gave him his hand and said, firmly, “I will take you out in two + hours, please God.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes chuckled. “Parson is putting his foot in it more and more. The + justices shall know this.” + </p> + <p> + This momentary contact with his good angel gave Robinson one little ray of + hope for a companion in the cave of darkness, madness, and death. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV. + </h2> + <p> + THE justices went through their business in the usual routine. They had + Mr. Hawes's book up—examined the entries—received them with + implicit confidence looked for no other source of information to compare + them with. Examined one witness and did not cross-examine him. + </p> + <p> + This done, one of them proposed to concoct their report at once. Another + suggested that the materials were not complete; that there was a charge + against the chaplain. This should be looked into, and should it prove + grave, embodied in their report. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Williams overruled this. “We can reprimand, or if need be the bench + can dismiss a chaplain without troubling the Secretaries of State. Let us + make our report and then look into the chaplain's conduct, who is, after + all, a newcomer, and they say a little cracked; he is a man of learning.” + </p> + <p> + So they wrote their report, and in it expressed their conviction that the + system on the whole worked admirably. They noticed the incident of + Josephs' suicide, but attached no significance and little importance to + it. Out of a hundred and eighty prisoners there would be a few succumb in + one way or another under the system, but on the whole the system worked + well. + </p> + <p> + Jugger system's wheels were well greased, and so long as they were well + greased it did not matter their crushing one or two. Besides the crushed + were only prisoners—the refuse of society. They reported the + governor, Mr. Hawes, as a painstaking, active, zealous officer; and now + Mr. Hawes was called in—the report was read to him—and he + bowed, laid his hand upon his aorta, and presented a histrionic picture of + modest merit surprised by unexpected praise from a high quarter. + </p> + <p> + Next, Mr. Hawes was requested to see the report sent off to the post. + </p> + <p> + “I will, gentlemen;” and in five minutes he was at the post-office in + person, and his praises on the way to his sovereign or her representative. + </p> + <p> + “How long will the parson take us?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! not ten minutes.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope not, for I want to look at a horse.” + </p> + <p> + “We had better send for him at once, then.” + </p> + <p> + The bell was rung and the chaplain sent for. The chaplain was praying the + prayers for the sick by the side of a dying prisoner. He sent back word + how he was employed, and that he would come as soon as he had done. + </p> + <p> + This message was not well received. Keep a living justice waiting for a + dying dog! + </p> + <p> + “These puppies want taking down,” said Mr. Woodcock. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, leave him to me,” replied Mr. Williams. + </p> + <p> + Soon after this the following puppy came into the room. A gentleman of + commanding figure, erect but easy, with a head of remarkable symmetry and + an eye like a stag's. He entered the room quietly but rather quickly, and + with an air of business; bowed rapidly to the three gentlemen in turn, and + waited in silence their commands. + </p> + <p> + Then Mr. Williams drew himself up in his chair, and wore the solemn and + dignified appearance that becomes a judge trying a prisoner, with this + difference, that his manner was not harsh or intentionally offensive, but + just such as to reveal his vast superiority and irresistible weight. + </p> + <p> + In a solemn tone, with a touch of pity, he began thus: + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to say, Mr. Eden, that grave charges are laid against you in + the prison.” + </p> + <p> + “Give yourself no uneasiness on my account, sir,” replied Mr. Eden + politely, “they are perhaps false.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet they come from one who has means of knowing—from the governor, + Mr. Hawes.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! then they are sure to be false.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall see. Four Sundays ago you preached a sermon.” + </p> + <p> + “Two.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but one was against cruelty.” + </p> + <p> + “It was; the other handled theft.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes conceives himself to have been singled out and exposed by that + sermon.” + </p> + <p> + “Why so? there are more than thirty cruel men in this jail besides him.” + </p> + <p> + “Then this sermon was not aimed at him?” put Mr. Williams with a pinning + air. + </p> + <p> + “It was and it was not. It was aimed at that class of my parishioners to + which he belongs; a large class, including all the turnkeys but one, + between twenty and thirty of the greater criminals among the prisoners—and + Mr. Hawes.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Williams bit his lip. “Gentlemen, this classification shows the + animus;” then turning to Mr. Eden he said, with a half-incredulous sneer, + “How comes it that Mr. Hawes took this sermon all to himself?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden smiled. “How does it happen that two prisoners, 82 and 87, took + it all to themselves? These two men sent for me after the sermon; they + were wife-beaters. I found them both in great agitation. One terrified, + the other softened to tears of penitence. These did not apply my words to + Mr. Hawes. The truth is when a searching sermon is preached each sinner + takes it to himself. I am glad Mr. Hawes fitted the cap on. I am glad the + prisoners fitted the cap on. I am sorry Mr. Hawes was irritated instead of + reformed. I am glad those two less hardened sinners were reformed instead + of irritated.” + </p> + <p> + “And I must tell you, sir, that we disapprove of your style of preaching + altogether, and we shall do more, we shall make a change in this respect + the condition of your remaining in office.” + </p> + <p> + “And the bishop of the diocese?” asked Mr. Eden. + </p> + <p> + “What about him?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think he will allow you, an ignorant, inexperienced layman, to + usurp the episcopal function in his diocese.” + </p> + <p> + “The episcopal function? Mr. Eden.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden smiled. “He does not even see that he has been trying to usurp + sacred functions and of the highest order. But it is all of a piece—a + profound ignorance of all law, civil or ecclesiastical, characterizes all + your acts in this jail. My good soul, just ask yourself for what purpose + does a bishop exist? Why is one priest raised above other priests, and + consecrated bishop, but to enable the Church to govern its servants. I + laugh—but I ought rather to rebuke you. What you have attempted is + something worse than childish arrogance. Be warned! and touch not the + sacred vessels so rashly—it is profanation.” + </p> + <p> + The flashing eye and the deepening voice, and the old awful ecclesiastical + superiority suddenly thundering upon them quite cowed the two smaller + magistrates. Williams, whose pomposity the priest had so rudely shaken, + gasped for breath with rage. Magisterial arrogance was not prepared for + ecclesiastical arrogance, and the blow was stunning. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen, I wish to consult you. Be pleased to retire for a minute, + sir.” + </p> + <p> + A discussion took place in the chaplain's absence. Williams was for + dismissing him on the spot, but the others who were cooler would not hear + of it. “We have made a false move,” said they, “and he saw our mistake and + made the most of it. Never mind! we shall catch him on other ground.” + </p> + <p> + During this discussion Mr. Eden had not been idle; he went into Robinson's + empty cell and coolly placed there another inkstand, pen and quire in the + place of those Hawes had removed. Then glancing at his watch he ran + hastily out of the jail. Opposite the gate he found four men waiting; they + were there by appointment. + </p> + <p> + “Giles,” said he to one, “I think a gentleman will come down by the next + train. Go to the station and hire Jenkyns's fly with the gray horse. Let + no one have it who is not coming on to the jail. You two stay by the + printing-press and loom till further orders. Jackson, you keep in the way, + too. My servant will bring you your dinner at two o'clock.” He then ran + back to the justices. They were waiting for him. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Williams began with a cutting coldness. “We did not wish to go to the + length of laying a complaint against you before the bishop, but if you + really prefer this to a friendly remonstrance—” + </p> + <p> + “I prefer the right thing to the wrong thing,” was the prompt and calm + rejoinder. + </p> + <p> + “The complaint shall be made.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden bowed and his eyes twinkled. He pictured to himself this pompous + personage writing to the Bishop of —— to tell him that he + objected to Mr. Eden's preaching; not that he had ever heard it; but that + in attacking a great human vice it had hit a jailer. + </p> + <p> + “The next I think we can deal with. Mr. Hawes complains that you + constantly interfere between him and the prisoners, and undermine his + authority.” + </p> + <p> + “I support him in all his legal acts, but I do oppose his illegal ones.” + </p> + <p> + “Your whole aim is to subvert the discipline of the jail.” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary, I assure you I am the only officer of the jail who + maintains the discipline as by law established.” + </p> + <p> + “Am I to understand that you give Mr. Hawes the lie?” + </p> + <p> + “You shall phrase my contradiction according to your own taste, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And which do you think is likeliest to be believed?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes by you gentlemen; Mr. Eden by the rest of the nation.” + </p> + <p> + Here Mr. Palmer put in his word. “I don't think we ought to pay less + respect to one man's bare assertion than to another's. It is a case for + proof.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but, Palmer,” replied Woodcock, “how can the jail go on with these + two at daggers drawn?” + </p> + <p> + “It cannot,” said Mr. Eden. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you can see that.” + </p> + <p> + “A house divided against itself!” suggested Mr. Eden. + </p> + <p> + “Well, then,” said Mr. Woodcock, “let us try and give a more friendly tone + to this discussion.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?—our weapons would bear polishing.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; you have a high reputation, Mr. Eden, both for learning and + Christian feeling; in fact, the general consideration in which you are + held has made us more lenient in this case than we should have been with + another man in your office.” + </p> + <p> + “There you are all wrong.” + </p> + <p> + “You can't mean that; make us some return for this feeling. You know and + feel the value of peace and unity?” + </p> + <p> + “I do.” + </p> + <p> + “Then be the man to restore them to this place.” + </p> + <p> + “I will try.” + </p> + <p> + “The governor and you cannot pull together—one must go.” + </p> + <p> + “Clearly.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, no stigma shall rest on you—you will be allowed to + offer us your voluntary resignation.” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me, I propose to arrive at peace and unity by another route.” + </p> + <p> + “But I see no other.” + </p> + <p> + “If I turn Mr. Hawes out it will come to the same thing, will it not?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes?” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes.” + </p> + <p> + “But you can't turn him out, sir,” sneered Williams. + </p> + <p> + “I think I can.” + </p> + <p> + “He has our confidence and our respect, and shall have our protection.” + </p> + <p> + “Still I will turn him out with God's help.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a defiance, Mr. Eden.” + </p> + <p> + “You cannot really think me capable of defying three justices of the + peace!” said Mr. Eden in a solemn tone, his eyes twinkling. + </p> + <p> + “Defiance! no,” said Mr. Palmer innocently. + </p> + <p> + “Well, but, Palmer, his opposition to Mr. Hawes is opposition to us, and + is so bitter that it leaves us no alternative. We must propose to the + bench to remove you from your office.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden bowed. + </p> + <p> + “And meantime,” put in Mr. Williams, “we shall probably suspend you this + very day by our authority.” Mr. Eden bowed. + </p> + <p> + “We will not detain you any longer, sir,” said Williams, rather + insolently. + </p> + <p> + “I will but stay to say one word to this gentleman, who has conducted + himself with courtesy toward me. Sir, for your own sake do not enter on + this contest with me; it is an unequal one. A boy has just been murdered + in this prison. I am about to drag his murderer into the light; why hang + upon his skirts and compel me to expose you to public horror as his + abettor? There is yet time to disown the fell practices of—hell!” He + looked at his watch. “There is half an hour. Do not waste it in acts which + our superiors will undo. See here are the prison rules; a child could + understand them. A child could see that what you call 'the discipline' is + a pure invention of the present jailer, and contradicts the discipline as + by law established, and consequently that Josephs and others have been + murdered by this lawless man. These are the prison rules, are they not? + and here are the jailer's proceedings in the month of January—compare + the two, and separate your honorable name from the contact of this + caitiff, whose crimes will gibbet him in the nation's eyes, and you with + him, unless you seize this chance and withdraw your countenance from him.” + </p> + <p> + The three injustices rose by one impulse. “Make your preparations to leave + the jail,” said Mr. Woodcock. + </p> + <p> + “Half an hour is quite enough under the circumstances,” said Williams. + </p> + <p> + Palmer stood aghast—his mind was not fast enough to keep up. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden bowed and retired. He was scarcely out of the room when the + justices drew up an order for his suspension from his office. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes was next sent for. + </p> + <p> + “We have found the chaplain all you described him. Discipline is + impossible with such a man; here is an order for his suspension.” Hawes's + eyes sparkled. “We will enter it into the book, meantime you are to see it + executed.” Hawes went out, but presently returned. + </p> + <p> + “He won't go, gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean by he won't go?” said Williams. + </p> + <p> + “I told him your orders; and he said, 'Tell their worships they are + exceeding their authority, and I won't go.' Then I said, 'They give you + half an hour to pack up and then you must pack off.'” + </p> + <p> + “He! he! he! and what did he say?” + </p> + <p> + “'Oh, they give me half an hour, do they?' says he—'you take them + this'—and he wrote this on a slip of paper—here it is.” + </p> + <p> + The slip contained these words— + </p> + <p> + [Greek letters] + </p> + <p> + While the justices were puzzling over this, Hawes added, “Gentlemen, he + said in his polite way, 'If it is like the prison rules and beats their + comprehension, you may tell them it means— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'There is many a slip + 'Twixt the cup and the lip.'” + </pre> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Hawes—what next?” + </p> + <p> + “'I am victualed for a siege,' says he, and he goes into his own room, and + I heard him shoot the bolt.” + </p> + <p> + “What does that mean?” inquired Mr. Palmer. + </p> + <p> + “It means, sir, that you won't get him out except by kicking him out.” + Hawes had been irritating their wounded vanity in order to get them up to + this mark. + </p> + <p> + “Then turn him out by force,” said Williams. But the other two were wiser. + “No, we must not do that—we can keep him out if once he crosses the + door.” + </p> + <p> + “I will manage it for you, gentlemen,” said Mr. Hawes. + </p> + <p> + “Do.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes went out and primed Fry with a message to Mr. Eden that a + gentleman had ridden over from Oxford to see him, and was at his house. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden was in his room busy collecting and arranging several papers. He + had just tied them up in a little portfolio when he heard Fry's voice at + the door. When that worthy delivered his message his lip curled with + scorn. But he said, “Very well.” I will disappoint the sly boobies, + thought he. But the next moment, looking out of his window, he saw a fly + with a gray horse coming along the road. “At last,” he cried, and + instantly unbolted his door, and issued forth with his little portfolio + under his arm. He had scarce taken ten steps when a turnkey popped out + from a corner and stood sentinel over his room-door, barring all return. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden smiled and passed on along the corridor. He descended from the + first floor to the basement. Here he found Hawes affecting business, but + not skillfully enough to hide that he was watching Mr. Eden out. + </p> + <p> + In the yard leading to the great door he found the injustices. Aha! + thought he—waiting to see me out. He raised his hat politely. + Williams took no notice. The others slight. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “There is many a slip + 'Twixt the cup and the lip,” + </pre> + <p> + said he to them, looking them calmly over, then sauntered toward the gate. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes came creeping after and joined the injustices; every eye + furtively watched the parson whom they had outwitted. Fry himself had gone + to the lodge to let him out and keep him out. He was but a few steps from + the door. Hawes chuckled; his heart beat with exultation. A nether moment + and that huge barrier would be interposed forever between him and his + enemy, the prisoners' friend. + </p> + <p> + “Open the door, Mr. Fry,” said the chaplain. Fry pulled it quickly open. + “And let that gentleman in!” + </p> + <p> + A middle-aged gentleman was paying off his fly. The door being thus thrown + open he walked quickly into the jail as if it belonged to him. + </p> + <p> + “Who is this?” inquired Mr. Williams sharply. The newcomer inquired as + sharply, “The governor of this jail?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes stepped forward: “I am the governor.” The newcomer handed him + his card and a note. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Lacy from the Home Office,” said Mr. Hawes to the injustices. “These, + sir, are the visiting justices.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy bowed, but addressed himself to Mr. Hawes only. “Grave charges + have been made against you, sir. I am here to see whether matters are such + as to call for a closer investigation.” + </p> + <p> + “May I ask, sir, who makes the charges against me?” + </p> + <p> + “The chaplain of your own jail.” + </p> + <p> + “But he is my enemy, sir, my personal enemy.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't distress yourself. No public man is safe from detraction. We hear + an excellent account of you from every quarter but this one. My visit will + probably turn to your advantage.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes brightened. + </p> + <p> + “Is there any room in which I could conduct this inquiry?” + </p> + <p> + “Will you be pleased to come to the justices' room?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. Let us go there at once. Gentlemen, you shall be present if you + choose.” + </p> + <p> + “It is right you should know the chaplain is cracked,” said Mr. Williams. + </p> + <p> + “I should not wonder. Pray,” inquired Mr. Lacy, “who was that + bilious-looking character near the gate when I came in?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, that was the chaplain.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought so! I dare say we shall find he has taken a jaundiced view of + things. Send for him, if you please, and let us get through the business + as quickly as we can.” + </p> + <p> + When Mr. Eden came he found Mr. Lacy chatting pleasantly with his four + adversaries. On his entrance the gentleman's countenance fell a little, + and Mr. Eden had the pleasure of seeing that this man, too, was prejudiced + against him. + </p> + <p> + “Mr.—Mr.—?” + </p> + <p> + “Eden.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Eden, be seated, if you please. You appear to be ill, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “I am recovering from a mortal sickness.” + </p> + <p> + “The jaundice, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “Something of that nature.” + </p> + <p> + “A horrible complaint.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden bowed. + </p> + <p> + “I have had some experience of it. Are you aware of its effect on the + mind?” + </p> + <p> + “I feel its effect on the temper and the nerves.” + </p> + <p> + “Deeper than that, sir—it colors the judgment. Makes us look at + everything on the dark side.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden sighed: “I see what you are driving at; but you confound effect + with cause.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy shrugged his shoulders, opened his portfolio, and examined a + paper or two. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes, you served her majesty in another way before you came here?” + </p> + <p> + “Five and twenty years, sir, man and boy.” + </p> + <p> + “And I think with credit?” + </p> + <p> + “My will has been good to do my duty, whatever my abilities may be.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe you distinguished yourself at sea in a storm in the West + Indies?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Williams put in warmly, “He went out to a vessel in distress in a + hurricane at Jamaica.” + </p> + <p> + “It was off the Mauritius,” observed Mr. Eden with a gleam of + satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Mr. Lacy, “he saved other lives at the risk of his own, no + matter where. Pray, Mr. Eden, does your reading and experience lead you to + believe that a brave man is ever a cruel one?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “There is a proverb that the cruel are always cowards.” + </p> + <p> + “Cant! seven out of twelve are cowards and five brave.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't agree with you. The presumption is all on Mr. Hawes's side.” + </p> + <p> + “And only the facts on mine.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy smiled superciliously. “To the facts let us go, then. You + received a note from the Home Office this morning. In compliance with that + note have you prepared your case?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you begin by giving me an idea what the nature of your evidence will + be?” + </p> + <p> + “A page or two of print—twenty of manuscript—three or four + living witnesses, and—one dead body.” + </p> + <p> + “Hum! he seems in earnest, gentlemen. How long do you require to state + your case? Can it be done to-day?” Mr. Lacy looked at his watch half + peevishly. + </p> + <p> + “Half an hour,” was the reply. + </p> + <p> + “Only half an hour?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but half an hour neat.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean by neat?” + </p> + <p> + “The minutes not to be counted that are wasted in idle interruptions or in + arguments drawn from vague probabilities where direct evidence lies under + our senses. For instance, that because I have been twenty-five years a + servant of Christ with good repute, therefore it is not to be credited I + could bring a false accusation; or that because Mr. Hawes was brave twenty + years ago in one set of circumstances, therefore he cannot be cruel now in + another set of circumstances.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy colored a little, but he took a pinch of snuff, and then coolly + drew out of his pocket a long paper sealed. + </p> + <p> + “Have you any idea what this is?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden caught sight of the direction; it was to himself. + </p> + <p> + “Probably my dismissal from my post?” + </p> + <p> + “It is.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes quivered with exultation. + </p> + <p> + “And I have authority to present you with it if you do not justify the + charges you have made against a brother officer.” + </p> + <p> + “Good!” said Mr. Eden. “This is intelligent and it is just. The first + gleam of either that has come into this dark hole since I have known it. I + augur well from this.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a character, gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + “To business, sir?” inquired Mr. Eden, undoing his portfolio. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” put in Mr. Hawes, “I object to an ex-parte statement from a + personal enemy. You are here to conduct a candid inquiry, not to see the + chaplain conduct a hostile one. I feel that justice is safe in your hands + but not in his.” + </p> + <p> + “Stop a bit,” said Mr. Eden; “I am to be dismissed unless I prove certain + facts. See! the Secretary of State has put me on my defense. I will + intrust that defense to no man but myself.” + </p> + <p> + “You are keen, sir, but—you are in the right; and you, Mr. Hawes, + will be here to correct his errors and to make your own statement after he + has done in half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! well,” thought Hawes, “he can't do me much harm in half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + “Begin, sir!” and he looked at his watch. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes, I want your book; the log-book of the prison.” + </p> + <p> + “Get it, Mr. Hawes, if you please.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes went out. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Williams, are these the Prison Rules by Act of Parliament?” and he + showed him the paper. + </p> + <p> + “They are, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Examine them closely, Mr. Lacy; they contain the whole discipline of this + prison as by law established. Keep them before you. It is with these you + will have to compare the jailer's acts. And now, how many times is the + jailer empowered to punish any given prisoner?” + </p> + <p> + “Once—on a second offense the prisoner, I see, is referred for + punishment to the visiting justices.” + </p> + <p> + “If, therefore, this jailer has taken upon himself to punish the same + prisoner twice he has broken the law.” + </p> + <p> + “At all events he has gone beyond the letter of this particular set of + rules.” + </p> + <p> + “But these rules were drawn up by lawyers, and are based on the law of the + land. A jailer, in the eye of the law, is merely a head turnkey set to + guard the prisoners. For hundreds of years he had no lawful right to + punish a prisoner at all; that right was first bestowed on him with clear + limitations by an act passed in George the Fourth's reign, which I must + show you, because that act is a jailer's sole authority for punishing a + prisoner at all. Here is the passage, sir; will you be kind enough to read + it out?” + </p> + <p> + “Hum! 'The keeper of every prison shall have power to hear all complaints + touching any of the following offenses: Disobedience of the prison rules, + assaults by one prisoner on another where no dangerous wound is given, + profane cursing or swearing, any indecent behavior at chapel, idleness or + negligence in work. The said keeper may punish all such offenses by + ordering any offender to close confinement in the refractory or solitary + cells, and by keeping such offenders upon bread and water only for any + term not exceeding three days.'” + </p> + <p> + “Observe,” put in Mr. Eden, “he can only punish once, and then not select + the punishment according to his own fancy; he is restricted to separate + confinement, and bread and water, and three days.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy continued: “'In case any criminal prisoner shall be guilty of any + repeated offense against the rules of the prison, or of any greater + offense than the jailer is by this act empowered to punish, the said + jailer shall forthwith report the same to the visiting justices, who can + punish for one month, or felons or those sentenced to hard labor by + personal correction.'” + </p> + <p> + “Such, sir,” said Mr. Eden, “is the law of England, and the men who laid + down our prison rules were not so ignorant or unscrupulous as to run their + head against the statute law of the land. Nowhere in our prison rules will + you find any power given to our jailer to punish any but minor offenses, + or to punish any prisoner more than once, or to inflict any variety of + punishments. Such are this jailer's powers—now for his acts and + their consequences—follow me.” + </p> + <p> + “Evans, open this cell. Jenkyns, what are you in prison for?” + </p> + <p> + “For running away from sarvice, your reverence.” + </p> + <p> + “How often have you been punished since you came?” + </p> + <p> + “A good many times, your reverence.” + </p> + <p> + “By the visiting justices?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir! I was never punished by them, only by the governor.” + </p> + <p> + “What have been your offenses?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know, sir. I never meant to offend at all, but I am not very + strong, and the governor he puts me on a heavy crank and then I can't + always do the work, and I suppose he thinks it is for want of the will, + and so he gives it me.” + </p> + <p> + “How has he punished you?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! sometimes it is clamming; nothing but a twopenny roll all day, and + kept to hard work all the same; sometimes my bed taken away, you know, + sir, but mostly the punishment jacket.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “The punishment jacket; what is that?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “Look in the prison rules and see if you can find a punishment + jacket; meantime come with me. Two gross violations of the law—repetition + of punishment and variety of punishments. Evans, open this cell. What are + you in for?” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner (taking off his cap politely). “Burglary, gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you been often refractory since you came here?” + </p> + <p> + “Once or twice, sir. But—” + </p> + <p> + “But what?” + </p> + <p> + “These gentlemen are the visiting justices?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” + </p> + <p> + “They would be offended if I told the truth.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “I am here from the Secretary of State, and I bid you tell the + truth.” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “Oh! are you, sir; well, then, the truth is, I never was + refractory but once.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “Oh! you were refractory once?” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “Yes, sir!” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “How came that?” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “Well, sir! it was the first week. I had never been in a + separate cell before, and it drove me mad; no one came near me or spoke a + word to me, and I turned savage; I didn't know myself, and I broke + everything in the cell.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “And the other times?” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “The other times, sir, I was called refractory but I was not.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “What punishments have been inflicted on you by the governor?” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “Well, sir! the black-cell, bread and water, and none of that; + took away my gas once or twice, but generally it was the punishment + jacket.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “Hum! the punishment jacket.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “How long since you had the punishment jacket?” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “No longer than yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “Strip, my man, and let us look at your back.” + </p> + <p> + The prisoner stripped and showed his back, striped livid and red by the + cutting straps. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy gave a start, but the next moment he resumed his official + composure, and at this juncture Mr. Hawes bustled into the cell and fixed + his eye on the prisoner. + </p> + <p> + “What are you doing?” said he, eying the man. + </p> + <p> + “The gentleman made me strip, sir,” said the prisoner with an ill-used + air. + </p> + <p> + “Have you any complaint to make against me?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Then what have you been humbugging us for all this time,” cried Mr. + Williams contemptuously. + </p> + <p> + “For instance,” cried Mr. Eden in the same tone, glancing slyly at Mr. + Lacy, “how dare you show us frightful wales upon your back when you know + they only exist in your imagination—and mine.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy laughed. “That is true, he can't retract his wales, and I shall + be glad to know how they came there.” Here he made a note. + </p> + <p> + “I will show you by and by,” said Mr. Eden. + </p> + <p> + The next two cells they went to, the prisoners assured Mr. Lacy that they + were treated like Mr. Hawes's children. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir!” said Lacy, with evident satisfaction, “what do you say to + that?” + </p> + <p> + “I say—use your eyes.” And he wheeled the last prisoner to the + light. “Look at this hollow eye and faded cheek; look at this trembling + frame and feel this halting pulse. Here is a poor wretch crushed and + quelled by cruelty till scarce a vestige of man is left. Look at him! here + is an object to pretend to you that he has been kindly used. Poor wretch, + his face gives the lie to his tongue, and my life on it his body confirms + his face. Strip, my lad.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes interposed, and said it was cruel to make a prisoner strip to + gratify curiosity. Mr. Eden laughed. “Come, strip,” said he; “the + gentleman is waiting.” The prisoner reluctantly took off his coat, + waistcoat and shirt, and displayed an emaciated person and several large + livid stripes on his back. Mr. Lacy looked grave. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Mr. Lacy, you see the real reason why this humane gentleman did not + like the prisoner to strip. Come to another. Before we go in to this one + let me ask you one question: Do you think they will ever tell you the + truth while Mr. Hawes's eye is on them?” + </p> + <p> + “Hum! they certainly seem to stand in awe of Mr. Hawes.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes. “But, sir! you see how bitter the chaplain is against me. Where he + is I ought to be if I am to have fair play.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, Mr. Hawes, certainly! that is but fair.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “What are you in for?” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “Taking a gentleman's wipe, gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “Have you been often punished?” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “Yes, your reverence! Why you know I have; now didn't you save + my life when they were starving me to death two months ago?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “How did he save your life?” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “Made 'em put me on the sick list, and put something into my + poor belly.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “What state was the man in, Mr. Eden?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “He was like a skeleton, and so weak that he could only speak + two or three words at a time, and then had to stop a long while and + recover strength to say two or three more. I did not think a human + creature could be so near death and not die.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “And did you know the cause?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “Frankly, I did not. I had not at that time fathomed all the + horrors of this place.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “Did you tell the chaplain at the time you were starving?” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “No!” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “And why not?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes. “Simply because he never was starving.” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “Well! I'll tell you, gentlemen. His reverence said to me, 'My + poor fellow, you are very ill—I must have you on the sick list + directly,' and then he went for the doctor. Now I knew if I got on the + sick list they would fill my belly; so I said to myself, best let well + alone. If I had told him it was only starvation he would not interfere, I + thought.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy opened his eyes. Mr. Eden sighed. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “You seem to have a poor opinion of her majesty's officers.” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “Didn't know him, you see—didn't know his character; the + humbug that was here before him would have let a poor fellow be kicked + into his grave before his eyes, and not hold out a hand to save him.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “Let me understand you—were you kept without food?” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “I was a day and a half without any food at all.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “By whose orders?” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “By the governor's there, and I was a week on a twopenny loaf + once a day, and kept at hard work on that till I dropped. Ah, your + reverence, I shall never forget your face. I should be under the sod now + if it was not for you!” + </p> + <p> + Williams. “You rascal, the last time I was here you told me you never were + so happy and comfortable.” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “Ha! ha! ha! ha! he! he! haw! haw! ho! I ask your pardon for + laughing, sir; but you are so precious green. Why, if I had told you the + truth then I shouldn't be alive to talk to you now.” + </p> + <p> + “What, I should have murdered you, should I!” said Mr. Hawes, with a lofty + sneer. + </p> + <p> + “Why you know you would, sir,” replied the prisoner firmly and + respectfully, looking him full in the face before them all. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “You don't think so, or you would not take these liberties with + him now.” + </p> + <p> + The prisoner cast a look of pity on Mr. Lacy. + </p> + <p> + “Well, you <i>are</i> green—what, can't you see that I am going out + to-day? Do you think I'd be such a cully as to tell a pack of greenhorns + like you the truth before a sharp hand like our governor, if I was in his + power; no, my term of imprisonment expired at twelve o'clock to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why are you here?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you, sir. Our governor always detains a prisoner for hours + after the law sets him free. So then the poor fellow has not time to get + back to his friends, so then he sleeps in the town, ten to one at a + public-house; gets a glass, gets into bad company, and in a month or two + comes back here. That is the move, sir. Bless you, they are so fond of us + they don't like to part with us for good and all.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “I do not for a moment believe, Mr. Hawes, that you have + foreseen these consequences, but the detention of this man after twelve + o'clock is clearly illegal, and you must liberate him on the instant.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes. “That I will, and I wish this had been pointed out to me + before, but it was a custom of the prison before my time.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “Evans, come this way, come in. How long have you been a turnkey + here?” + </p> + <p> + Evans. “Four years, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “Do you happen to remember the practice of the late governor + with respect to prisoners whose sentence had expired?” + </p> + <p> + Evans. “Yes, sir! They were kept in their cells all the morning; then at + eleven their own clothes were brought in clean and dry, and they had half + an hour given them to take off the prison dress and put on their own. Then + a little before twelve they were taken into the governor's own room for a + word of friendly advice on leaving, or a good book, or a tract, or what + not. Then at sharp twelve the gate was opened for them, and—” + </p> + <p> + Prisoner. “Good-by!—till we see you again.” + </p> + <p> + Evans (sternly). “Come, my man, it is not for you to speak till you are + spoken to.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “You must not take that tone with the gentleman, Evans—this + is not a queen's prisoner, it is a private guest of Mr. Hawes. But time + flies. If after what we have heard and seen, you still doubt whether this + jailer has broken the law by punishing the same prisoner more than once + and in more ways than one, fresh evidence will meet you at every step; but + I would now direct your principal attention to other points. Look at Rule + 37. By this rule each prisoner must be visited and conversed with by four + officers every day, and they are to stay with him upon the aggregate half + an hour in the day. Now the object of this rule is to save the prisoners + from dying under the natural and inevitable operation of solitude and + enforced silence, two things that are fatal to life and reason.” + </p> + <p> + “But solitary confinement is legal.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden sighed heavily. “No it is not. Separate confinement, i.e., + separation of prisoner from prisoner, is legal, but separation of a + prisoner from the human race is as illegal as any other mode of homicide. + It never was legal in England; it was legal for a short time in the United + States, and do you know why it has been made illegal there?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I do not.” + </p> + <p> + “Because they found that life and reason went out under it like the snuff + of a candle. Men went mad and died, as men have gone mad and died here + through the habitual breach of Rule 37, a rule the aim of which is to + guard separate confinement from being shuffled into solitary confinement + or homicide. Take twenty cells at random, and ask the prisoners how many + officers come and say good words to them as bound by law; ask them whether + they get their half hour per diem of improving conversation. There is a + row of shambles, go into them by yourself, take neither the head butcher + nor me.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy bit his lip, bowed stiffly, and beckoned Evans to accompany him + into the cells. Mr. Hawes went in search of Fry, to concert what was best + to be done. Mr. Eden paced the corridor. As for Mr. Lacy, he took the + cells at random, skipping here and there. At last he returned and sent for + Mr. Hawes. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to say that the 37th Rule has been habitually violated; the + prisoners are unanimous; they tell me that so far from half an hour's + conversation, they never have three minutes, except with the chaplain. And + during his late illness they were often in perfect solitude. They tell me, + too, that when you do look in it is only to terrify them with angry words + and threats. Solitude broken only by harsh language is a very sad + condition for a human creature to lie in—the law, it seems, does not + sanction it—and our own imperfections should plead against such + terrible severity applied indiscriminately to great and small offenders.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that is well said, that is nobly said,” cried Mr. Eden with + enthusiasm. + </p> + <p> + “Sir! I was put in here to carry out the discipline which had been relaxed + by the late governor, and I have but obeyed orders as it was my duty.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense,” retorted Mr. Eden. “The discipline of this jail is comprised + in these rules, of which eight out of ten are habitually broken by you.” + </p> + <p> + “He is right there so far, Mr. Hawes. You are here to maintain, not an + imaginary discipline, but an existing discipline strictly defined by + printed rules, and it seems clear you have committed (through ignorance) + serious breaches of these rules. But let us hope, Mr. Eden, that no + irreparable consequences have followed this unlucky breach of Rule 37.” + </p> + <p> + “Irreparable? No!” replied Mr. Eden bitterly. “The Home Office can call + men back from the grave, can't it? Here is a list of five men all + extinguished in this prison by breach of Rule 37. You start. Understand + me, this is but a small portion of those who have been done to death here + in various ways; but these five dropped silently like autumn leaves by + breach of Rule 37. Rule 37 is one of the safety valves which the law, more + humane than the blockheads who execute it, has attached to that terrible + engine separate confinement.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot accept this without evidence.” + </p> + <p> + “I have a book here that contains ample evidence; you shall see it. + Meantime I will just ask that turnkey about Hatchett, the first name on + your list of victims. Evans, what did you find in Hatchett's cell when he + was first discovered to be dying?” + </p> + <p> + “Eighteen loaves of bread, sir, on the floor in one corner.” + </p> + <p> + “Eighteen loaves; I really don't understand.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you?—how could eighteen loaves have accumulated but by the + man rejecting his food for several days? How could they have accumulated + unobserved if Rule 37 had not been habitually broken? Alas! sir, + Hatchett's story, which I see is still dark to you, is as plain as my hand + to all of us who know the fatal effects of solitary or homicidal + confinement. Thus, sir, it was: Unsustained by rational employment, + uncheered by the sound of a human voice, torn out by the roots from all + healthy contact with the human race, the prisoner Hatchett's heart and + brain gave way together; being now melancholy mad he shunned the food that + was jerked blindly into his cell, like a bone to a wolf, by this + scientific contrivance to make brute fling food to brute, instead of man + handing it with a smile to grateful man; and so his body sunk (his spirits + and reason had succumbed before) and he died. His offense was refusing to + share his wages with a woman from whom he would have been divorced, but + that he was too poor to buy justice at so dear a shop as the House of + Lords. The law condemned him to a short imprisonment. The jailer, on his + own authority, substituted capital punishment.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it your pleasure, sir, that I should be vilified and insulted thus to + my very face, and by my inferior officer?” asked Hawes, changing color. + </p> + <p> + “You have nothing to apprehend except from facts,” was the somewhat cold + reply. “You are aware I do not share this gentleman's prejudices.” + </p> + <p> + “Would you like to see a man in the act of perishing through the habitual + breach of Rule 37 in —— Jail?” + </p> + <p> + “Can you show me such a case?” + </p> + <p> + “Come with me.” + </p> + <p> + They entered Strutt's cell. They found the old man in a state bordering on + stupor. When the door was opened he gave a start, but speedily relapsed + into stupor. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Mr. Lacy, here is a lesson for you. Would to God I could show this + sight to all the pedants of science who spend their useless lives in + studying the limbs of the crustaceonidunculae, and are content to know so + little about man's glorious body; and to all the State dunces who give + sordid blockheads the power to wreck the brains and bodies of wicked men + in these the clandestine shambles of the nation. Would I could show these + and all other numskulls in the land this dying man, that they might write + this one great truth in blood on their cold hearts and muddy + understandings. Alas! all great truths have to be written in blood ere man + will receive them.” + </p> + <p> + “But what is your great truth?” asked Mr. Lacy impatiently. + </p> + <p> + “This, sir,” replied Mr. Eden, putting his finger on the stupefied + prisoner's shoulder and keeping it there; “that the human body, besides + its grosser wants of food and covering, has its more delicate needs, + robbed of which it perishes more slowly and subtly but as surely as when + frozen or starved. One of these subtle but absolute conditions of health + is light. Without light the body of a blind man pines as pines a tree + without light. Tell that to the impostor physical science deep in the + crustaceonidunculae and ignorant of the A B C of man. Without light man's + body perishes, with insufficient light it droops; and here in all these + separate shambles is insufficient light, a defect in our system which + co-operates with this individual jailer's abuse of it. Another of the + body's absolute needs is work. Another is conversation with human beings. + If by isolating a vulgar mind that has collected no healthy food to feed + on in time of dearth you starve it to a stand-still, the body runs down + like a watch that has not been wound up. Against this law of Nature it is + not only impious but idiotic to struggle. Almighty God has made man so, + and so he will remain while the world lasts. A little destructive + blockhead like this can knock God's work to pieces—ecce signum—but + he can no more alter it while it stands than he can mend it when he has + let it down and smashed it. Feel this man's pulse and look at his eye. + Life is ebbing from him by a law of Nature as uniform as that which + governs the tides.” + </p> + <p> + “His pulse is certainly very low, and when I first felt it he was + trembling all over.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that was the agitation of his nerves—we opened the door + suddenly.” + </p> + <p> + “And did that make a man tremble?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; that is a well-known symptom of solitary confinement; it is by + shattering a man's nerves all to pieces that it prepares the way for his + death, which death comes sometimes in raging lunacy, of which eight men + have died under Mr. Hawes's reign. Here is the list of deaths by lunacy + from breach of Rule 37, eight. You will have the particulars by and by.” + </p> + <p> + “I really don't see my way through this,” said Mr. Lacy. “Let us come to + something tangible. What is this punishment jacket that leaves marks of + personal violence on so many prisoners?” + </p> + <p> + Now Hawes had been looking for this machine to hide it, but to his + surprise neither he nor Fry could find it. + </p> + <p> + “Evans, fetch the infernal machine.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, your reverence.” Evans brought the jacket, straps and collar from a + cell where he had hidden them by Mr. Eden's orders. “You play the game + pretty close, parson,” said Mr. Hawes, with an attempt at a sneer. + </p> + <p> + “I play to win. I am playing for human lives. This, sir, is the torture, + marks of which you have seen on the prisoners; but your inexperience will + not detect at a glance all the diabolical ingenuity and cruelty that lurks + in this piece of linen and these straps of leather. However, it works + thus: The man being in the jacket its back straps are drawn so tight that + the sufferer's breath is impeded, and his heart, lungs and liver are + forced into unnatural contact. You stare. I must inform you that Nature is + a wonderfully close packer. Did you ever unpack a human trunk of its + stomach, liver, lungs and heart, and then try to replace them? I have; + and, believe me, as no gentleman can pack like a shopman, so no shopman + can pack like Nature. The victim's body and organs being crushed these two + long straps fasten him so tight to the wall that he cannot move to ease + the frightful cramps that soon attack him. Then steps in by way of climax + this collar, three inches and a half high. See, it is as stiff as iron, + and the miscreants have left the edges unbound that it may do the work of + a man-saw as well as a garotte. In this iron three-handed gripe the victim + writhes and sobs and moans with anguish, and, worse than all, loses his + belief in God.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a stern picture,” said Mr. Lacy, hanging his head. + </p> + <p> + “Until what with the freezing of the blood in a body jammed together and + flattened against a wall—what with the crushed respiration and the + cowed heart a deadly faintness creeps over the victim and he swoons away!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “It is a lie—a base, malignant lie!” shouted Hawes. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to hear it, Mr. Hawes.” + </p> + <p> + Here the justices with great beat joined in and told Mr. Lacy he would be + much to blame if he accepted any statement made against so respectable a + man as Mr. Hawes. Then they all turned indignantly on Mr. Eden. That + gentleman's eyes sparkled with triumph. + </p> + <p> + “I have been trying a long time to make him speak, but he was too cunning. + It is a lie, is it?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is a lie.” + </p> + <p> + “What is a lie?” + </p> + <p> + “The whole thing.” + </p> + <p> + “Give me your book, Mr. Hawes. What do you mean by 'the + punishment-jacket,' an entry that appears so constantly here in your + handwriting?” + </p> + <p> + “I never denied the jacket.” + </p> + <p> + “Then what is the lie of which you have accused me? Show me—that I + may ask your pardon and His I serve for so great a sin as a lie.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a lie to say that the jacket tortures the prisoners and makes them + faint away; it only confines them. You want to make me out a villain, but + it is your own bad heart that makes you think so or say so without + thinking it.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, Mr. Lacy, I think we have caught our eel. This, then, is the ground + you take; if it were true that this engine, instead of merely confining + men, tortured them to fainting, then you say you would be a villain. You + hesitate, sir; can't you afford to admit that, after all?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I can.” + </p> + <p> + “But on the other hand you say it is untrue that this engine tortures?” + </p> + <p> + “I do.” + </p> + <p> + “Prove that by going into it for one hour. I have seen you put a man in it + for six.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, do you really think I am going to make myself a laughing-stock to + the whole prison?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but consider what a triumph you are denying yourself to prove me a + liar and yourself a true man. It would be the greatest feat of dialects + the world ever saw; and you need not stand on your dignity—better + men than you have been in it, and there goes one of them. Here, Evans, + come this way. We want you to go into the punishment-jacket.” The man + recoiled with a ludicrous face of disgust and dismay. Mr. Lacy smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Now, your reverence, don't think of it. I don't want to earn no more + guineas that way.” + </p> + <p> + “What does he mean?” asked Mr. Lacy. + </p> + <p> + “I gave him a guinea to go into it for half an hour, and he calls it a + hard bargain.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you have been in it, then? Tell me, is it torture or is it only + confinement?” + </p> + <p> + “Con-finement! con-found such confinement, I say. Yes, it is torture and + the worst of torture. Ask his reverence, he has been in the oven as well + as me.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy opened his eyes wide. + </p> + <p> + “What!” said he, with a half grin, “have you been in it?” + </p> + <p> + “That he has, sir,” said Evans, grinning out in return. “Bless you, his + reverence is not the one to ask a poor man to stand any pain he daren't + face himself.” + </p> + <p> + “There, there, we don't want to hear about his reverence,” said his + reverence very sharply. “Mr. Hawes says it is not torture, and therefore + he won't face it. 'It is too laughable and painless for me,' says slippery + Mr. Hawes. 'It <i>is</i> torture, and therefore I won't face it,' says the + more logical Mr. Evans. But we can cut this knot for you, Mr. Lacy. There + are in this dungeon a large body of men so steeped in misery, so used to + torture for their daily food, that they will not be so nice as Messrs. + Hawes and Evans. 'Fiat experimentum in corpore vili.' Follow me, sir; and + as we go pray cast your eyes over the prison rules, and see whether you + can find 'a punishment-jacket.' No, sir, you will not find even a Spanish + collar, or a pillory, or a cross, far less a punishment-jacket which + combines those several horrors.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes hung back and begged a word with the justices. “Gentlemen, you + have always been good friends to me—give me a word of advice, or at + least let me know your pleasure. Shall I resign—shall I fling my + commission in this man's face who comes here to usurp your office and + authority?” + </p> + <p> + “Resign! Nonsense!” said Mr. Williams. “Stand firm. We will stand by you, + and who can hurt you then?” + </p> + <p> + “You are very good, sirs. Without you I couldn't put up with any more of + this—to be baited and badgered in my own prison, after serving my + queen so many years by sea and land.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor fellow!” said Mr. Woodcock. + </p> + <p> + “And how can I make head against such a man as Eden—a lawyer in a + parson's skin, an orator too that has a hundred words to say to my one?” + </p> + <p> + “Let him talk till he is hoarse, we will not let him hurt you.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, gentlemen, thank you. Your wishes have always been my law. You + bid me endure all this insolence; honored by your good opinion, and + supported by your promise to stand by me, I will endure it.” And Mr. Hawes + was seen to throw off the uneasiness he had put on to bind the magistrates + to his defense. + </p> + <p> + “They are coming back again.” + </p> + <p> + “Who is this with them?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes muttered an oath. “It is a refractory prisoner I had sent to the + dark cell. I suppose they will examine him next, and take his word against + mine.” + </p> + <p> + (Chorus of Visiting Justices.) “Shame!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV. + </h2> + <p> + MR. EDEN had taken Mr. Lacy to the dark cells. Evans, who had no key of + them, was sent to fetch Fry to open them. “We will kill two birds with one + stone—disinter a patient for our leathern gallows, and a fresh + incident of the —— Inquisition. Open this door, Mr. Fry.” + </p> + <p> + The door was opened. A feeble voice uttered a quavering cry of joy that + sounded like wailing, and a figure emerged so suddenly and distinctly from + the blackness that Mr. Lacy started. It was Thomas Robinson, who crept out + white and shaking, with a wild, haggard look. He ran to Mr. Eden like a + great girl. “Don't let me go back—don't let me go back, sir!” And + the cowed one could hardly help whimpering. + </p> + <p> + “Come, courage, my lad,” rang out Mr. Eden, “your troubles are nearly + over. Feel this man's hand, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “How he trembles! Why, he must be chicken-hearted.” + </p> + <p> + “No! only he is one of your men of action, not of passive fortitude. He is + imaginative, too, and suffers remorse for his crimes without the soothing + comfort of penitence. Twenty-four hours of that black hole would deprive + him or any such nature of the light of reason.” + </p> + <p> + “Is this a mere opinion or do you propose to offer me proof?” + </p> + <p> + “Six men driven by this means alone to the lunatic asylum, of whom two + died there soon after.” + </p> + <p> + “Hum! of what nature is your proof? I cannot receive assertion.” + </p> + <p> + “Entries made at the time by a man of unimpeachable honesty.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” + </p> + <p> + “Who hates me and adores Mr. Hawes.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, Mr. Eden,” replied the other keenly, “whatever you support by + such evidence as that I will accept as fact and act upon it.” + </p> + <p> + “Done!” + </p> + <p> + “Done!” and Mr. Lacy smiled good-humoredly, but, it must be owned, + incredulously. “Is that proof at hand?” he added. + </p> + <p> + “It is. But one thing at a time—the leathern gallows is the iniquity + we are unearthing at present. Ah! here are Mr. Hawes and his + subordinates.” + </p> + <p> + “Subordinates?” + </p> + <p> + “You will see why I call them so.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Williams. “I trust you will not accept the evidence of a refractory + prisoner against an honest, well-tried officer, whose conduct for two + years past we have watched and approved.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy replied with dignity: “Your good opinion of Mr. Hawes shall weigh + in his favor at every part of the evidence, but you must not dictate to me + the means by which I am to arrive at the truth.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Williams bit his lip and was red and silent. + </p> + <p> + “But, your reverence,” cried Robinson, “don't let me be called a + refractory prisoner when you know I am not.” + </p> + <p> + “Then what were you in the black-hole for?” + </p> + <p> + “For obeying orders.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense! hum! Explain.” + </p> + <p> + “His reverence said to me, 'You are a good writer; write your own life + down. See how you like it when you look at it with reason's eye instead of + passion's, all spread out before you in its true colors. Tell the real + facts—no false coin, nor don't put any sentiments down you don't + feel to please me—I shall only despise you,' said his reverence. + Well, sir, I am not a fool, and so of course I could see how wise his + reverence was, and how much good might come to my poor sinful soul by + doing his bidding; and I said a little prayer he had taught me against a + self-deceiving heart—his reverence is always letting fly at + self-deception—and then I sat down and I said, 'Now I won't tell a + single lie or make myself a pin better or worse than I really am. Well, + gentlemen, I hadn't written two pages when Mr. Fry found me out and told + the governor, and the governor had me shoved into the black-hole where you + found me.” + </p> + <p> + “This is Mr. Fry, I think?” + </p> + <p> + “My name is Fry” + </p> + <p> + “Was this prisoner sent to the black-hole merely for writing his life by + the chaplain's orders?” + </p> + <p> + “You must ask the governor, sir. My business is to report offenses and to + execute orders; I don't give 'em.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes, was he sent to the black-hole for doing what the chaplain had + set him to do by way of a moral lesson?” + </p> + <p> + “He was sent for scribbling a pack of lies without my leave.” + </p> + <p> + “What! when he had the permission of your superior officer.” + </p> + <p> + “Of my superior officer?” + </p> + <p> + “Your superior in the department of instruction, I mean. Can you doubt + that he is so with these rules before you? Let me read you one of them: + 'Rule 18. All prisoners, including those sentenced to hard labor, are to + have such time allowed them for instruction as the chaplain may think + proper, whether such instruction withdraw them from their labor for a time + or not.' And again, by 'Rule 80. Each prisoner is to have every means of + moral and religious instruction the chaplain shall select for each as + suitable.' So that you have passed out of your own department into a + higher department, which was a breach of discipline, and you have + affronted the head of that department and strained your authority to + undermine his, and this in the face of Rule 18, which establishes this + principle: that should the severities of the prison claim a prisoner by + your mouth, and religious or moral instruction claim him by the + chaplain's, your department must give way to the higher department.” + </p> + <p> + “This is very new to me, sir; but if it is the law—” + </p> + <p> + “Why, you see it is the law, printed for your guidance. I undo your act, + Mr. Hawes; the prisoner Robinson will obey the chaplain in all things that + relate to religious or moral instruction, and he will write his life as + ordered, and he is not to be put to hard labor for twenty-four hours. By + this means he will recover his spirits and the time and moral improvement + you have made him lose. You hear, sir?” added he very sharply. + </p> + <p> + “I hear,” said Hawes sulkily. + </p> + <p> + “Go on with your evidence, Mr. Eden.” + </p> + <p> + “Robinson, my man, you see that machine?” + </p> + <p> + “Ugh! yes, I see it.” + </p> + <p> + “For two months I have been trying to convince Mr. Hawes that engine is + illegal. I failed; but I have been more fortunate with this gentleman who + comes from the Home Office. He has not taken as many minutes to see it is + unlawful.” + </p> + <p> + “Stop a bit, Mr. Eden. It is clearly illegal, but the torture is not + proved.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor ever will be,” put in Mr. Hawes. + </p> + <p> + “So then, Robinson, no man on earth has the right to put you into that + machine.” + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah!” + </p> + <p> + “It is therefore as a favor that I ask you to go into it to show its + operation.” + </p> + <p> + “A favor, your reverence, to you? I am ready in a minute.” Robinson was + jammed, throttled, and nailed in the man-press. Mr. Lacy stood in front of + him and eyed him keenly and gravely. “They seem very fond of you, these + fellows.” + </p> + <p> + “Can you give your eyes to that sight and your ears to me?” asked Mr. + Eden. + </p> + <p> + “I can.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I introduce to you a new character—Mr. Fry. Mr. Fry is a real + character, unlike those of romance and melodrama, which are apt to be + either a streak of black paint or else a streak of white paint. Mr. Fry is + variegated. He is a moral magpie; he is, if possible, as devoid of + humanity as his chief; but to balance this defect, he possesses, all to + himself, a quality, a very high quality, called Honesty.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is a high quality and none too common.” + </p> + <p> + “He is one of those men to whom veracity is natural. He would hardly know + how to tell a falsehood. They fly about him in this place like hailstones, + but I never saw one come from him.” + </p> + <p> + “Stay! does he side with you or with Mr. Hawes in this unfortunate + difference?” + </p> + <p> + “With me!” cried Mr. Hawes eagerly. Mr. Eden bowed assent. “Hum!” + </p> + <p> + “This honest Nero is zealous according to his light; he has kept a strict + record of the acts and events of the jail for four years past; i.e., + rather more than two years of Captain O'Connor's jailership, and somewhat + less than two years of the present jailer. Such a journal, rigorously kept + out of pure love of truth by such a man is invaluable. There no facts are + likely to be suppressed or colored, since the record was never intended + for any eye but his own. I am sure Mr. Fry will gratify you with a sight + of this journal. Oblige me, Mr. Fry!” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, sir! certainly!” replied Fry, swelling with importance and + gratified surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Bring it me at once, if you please.” Fry went with alacrity for his + journal. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Lacy,” said Mr. Eden, with a slight touch of reproach, “you can read + not faces only but complexions. You read in my yellow face and sunken eye—prejudice; + what do you read here?” and he wheeled like lightning and pointed to Mr. + Hawes, whose face and very lips were then seen to be the color of ashes. + The poor wretch tried to recover composure, and retort defiance; but the + effort came too late. His face had been seen, and once seen that look of + terror, anguish and hatred was never to be forgotten. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter, Mr. Hawes?” + </p> + <p> + “W—W—When I think of my long services, and the satisfaction I + have given to my superiors—and now my turnkey's journal to be taken + and believed against mine.” + </p> + <p> + (Chorus of Justices.) “It is a shame!” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden (very sharply). “Against yours? what makes him think it will be + against his? The man is his admirer, and an honest man. What injustice has + he to dread from such a source?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy. “I really cannot understand your objection to a man's evidence + whose bias lies your way; and I must say, it speaks well for Mr. Eden that + he has proposed this man in evidence.” + </p> + <p> + At this juncture the magistrates, after a short consultation, informed Mr. + Lacy that they had business of more importance to transact, and could give + no more time to what appeared to them an idle and useless inquiry. + </p> + <p> + “At all events, gentlemen,” replied Mr. Lacy, “I trust you will not leave + the jail. I am not here to judge Mr. Hawes, but to see whether Mr. Eden's + demand for a formal inquiry into his acts ought to be granted or refused. + Now unless the evidence takes some new turn I incline to think I must + favor the inquiry; that is to say, should the chaplain persist in + demanding it.” + </p> + <p> + “Which I shall.” + </p> + <p> + “Should a royal commission be appointed to sit here, I should naturally + wish to consult you as to the component members of the commission; and it + is my wish to pay you the compliment usual in such cases of selecting one + of the three commissioners from your body. But one question, gentlemen, + before you go. Have you complied with No. 1 of these your rules? Have you + visited every prisoner in his or her cell once a month?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not!” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to hear it. Of course, at each visit, you have closely + examined this the jailer's book, a record of his acts and the events of + the jail?” + </p> + <p> + “Portions of it are read to us; this is a form which I believe is never + omitted—is it, Mr. Hawes?” + </p> + <p> + “Never, gentlemen!” + </p> + <p> + “'Portions!' and 'a form!' what, then, are your acts of supervision? Do + you examine the turnkeys, and compare their opinions with the jailer's?” + </p> + <p> + “We would not be guilty of such ungentlemanly behavior!” replied Mr. + Williams, who had been longing for some time to give Mr. Lacy a slap. + </p> + <p> + “Do you examine the prisoners apart, so that there can be no intimidation + of them?” + </p> + <p> + “We always take Mr. Hawes into the cells with us.” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you do that, pray?” + </p> + <p> + “We conceive that nothing would be gained by encouraging the refuse of + mankind to make frivolous complaints against their best friend.” Here the + speaker and his mates wore a marked air of self-satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir! has the present examination in no degree shaken your + confidence in Mr. Hawes's discretion?” + </p> + <p> + “Not in the least.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor in your own mode of scrutinizing his acts?” + </p> + <p> + “Not in the least.” + </p> + <p> + “That is enough! Gentlemen, I need detain you no longer from the business + you have described as more important than this!” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy shrugged his shoulders. Mr. Eden smiled to him, and said quietly: + </p> + <p> + “As they were in the days of Shakespeare so they were in the days of + Fielding; as they were in the days of Fielding so they are in the days of + light; and as they are now so will they remain until they are swept away + from the face of the soil. (Keep your eye on Mr. Hawes, edging away there + so adroitly.) It is not their fault, it is their nature; their + constitution is rotten; in building them the State ignored Nature, as + Hawes ignores her in his self-invented discipline.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “That no <i>body</i> of men ever gave for nothing anything worth anything, + nor ever will. Now knowledge of law is worth something; zeal, independent + judgment, honesty, humanity, diligence are worth something (are you + watching Mr. Hawes, sir?); yet the State, greedy goose, hopes to get them + out of a body of men for nothing!” + </p> + <p> + “Hum! Why has Mr. Hawes retired?” + </p> + <p> + “You know as well as I do.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! do I?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir! the man's terror when Fry's journal was proposed in evidence, + and his manner of edging away obliquely to the direction Fry took, were + not lost on a man of your intelligence.” + </p> + <p> + “If you think that, why did you not stop him till Fry came back with the + book?” + </p> + <p> + “I had my reasons; meantime we are not at a stand-still. Here is an + attested copy of the journal in question; and here is Mr. Hawes's + log-book. Fry's book intended for no mortal eye but his own; Hawes's + concocted for inspection.” + </p> + <p> + “I see a number of projecting marks pasted into Fry's journal!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir; on some of these marks are written the names of remarkable + victims, recurring at intervals; on others are inscribed the heads of + villainy—'the black-hole,' 'starvation,' 'thirst,' 'privation of + exercise,' 'of bed,' 'of gas,' 'of chapel,' 'of human converse,' 'inhuman + threats,' and the infernal torture called the 'punishment-jacket.' + Somewhat on the plan of 'Watt's Bibliotheca Britannica.' So that you can + at will trace any one of Mr. Hawes's illegal punishments, and see it + running like a river of blood through many hapless names; or you can, if + you like it better, track a fellow-creature dripping blood from punishment + to punishment, from one dark page to another, till release, lunacy, or + death closes the list of his recorded sufferings.” + </p> + <p> + Aided by Mr. Eden, who whirled over the leaves of Mr. Hawes's log-book for + him, Mr. Lacy compared several pages of the two books. The following is + merely a selected specimen of the entries that met his eye: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + MR. FRY. MR. HAWES. + + Joram.Writing on his can—bread and Joram.Refractory—bread and + water. water. + + Joram.Bread and water. + + Joram.Bread and water. Joram.Refractory—crank; bread + and water. + + Joram.Crank not performed—bread + and water. + + Joram.Punishment-jacket. + + Joram.Refractory—crank—bread and Joram. Refractory—bread and + water. water. + + Joram.Attempted suicide; Joram. Feigned suicide; cause + insensible when found. Had religious despondency—put on + cut off pieces of his hair to sick-list. + send to his friends—sick-list. + + Josephs. Crank not performed; says Josephs. Refractory; said + he could not turn the crank No. 9; he would not work on crank 9; + punishment-jacket. punishment-jacket. + + Tomson. Communicating in chapel— Tomson.Communicating—dark cells. + dark cell 12 hours. + + Tomson. Bread and water. + + Tomson. Crank not performed; Tomson. Refractory—jacket. + punishment-jacket. +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Tomson. Dark cells. + + Tomson. No chapel. + + Tomson. Dark cells. + + Tomson. Melancholy. Tomson. Afflicted with remorse + for past crimes—surgeon. + + Tomson. Very strange. + + Tomson. Removed to lunatic asylum. Tomson. Removed to asylum. + + Tanner (nine years old). Caught Tanner. Caught up at window; + up at window; asked what he did answered insolently—jacket. + there; said he wanted to feel the + light—jacket, and bread and water + three days. + + Tanner. For repining—chapel Tanner. Refractory language— + and gas stopped until content. forbidden chapel until + reformation. +</pre> + <p> + “Can I see such a thing as a prisoner who has attempted suicide?” inquired + he, with lingering incredulity. + </p> + <p> + “Yes! there are three on this landing. Come first to Joram, of whom Mr. + Hawes writes that he made a sham attempt on his life in a fit of religious + despondency—Mr. Fry, that having been jacketed and put on bread and + water for several days, he became depressed in spirits and made a real + attempt on his life. Ah! here is Mr. Fry, he is coming this way to tell + you his first falsehood. Hawes has been all this while persuading him to + it.” + </p> + <p> + “Where is your journal, Mr. Fry?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” replied Fry, hanging his head, “I can't show it you. I lent + it to a friend, now I remember, and he has taken it out of the jail; but,” + added he with a sense of relief, “you can ask me any questions you like + and I'll answer them all one as my book.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, was Joram's attempt at suicide a real or a feigned one?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I should say it was a real one. I found him insensible and he did + not come to for best part of a quarter of an hour.” + </p> + <p> + “Open his cell.” + </p> + <p> + “Joram, I am here from the Secretary of State to ask you some questions. + Answer them truly and without fear. Some months ago you made an attempt on + your life.” + </p> + <p> + The prisoner shuddered and hung his head. + </p> + <p> + “Don't be discouraged, Joram,” put in Mr. Eden kindly, “this gentleman is + not a harsh judge, he will make allowances.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + “What made you attempt your life?” persisted Mr. Lacy. “Was it from + religious despondency?” + </p> + <p> + “That it was not. What did I know about religion before his reverence here + came to the jail? No, sir, I was clammed to death.” + </p> + <p> + “Clammed?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, clammed and no mistake.” + </p> + <p> + “North-country word for starved,” explained Mr. Eden. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I was starved as well. It was very cold weather, and they gave + me nothing but a roll of bread no bigger than my fist once a day for the + best part of a week. So being starved with cold and clammed with hunger I + knew I couldn't live many hours more, and then the pain in my vitals was + so dreadful, sir, I was obliged to cut it short. Ay! ay! your reverence, I + know it was very wicked—but what was I to do? If I hadn't attempted + my life I shouldn't be alive now. A poor fellow doesn't know what to do in + such a place as this.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Mr. Lacy, “I promise you your food shall never be tampered + with again.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, sir. Oh! I have nothing to complain of now, sir; they have + never clammed me since I attempted my life.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “Suicide is at a premium here.” + </p> + <p> + “What was your first offense?” asked Mr. Lacy. + </p> + <p> + “Writing on my can.” + </p> + <p> + “What did you write on the can?” + </p> + <p> + “I wrote, 'I want to speak to the governor.'” + </p> + <p> + “Couldn't you ring and ask to see him?” + </p> + <p> + “Ring and ask? I had rung half a dozen times and asked to see him and + could not get to see him. My hand was blistered, and I wanted to ask him + to put me on a different sort of work till such time as it could get leave + to heal.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, sir,” said Mr. Eden, “observe the sequence of iniquity. A refractory + jailer defies the discipline of the prison. He breaks Rule 37 and other + rules by which he is ordered to be always accessible to a prisoner. The + prisoner being in a strait, through which the jailer alone can guide him, + begs for an interview; unable to obtain this in his despair he writes one + innocent line on his can imploring the jailer to see him. None of the + beasts say, 'What has he written?' they say only, 'Here be scratches,' and + they put him on bread and water for an illegal period; and Mr. Hawes's new + and illegal interpretation of 'bread and water' is aimed at his life. I + mean that instead of receiving three times per diem a weight of bread + equal to the weight of his ordinary diets (which is clearly the intention + of the bread and water statute), he has once a day four ounces of bread. + So because a refractory jailer breaks the discipline, a prisoner with whom + no breach of the discipline <i>originated</i> is feloniously put to death + unless he cuts it short by that which in every spot of the earth but + —— Jail is a deadly crime in Heaven's eyes—self-murder.” + </p> + <p> + “What an eye your reverence ha' got for things! Well now it doesn't sound + quite fair, does it? but stealing is a dog's trick, and if a man behaves + like a dog he must look to be treated like one; and he will be, too.” + </p> + <p> + “That is right, Joram; you look at it from that point of view, and we will + look at it from another.” + </p> + <p> + “Open Naylor's cell. Naylor, what drove you to attempt suicide?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! you know, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “But this gentleman does not.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, gents, they had been at me a pretty while one way and another; they + put me in the jacket till I fainted away.” + </p> + <p> + “Stop a minute; is the jacket very painful?” + </p> + <p> + “There is nothing in the world like it, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “What is its effect? What sort of pain?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, all sorts! it crushes your very heart. Then it makes you ache from + your hair to your heel, till you would thank and bless any man to knock + you on the head. Then it takes you by the throat and pinches you and rasps + you all at one time. However, I don't think but what I could have stood up + against that, if I had had food enough; but how can a chap face trouble + and pain and hard labor on a crumb a day? However, what finally screwed up + my stocking altogether, gents, was their taking away my gas. It was the + dark winter nights, and there was me set with an empty belly and the cell + like a grave. So then I turned a little queer in the head by all accounts, + and I saw things that—hem!—didn't suit my complaint at all, + you know.” + </p> + <p> + “What things?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, gents, it is all over now, but it makes me shiver still, so I don't + care to be reminded; let us drop it if it is all the same to you.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Naylor, for the sake of other poor fellows and to oblige me.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! your reverence, if I can oblige you that alters the case entirely. + Well, then, sir, if you must know, I saw 'Child of Hell' wrote in great + letters of fire all over that side of the cell. Always every evening this + was all my society, as the saying is; 'Child of Hell' wrote ten times + brighter than gas. + </p> + <p> + “Couldn't you shut your eyes and go to sleep?” said Mr. Lacy. + </p> + <p> + “How could I sleep? and I did shut my eyes, and then the letters they came + through my eyelids. So when this fell on the head of all my troubles I + turned wild, and I said to myself one afternoon, 'Now here is my belly + empty and nothing coming to it, and there is the sun a-setting, and + by-and-by my cell will be brimful of hell-fire—let me end my + troubles and get one night's rest if I never see another.' So I hung + myself up to the bar by my hammock-strap, and that is all I remember + except finding myself on my back, with Mr. Fry and a lot round me, some + coaxing and some cursing; and when I saw where I was I fell a-crying and + blubbering, to think that I had so nearly broke prison and there they had + got me still. I dare say Mr. Fry remembers how I took on.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, my man, I remember we got no thanks for bringing you to.” + </p> + <p> + “I was a poor unconverted sinner then,” replied Mr. Naylor demurely, “and + didn't know my fault and the consequences; but I thank you now with all my + heart, Mr. Fry, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I am to understand then that you accuse the jailer of driving you to + suicide by unlawful severities?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I don't. I only tell you how it happened, and you should not + have asked me if you didn't care to know; and as for blaming folk, the man + I blame the most is John Naylor. His reverence there has taught me to look + at home. If I hadn't robbed honest folk I shouldn't have robbed myself of + character and liberty and health, and Mr. Hawes wouldn't have robbed me of + food and light and life wellnigh. Certainly there <i>is</i> a deal of + ignorance and stupidity in this here jail. The governor has no head-piece; + can't understand that a prisoner is made out of the same stuff as he is—skin + and belly, heart, soul, bones an' all. I should say he wasn't fit to be + trusted with the lives of a litter of pigs, let alone a couple of hundred + men and women. But all is one for that; if he was born without any + gumption, as the saying is, I wasn't, and I didn't ought to be in a fool's + power; that is my fault entirely, not the fool's; ain't it now? If I + hadn't come to the mill the miller would never have grinded me! I sticks + to that!” + </p> + <p> + “Well said, Naylor. Come, sir, One higher than the State takes precedence + here. We must on no account shake a Christian frame of mind or rekindle a + sufferer's wrongs. Yes, Naylor, forgive and you shall be forgiven. I am + pleased with you, greatly pleased with you, my poor fellow. There is my + hand!” Naylor took his reverence's hand and his very forehead reddened + with pride and pleasure at so warm a word of praise from the revered + mouth. They went out of the cell. Being now in the corridor, Mr. Eden + addressed the Government official thus: + </p> + <p> + “My proofs draw to a close. I could multiply instances ad infinitum—but + what is the use? If these do not convince you you would not believe though + one rose from the dead. What do I say? Have not Naylor and Joram and many + others come back from the dead to tell you by what roads they were driven + there? One example remains to be shown. To a philosophical mind it is no + stronger than the rest; but there are many men who can receive no very + strong impression except through their senses. You may be one of these; + and it is my duty to give your judgment every aid. Where is Mr. Fry? He + has left us.” + </p> + <p> + “I am coming to attend you, sir,” cried Evans from above. “Mr. Fry is gone + to the governor.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are we going?” asked Mr. Lacy. + </p> + <p> + “To examine a prisoner whom the jailer tortured with the jacket, and + starved, and ended by robbing him of his gas and his bed contrary to law. + Evans, since you are here, relate all that happened to Edward Josephs on + the fourth of this month—and mind you don't exaggerate.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, they had been at him for near a month, overtasking him and + then giving him the jacket, and starving him and overtasking him again on + his empty stomach till the poor lad was a living skeleton. On the fourth + the governor put him in the jacket, and there he was kept till he + swooned.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” + </p> + <p> + “Then they flung two buckets of water over him and that brought him to. + Then they sent him to his cell and there he was in his wet clothes. Then + him being there shaking with cold, the governor ordered his gas to be + taken away—his hands were shaking over it for a little warmth when + they robbed him of that bit o' comfort.” + </p> + <p> + “Hum!” + </p> + <p> + “Contrary to law!” put in Mr. Eden. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, he was a quiet lad not given to murmur, but at losing his gas + he began to cry out so loud you might hear him all over the prison.” + </p> + <p> + “What did he cry?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir, he cried MURDER!” + </p> + <p> + “Go on.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I came to him and found him shivering and dripping, and crying fit + to break his poor heart.” + </p> + <p> + “And did you do nothing for him?” + </p> + <p> + “I did what I could, sir. I took him and twisted his bedclothes so tight + round him the air could not get in, and before I left him his sobs went + down and he looked like warm and sleeping after all his troubles. Well, + sir, they can tell you better that did the job, but it seems the governor + sent another turnkey called Hodges to take away his bed from under him.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir! oh dear me! I hope, your reverence, I shall never have to tell + this story again, for it chokes me every time.” And the man was unable to + go on for a while. “Well, sir, the poor thing it seems didn't cry out as + he had about the gas, he took it quite quiet—that might have let + them know, but some folk can see nothing till it is too late—and he + gave Hodges his hand to show he bore him no malice. Eh dear! eh dear! + Would to Heaven I had never seen this wicked place!” + </p> + <p> + “Wicked place, indeed!” said Mr. Lacy solemnly. “You make me almost dread + to ask the result.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall see the result. Evans!” + </p> + <p> + Evans opened cell 15, and he and Mr. Eden stood sorrowful aside while Mr. + Lacy entered the cell. The first thing he saw was a rude coffin standing + upright by the window, the next a dead body lying stark upon a mattress on + the floor. The official uttered a cry like the scream of a woman! “What is + this? How dare you bring me to such a place as this?” + </p> + <p> + “This is that Edward Josephs whose sufferings you have heard and pitied.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor wretch! Heaven forgive us! What, did he—did he—?” + </p> + <p> + “He took one step to meet inevitable death—he hanged himself that + same night by his handkerchief to this bar. Turn his poor body, Evans. + See, sir, here is Mr. Hawes's mark upon his back. These livid stripes are + from the infernal jacket and helped to lash him into his grave. You are + ill. Here! some wine from my flask! You will faint else!” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you! Yes, I was rather faint. It is passed. Mr. Eden, I find my + life has been spent among words—things of such terrible significance + are new to me. God forgive us! how came this to pass in England in the + nineteenth century? The —— scoundrel!” + </p> + <p> + “Kick him out of the jail, but do not swear; it is a sin. By removing him + from this his great temptation we may save even his blood-stained soul. + But the souls of his victims? Oh, sir, when a good man is hurried to his + grave our lamentations are natural but unwise; but think what he commits + who hurries thieves and burglars and homicides unprepared before their + eternal Judge. In this poor boy lay the materials of a saint—mild, + docile, grateful, believing. I was winning him to all that is good when I + fell sick. The sufferings I saw and could not stop—they made me + sick. You did not know that when you let my discolored cheeks prejudice + you against my truth. Oh! I forgive you, dear sir! Yes, Heaven is + inscrutable; for had I not fallen ill—yes, I was leading you up to + Heaven, was I not? Oh, my lost sheep! my poor lost sheep!” And the + faithful shepherd, at the bottom of whose wit and learning lay a heart + simpler than beats in any dunce, forgot Hawes and everything else and + began to mourn by the dead body of his wandering sheep. + </p> + <p> + Then in that gloomy abode of blood and tears Heaven wrought a miracle. One + who for twenty years past had been an official became a man for full five + minutes. Light burst on him—Nature rushed back upon her truant son + and seized her long-forgotten empire. The frost and reserve of office + melted like snow in summer before the sun of religion and humanity. How + unreal and idle appeared now the twenty years gone in tape and + circumlocution! Away went his life of shadows—his career of watery + polysyllables meandering through the great desert into the Dead Sea. He + awoke from his desk and saw the corpse of an Englishman murdered by + routine, and the tears of a man of God dripping upon it. + </p> + <p> + Then his soul burst its desk and his heart broke its polysyllables and its + tapen bonds, and the man of office came quickly to the man of God and + seized his hand with both his which shook very much, and pressed it again + and again, and his eyes glistened and his voice faltered. “This shall + never be again. How these tears honor you! but they cut me to the heart. + There! there! I believe every word you have told me now. Be comforted! you + are not to blame! there were always villains in the world and fools like + us that could not understand or believe in an apostle like you. We are all + in fault, but not you! Be comforted! Law and order shall be restored this + very day and none of these poor creatures shall suffer violence again or + wrong of any sort—by God!” + </p> + <p> + So these two grasped hands and pledged faith and for a while at least + joined hearts. Mr. Eden thanked him with a grace and dignity all his own. + Then he said with a winning sweetness, “Go now, my dear sir, and do your + duty. Act for once upon an impulse. At this moment you see things as you + will see them when you come to die. A light from Heaven shines on your + path at this moment. Walk by it ere the world dims it. Go and leave me to + repent the many unchristian tempers I have shown you in one short hour—my + heat and bitterness and arrogance—in this solemn place.” + </p> + <p> + “His unchristian temper! poor soul! There, take me to the justices, Mr. + Evans, and you follow me as soon as you like. Yes, my worthy friend, I + will act upon an impulse for once—Ugh!” + </p> + <p> + Wheeling rapidly out of the cell, as unlike his past self as a pin-wheel + in a shop-drawer and ditto ignited, he met at the very door Mr. Hawes! + </p> + <p> + “You have been witnessing a sad sight, sir, and one that nobody, I assure + you, deplores more than I do,” said Mr. Hawes, in a gentle and feeling + tone. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy answered Mr. Hawes by looking him all over from head to foot and + back, then looking sternly into his eyes he turned his back on him sharp + and left him standing there without a word. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI. + </h2> + <p> + THE jailer had been outwitted by the priest. Hawes had sneaked after Fry + to beg him for Heaven's sake—that was the phrase he used—not + to produce his journal. Fry thought this very hard, and it took Hawes ten + minutes to coax him over. Mr. Eden had calculated on this, and worked with + the attested copy, while Hawes was wasting his time suppressing the + original. Hawes was too cunning to accompany Fry back to Mr. Lacy. He + allowed five minutes more to elapse—all which time his antagonist + was pumping truth into the judge a gallon a stroke. At last up came Mr. + Hawes to protect himself and baffle the parson. He came, he met Mr. Lacy + at the dead prisoner's door, and read his defeat. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Lacy joined the justices in their room. “I have one question to ask + you, gentlemen, before I go: How many attempts at suicide were made in + this jail under Captain O'Connor while sole jailer?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't remember,” replied Mr. Williams. + </p> + <p> + “It would be odd if you did, for no one such attempt took place under him. + Are you aware how many attempts at suicide took place during the two years + that this Hawes governed a part of the jail, being kept in some little + check by O'Connor, but not much, as unfortunately you encouraged the + inferior officer to defy his superior? Five attempts at suicide during + this period, gentlemen. And now do you know how many such attempts have + occurred since Mr. Hawes has been sole jailer?” + </p> + <p> + “I really don't know. Prisoners are always shamming,” replied Mr. + Woodcock. + </p> + <p> + “I do not allude to feigned attempts, of which there have been several, + but to desperate attempts; some of which have left the prisoner + insensible, some have resulted in his death—how many of these?” + </p> + <p> + “Four or five, I believe.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you have not thought it worth while to inquire!! Hum!—well, + fourteen, at least. Come in, Mr. Eden. Gentlemen, you have neglected your + duty. Making every allowance for your inexperience, it still is clear that + you have undertaken the supervision of a jail and yet have exercised no + actual supervision; even now the life or death of the prisoners seems to + you a matter of indifference. If you are reckless on such a point as this, + what chance have the minor circumstances of their welfare of being watched + by you? and frankly I am puzzled to conceive what you proposed to + yourselves when you undertook an office so important and requiring so + great vigilance. I say this, gentlemen, merely to explain why I cannot + have the pleasure I did promise myself of putting one of your names into + the royal commission which will sit upon this prison in compliance with + the chaplain's petition.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden bowed gratefully, and his point being formally gained, he hurried + away to make up for lost time and visit his longing prisoners. While he + passed like sunshine from cell to cell, Mr. Lacy took a note or two in + solemn silence, and the injustices conferred. Mr. Palmer whispered, “We + had better have taken Mr. Eden's advice.” The other two snorted + ill-assured defiance. Mr. Lacy looked up. “You will hold yourselves in + readiness to be examined before the commission.” At this moment Mr. Hawes + walked into the room without his mask, and in his own brutal voice—the + voice he spoke to prisoners with—addressed himself, with great + insolence of manner, to Mr. Lacy. “Don't trouble yourself to hold + commissions over me. I think myself worth a great deal more to the + government than they have ever been to me. What they give me is little + enough for what I have given them, and when insults are added to a man of + honor and an old servant of the queen, he flings his commission in your + face;” and the unveiled ruffian raised his voice, to a roar, and with his + hand flung an imaginary commission into Mr. Lacy's face, who drew back + astounded; then resuming his honeyed manner Hawes turned to the justices. + “I return into your hands, gentlemen, the office I received from you. I + thank you for the support you have afforded me in my endeavors to + substitute discipline for the miserable laxity and slovenliness and dirt + we found here; and your good opinion will always console me for the + insults I have received from a crack-brained parson and his tools in the + jail and out of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Your resignation is accepted,” said Mr. Lacy coldly, “and as your + connection with —— Jail is now ended, in virtue of my powers + from the Secretary of State, which I here produce, I give you the use of + the jailer's house for a week, that you may have time to move your + effects; but for many reasons it is advisable that you should not remain + in the <i>jail</i> a single hour. Be so good, therefore, as to quit the + jail as soon as you conveniently can. One of the turnkeys shall assist you + to convey to your house whatever you have in this building.” + </p> + <p> + “I have nothing to take out of the jail, man,” replied Hawes rudely, + “except”—and here he did a bit of pathos and dignity—“my zeal + for her majesty's service and my integrity.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah,” replied Mr. Lacy quietly, “you won't want any help to carry them.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes left the room, bowing to the justices and ostentatiously + ignoring the government official. Mr. Williams shouted after him. “He + carries our respect wherever he goes,” said this magistrate with a + fidelity worthy a better cause. The other two hung their heads and did not + echo their chief. The tide was turned against Jailer Hawes, and these two + were not the articles to swim against a stream even though that stream was + truth. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hawes took his time. He shook hands with Fry, who bade him farewell + with regret. Who is there that somebody does not contrive to like? And + rejecting even this mastiff's company he made a gloomy, solitary progress + through the prison for the last time. “How clean and beautiful it all is; + it wasn't like that when I came to it, and it never will again.” Some + gleams of remorse began to flit about that thick skull and self-deceiving + heart, for punishment suggests remorse to sordid natures. But his strong + and abiding feeling was a sincere and profound sense of ill usage—long + service—couldn't overlook a single error—ungrateful + government, etc. “Prison go to the devil now—and serve them right.” + At last he drew near the outer court, and there he met a sight that raised + all the fiend within him. There was Mr. Eden ushering Strutt into the + garden, and telling Evans the old man was to pass his whole days there + till he was better. “So that is the way you keep the rules now you have + undermined me! No cell at all. I thought what you would come to. You + haven't been long getting there.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Hawes,” replied the other with perfect good temper, “Rule 34 of this + prison enjoins that every prisoner shall take daily as much exercise in + the open air as is necessary for his health. You have violated this rule + so long that now Strutt's health requires him to pass many more hours in + the air than he otherwise would; he is dying for air and amusement, and he + shall have both sooner than die for the want of them, or of anything I can + give him.” + </p> + <p> + “And what is it to <i>him?”</i> retorted Evans with rude triumph; “he is + no longer an officer of this jail; he has got the sack and orders to quit + into the bargain.” + </p> + <p> + Fear is entertained that Mr. Evans had listened more or less at the door + of the justices' room. + </p> + <p> + “Is this so, sir?” asked Mr. Eden gravely, politely, and without a shadow + of visible exultation. + </p> + <p> + “You know it is, you sneaking, undermining villain; you have weathered on + me, you have out-maneuvered me. When was an honest soldier a match for a + parson?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” cried Mr. Eden. “Then run to the gate, Evans, and let the men into + the jail with the printing-press and the looms. They have been waiting + four hours for this.” + </p> + <p> + Hawes turned black with rage. “Oh, I know you made sure of winning; a + blackguard that loads the dice can always do that. Your triumph won't be + long. I was in this jail honored and respected for four years till you + came. You won't be four months before you are kicked out, and no one to + say a good word for you. A pretty Christian! to suborn my own servants and + rob me of my place and make me a beggar in my old age, a man you are not + worthy to serve under, a man that served his country by sea and land + before you were whelped, ye black hypocrite. You a Christian! you? If I + thought that I'd turn Atheist or anything, you poor, backbiting, + tale-telling, sneaking, undermining, false witness bearing—” + </p> + <p> + “Unhappy man,” cried Mr. Eden; “turn those perverse eyes from the faults + of others to your own danger. The temptations under which you fell end + here; then let their veil fall from your eyes, and you may yet bless those + who came between your soul and its everlasting ruin. Your victims are + dead; their eternal fate is fixed by you. Heaven is more merciful—it + has not struck you dead by your victim's side; it gives you, the greatest + sinner of all, a chance to escape. Seize that chance. Waste no time in + passion and petulance—think only of your forfeited soul. Madman, to + your knees! What! dare you die as you have lived these three years past? + dare you die abhorred of Heaven? Fool! see yourself as every eye on earth + and in heaven sees you. The land contains no criminal so black as you. + Other homicides have struck hastily on provocation or stung by injury, or + thrust or drawn by some great passion—but you have deliberately + gnawed away men's lives. Others have seen their one victim die, but you + have looked on your many victims dying yet not spared them. Other + homicides' hands are stained, but yours are steeped in blood. To your + knees, MAN-slayer! I dare not promise you that a life given to penitence + and charity will save so foul a soul, but it may, for Heaven's mercy is + infinite. Seize on that small chance. Seize it like one who feels Satan + clutching him and dragging him down to eternal flames. Life is short, + eternity is close, judgment is sure. A few short years and you must meet + Edward Josephs again before the eternal Judge. What a tribunal to face, + your victims opposite you! There the long-standing prejudices that save + you from a felon's death here will avail you nothing. There the quibbles + that pass current on earth will be blasted with the lips that dare to + utter and the hearts that coin them. Before Him, who has neither body nor + parts, yet created all the forms of matter, vainly will you pretend that + you did not slay, because forsooth the weapons with which you struck at + life were invisible and not to be comprehended by a vulgar, shallow, + sensual, earthly judge. There, too, the imperfection of human language + will yield no leaf of shelter. + </p> + <p> + “Hope not to shift the weight of guilt upon poor Josephs there. On earth + muddle-heads will call his death and the self-murderer's by one name of + 'suicide,' and so dream the two acts were one; but you cannot gull + Omniscience with a word—the wise man's counter and the money of a + fool. Be not deceived! As Rosamond took poison in her hand, and drank it + with her own lips, and died by her own act, yet died assassinated by her + rival—so died Josephs. As men taken by pirates at sea, and pricked + with cold steel till in despair and pain they fling themselves into the + sea—so died Josephs and his fellows murdered by you. Be not + deceived! I, a minister of the gospel of mercy—I, whose character + leans toward charity, tell you that if you die impenitent, so surely as + the sun shines and the Bible is true, the murder of Edward Josephs and his + brothers will damn your soul to the flames of hell forever—and + forever—and forever! + </p> + <p> + “Begone, then, poor miserable creature! Do not look behind you. Fly from + this scene where crime and its delusions still cling round your brain and + your self-deceiving heart. Waste no more time with me. A minute lost may + be a soul lost. The avenger of blood is behind you. Run quickly to your + own home—go up to your secret chamber—and there fall down upon + your knees before your God and cry loud and long to him for pardon. Cry + mightily for help—cry humbly and groaning for the power to repent. + Away! away! Wash those red hands and that black soul in years and years of + charity, in tears and tears of penitence, and in our Redeemer's blood. + Begone, and darken and trouble us here no more.” + </p> + <p> + The cowed jailer shrank and cowered before the thunder and lightning of + the priest, who, mild by nature, was awful when he rebuked an impenitent + sinner out of holy writ. He slunk away, his knees trembling under him, and + the first fiery seeds of remorse sown in his dry heart. He met the + printing-press coming in, and the loom following it (naturally); he + scowled at them and groaned. Evans held the door open for him with a look + of joy that stirred all his bile again. He turned on the very threshold + and spat a volley of oaths upon Evans. Evans at this put down his head + like a bull, and running fiercely with the huge door, slammed it close on + his heel with such ferocity that the report rang like a thunder-clap + through the entire building, and the ex-jailer was in the street. + </p> + <p> + Five minutes more, the printing-press and loom were reinstalled, and the + punishment-jacket packed up and sent to London to the Home Office. Ten + minutes more, the cranks were examined by the artists in iron Mr. Eden had + sent for, and all condemned, it being proved that the value of their + resistance stated on their lying faces was scarce one-third of their + actual resistance. So much for unerring* science! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * The effect of this little bit of science may be thus + stated—Men for two years had been punished as refractory + for not making all day two thousand revolutions per hour of + a 15 lb. crank, when all the while it was a <i>45 lb. crank</i> + they had been vainly struggling against all day. The + proportions of this gory lie never varied. Each crank tasked + the Sisyphus three times what it professed to do. It was + calculated that four prisoners, on an average crank marked + 10 lb., had to exert an aggregate of force equal to one + horse; and this exertion was prolonged, day after day, far + beyond a horse's power of endurance, and in many cases on a + modicum of food so scanty that no horse ever foaled, so fed, + could have drawn an armchair a mile. +</pre> + <p> + Five minutes more Mr. Eden had placed in Mr. Lacy's hands a list of + prisoners to whom a free pardon ought now to be extended, some having + suffered a somewhat shorter period but a greater weight of misery than the + judges had contemplated in their several sentences; and others being so + shaken and depressed by separate confinement pushed to excess that their + life and reason now stood in peril for want of open air, abundant light, + and free intercourse with their species. At the head of these was poor + Strutt, an old man crushed to clay by separate confinement recklessly + applied. So alarming was this man's torpor to Mr. Eden that after trying + in vain to interest him in the garden, that observer ventured on a very + strong measure. He had learned from Strutt that he could play the fiddle; + what does he do but runs and fetches his own violin into the garden, tunes + it, and plays some most inspiriting, rollicking old English tunes to him! + A spark came into the fishy eye of Strutt. At the third tune the old + fellow's fingers began to work impatiently. Mr. Eden broke off directly, + put fiddle and bow into Strutt's hand, and ran off to the prison again to + arrest melancholy, despair, lunacy, stagnation, mortification, + putrefaction, by every art that philosophy and mother-wit could suggest to + Christianity. + </p> + <p> + This determined man had collected his teaching mechanics again, and he had + them all into the prison the moment Hawes was out. He could not get the + cranks condemned as monsters—the day was not yet come for that; so + he got them condemned as liars, and in their place tasks of rational and + productive labor were set to most of the prisoners, and London written to + for six more trades and arts. + </p> + <p> + A copy of the prison-rules was cut into eight portions and eight female + prisoners set to compose each her portion. Copies to be printed on the + morrow and put up in every cell, according to the wise provision of Rule + 10, defied by the late jailer for an obvious reason. Thus in an hour after + the body of Hawes had passed through that gate a firm and adroit hand was + wiping his gloomy soul out of the cells as we wipe a blotch of ink off a + written page. + </p> + <p> + Care, too, was taken every prisoner should know the late jailer was gone + forever. This was done to give the wretches a happy night. Ejaculations of + thanksgiving burst from the cells every now and then; by some mysterious + means the immured seemed to share the joyful tidings with their fellows, + and one pulse of hope and triumph to beat and thrill through all the life + that wasted and withered there encased in stone; and until sunset the + faint notes of a fiddle struggled from the garden into the temple of + silence and gloom, and astounded every ear. + </p> + <p> + The merry tunes as Strutt played them sounded like dirges, but they + enlivened him as they sighed forth. They stirred his senses, and through + his senses his mind, and through his mind his body, and so the + anthropologist made a fiddle help save a life, which fact no mortal man + will believe whose habit it is to chatter blindfold about man and + investigate the “crustaceonidunculae.” + </p> + <p> + The cranks being condemned, rational industry restored, and the law + reseated on the throne a manslaughtering dunce had usurped, the champion + of human nature went home to drink his tea and write the plot of his + sermon. + </p> + <p> + He had won a great battle and felt his victory. He showed it, too, in his + own way. On the evening of this great day his voice was remarkably gentle + and winning, and a celestial light seemed to dwell in his eyes; no word of + exultation, nor even of self-congratulation; and he made no direct mention + of the prison all the evening. His talk was about Susan's affairs, and he + paid his warm thanks to her and her aunt for all they had done for him. + “You have been true friends, true allies,” said he; “what do I not owe + you! you have supported me in a bitter struggle, and now that the day is + won I can find no words to thank you as I ought.” + </p> + <p> + Both these honest women colored and glistened with pleasure, but they were + too modest to be ready with praise or to bandy compliments. + </p> + <p> + “As for you, Susan, it was a masterstroke your venturing into my den.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! we turn bold when a body is ill, don't we, aunt?” + </p> + <p> + “I am not shy for one at the best of times,” remarked the latter. + </p> + <p> + “Under Heaven you saved my life, at least I think so, Susan, for the + medicinal power of soothing influences is immense, I am sure it is apt to + be underrated; and then it was you who flew to Malvern and dragged Gulson + to me at the crisis of my fate; dear little true-hearted friend, I am + sorry to think I can never repay you.” + </p> + <p> + “You forget, Mr. Eden,” said Susan, almost in a whisper, “I was paid + beforehand.” + </p> + <p> + I wish I could convey the native grace and gentle dignity of gratitude + with which the farmer's daughter murmured these four words, like a duchess + acknowledging a kindness. + </p> + <p> + “Eh?” inquired Mr. Eden, “oh! ah! I forgot,” said he naively. “No! that is + nonsense, Susan. You have still an immense Cr. against my name; but I know + a way—Mrs. Davies, for as simple as I sit here you see in me the + ecclesiastic that shall unite this young lady to an honest man, who, + report says, loves her very dearly; so I mean to square our little + account.” + </p> + <p> + “That is fair, Susan; what do you say?” + </p> + <p> + “La, aunt! why I shouldn't look upon it as a marriage at all if any + clergyman but Mr. Eden said the words.” + </p> + <p> + “That is right,” laughed Mr. Eden, “always set some little man above some + great thing, and then you will always be—a woman. I must write the + plot of my sermon, ladies, but you can talk to me all the same.” + </p> + <p> + He wrote and purred every now and then to the women, who purred to each + other and now and then to him. Neither Hawes nor any other irritation + rankled in his heart, or even stuck fast in his memory. He had two sermons + to prepare for Sunday next, and he threw his mind into them as he had into + the battle he had just won. “Hoc agebat.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII. + </h2> + <p> + His reverence in the late battle showed himself a strategist, and won + without bringing up his reserves; if he had failed with Mr. Lacy he had + another arrow behind in his quiver. He had been twice to the mayor and + claimed a coroner's jury to sit on a suicide. The mayor had consented and + the preliminary steps had been taken. + </p> + <p> + The morning after the jailer's dismissal the inquest was held. Mr. Eden, + Evans, Fry and others were examined, and the case came out as clear as the + day and black as the night. + </p> + <p> + When twelve honest Englishmen, men of plain sense, not men of system, men + taken from the public not from public offices, sat in a circle with the + corpse of a countryman at their knees, fiebat lux; 'twas as though twelve + suns had burst into a dust-hole. + </p> + <p> + “Manslaughter!” cried they, and they sent their spokesman to the mayor and + said yet more light must be let into this dusthole, and the mayor said, + “Ay and it shall, too. I will write to London and demand more light.” And + the men of the public went to their own homes and told their wives and + children and neighbors what cruelties and villainies they had unearthed, + and their hearers, being men and women of that people, which is a god in + intellect and in heart compared with the criticasters that try to misguide + it with their shallow guesses and cant and with the clerks that execute it + in other men's names, cried out, “See now! What is the use our building + courts of law or prisons unless they are to be open unto us. Shut us out—keep + walls and closed gate between us and our servants—and what comes of + our courts of law and our prisons? Why they turn nests of villainy in less + than no time.” + </p> + <p> + The twelve honest Englishmen had hardly left the jail an hour, crying + “manslaughter!” and crying “shame!” when all in a moment “TOMB!” fell a + single heavy stroke of the great prison bell. The heart of the prison + leaped, and then grew cold—a long chill pause, then “TOMB!” again. + The jurymen had told most of his fellow-sufferers how Josephs was driven + into his grave—and now— + </p> + <p> + “TOMB!” the remorseless iron tongue crashed out one by one the last sad, + stern monosyllables of this sorrowfulest of human tales. + </p> + <p> + They put him in his coffin (“TOMB!”) a boy of sixteen, who would be alive + now but that caitiffs, whom God confound on earth, made life an <i>impossibility</i> + to him (“TOMB!”), and that Shallows and Woodcocks, whom God confound on + earth, and unconscientious non-inspecting inspectors, flunkeys, humbugs, + hirelings, whom God confound on earth (“TOMB!”), left these scoundrels + month after month and year after year unwatched, though largely paid by + the queen and the people to watch them (“TOMB!”). Look on your work, + hirelings, and listen to that bell, which would not be tolling now if you + had been men of brains and scruples instead of sordid hirelings. The + priest was on his knees, praying for help from heaven to go through the + last sad office with composure, for he feared his own heart when he should + come to say “ashes to ashes” and “dust to dust” over this hapless boy, + that ought to be in life still. And still the great bell tolled, and many + of the prisoners were invited kindly in a whisper to come into the chapel; + but Fry could not be spared and Hodges fiercely refused. And now the bell + stopped, and as it stopped, the voice of the priest arose, “I am the + resurrection and the life.” + </p> + <p> + A deep and sad gloom was upon all as the last sad offices were done for + this poor young creature cut short by foul play in the midst of them. And + for all he could do the priest's voice trembled often, and a heavy sigh + mingled more than once with the holy words. + </p> + <p> + What is that? “THIS OUR BROTHER!”—a thief our brother?—ay! the + priest made no mistake, those were the words; pause on them. Two great + characters contradicted each other to the face over dead Josephs. Unholy + State said, “Here is the carcass of a thief whom I and society honestly + believe to be of no more importance than a dog—so it has + unfortunately got killed between us, no matter how; take this carcass and + bury it,” said unholy State. Holy Church took the poor abused remains with + reverence, prayed over them as she prays over the just, and laid them in + the earth, calling them “this our brother.” Judge now which is all in the + wrong, unholy State or holy Church—for both cannot be right. + </p> + <p> + Now while the grave is being filled in, judge, women of England and + America, between these two—unholy State and holy Church. The earth + contains no better judges of this doubt than you. Judge and I will bow to + your verdict with a reverence I know male cliques too well to feel for + them in a case where the great capacious heart alone can enlighten the + clever, little, narrow, shallow brain. + </p> + <p> + Thus in the nineteenth century—in a kind-hearted nation—under + the most humane sovereign the world has ever witnessed on an earthly + throne—holy Church in vain denouncing the miserable sinners that + slay the thief their brother—Edward Josephs has been done to death + in the queen's name—in the name of England—and in the name of + the law. + </p> + <p> + But each of these great insulted names has its sworn defenders, its + honored and paid defenders. It is not for us to suppose that men so high + in honor will lay aside themselves and turn curs. + </p> + <p> + Ere I close this long story, let us hope I shall be able to relate with + what zeal and honor statesmen disowned and punished wholesale manslaughter + done in the name of the State; and with what zeal and horror judges + disowned and punished wholesale manslaughter done in their name; and so, + in all good men's eyes, washed off the blood with which a hireling had + bespattered the state ermine and the snow-white robe of law. + </p> + <p> + For the present, the account between Josephs and the law stands thus:—Josephs + has committed the smallest theft imaginable. He has stolen food. For this + the law, professing to punish him with certain months' imprisonment, has + inflicted capital punishment; has overtasked, crucified, starved—overtasked, + starved, crucified—robbed him of light, of sleep, of hope, of life; + has destroyed his body, and perhaps his soul. Sum total—1st page of + account— + </p> + <p> + Josephs a larcenist and a corpse. The law a liar and a felon. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIII. + </h2> + <p> + JOSEPHS has dropped out of our story. Mr. Hawes has got himself kicked out + of our story. The other prisoners, of whom casual mention has been made, + were never in our story, any more than the boy Xury in “Robinson Crusoe.” + There remains to us in the prison Mr. Eden and Robinson, a saint and a + thief. + </p> + <p> + My readers have seen how the saint has saved the thief's life. They shall + guess awhile how on earth Susan Merton can be affected by that + circumstance. They have seen a set of bipeds acting on the notion that all + prisoners are incurable: they have seen a thief, thus despaired of, driven + toward despair, and almost made incurable through being thought so. Then + they have seen this supposed incurable fall into the hands of a Christian + that held “it is never too late to mend;” and generally I think that, + feebly as my pen has drawn so great a character, they can calculate, by + what Mr. Eden has already done, what he will do while I am with Susan and + George; what love, what eloquence, what ingenuity he will move to save + this wandering sheep, to turn this thief honest and teach him how to be + honest yet not starve. + </p> + <p> + I will ask my reader to bear in mind, that the good and wise priest has no + longer his hands tied by a jailer in the interest of the foul fiend. But + then, against all this, is to be set the slippery heart of a thief, a + thief almost from his cradle. Here are great antagonist forces and they + will be in daily almost hourly collision for months to come. In life + nothing stands still; all this will work goodward or badward. I must leave + it to work. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX. + </h2> + <p> + MR. EDEN'S health improved so visibly that Susan Merton announced her + immediate return to her father. It was a fixed idea in this young lady's + mind that she and Mrs. Davies had no business in the house of a saint upon + earth, as she called Mr. Eden, except as nurses. + </p> + <p> + The parting of attached friends has always a touch of sadness needless to + dwell on at this time. Enough that these two parted as brother and young + sister, and a spiritual adviser and advised, with warm expressions of + Christian amity, and an agreement on Susan's part to write for advice and + sympathy whenever needed. + </p> + <p> + On her arrival at Grassmere Farm there was Mr. Meadows to greet her. + “Well, that is attentive!” cried Susan. There was also a stranger to her, + a Mr. Clinton. + </p> + <p> + As nothing remarkable occurred this evening, we may as well explain this + Mr. Clinton. He was a speculator, and above all a setter on foot of rotten + speculations, and a keeper on foot a little while of lame ones. No man + exceeded him in the art of rose-tinting bad paper or parchment. He was + sanguine and fluent. His mind had two eyes, an eagle's and a bat's; with + the first he looked at the “pros,” and with the second at the “cons” of a + spec. + </p> + <p> + He was an old acquaintance of Meadows, and had come thirty miles out of + the way to show him how to make 100 per cent without the shadow of a risk. + Meadows declined to violate the laws of Nature, but, said he, “If you like + to stay a day or two I will introduce you to one or two who have money to + fling away.” And he introduced him to Mr. Merton. Now that worthy had a + fair stock of latent cupidity, and Mr. Clinton was the man to tempt it. + </p> + <p> + In a very few conversations he convinced the farmer that there were a + hundred ways of making money, all of them quicker than the slow process of + farming and the unpleasant process of denying one's self superfluities and + growing saved pennies into pounds. + </p> + <p> + “What do you think, John,” said Merton one day to Meadows, “I have got a + few hundreds loose. I'm half minded to try and turn them into thousands + for my girl's sake. Mr. Clinton makes it clear, don't you think?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don't know,” was the reply. “I have no experience in that sort of + thing, but it certainly looks well the way he puts it.” + </p> + <p> + In short, Meadows did not discourage his friend from co-operating with Mr. + Clinton; for his own part he spoke him fair, and expressed openly a + favorable opinion of his talent and his various projects, and always found + some excuse or other for not risking a halfpenny with him. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX. + </h2> + <p> + ONE day Mr. Meadows walked into the post-office of Farnborough and said to + Jefferies, the postmaster, “A word with you in private, Mr. Jefferies.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, Mr. Meadows—come to my back parlor, sir; a fine day, Mr. + Meadows, but I think we shall have a shower or two.” + </p> + <p> + “Shouldn't wonder. Do you know this five-pound note?” + </p> + <p> + “Can't say I do.” + </p> + <p> + “Why it has passed through your hands?” + </p> + <p> + “Has it? well a good many of them pass through my hands in the course of + the year. I wish a few of 'em would stop on the road.” + </p> + <p> + “This one did. It stuck to your fingers, as the phrase goes.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know what you mean, sir,” said Jefferies haughtily. + </p> + <p> + “You stole it,” explained Meadows quietly. + </p> + <p> + “Take care,” cried Jefferies in a loud quaver—“Take care what you + say! I'll have my action of defamation against you double quick if you + dare to say such a thing of me.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it. You will want witnesses. Defamation is no defamation you know + till the scandal is published. Call in your lodger.” + </p> + <p> + “Ugh!” + </p> + <p> + “And call your wife!” cried Meadows, raising his voice in turn. + </p> + <p> + “Heaven forbid! Don't speak so loud, for goodness' sake!” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your tongue then and don't waste my time with your gammon,” said + Meadows sternly. Then resuming his former manner he went on in the tone of + calm explanation. “One or two in this neighborhood lost money coming + through the post. I said to myself, 'Jefferies is a man that often talks + of his conscience—he will be the thief'—so I baited six traps + for you, and you took five. This note came over from Ireland; you remember + it now?” + </p> + <p> + “I am ruined! I am ruined!” + </p> + <p> + “You changed it at Evans' the grocer's; you had four sovereigns and silver + for it. The other baits were a note and two sovereigns and two half + sovereigns. You spared one sovereign, the rest you nailed. They were all + marked by Lawyer Crawley. They have been traced from your hand, and lie + locked up ready for next assizes. Good-morning, Mr. Jefferies.” + </p> + <p> + Jefferies turned a cold jelly where he sat—and Meadows walked out, + primed Crawley, and sent him to stroll in sight of the post-office. + </p> + <p> + Soon a quavering voice called Crawley into the post-office. “Come into my + back parlor, sir. Oh! Mr. Crawley, can nothing be done? No one knows my + misfortune but you and Mr. Meadows. It is not for my own sake, sir, but my + wife's. If she knew I had been tempted so far astray, she would never hold + up her head again. Sir, if you and Mr. Meadows will let me off this once, + I will take an oath on my bended knees never to offend again.” + </p> + <p> + “What good will that do me?” asked Crawley contemptuously. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” cried Jefferies, a light breaking in, “will money make it right? + I'll sell the coat off my back.” + </p> + <p> + “Humph! If it was only me—but Mr. Meadows has such a sense of public + duty, and yet—hum!—I know a way to influence him just now.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir! do pray use your influence with him.” + </p> + <p> + “What will you do for me if I succeed?” + </p> + <p> + “Do for you?—cut myself in pieces to serve you.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Jefferies, I'm undertaking a difficult task—to turn such a + man as Meadows, but I will try it and I think I shall succeed; but I must + have terms. Every letter that comes here from Australia you must bring to + me with your own hands directly.” + </p> + <p> + “I will, sir, I will.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall keep it an hour or two perhaps, not more; and I shall take no + money out of it.” + </p> + <p> + “I will do it, sir, and with pleasure. It is the least I can do for you.” + </p> + <p> + “And you must find me 10 pounds.” The little rogue must do a bit on his + own account. + </p> + <p> + “I must pinch to get it,” said Jefferies ruefully. + </p> + <p> + “Pinch then,” replied Crawley coolly; “and let me have it directly.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall—you shall—before the day is out.” + </p> + <p> + “And you must never let Meadows know I took this money of you.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I won't! is that all?” + </p> + <p> + “That is all.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I am very grateful, sir, and I won't fail, you may depend.” + </p> + <p> + Thus the two battledores played with this poor little undetected one, whom + his respectability no less than his roguery placed at their mercy. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXI. + </h2> + <p> + WHENEVER Mr. Meadows could do Mr. Levi an ill turn he did; and vice versa. + They hated one another like men who differ about baptism. Susan sprinkled + dewdrops of charity on each in turn. + </p> + <p> + Levi listened to her with infinite pleasure. “Your voice,” said he, “is + low and melodious like the voice of my own people in the East.” And then + she secretly quoted the New Testament to him, having first ascertained + that he had never read it; and he wondered where on earth this simple girl + had picked up so deep a wisdom and so lofty and self-denying a morality. + </p> + <p> + Meadows listened to her with respect from another cause; but the ill + offices that kept passing between the two men counteracted her transitory + influence and fed fat the ancient grudge. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXII. + </h2> + <h3> + “WILL FIELDING is in the town; I'm to arrest him as agreed last night?” + </h3> + <p> + “Hum! no!” + </p> + <p> + “Why I have got the judgment in my pocket and the constable at the public + hard by.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind! he was saucy to me in the market yesterday—I was angry + and—but anger is a snare. What shall I gain by locking him up just + now? let him go.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, your will is law,” said Crawley obsequiously but sadly. + </p> + <p> + “Now to business of more importance.” + </p> + <p> + “At your service, sir.” + </p> + <p> + But the business of more importance was interrupted by a sudden knock at + the outside door of Mr. Meadows' study. + </p> + <p> + “Well!” + </p> + <p> + A young lady to see you. + </p> + <p> + “A young lady?” inquired Meadows with no very amiable air, “I am engaged—do + you know who it is?” + </p> + <p> + “It is Farmer Merton's daughter, David says.” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Merton!” cried Meadows, with a marvelous change of manner. “Show her + up directly. Crawley, run into the passage, quick, man—and wait for + signals.” He bundled Crawley out, shut the secret door, threw open both + the others, and welcomed Susan warmly at the threshold. “Well, this is + good of you, Miss Merton, to come and shine in upon me in my own house.” + </p> + <p> + “I have brought your book back!” replied Susan, coloring a little; “that + was my errand, that is,” said she, “that was partly my errand.” She + hesitated a moment—“I am going to Mr. Levi.” Meadows' countenance + fell. “And I wouldn't go to him without coming to you; because what I have + to say to him I must say to you as well. Mr. Meadows, do let me persuade + you out of this bitter feeling against the poor old man. Oh! I know you + will say he is worse than you are; so he is, a little; but then consider + he has more excuse than you; he has never been taught how wicked it is not + to forgive. You know it—but don't practice it.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows looked at the simple-minded enthusiast, and his cold eye deepened + in color as it dwelt on her, and his voice dropped into the low and + modulated tone which no other human creature but this ever heard from him. + “Human nature is very revengeful. Few of us are like you. It is my + misfortune that I have not oftener a lesson from you; perhaps you might + charm away this unchristian spirit that makes me unworthy to be your—your + friend.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh no! no!” cried Susan, “if I thought so should I be here?” + </p> + <p> + “Your voice and your face do make me at peace with all the world, Susan—I + beg your pardon—Miss Merton.” + </p> + <p> + “And why not Susan?” said the young lady kindly. + </p> + <p> + “Well! Susan is a very inviting name.” + </p> + <p> + “La! Mr. Meadows,” cried Susan, arching her brows, “why, it is a frightful + name—it is so old-fashioned; nobody is christened Susan nowadays.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a name for everything that is good and gentle and lovely—” A + moment more and passion would have melted all the icy barriers prudence + and craft had reared round this deep heart. His voice was trembling, his + cheek flushing; but he was saved by—an enemy. “Susan!” cried a + threatening voice at the door, and there stood William Fielding with a + look to match. + </p> + <p> + Rage burned in Meadows' heart. He said bruskly, “Come in,” and seizing a + slip of paper he wrote five words on it, and taking out a book flung it + into the passage to Crawley. He then turned toward W. Fielding, who by + this time had walked up to Susan. Was on the other side of the screen. + </p> + <p> + “Was told you had gone in here,” said William quietly, “so I came after + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Now that was very attentive of you,” replied Susan ironically. “It is so + nice to have a sensible young man like you following forever at one's + heels—like a dog.” + </p> + <p> + A world of quiet scorn embellished this little remark. + </p> + <p> + William's reply was happier than usual. “The sheep find the dog often in + their way, but they are all the safer for him.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I'm sure,” cried Susan, her scorn giving way to anger. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Meadows put in: “I must trouble you to treat Miss Merton with proper + respect when you speak to her in my house.” + </p> + <p> + “Who respects her more than I?” retorted William; “but you see, Mr. + Meadows, sheep are no match for wolves when the dog is away—so the + dog is here.” + </p> + <p> + “I see the dog is here and by his own invitation; all I say is that if the + dog is to stay here he must behave like a man.” + </p> + <p> + William gasped at this hit; he didn't trust himself to answer Meadows; in + fact, a blow of his fist seemed to him the only sufficient answer—he + turned to Susan. “Susan, do you remember poor George's last words to me? + with a tear in his eye and his hand in mine. Well, I keep my promise to + him—I keep my eye upon such as I think capable of undermining my + brother. This man is a schemer, Susan, and you are too simple to fathom + him.” + </p> + <p> + The look of surprise crafty Meadows put on here, and William Fielding's + implied compliment to his own superior sagacity struck Susan as infinitely + ludicrous, and she looked at Meadows and laughed like a peal of bells. Of + course he looked at her and laughed with her. At this all young Fielding's + self-restraint went to the winds, and he went on—“But sooner than + that, I'll twist as good a man's neck as ever schemed in Jack Meadows' + shoes!” + </p> + <p> + At this defiance Meadows wheeled round on William Fielding and confronted + him with his stalwart person and eyes glowing with gloomy wrath. Susan + screamed with terror at William's insulting words and at the attitude of + the two men, and she made a step to throw herself between them if + necessary; but before words could end in blows a tap at the study door + caused a diversion, and a cringing sort of voice said “May I come in?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course you may,” shouted Meadows; “the place is public. Anybody walks + into my room to-day, friend or foe. Don't ask my leave—come in, man, + whoever you are—Mr. Crawley; well, I didn't expect a call from you + any more than from this one.” + </p> + <p> + “Now don't you be angry, sir. I had a good reason for intruding on you + this once. Jackson!” Jackson stepped forward and touched William Fielding + on the shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “You must come along with me,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “What for?” inquired Fielding. + </p> + <p> + “You are arrested on this judgment,” explained Crawley, letting the + document peep a moment from his waistcoat pocket. William threw himself + into an attitude of defense. His first impulse was to knock the officer + down and run into another county, but the next moment he saw the folly and + injustice of this and another sentiment overpowered the honest simple + fellow—shame. He covered his face with both his hands and groaned + aloud with the sense of humiliation. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! my poor William!” cried Susan. “Oh! Mr. Meadows, can nothing be + done?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Miss Merton,” said Meadows, looking down, “you can't expect me to do + anything for him. If it was his brother now, Lawyer Crawley shouldn't ever + take him out of my house.” + </p> + <p> + Susan flushed all over. “That I am sure you would, Mr. Meadows,” cried she + (for feeling obscured grammar). “Now see, dear William, how your temper + and unworthy suspicions alienate our friends; but father shan't let you + lie in prison. Mr. Meadows, will you lend me a sheet of paper?” + </p> + <p> + She sat down, pen in hand, in generous excitement. While she wrote Mr. + Meadows addressed Crawley. “And now a word with you, Mr. Crawley. You and + I meet on business now and then, but we are not on visiting terms that I + know of. How come you to walk into my house with a constable at your + back?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, I did it for the best,” said Crawley apologetically. “Our man + came in here, and the street door was open, and I said, 'He is a friend of + Mr. Meadows, perhaps it would be more delicate to all parties to take him + indoors than in the open street.'” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes!” cried William, “it is bitter enough as it is, but that would + have been worse—thank you for arresting me here—and now take + me away and let me hide from all the world.” + </p> + <p> + “Fools!” said a firm voice behind the screen. + </p> + <p> + “Fools!” At this word and a new voice Susan started up from the table and + William turned his face from the wall. Meadows did more. “Another!” cried + he in utter amazement; “why my house is an inn. Ah!” + </p> + <p> + While speaking he had run round the screen and come plump upon Isaac Levi + seated in a chair and looking up in his face with stern composure. His + exclamation brought the others round after him and a group of excited + faces encircled this old man seated sternly composed. + </p> + <p> + “Fools!” repeated he, “these tricks were stale before England was a + nation. Which of you two has the judgment?” + </p> + <p> + “I, sir,” said Crawley, at a look from Meadows. + </p> + <p> + “The amount?” + </p> + <p> + “A hundred and six thirteen four.” + </p> + <p> + “Here is the money. Give me the document.” + </p> + <p> + “Here, sir.” Levi read it. “This action was taken on a bill of exchange. I + must have that too.” + </p> + <p> + “Here it is, sir. Would you like an acknowledgment, Mr. Levi,” said + Crawley obsequiously. + </p> + <p> + “No! foolish man. Are not these sufficient vouchers? You are free, sir,” + said Crawley to William with an air of cheerful congratulation. + </p> + <p> + “Am I? Then I advise you to get out of my way, for my fingers do itch to + fling you headforemost down the stairs.” + </p> + <p> + On this hint out wriggled Mr. Crawley with a semicircle of bows to the + company. Constable touched his frontlock and went straight away as if he + was going through the opposite wall of the house. Meadows pointed after + him with his finger and said to Levi, “You see the road—get out of + my house.” + </p> + <p> + The old man never moved from his chair, to which he had returned after + paying William's debts. “It is not your house,” said he coolly. + </p> + <p> + The other stared. “No matter,” replied Meadows sharply, “it is mine till + my mortgage is paid off.” + </p> + <p> + “I am here to pay it.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” + </p> + <p> + “Principal and interest calculated up to twelve o'clock this eleventh day + of March. It wants five minutes to twelve. I offer you principal and + interest—eight hundred and twenty-two pounds fourteen shillings and + fivepence three farthings before these witnesses—and demand the + title deeds.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows hung his head, but he was not a man to waste words in mere + scolding. He took the blow with forced calmness as who should say, “This + is your turn—the next is mine.” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Merton,” said he, almost in a whisper, “I never had the honor to + receive you here before and I never shall again. How long do you give me + to move my things?” + </p> + <p> + “Can you not guess?” inquired the other with a shade of curiosity. + </p> + <p> + “Why, of course you will put me to all the inconvenience you can. Come, + now, am I to move all my furniture and effects out of this great house in + twenty-four hours?” + </p> + <p> + “I give you more than that.” + </p> + <p> + “How kind! What, you give me a week perhaps?” asked Meadows incredulously. + </p> + <p> + “More than that, you fool! Don't you see that it is on next Lady-day you + will be turned into the street. Aha! woman-worshiper, on Lady-day! A tooth + for a tooth!” And the old man ground his teeth, which were white as ivory, + and his fist clinched itself, while his eye glittered, and he swelled out + from the chair, and literally bristled with hate—“A tooth for a + tooth!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mr. Levi,” said Susan sorrowfully, “how soon you have forgotten my + last lesson!” + </p> + <p> + Meadows for a moment felt a chill of fear at the punctiliousness of + revenge in this Oriental whom he had made his enemy. To this succeeded the + old hate multiplied by ten; but he made a monstrous effort and drove it + from his face down into the recesses of his heart. “Well,” said he, “may + you enjoy this house as I have done this last twelvemonth!” + </p> + <p> + “That does you credit, good Mr. Meadows,” cried simple Susan, missing his + meaning. Meadows continued in the same tone, “And I must make shift with + the one you vacate on Lady-day.” + </p> + <p> + “Solomon teach me to outwit this dog.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, Mr. Levi, I have visited Mr. Meadows and now I am going to your + house.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall be welcome, kindly welcome,” said the old man with large and + flowing courtesy. + </p> + <p> + “And will you show me,” said Susan very tenderly, “where Leah used to + sit?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” + </p> + <p> + “And where Rachel and Sarah loved to play?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah me! Ah me! Ah me! Yes! I could not show another these holy places, but + I will show you.” + </p> + <p> + “And will you forget awhile this unhappy quarrel and listen to my words?” + </p> + <p> + “Surely I shall listen to you; for even now your voice is to my ear like + the wind sighing among the cedars of Lebanon, and the wave that plays at + night upon the sands of Galilee.” + </p> + <p> + “'Tis but the frail voice of a foolish woman, who loves and respects you, + and yet,” said Susan, her color mantling with enthusiasm, “with it I can + speak you words more beautiful than Lebanon's cedars or Galilee's shore. + Ay, old man, words that make the stars brighter and the sons of the + morning rejoice. I will not tell you whence I had them, but you shall say + surely they never came from earth, selfish, cruel, revengeful earth, these + words that drop on our hot passions like the dew, and speak of trespasses + forgiven, and peace and goodwill among men.” + </p> + <p> + Oh! magic of a lovely voice speaking the truths of Heaven! How still the + room was as these goodly words rang in it from a pure heart. Three men + there had all been raging with anger and hate; now a calming music fell + like oil upon these human waves, and stilled them. + </p> + <p> + The men drooped their heads, and held their breath to make sure the balmy + sounds had ceased. Then Levi answered in a tone gentle, firm, and low + (very different from his last), “Susanna, bitterness fades from my heart + as you speak; but experience remains.” He turned to Meadows, “When I + wander forth at Lady-day she shall still be watched over though I be far + away. My eye shall be here, and my hand shall still be so over you all,” + and raising his thin hand, he held it high up, the nails pointing + downward. It looked just like a hawk hovering over its prey. “I will say + no bitterer word than that to-day;” and in fact he delivered this without + apparent heat or malice. + </p> + <p> + “Come, then, with me, Susanna—a goodly name, it comes to you from + the despised people. Come like peace to my dwelling, Susanna—you + know not this world's wiles as I do, but you can teach me the higher + wisdom that controls the folly of passion and purifies the soul.” + </p> + <p> + The pair were gone, and William and Meadows were left alone. The latter + looked sadly and gloomily at the door by which Susan had gone out. He was + in a sort of torpor. He was not conscious of William's presence. + </p> + <p> + Now the said William had a misgiving; in the country a man's roof is + sacred; he had affronted Meadows under his own roof, and then Mr. Levi had + come and affronted him there, too. William began to doubt whether this was + not a little hard, moreover he thought he had seen Meadows brush his eye + hastily with the back of his hand as Susan retired. He came toward Meadows + with his old sulky, honest, hang-the-head manner, and said, “Mr. Meadows, + seems to me we have been a little hard upon you in your own house, and I + am not quite easy about my share on't.” Meadows shrugged his shoulders + imperceptibly. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir—I am not the Almighty to read folk's hearts—least + of all such a one as yours—but if I have done you wrong I ask your + pardon. Come, sir, if you don't mean to undermine my brother with the girl + you can give me your hand, and I can give you mine—and there 'tis.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows wished this young man away, and seeing that the best way to get + rid of him was to give him his hand, he turned round, and, scarcely + looking toward him, gave him his hand. William shook it and went away with + something that sounded like a sigh. Meadows saw him out, and locked the + door impatiently; then he flung himself into a chair and laid his beating + temples on the cold table; then he started up and walked wildly to and fro + the room. The man was torn this way and that with rage, love and remorse. + </p> + <p> + “What shall I do?” thus ran his thoughts. “That angel is my only refuge, + and yet to win her I shall have to walk through dirt and shame and every + sin that is. I see crimes ahead; such a heap of crimes, my flesh creeps at + the number of them. Why not be like her, why not be the greatest saint + that ever lived, instead of one more villain added to so many? Let me tear + this terrible love out of my heart and die. Oh! if some one would but take + me by the scurf of the neck and drag me to some other country a million + miles away, where I might never see my tempter again till this madness is + out of me. Susan, you are an angel, but you will plunge me to hell.” + </p> + <p> + Now it happened while he was thus raving and suffering the preliminary + pangs of wrong-doing that his old servant knocked at the outside of the + door and thrust a letter through the trap; the letter was from a country + gentleman, one Mr. Chester, for whom he had done business. Mr. Chester + wrote from Lancashire. He informed Meadows he had succeeded to a very + large property in that county—it had been shockingly mismanaged by + his predecessor; he wanted a capable man's advice, and moreover all the + estates thereabouts were compelled to be surveyed and valued this year, + which he deplored, but since so it was he would be surveyed and valued by + none but John Meadows. + </p> + <p> + “Come by return of post,” added this hasty squire, “and I'll introduce you + to half the landed proprietors in this county.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows read this and seizing a pen wrote thus: + </p> + <p> + “DEAR SIR—Yours received this day at 1 p.m., and will start for your + house at 6 P.M.” + </p> + <p> + He threw himself on his horse and rode to his mother's house. “Mother, I + am turned out of my house.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, John, you don't say so?” + </p> + <p> + “I must go into the new house I have built outside the town.” + </p> + <p> + “What, the one you thought to let to Mr. James?” + </p> + <p> + “The same. I have got only a fortnight to move all my things. Will you do + me a kindness now, will you see them put into the new house?” + </p> + <p> + “Me, John! why I should be afraid something would go wrong.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it isn't fair of me to put this trouble on you at your age; but + read this letter—there is fifteen hundred pounds waiting for me in + the North.” + </p> + <p> + The old woman put on her spectacles and read the letter slowly. “Go, John! + go by all means! I will see all your things moved into the new house—don't + let them be a hindrance; you go. Your old mother will take care your + things are not hurt moving, nor you wronged in the way of expense.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, mother! thank you! they say there is no friend like a mother, + and I dare say they are not far wrong.” + </p> + <p> + “No such friend but God—none such but God!” said the old woman with + great emphasis and looking Meadows in the face with a searching eye. + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, here are the keys of the new house, and here are my keys. I + am off tonight, so good-by, mother. God bless you!” + </p> + <p> + He had just turned to go, when by an unusual impulse he turned, took the + old woman in his hands, almost lifted her off the ground, for she weighed + light, and gave her a hasty kiss on the cheek; then he set her down and + strode out of the house about his business. + </p> + <p> + When curious Hannah ran in the next moment she found the old lady in + silent agitation. “Oh, dear! What is the matter, Dame Meadows?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing at all, silly girl.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing! And look at you all of a tremble.” + </p> + <p> + “He took me up all in a moment and kissed me. I dare say it is + five-and-twenty years since he kissed me last. He was a curly-headed lad + then.” + </p> + <p> + So this had set the poor old thing trembling. She soon recovered her + firmness and that very evening Hannah and she slept in John's house, and + the next day set to and began to move his furniture and prepare his new + house for him. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIII. + </h2> + <p> + PETER CRAWLEY received a regular allowance during his chief's absence and + remained in constant communication with him, and was as heretofore his + money-bag, his tool, his invisible hand. But if anybody had had a + microscope and lots of time they might have discovered a gloomy hue + spreading itself over Crawley's soul. A pleasant illusion had been rudely + shaken. + </p> + <p> + All men have something they admire. + </p> + <p> + Crawley admired cunning. It is not a sublime quality, but Crawley thought + it was, and revered it with pious, affectionate awe. He had always thought + Mr. Meadows No. 1 in cunning, but now came a doleful suspicion that he was + No. 2. + </p> + <p> + Losing a portion of his veneration for the chief he had seen + outmaneuvered, he took the liberty of getting drunk contrary to his severe + command, and being drunk and maudlin he unbosomed himself on this head to + a low woman who was his confidante whenever drink loosened his tongue. + </p> + <p> + “I'm out spirits, Sal. I'm tebbly out spirits. Where shall we all go to? I + dinn't think there was great a man on earth z Mizza Meadows. But the worlz + wide. Mizza Levi z greada man—a mudge greada man (hic). He was down + upon us like a amma (hic). His Jew's eye went through our lill sgeme like + a gimlet. 'Fools!' says he—that's me and Meadows, 'these dodges were + used up in our family before Lunnun was built. Fools!' Mizza Levi despises + me and Meadows; and I respect him accordingly. I'm tebbly out spirits + (hic).” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIV. + </h2> + <p> + FARMER MERTON received a line from Meadows telling him he had gone into + Lancashire on important business, and did not expect to be back for three + months, except perhaps for a day at a time. Merton handed the letter to + Susan. + </p> + <p> + “We shall miss him,” was her remark. + </p> + <p> + “That we shall. He is capital company.” + </p> + <p> + “And a worthy man into the bargain,” said Susan warmly, “spite of what + little-minded folk say and think. What do you think that Will Fielding did + only yesterday?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he followed me into—there, it is not worth while having an + open quarrel, but I shall hate the sight of his very face. I can't think + how such a fool can be George's brother. No wonder George and he could not + agree. Poor Mr. Meadows—to be affronted in his own house, just for + treating me with respect and civility. So that is a crime now.” + </p> + <p> + “What are you saying, girl? That young pauper affront my friend Meadows, + the warmest man for fifty miles round. If he has, he shall never come on + my premises again. You may take your oath of that.” + </p> + <p> + Susan looked aghast. This was more than she had bargained for. She was the + last in the world to set two people by the ears. + </p> + <p> + “Now don't you be so peppery, father,” said she. “There is nothing to make + a quarrel about.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes there is, though, if that ignorant beggar insulted my friend.” + </p> + <p> + “No! no! no!” + </p> + <p> + “Why, what did you say?” + </p> + <p> + “I say—that here is Mr. Clinton coming to the door.” + </p> + <p> + “Let him in, girl, let him in. And you needn't stay. We are going to talk + business.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0035" id="link2HCH0035"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXV. + </h2> + <p> + MRS. MEADOWS, preparing her son's new home and defeating the little + cheating tradesmen and workmen that fasten like leeches on such as carry + their furniture to a new house; Hannah, working round and round her in a + state of glorious excitement; Crawley, smelling of Betts' British brandy, + and slightly regretting he was not No. 1's tool (Levi's) instead of No. + 2's, as he now bitterly called him, and writing obsequious letters to, and + doing the dirty work of, the said No. 2; old Merton speculating, sometimes + losing, sometimes winning; Meadows gone to Lancashire with a fixed idea + that Susan would be his ruin if he could not cure himself of his love for + her; Susan rather regretting his absence, and wishing for his return, that + she might show him how little she sympathized with Will Fielding's + suspicions, injustice and brutality. + </p> + <p> + Leaving all this to work, our story follows an honest fellow to the other + side of the globe. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0036" id="link2HCH0036"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVI. + </h2> + <p> + GEORGE FIELDING found Farmer Dodd waiting to drive him to the town where + he was to meet Mr. Winchester. The farmer's wife would press a glass of + wine upon George. She was an old playmate of his, and the tear was in her + eye as she shook his hand and bade Heaven bless him, and send him safe + back to “The Grove.” + </p> + <p> + “A taking of his hand and him going across sea!! Can't ye do no better nor + that?” cried the stout farmer; “I'm not a-looking, dame.” + </p> + <p> + So then Mrs. Dodd put her hands on George's shoulders and kissed him + rustic-wise on both cheeks—and he felt a tear on his cheek, and + stammered “Good-by, Jane—you and I were always good neighbors, but + now we shan't be neighbors for a while. Ned, drive me away, please, and + let me shut my eyes and forget that ever I was born.” + </p> + <p> + The farmer made a signal of intelligence to his wife and drove him hastily + away. + </p> + <p> + They went along in silence for about two miles. Then the farmer suddenly + stopped. George looked up, the other looked down. + </p> + <p> + “Allen's Corner, George. You know 'The Grove' is in sight from here, and + after this we shan't see it again on account of this here wood, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank ye, Ned! Yes—one more look—the afternoon sun lies upon + it. Oh, how different it do seem to my eyes now, by what it used when I + rode by from market; but then I was going to it, now I'm going far, far + from it—never heed me, Ned—I shall be better in a moment. + Heaven forgive me for thinking so little of the village folk as I have + done.” Then he suddenly threw up his hands. “God bless the place and bless + the folk,” he cried very loud; “God bless them all, from the oldest man in + it, and that is grandfather, down to Isaac King's little girl that was + born yester-night! and may none of them ever come to this corner, and + their faces turned toward the sea.” + </p> + <p> + “Doant ye, George! doant ye! doant ye! doant ye!” cried Edward Dodd in + great agitation. + </p> + <p> + “Let the mare go on, Ned; she is fretting through her skin.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll fret her,” roared the farmer, lifting his whip exactly as if it was + a sword, and a cut to be made at a dragoon's helmet. “I'll cut her liver + out.” + </p> + <p> + “No, ye shan't,” said George. “Poor thing, she is thinking of her corn at + the Queen's Head in Newborough. She isn't going across the sea—let + her go, I've taken my last look and said my last word;” and he covered up + his face. + </p> + <p> + Farmer Dodd drove on in silence, except that every now and then he gave an + audible snivel, and whenever this occurred he always accommodated the mare + with a smart cut—reasonable! + </p> + <p> + At Newborough they found Mr. Winchester. He drove George to the rail, and + that night they slept on board the <i>Phoenix</i> emigrant ship. Here they + found three hundred men and women in a ship where there was room for two + hundred and fifty, accommodation for eighty. + </p> + <p> + Next morning, “Farmer,” said Mr. Winchester gayly, “we have four hours + before we sail—some of these poor people will suffer great hardships + between this and Sydney; suppose you and I go and buy a lot of blankets, + brawn, needles, canvas, greatcoats, felt, American beef, solidified milk, + Macintoshes, high-lows and thimbles. That will rouse us up a little.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, sir, kindly.” + </p> + <p> + Out they went into the Ratcliffe Highway, and chaffered with some of the + greatest rascals in trade. The difference between what they asked and what + they took made George stare. Their little cabin was crowded with goods, + only just room left for the aristocrat, the farmer and Carlo. And now the + hour came. Poor George was roused from his lethargy by the noise and + bustle; and oh, the creaking of cables sickened his heart. Then the + steamer came up and took them in tow, and these our countrymen and women + were pulled away from their native land too little and too full to hold us + all. It was a sad sight, saddest to those whose own flesh and blood was on + the shore and saw the steamer pull them away; bitterest to those who had + no friend to watch them go. + </p> + <p> + How they clung to England! they stretched out their hands to her, and when + they could hold to her no other way they waved their hats and their + handkerchiefs to their countrymen, who waved to them from shore—and + so they spun out a little longer the slender chain that visibly bound them + to her. And at this moment even the iron-hearted and the reckless were + soft and sad. Our hearts' roots lie in the soil we have grown on. + </p> + <p> + No wonder then George Fielding leaned over the ship-side benumbed with + sorrow, and counted each foot of water as it glided by, and thought “Now I + am so much farther from Susan.” + </p> + <p> + For a wonder he was not sea-sick, but his appetite was gone from a nobler + cause; he could hardly be persuaded to eat at all for many days. + </p> + <p> + The steamer cast off at Gravesend, and the captain made sail and beat down + the Channel. Off the Scilly Isles a northeasterly breeze, and the <i>Phoenix</i> + crowded all her canvas; when topsails, royals, skyscrapers and all were + drawing the men rigged out booms alow and aloft, and by means of them set + studding sails out several yards clear of the hull on either side; so on + she plowed, her canvas spread out like an enormous fan or a huge albatross + all wings. A goodly, gallant show; but under all this vast and swelling + plumage an exile's heart. + </p> + <p> + Of all that smarted, ached and throbbed beneath that swelling plumage few + suffered more than poor George. It was his first great sorrow; and all so + new and strange. + </p> + <p> + The ship touched at Madeira, and then flew southward with the favoring + gale. Many leagues she sailed, and still George hung over the bulwarks and + sadly watched the waves. This simple-minded, honest fellow was not a girl. + If they had offered to put the ship about and take him back he would not + have consented, but yet to go on almost broke his heart. He was steel and + butter. His friend, the honorable Frank Winchester, was or seemed all + steel. He was one of those sanguine spirits that don't admit into their + minds the notion of ultimate failure. He was supported, too, by a natural + and indomitable gayety. Whatever most men grumble or whine at he took as + practical jokes played by Fortune partly to try his good humor, but more + to amuse him. + </p> + <p> + The poorer passengers suffered much discomfort, and the blankets, etc., + stored in Winchester's cabin often warmed these two honest hearts, as with + pitying hands they wrapped them round some shivering fellow-creature. + </p> + <p> + Off Cape Verd a heavy gale came on. It lasted thirty-six hours, and the + distress and sufferings of the over-crowded passengers were terrible. An + unpaternal government had allowed a ship to undertake a voyage of twelve + thousand miles, with a short crew, short provisions, and just twice as + many passengers as could be protected from the weather. + </p> + <p> + Driven from the deck by the piercing wind and the deluges of water that + came on board, and crowded into the narrowest compass, many of these + unfortunates almost died of sickness and polluted air; and when in despair + they rushed back upon deck, horrors and suffering met them in another + shape; in vain they huddled together for a little warmth and tried to + shield themselves with blankets stretched to windward. The bitter blast + cut like a razor through their threadbare defenses, and the water rushed + in torrents along the deck and crept cold as ice up their bodies as they + sat huddled, or lay sick and despairing on the hard and tossing wood; and + whenever a heavier sea than usual struck the ship a despairing scream + burst from the women, and the good ship groaned and shivered and seemed to + share their fears, and the blast yelled into their souls, “I am mighty as + fate—as fate. And pitiless! pitiless! pitiless! pitiless! pitiless!” + </p> + <p> + Oh! then, how they longed for a mud cabin, or a hole picked with a pickax + in some ancient city wall, or a cow-house, or a cart-shed in their native + land. + </p> + <p> + But it is an ill wind that blows nobody good. This storm raised George + Fielding's better part of man. Integer vitae scelerisque purus was not + very much afraid to die. Once when the <i>Phoenix</i> gave a weather roll + that wetted the foresail to the yard-arm, he said, “My poor Susan!” with a + pitying accent, not a quavering one. But most of the time he was busy + crawling on all-fours from one sufferer to another with a drop of brandy + in a phial. The wind emptied a glass of the very moisture let alone the + liquid in a moment. So George would put his bottle to some poor creature's + lips, and if it was a man he would tell him in his simple way Who was + stronger than the wind or the sea, and that the ship could not go down + without His will. To the women he whispered that he had just had a word + with the captain, and he said it was only a gale not a tempest, as the + passengers fancied, and there was no danger, none whatever. + </p> + <p> + The gale blew itself out, and then for an hour or two the ship rolled + frightfully; but at last the angry sea went down, the decks were mopped, + the <i>Phoenix</i> shook her wet feathers and spread her wings again and + glided on her way. + </p> + <p> + George felt a little better; the storm shook him and roused him and did + him good. And it was a coincidence in the history of these two lovers that + just as Susan under Mr. Eden's advice was applying the healing ointment of + charitable employment to her wound, George, too, was finding a little + comfort and life from the little bit of good he and his friend did to the + poor population in his wooden hamlet. + </p> + <p> + After a voyage of four months one evening the captain shortened sail, + though the breeze was fair and the night clear. Upon being asked the + reason of this strange order he said knowingly, “If you get up with the + sun perhaps you will see the reason.” + </p> + <p> + Curiosity being excited, one or two did rise before the sun. Just as he + emerged from the sea a young seaman called Patterson, who was in the + foretop, hailed the deck. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” roared the mate. + </p> + <p> + “Land on the weather bow,” sung out the seaman in reply. + </p> + <p> + Land! In one moment the word ran like electric fire through all the veins + of the <i>Phoenix</i>; the upper deck was crowded in a minute, but all + were disappointed. No one saw land but Mr. Patterson, whose elevation and + keen sight gave him an advantage. But a heavenly smell as of a region of + cowslips came and perfumed the air and rejoiced all the hearts; at six + o'clock a something like a narrow cloud broke the watery horizon on the + weather bow. All sail was made and at noon the coast of Australia + glittered like a diamond under their lee. Then the three hundred prisoners + fell into a wild excitement—some became irritable, others absurdly + affectionate to people they did not care a button for. The captain himself + was not free from the intoxication; he walked the deck in jerks instead of + his usual roll, and clapped on sail as if he would fly on shore. + </p> + <p> + At half-past one they glided out of the open sea into the Port Jackson + River. They were now in a harbor fifteen miles long, land-locked on both + sides, and not a shoal or a rock in it. This wonderful haven, in which all + the navies that float or ever will float might maneuver all day and ride + at anchor all night without jostling, was the sea avenue by which they + approached a land of wonders. + </p> + <p> + It was the second of December. The sky was purple and the sun blazed in + its center. The land glittered like a thousand emeralds beneath his + glowing smile, and the waves seemed to drink his glory and melt it into + their tints, so rich were the flakes of burning gold that shone in the + heart of their transparent, lovely blue. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! what a heavenly land! and after four months' prison at sea.” + </p> + <p> + Our humble hero's heart beat high with hope. Surely in so glorious a place + as this he could make a thousand pounds, and then dart back with it to + Susan. Long before the ship came to an anchor George got a sheet of paper + and by a natural impulse wrote to Susan a letter, telling her all the + misery the <i>Phoenix</i> and her passengers had come through between + London Bridge and Sydney Cove, and as soon as he had written it he tore it + up and threw it into the water. “It would have vexed her to hear what I + have gone through. Time enough to tell her that when I am home again + sitting by the fire with her hand in mine.” + </p> + <p> + So then he tried again and wrote a cheerful letter, and concealed all his + troubles except his sorrow at being obliged to go so far from her even for + a time. “But it is only for a time, Susan dear. And, Susan dear, I've got + a good friend here, and one that can feel for us; for he is here on the + same errand as I am. I am to bide with him six months and help him the + best I can, and so I shall learn how matters are managed here; and after + that I am to set up on my own account; and, Susan dear, I do think by all + I can see there is money to be made here. Heaven knows my heart was never + much set on gain, but it is now because it is the road to you. Please tell + Will Carlo has been a great comfort to me and is a general favorite. He + pointed a rat on board ship—but it was excusable, and him cooped up + so long and had almost forgotten the smell of a bird, I daresay; and if + anybody comes to make believe to threaten me he is ready to pull them down + in a minute. So tell Will this, and that I do think his master is as much + my friend at home as the dog is out here. + </p> + <p> + “Susan dear, I do beg of you as a great favor to keep up your heart, and + not give way to grief or desponding feelings. I don't; leastways I won't. + Poor Mr. Winchester is here on the same errand as I am. But I often think + his heart is stouter than mine, which is much to his credit and little to + mine. Susan dear, I have come to the country that is farther from + Grassmere than any other in the globe—that seems hard; and my very + face is turned the opposite way to yours as I walk, but nothing can ever + turn my heart away from my Susan. I desire my respects to Mr. Merton and + that you would tell him I will make the one thousand pounds, please God. + But I hope you will pray for me, Susan, that I may have that success; you + are so good that I do think the Almighty will hear you sooner than me or + any one. So no more at present, dear Susan, but remain, with sincere + respect, your loving servant and faithful lover till death, GEORGE + FIELDING.” + </p> + <p> + They landed. Mr. Winchester purchased the right of feeding cattle over a + large tract a hundred miles distant from Sydney, and after a few days + spent in that capital started with their wagons into the interior. There + for about five months George was Mr. Winchester's factotum, and though he + had himself much to learn, the country and its habits being new to him, + still he saved his friend from fundamental errors, and, from five in the + morning till eight at night, put zeal, honesty and the muscular strength + of two ordinary men at his friend's service. + </p> + <p> + At the expiration of this period Mr. Winchester said to him one evening, + “George, I can do my work alone now, and the time is come to show my sense + of your services and friendship. I have bought a run for you about eight + miles from here, and now you are to choose five hundred sheep and thirty + beasts; the black pony you ride goes with them.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh no, sir! it is enough to rob you of them at all without me going and + taking the pick of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! will you consent to pen the flocks and then lift one hurdle and + take them as they come out, so many from each lot?” + </p> + <p> + “That I consent to, sir, and remain your debtor for life.” + </p> + <p> + “I can't see it; I set <i>my life</i> a great deal higher than sheepskin.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Winchester did not stop there, he forced a hundred pounds upon George. + “If you start in any business with an empty pocket you are a gone coon.” + </p> + <p> + So these two friends parted with mutual esteem, and George set to work by + prudence and vigor to make the thousand pounds. + </p> + <p> + One thousand pounds! This one is to have the woman he loves for a thousand + pounds. That sounds cheap. Heaven upon earth for a thousand pounds. What + is a thousand pounds? Nothing. There are slippery men that gain this in a + week by time bargains, trading on capital of round 0's; others who net as + much in an evening, and as honorably, by cards. There are merchants who + net twenty times this sum by a single operation. + </p> + <p> + “An operation?” inquires Belgravia. + </p> + <p> + This is an operation: You send forth a man not given to drink and + consequently chatter to Amsterdam, another not given to drink and chatter + to New Orleans, another n. g. t. d. and c. to Bordeaux, Cadiz, Canton, + Liverpool, Japan, and where not, all with secret instructions. Then at an + appointed day all the men n. g. t. d. and c. begin gradually, secretly, + cannily, to buy up in all those places all the lac-dye or something of the + kind that you and I thought there was about thirty pounds of in creation. + This done mercator raises the price of lac-dye or what not throughout + Europe. If he is greedy and raises it a halfpenny a pound, perhaps + commerce revolts and invokes nature against so vast an oppression, and + nature comes and crushes our speculator. But if he be wise and puts on + what mankind can bear, say three mites per pound, then he sells tons and + tons at this fractional profit on each pound, and makes fourteen thousand + pounds by lac-dye or the like of which you and I thought creation held + thirty or at most thirty-two pounds. + </p> + <p> + These men are the warriors of commerce; but its smaller captains, watching + the fluctuations of this or that market, can often turn a thousand pounds + ere we could say J. R. Far more than a thousand pounds have been made in a + year by selling pastry off a table in the Boulevards of Paris. + </p> + <p> + In matters practical a single idea is worth thousands. + </p> + <p> + This nation being always in a hurry paid four thousand pounds to a man to + show them how to separate letter-stamps in a hurry. “Punch the divisions + full of little holes,” said he, and he held out his hand for the four + thousand pounds; and now test his invention, tear one head from another in + a hurry, and you will see that money sometimes goes cheaper than + invention. + </p> + <p> + A single idea is sometimes worth a thousand pounds in a book, though books + are by far the least lucrative channels ideas run in; Mr. Bradshaw's + duodecimo, to wit—profit seven thousand pounds per annum. A thousand + pounds! How many men have toiled for money all their lives, have met with + success, yet never reached a thousand pounds. + </p> + <p> + Eight thousand servants, fed and half clothed at their master's expense, + have put by for forty years, and yet not even by aid of interest and + compound interest and perquisites and commissions squeezed out of little + tradesmen and other time-honored embezzlements, have reached the rubicon + of four figures. Five thousand little shopkeepers, active, intelligent and + greedy, have bought wholesale and sold retail, yet never mounted so high + as this above rent, housekeeping, bad debts and casualties. Many a writer + of genius has charmed his nation and adorned her language, yet never held + a thousand pounds in his hand even for a day. Many a great painter has + written the world-wide language of form and color, and attained to + European fame, but not to a thousand pounds sterling English. + </p> + <p> + Among all these aspirants and a million more George Fielding now made one, + urged and possessed by as keen an incentive as ever spurred a man. + </p> + <p> + George's materials were five hundred sheep, twenty cows, ten bullocks, two + large sheep-dogs and Carlo. It was a keen clear, frosty day in July when + he drove his herd to his own pasture. His heart beat high that morning. He + left Abner, his shepherd, a white native of the colony, to drive the slow + cattle. He strode out in advance, and scarce felt the ground beneath his + feet. The thermometer was at 28 degrees, yet his coat was only tied round + his neck by the sleeves as he swept along all health, fire, manhood, love + and hope. He marched this day like dear Smollett's lines, whose thoughts, + though he had never heard them, fired his heart. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Thy spirit, Independence, let me share, + Lord of the lion heart and eagle eye; + Thy steps I follow with my bosom bare, + Nor heed the storm that howls along the sky.” + </pre> + <p> + He was on the ground long before Abner, and set to work building a + roofless hut on the west side of some thick bushes, and hard by the only + water near at hand. And here he fixed his headquarters, stretched a + blanket across the hut for a roof, and slept his own master. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0037" id="link2HCH0037"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVII. + </h2> + <p> + AT the end of six months George Fielding's stock had varied thus. Four + hundred lambs, ten calves, fifteen cows, four hundred sheep. He had lost + some sheep in lambing, and one cow in calving, but these casualties every + feeder counts on; he had been lucky on the whole. He had sold about eighty + sheep, and eaten a few but not many, and of his hundred pounds only five + pounds were gone; against which and the decline in cows were to be placed + the calves and lambs. + </p> + <p> + George considered himself eighty pounds richer in substance than six + months ago. It so happened that on every side of George but one were + nomads, shepherd-kings—fellows with a thousand head of horned + cattle, and sheep like white pebbles by the sea; but on his right hand was + another small bucolical, a Scotchman, who had started with less means than + himself, and was slowly working his way, making a halfpenny and saving a + penny after the manner of his nation. These two were mighty dissimilar, + but they were on a level as to means and near neighbors, and that drew + them together. In particular, they used to pay each other friendly visits + on Sunday evenings, and McLaughlan would read a good book to George, for + he was strict in his observances; but after that the pair would argue + points of husbandry. + </p> + <p> + But one Sunday that George, admiring his stock, inadvertently proposed to + him an exchange of certain animals, he rebuked the young man with awful + gravity. + </p> + <p> + “Is this a day for warldly dealings?” said he. “Hoo div ye think to thrive + gien y'offer your mairchandeeze o' the Sabba day!” George colored up to + the eyes. “Ye'll may be no hae read the paurable o' the money changers i' + the temple, no forgettin' a wheen warldly-minded chields that sell't doos, + when they had mair need to be on their knees—or hearkening a + religious discourse—-or a bit psaum—or the like. Aweel, ye + need na hong your heed yon gate neether. Ye had na the privileege of being + born in Scoetland, ye ken—or nae doot ye'd hae kenned better, for ye + are a decent lad—deed are ye. Aweel, stap ben led, and I'se let ye + see a drap whisky. The like does na aften gang doon an Englishman's + thrapple.” + </p> + <p> + “Whisky? Well, but it seems to me if we didn't ought to deal we didn't + ought to drink.” + </p> + <p> + “Hout! tout! it is no forbedden to taste—thaat's nae sen that ever I + heerd't—C-way.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0038" id="link2HCH0038"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVIII. + </h2> + <p> + GEORGE heard of a farmer who was selling off his sheep about fifty miles + off near the coast. George put money in his purse, rose at three, and + walked the fifty miles with Carlo that day. The next he chaffered with the + farmer, but they did not quite agree. George was vexed, but he knew it + would not do to show it, so he strolled away carelessly toward the water. + In this place the sea comes several miles inland, not in one sheet, but in + a series of salt-water lakes very pretty. + </p> + <p> + George stood and admired the water and the native blacks paddling along in + boats of bark no bigger than a cocked hat. These strips of bark are good + for carriage and bad for carriage; I mean they are very easily carried on + a man's back ashore, but they won't carry a man on the water so well, and + sitting in them is like balancing on a straw. These absurd vehicles have + come down to these blockheads from their fathers, so they won't burn them + and build according to reason. They commonly paddle in companies of three; + so then whenever one is purled the other two come on each side of him, + each takes a hand and with amazing skill and delicacy they reseat him in + his cocked hat, which never sinks—only purls. Several of these + triads passed in the middle of the lake, looking to George like inverted + capital “T's.” They went a tremendous pace—with occasional stoppages + when a purl occurred. + </p> + <p> + Presently a single savage appeared nearer the land and George could see + his lithe, sinewy form and the grace and rapidity with which he urged his + gossamer bark along. It was like a hawk—half a dozen rapid strokes + of his wings and then a smooth glide for ever so far. + </p> + <p> + “Our savages would sit on the blade of a knife, I do think,” was George's + observation. + </p> + <p> + Now as George looked and admired blackee, it unfortunately happened that a + mosquito flew into blackee's nostrils, which were much larger and more + inviting—to a gnat—than ours. The aboriginal sneezed, and over + went the ancestral boat. + </p> + <p> + The next moment he was seen swimming and pushing his boat before him. He + was scarce a hundred yards from the shore when all of a sudden down he + went. George was frightened and took off his coat, and was unlacing his + boots—when the black came up again. “Oh, he was only larking,” + thought George. “But he has left his boat—and why, there he goes + down again!” The savage made a dive and came up ten yards nearer the + shore, but he kept his face parallel to it, and he was scarce a moment in + sight before he dived again. Then a horrible suspicion flashed across + George—“There is something after him!” + </p> + <p> + This soon became a fearful certainty. Just before he dived next time, a + dark object was plainly visible on the water close behind him. George was + wild with fear for poor blackee. He shouted at the monster, he shouted and + beckoned to the swimmer; and last, snatching up a stone, he darted up a + little bed of rock elevated about a yard above the shore. The next dive + the black came up within thirty yards of this very place, but the shark + came at him the next moment. He dived again, but before the fish followed + him George threw a stone with great precision and force at him. It struck + the water close by him as he turned to follow his prey; George jumped down + and got several more stones, and held one foot advanced and his arm high + in air. Up came the savage panting for breath. The fish made a dart, + George threw a stone; it struck him with such fury on the shoulders that + it span off into the air and fell into the sea forty yards off. Down went + the man, and the fish after him. The next time they came up, to George's + dismay, the sea-tiger showed no signs of being hurt and the man was + greatly distressed. The moment he was above water George heard him sob, + and saw the whites of his eyes, as he rolled them despairingly; and he + could not dive again for want of breath. Seeing this, the shark turned on + his back, and came at him with his white belly visible and his treble row + of teeth glistening in a mouth like a red grave. + </p> + <p> + Rage as well as fear seized George Fielding, the muscles started on his + brawny arm as he held it aloft with a heavy stone in it. The black was so + hard pressed the last time, and so dead beat, that he could make but a + short duck under the fish's back and come out at his tail. The shark did + not follow him this time, but cunning as well as ferocious slipped a yard + or two inshore, and waited to grab him; not seeing him, he gave a slap + with his tail-fin, and reared his huge head out of water a moment to look + forth. Then George Fielding, grinding his teeth with fury, flung his heavy + stone with tremendous force at the creature's cruel eye. The heavy stone + missed the eye by an inch or two, but it struck the fish on the nose and + teeth with a force that would have felled a bullock. + </p> + <p> + “Creesh!” went the sea-tiger's flesh and teeth, and the blood squirted in + a circle. Down went the shark like a lump of lead, literally felled by the + crashing stroke. + </p> + <p> + “I've hit him! I've hit him!” roared George, seizing another stone. “Come + here, quick! quick! before he gets the better of it.” + </p> + <p> + The black swam like a mad thing to George. George splashed into the water + up to his knee, and taking blackee under the arm-pits, tore him out of the + water and set him down high and dry. + </p> + <p> + “Give us your hand over it, old fellow,” cried George, panting and + trembling. “Oh dear, my heart is in my mouth, it is!” + </p> + <p> + The black's eye seemed to kindle a little at George's fire, but all the + rest of him was as cool as a cucumber. He let George shake his hand and + said quietly, “Thank you, sar! Jacky thank you a good deal!” he added in + the same breath; “suppose you lend me a knife, then we eat a good deal.” + </p> + <p> + George lent him his knife, and to his surprise the savage slipped into the + water again. His object was soon revealed; the shark had come up to the + surface and was floating motionless. It was with no small trepidation + George saw this cool hand swim gently behind him and suddenly disappear; + in a moment, however, the water was red all round, and the shark turned + round on his belly. Jacky swam behind, and pushed him ashore. It proved to + be a young fish about six feet long; but it was as much as the men could + do to lift it. The creature's nose was battered, and Jacky showed this to + George, and let him know that a blow on that part was deadly to them. “You + make him dead for a little while,” said he, “so then I make him dead + enough to eat;” and he showed where he had driven the knife into him in + three places. + </p> + <p> + Jacky's next proceeding was to get some dry sticks and wood, and prepare a + fire, which to George's astonishment he lighted thus. He got a block of + wood, in the middle of which he made a little hole; then he cut and + pointed a long stick, and inserting the point into the block, worked it + round between his palms for some time and with increasing rapidity. + Presently there came a smell of burning wood, and soon after it burst into + a flame at the point of contact. Jacky cut slices of shark and toasted + them. “Black fellow stupid fellow—eat 'em raw; but I eat 'em burn't, + like white man.” + </p> + <p> + He then told George he had often been at Sydney, and could “speak the + white man's language a good deal,” and must on no account be confounded + with common black fellows. He illustrated his civilization by eating the + shark as it cooked; that is to say, as soon as the surface was brown he + gnawed it off, and put the rest down to brown again, and so ate a series + of laminae instead of a steak; that it would be cooked to the center if he + let it alone was a fact this gentleman had never discovered; probably had + never had the patience to discover. + </p> + <p> + George, finding the shark's flesh detestable, declined it, and watched the + other. Presently he vented his reflections. “Well you are a cool one! half + an hour ago I didn't expect to see you eating him—quite the + contrary.” Jacky grinned good-humoredly in reply. + </p> + <p> + When George returned to the farmer, the latter, who had begun to fear the + loss of a customer, came at once to terms with him. The next day he + started for home with three hundred sheep. Jacky announced that he should + accompany him, and help him a good deal. George's consent was not given, + simply because it was not asked. However, having saved the man's life, he + was not sorry to see a little more of him. + </p> + <p> + It is usual in works of this kind to give minute descriptions of people's + dress. I fear I have often violated this rule. However I will not in this + case. + </p> + <p> + Jacky's dress consisted of, in front, a sort of purse made of rat-skin; + behind, a bran new tomahawk and two spears. + </p> + <p> + George fancied this costume might be improved upon; he therefore bought + from the farmer a second-hand coat and trousers and his new friend donned + them with grinning satisfaction. The farmer's wife pitied George living by + himself out there, and she gave him several little luxuries; a bacon-ham, + some tea, and some orange-marmalade, and a little lump-sugar and some + potatoes. + </p> + <p> + He gave the potatoes to Jacky to carry. They weighed but a few pounds. + George himself carried about a quarter of a hundredweight. For all that + the potatoes worried Jacky more than George's burden him. At last he + loitered behind so long that George sat down and lighted his pipe. + Presently up comes Niger with the sleeves of his coat hanging on each side + of his neck and the potatoes in them. My lord had taken his tomahawk and + chopped off the sleeves at the arm-pit; then he had sewed up their bottoms + and made bags of them, uniting them at the other end by a string which + rested on the back of his neck like a milkmaid's balance. Being asked what + he had done with the rest of the coat, he told George he had thrown it + away because it was a good deal hot. + </p> + <p> + “But it won't be hot at night, and then you will wish you hadn't been such + a fool,” said George, irate. + </p> + <p> + No, he couldn't make Jacky see this; being hot at the time Jacky could not + feel the cold to come. Jacky became a hanger-on of George, and if he did + little he cost little; and if a beast strayed he was invaluable, he could + follow the creature for miles by a chain of physical evidence no single + link of which a civilized man would have seen. + </p> + <p> + A quantity of rain having fallen and filled all the pools, George thought + he would close with an offer that had been made him and swap one hundred + and fifty sheep for cows and bullocks. He mentioned this intention to + McLaughlan one Sunday evening. McLaughlan warmly approved his intention. + George then went on to name the customer who was disposed to make the + exchange in question. At this the worthy McLaughlan showed some little + uneasiness and told George he might do better than deal with that person. + </p> + <p> + George said he should be glad to do better, but did not see how. + </p> + <p> + “Humph!” said McLaughlan, and fidgeted. + </p> + <p> + McLaughlan then invited George to a glass of grog, and while they were + sipping he gave an order to his man. + </p> + <p> + McLaughlan inquired when the proposed negotiation was likely to take + place. “To-morrow morning,” said George. “He asked me to go over about it + this afternoon, but I remembered the lesson you gave me about making + bargains on this day, and I said 'To-morrow, farmer.'” + </p> + <p> + “Y're a guid lad,” said the Scot demurely; “y're just as decent a body as + ever I forgathered wi'—and I'm thinking it's a sin to let ye gang + twa miles for mairchandeeze whan ye can hae it a hantle cheaper at your + ain door.” + </p> + <p> + “Can I? I don't know what you mean.” + </p> + <p> + “Ye dinna ken what I mean? Maybe no.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. McLaughlan fell into thought a while, and the grog being finished he + proposed a stroll. He took George out into the yard, and there the first + thing they saw was a score and a half of bullocks that had just been + driven into a circle and were maintained there by two men and two dogs. + </p> + <p> + George's eye brightened at the sight and his host watched it. “Aweel,” + said he, “has Tamson a bonnier lot than yon to gie ye?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know,” said George dryly. “I have not seen his.” + </p> + <p> + “But I hae—and he hasna a lot to even wi' them.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall know to-morrow,” said George. But he eyed McLaughlan's cattle + with an expression there was no mistaking. + </p> + <p> + “Aweel,” said the worthy Scot, “ye're a neebor and a decent lad ye are, + sae I'll just speer ye ane question. Noo, mon,” continued he in a most + mellifluous tone and pausing at every word, “gien it were Monday—as + it is the Sabba day—hoo mony sheep wud ye gie for yon bonnie + beasties?” + </p> + <p> + George, finding his friend in this mind, pretended to hang back and to + consider himself bound to treat with Thomson first. The result of all + which was that McLaughlan came over to him at daybreak and George made a + very profitable exchange with him. + </p> + <p> + At the end of six months more George found himself twice as rich in + substance as at first starting; but instead of one hundred pounds cash he + had but eighty. Still if sold up he would have fetched five hundred + pounds. But more than a year was gone since he began on his own account. + “Well,” said George, “I must be patient and still keep doubling on, and if + I do as well next year as last I shall be worth eight hundred pounds.” + </p> + <p> + A month's dry hot weather came and George had arduous work to take water + to his bullocks and to drive them in from long distances to his homestead, + where, by digging enormous tanks, he had secured a constant supply. No man + ever worked for a master as this rustic Hercules worked for Susan Merton. + Prudent George sold twenty bullocks and cows to the first bidder. “I can + buy again at a better time,” argued he. + </p> + <p> + He had now one hundred and twenty-five pounds in hand. The drought + continued and he wished he had sold more. + </p> + <p> + One morning Abner came hastily in and told him that nearly all the beasts + and cows were missing. George flung himself on his horse and galloped to + the end of his run. No signs of them—returning disconsolate he took + Jacky on his crupper and went over the ground with him. Jacky's eyes were + playing and sparkling all the time in search of signs. Nothing clear was + discovered. Then at Jacky's request they rode off George's feeding-ground + altogether and made for a little wood about two miles distant. “Suppose + you stop here, I go in the bush,” said Jacky. + </p> + <p> + George sat down and waited. In about two hours Jacky came back. “I've + found 'em,” said Jacky coolly. + </p> + <p> + George rose in great excitement and followed Jacky through the stiff bush, + often scratching his hands and face. At last Jacky stopped and pointed to + the ground, “There!” + </p> + <p> + “There? ye foolish creature,” cried George; “that's ashes where somebody + has lighted a fire; that and a bone or two is all I see.” + </p> + <p> + “Beef bone,” replied Jacky coolly. George started with horror. “Black + fellow burn beef here and eat him. Black fellow a great thief. Black + fellow take all your beef. Now we catch black fellow and shoot him suppose + he not tell us where the other beef gone.” + </p> + <p> + “But how am I to catch him? How am I even to find him?” + </p> + <p> + “You wait till the sun so; then black fellow burn more beef. Then I see + the smoke; then I catch him. You go fetch the make-thunder with two + mouths. When he see him that make him honest a good deal.” + </p> + <p> + Off galloped George and returned with his double-barreled gun in about an + hour and a half. He found Jacky where he had left him at the foot of a + gumtree tall and smooth as an admiral's main-mast. + </p> + <p> + Jacky, who was coiled up in happy repose like a dog in warm weather, rose + and with a slight yawn said, “Now I go up and look.” + </p> + <p> + He made two sharp cuts on the tree with his tomahawk, and putting his + great toe in the nick, rose on it, made another nick higher up, and + holding the smooth stem put his other great toe in it, and so on till in + an incredibly short time he had reached the top and left a staircase of + his own making behind him. He had hardly reached the top when he slid down + to the bottom again and announced that he had discovered what they were in + search of. + </p> + <p> + George haltered the pony to the tree and followed Jacky, who struck + farther into the wood. After a most disagreeable scramble at the other + side of the wood Jacky stopped and put his finger to his lips. They both + went cautiously out of the wood, and mounting a bank that lay under its + shelter they came plump upon a little party of blacks, four male and three + female. The women were seated round a fire burning beef and gnawing the + outside laminae, then putting it down to the fire again. The men, who + always serve themselves first, were lying gorged—but at sight of + George and Jacky they were on their feet in a moment and their spears + poised in their hands. + </p> + <p> + Jacky walked down the bank and poured a volley of abuse into them. Between + two of his native sentences he uttered a quiet aside to George, “Suppose + black fellow lift spear you shoot him dead,” and then abused them like + pickpockets again and pointed to the make-thunder with two mouths in + George's hand. + </p> + <p> + After a severe cackle on both sides the voices began to calm down like + water going off the boil, and presently soft low gutturals passed in + pleasant modulation. Then the eldest male savage made a courteous signal + to Jacky that he should sit down and gnaw. Jacky on this administered + three kicks among the gins and sent them flying, then down he sat and had + a gnaw at their beef—George's beef, I mean. The rage of hunger + appeased, he rose, and with the male savages took the open country. On the + way he let George know that these black fellows were of his tribe, that + they had driven off the cattle and that he had insisted on restitution—which + was about to be made; and sure enough, before they had gone a mile they + saw some beasts grazing in a narrow valley. George gave a shout of joy, + but counting them he found fifteen short. When Jacky inquired after the + others the blacks shrugged their shoulders. They knew nothing more than + this, that wanting a dinner they had driven off forty bullocks; but + finding they could only eat one that day they had killed one and left the + others, of whom some were in the place they had left them; the rest were + somewhere, they didn't know where—far less care. They had dined, + that was enough for them. + </p> + <p> + When this characteristic answer reached George he clinched his teeth and + for a moment felt an impulse to make a little thunder on their slippery + black carcasses, but he groaned instead and said, “They were never taught + any better.” + </p> + <p> + Then Jacky and he set to work to drive the cattle together. With infinite + difficulty they got them all home by about eleven o'clock at night. The + next day up with the sun to find the rest. Two o'clock—and only one + had they fallen in with, and the sun broiled so that lazy Jacky gave in + and crept in under the beast for shade, and George was fain to sit on his + shady side with moody brow and sorrowful heart. + </p> + <p> + Presently Jacky got up. “I find one,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Where? where?” cried George, looking all round. Jacky pointed to a rising + ground at least six miles off. + </p> + <p> + George groaned, “Are you making a fool of me? I can see nothing but a + barren hill with a few great bushes here and there. You are never taking + those bushes for beasts?” + </p> + <p> + Jacky smiled with utter scorn. “White fellow stupid fellow; he see + nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “Well and what does black fellow see?” snapped George. + </p> + <p> + “Black fellow see a crow coming from the sun, and when he came over there + he turned and went down and not get up again a good while. Then black + fellow say, 'I tink.' Presently come flying one more crow from that other + side where the sun is not. Black fellow watch him, and when he come over + there he turn round and go down, too, and not get up a good while. Then + black fellow say, 'I know.'” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, come along!” cried George. + </p> + <p> + They hurried on; but when they came to the rising ground and bushes Jacky + put his finger to his lips. “Suppose we catch the black fellows that have + got wings; you make thunder for them?” + </p> + <p> + He read the answer in George's eye. Then he took George round the back of + the hill and they mounted the crest from the reverse side. They came over + it and there at their very feet lay one of George's best bullocks, with + tongue protruded, breathing his last gasp. A crow of the country was + perched on his ribs, digging his thick beak into a hole he had made in his + ribs, and another was picking out one of his eyes. The birds rose heavily, + clogged and swelling with gore. George's eyes flashed, his gun went up to + his shoulder, and Jacky saw the brown barrel rise slowly for a moment as + it followed the nearest bird wobbling off with broad back invitingly + displayed to the marksman. Bang! the whole charge shivered the ill-omened + glutton, who instantly dropped riddled with shot like a sieve, while a + cloud of dusky feathers rose from him into the air. The other, hearing the + earthly thunder and Jacky's exulting whoop, gave a sudden whirl with his + long wing and shot up into the air at an angle and made off with great + velocity; but the second barrel followed him as he turned and followed him + as he flew down the wind. Bang! out flew two handfuls of dusky feathers, + and glutton No. 2 died in the air, and its carcass and expanded wings went + whirling like a sheet of paper and fell on the top of a bush at the foot + of the hill. + </p> + <p> + All this delighted the devil-may-care Jacky, but it may be supposed it was + small consolation to George. He went up to the poor beast, who died even + as he looked down on him. + </p> + <p> + “Drought, Jacky! drought!” said he—“it is Moses, the best of the + herd. Oh, Moses, why couldn't you stay beside me? I'm sure I never let you + want for water, and never would—you left me to find worse friends!” + and so the poor simple fellow moaned over the unfortunate creature, and + gently reproached him for his want of confidence in him that it was + pitiful. Then suddenly turning on Jacky he said gravely, “Moses won't be + the only one, I doubt.” + </p> + <p> + The words were hardly out of his mouth before a loud moo proclaimed the + vicinity of cattle. They ran toward the sound, and in a rocky hollow they + found nine bullocks; and alas! at some little distance another lay dead. + Those that were alive were panting with lolling tongues in the broiling + sun. How to save them; how to get them home a distance of eight miles. + “Oh! for a drop of water.” The poor fools had strayed into the most arid + region for miles round. + </p> + <p> + Instinct makes blunders as well as reason.—Bestiale est errare. + </p> + <p> + “We must drive them from this, Jacky, though half of them die by the way.” + </p> + <p> + The languid brutes made no active resistance. Being goaded and beaten they + got on their legs and moved feebly away. + </p> + <p> + Three miles the men drove them, and then one who had been already + staggering more than the rest gave in and lay down, and no power could get + him up again. Jacky advised to leave him. George made a few steps onward + with the other cattle, but then he stopped and came back to the sufferer + and sat down beside him disconsolate. + </p> + <p> + “I can't bear to desert a poor dumb creature. He can't speak, Jacky, but + look at his poor frightened eye; it seems to say have you got the heart to + go on and leave me to die for the want of a drop of water. Oh! Jacky, you + that is so clever in reading the signs of Nature, have pity on the poor + thing and do pray try and find us a drop of water. I'd run five miles and + fetch it in my hat if you would but find it. Do help us, Jacky.” And the + white man looked helplessly up to the black savage, who had learned to + read the small type of Nature's book and he had not. + </p> + <p> + Jacky hung his head. “White fellow's eyes always shut; black fellow's + always open. We pass here before and Jacky look for water—look for + everything. No water here. But,” said he languidly, “Jacky will go up high + tree and look a good deal.” Selecting the highest tree near he chopped a + staircase and went up it almost as quickly as a bricklayer mounts a ladder + with a hod. At the top he crossed his thighs over the stem, and there he + sat full half an hour; his glittering eye reading the confused page, and + his subtle mind picking out the minutest syllables of meaning. Several + times he shook his head. At last all of a sudden he gave a little start, + and then a chuckle, and the next moment he was on the ground. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “Black fellow stupid fellow—look too far off,” and he laughed again + for all the world like a jackdaw. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “A little water; not much.” + </p> + <p> + “Where is it? Where is it? Why don't you tell me where it is?” + </p> + <p> + “Come,” was the answer. + </p> + <p> + Not forty yards from where they stood Jacky stopped and thrusting his hand + into a tuft of long grass pulled out a short blue flower with a very thick + stem. “Saw him spark from the top of the tree,” said Jacky with a grin. + “This fellow stand with him head in the air but him foot in the water. + Suppose no water he die a good deal quick.” Then taking George's hand he + made him press the grass hard, and George felt moisture ooze through the + herb. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my hand is wet, but, Jacky, this drop won't save a beast's life + without it is a frog's.” + </p> + <p> + Jacky smiled and rose. “Where that wet came from more stay behind.” + </p> + <p> + He pointed to other patches of grass close by, and following them showed + George that they got larger and larger in a certain direction. At last he + came to a hidden nook, where was a great patch of grass quite a different + color, green as an emerald. “Water,” cried Jacky, “a good deal of water.” + He took a jump and came down flat on his back on the grass, and sure + enough, though not a drop of surface water was visible, the cool liquid + squirted up in a shower round Jacky. + </p> + <p> + Nature is extremely fond of producing the same things in very different + sizes. Here was a miniature copy of those large Australian lakes which + show nothing to the eye but rank grass. You ride upon them a little way, + merely wetting your horse's feet, but after a while the sponge gets fuller + and fuller, and the grass shows symptoms of giving way, and letting you + down to “bottomless perdition.” + </p> + <p> + They squeezed out of this grass sponge a calabash full of water, and + George ran with it to the panting beast. Oh! how he sucked it up, and his + wild eye calmed, and the liquid life ran through all his frame! + </p> + <p> + It was hardly in his stomach before he got up of his own accord, and gave + a most sonorous moo, intended no doubt to express the sentiment of “never + say die.” + </p> + <p> + George drove them all to the grassy sponge, and kept them there till + sunset. He was three hours squeezing out water and giving it them before + they were satisfied. Then in the cool of the evening he drove them safe + home. + </p> + <p> + The next day one more of his strayed cattle found his way home. The rest + he never saw again. This was his first dead loss of any importance; + unfortunately, it was not the last. + </p> + <p> + The brutes were demoralized by their excursion, and being active as deer + they would jump over anything and stray. + </p> + <p> + Sometimes the vagrant was recovered—often he was found dead; and + sometimes he went twenty miles and mingled with the huge herds of some + Croesus, and was absorbed like a drop of water and lost to George + Fielding. This was a bitter blow. This was not the way to make the + thousand pounds. + </p> + <p> + “Better sell them all to the first comer, and then I shall see the end of + my loss. I am not one of your lucky ones. I must not venture.” + </p> + <p> + A settler passed George's way driving a large herd of sheep and ten cows. + George gave him a dinner and looked over his stock. “You have but few + beasts for so many sheep,” said he. + </p> + <p> + The other assented. + </p> + <p> + “I could part with a few of mine to you if you were so minded.” + </p> + <p> + The other said he should be very glad, but he had no money to spare. Would + George take sheep in exchange? + </p> + <p> + “Well,” drawled George, “I would rather it had been cash, but such as you + and I must not make the road hard to one another. Sheep I'll take, but + full value.” + </p> + <p> + The other was delighted, and nearly all George's bullocks became his for + one hundred and fifty sheep. + </p> + <p> + George was proud of his bargain, and said, “That is a good thing for you + and me, Susan, please God.” + </p> + <p> + Now the next morning Abner came in and said to George, “I don't like some + of your new lot—the last that are marked with a red V.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, what is wrong about them?” + </p> + <p> + “Come and see.” + </p> + <p> + He found more than one of the new sheep rubbing themselves angrily against + the pen, and sometimes among one another. + </p> + <p> + “Oh dear!” said George, “I have prayed against this on my knees every + night of my life, and it is come upon me at last. Sharpen your knife, + Abner.” + </p> + <p> + “What! must they all—” + </p> + <p> + “All the new lot. Call Jacky, he will help you; he likes to see blood. I + can't abide it. One hundred and fifty sheep; eighteen-pennorth of wool, + and eighteen-pennorth of fat when we fling 'em into the pot—that is + all that is left to me of yesterday's deal.” + </p> + <p> + Jacky was called. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Jacky,” said George, “these sheep have got the scab of the country; + if they get to my flock and taint it I am a beggar from that moment. These + sheep are sure to die, so Abner and you are to kill them. He will show you + how. I can't look on and see their blood and my means spilled like water. + Susan, this is a black day for us!” + </p> + <p> + He went away and sat down upon a stone a good way off, and turned his back + upon his house and his little homestead. This was not the way to make the + thousand pounds. + </p> + <p> + The next day the dead sheep were skinned and their bodies chopped up and + flung into the copper. The grease was skimmed as it rose, and set aside, + and when cool was put into rough barrels with some salt and kept up until + such time as a merchant should pass that way and buy it. + </p> + <p> + “Well!” said George, with a sigh, “I know my loss. But if the red scab had + got into the large herd, there would have been no end to the mischief.” + </p> + <p> + Soon after this a small feeder at some distance offered to change with + McLaughlan. That worthy liked his own ground best, but willing to do his + friend George a good turn he turned the man over to him. George examined + the new place, found that it was smaller but richer and better watered, + and very wisely closed with the proposal. + </p> + <p> + When he told Jacky that worthy's eyes sparkled. + </p> + <p> + “Black fellow likes another place. Not every day the same.” + </p> + <p> + And in fact he let out that if this change had not occurred his intention + had been to go a-hunting for a month or two, so weary had he become of + always the same place. + </p> + <p> + The new ground was excellent, and George's hopes, lately clouded, + brightened again. He set to work and made huge tanks to catch the next + rain, and as heretofore did the work of two. + </p> + <p> + It was a sad thing to have to write to Susan and tell her that after + twenty months' hard work he was just where he had been at first starting. + One day, as George was eating his homely dinner on his knee by the side of + his principal flock, he suddenly heard a tremendous scrimmage mixed with + loud, abusive epithets from Abner. He started up, and there was Carlo + pitching into a sheep who was trying to jam herself into the crowd to + escape him. Up runs one of the sheep-dogs growling, but instead of seizing + Carlo, as George thought he would, what does he do but fall upon another + sheep, and spite of all their evasions the two dogs drove the two sheep + out of the flock and sent them pelting down the hill. In one moment George + was alongside Abner. + </p> + <p> + “Abner,” said he, “how came you to let strange sheep in among mine?” + </p> + <p> + “Never saw them till the dog pinned them.” + </p> + <p> + “You never saw them,” said George reproachfully. “No, nor your dog either + till my Carlo opened your eyes. A pretty thing for a shepherd and his dog + to be taught by a pointer. Well,” said George, “you had eyes enough to see + whose sheep they were. Tell me that, if you please?” + </p> + <p> + Abner looked down. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Abner?” + </p> + <p> + “I'd as lieve bite off my tongue as tell you.” + </p> + <p> + George looked uneasy and his face fell. + </p> + <p> + “A 'V.' Don't ye take on,” said Abner. “They couldn't have been ten + minutes among ours, and there were but two. And don't you blow me up, for + such a thing might happen to the carefulest shepherd that ever was.” + </p> + <p> + “I won't blow ye up, Will Abner,” said George. “It is my luck not yours + that has done this. It was always so. From a game of cricket upward I + never had my neighbor's luck. If the flock are not tainted I'll give you + five pounds, and my purse is not so deep as some. If they are, take your + knife and drive it into my heart. I'll forgive you that as I do this. + Carlo! let me look at you. See here, he is all over some stinking + ointment. It is off those sheep. I knew it. 'Twasn't likely a pointer dog + would be down on strange sheep like a shepherd's dog by the sight. 'Twas + this stuff offended him. Heaven's will be done.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us hope the best, and not meet trouble half way.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes” said George feebly. “Let us hope the best.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't I hear that Thompson has an ointment that cures the red scab?” + </p> + <p> + “So they say.” + </p> + <p> + George whistled to his pony. The pony came to him. George did not treat + him as we are apt to treat a horse—like a riding machine. He used to + speak to him and caress him when he fed him and when he made his bed, and + the horse followed him about like a dog. + </p> + <p> + In half an hour's sharp riding they were at Thompson's, an invaluable man + that sold and bought animals, doctored animals, and kept a huge boiler in + which bullocks were reduced to a few pounds of grease in a very few hours. + </p> + <p> + “You have an ointment that is good for the scab, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “That I have, farmer. Sold some to a neighbor of yours day before + yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + “Who was that?” + </p> + <p> + “A newcomer. Vesey is his name.” + </p> + <p> + George groaned. “How do you use it, if you please?” + </p> + <p> + “Shear 'em close, rub the ointment well in, wash 'em every two days, and + rub in again.” + </p> + <p> + “Give me a stone of it.” + </p> + <p> + “A stone of my ointment! Well! you are the wisest man I have come across + this year or two. You shall have it, sir.” + </p> + <p> + George rode home with his purchase. + </p> + <p> + Abner turned up his nose at it, and was inclined to laugh at George's + fears. But George said to himself, “I have Susan to think of as well as + myself. Besides,” said he a little bitterly, “I haven't a grain of luck. + If I am to do any good I must be twice as prudent and thrice as + industrious as my neighbors or I shall fall behind them. Now, Abner, we'll + shear them close.” + </p> + <p> + “Shear them! Why it is not two months since they were all sheared.” + </p> + <p> + “And then we will rub a little of this ointment into them.” + </p> + <p> + “What! before we see any sign of the scab among them? I wouldn't do that + if they were mine.” + </p> + <p> + “No more would I if they were yours,” replied George almost fiercely. “But + they are not yours, Will Abner. They are unlucky George's.” + </p> + <p> + During the next three days four hundred sheep were clipped and anointed. + Jacky helped clip, but he would not wear gloves, and George would not let + him handle the ointment without them, suspecting mercury. + </p> + <p> + At last George yielded to Abner's remonstrances, and left off shearing and + anointing. + </p> + <p> + Abner altered his opinion when one day he found a sheep rubbing like mad + against a tree, and before noon half a dozen at the same game. Those two + wretched sheep had tainted the flock. + </p> + <p> + Abner hung his head when he came to George with this ill-omened news. He + expected a storm of reproaches. But George was too deeply distressed for + any petulances of anger. “It is my fault,” said he, “I was the master, and + I let my servant direct me. My own heart told me what to do, yet I must + listen to a fool and a hireling that cared not for the sheep. How should + he? they weren't his, they were mine to lose and mine to save. I had my + choice, I took it, I lost them. Call Jacky and let's to work and save here + and there one, if so be God shall be kinder to them than I have been.” + </p> + <p> + From that hour there was but little rest morning, noon or night. It was + nothing but an endless routine of anointing and washing, washing and + anointing sheep. To the credit of Mr. Thompson it must be told that of the + four hundred who had been taken in time no single sheep died; but of the + others a good many. There are incompetent shepherds as well as incompetent + statesmen and doctors, though not so many. Abner was one of these. An + acute Australian shepherd would have seen the more subtle signs of this + terrible disease a day or two before the patient sheep began to rub + themselves with fury against the trees and against each other; but Abner + did not; and George did not profess to have a minute knowledge of the + animal, or why pay a shepherd? When this Herculean labor and battle had + gone on for about a week, Abner came to George, and with a hang-dog look + begged him to look out for another shepherd. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Will! surely you won't think to leave me in this strait? Why three + of us are hardly able for the work, and how can I make head against this + plague with only the poor sav—with only Jacky, that is first-rate at + light work till he gets to find it dull—but can't lift a sheep and + fling her into the water, as the like of us can?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, ye see,” said Abner, doggedly, “I have got the offer of a place + with Mr. Meredith, and he won't wait for me more than a week.” + </p> + <p> + “He is a rich man, Will, and I am a poor one,” said George in a faint, + expostulating tone. Abner said nothing, but his face showed he had already + considered this fact from his own point of view. + </p> + <p> + “He could spare you better than I can; but you are right to leave a + falling house that you have helped to pull down.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't want to go all in a moment. I can stay a week till you get + another.” + </p> + <p> + “A week! how can I get a shepherd in this wilderness at a week's notice? + You talk like a fool.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I can't stay any longer. You know there is no agreement at all + between us, but I'll stay a week to oblige you.” + </p> + <p> + “You'll oblige me, will you?” said George, with a burst of indignation; + “then oblige me by packing up your traps and taking your ugly face out of + my sight before dinner-time this day. Stay, my man, here are your wages up + to twelve o'clock to-day, take 'em and out of my sight, you dirty rascal. + Let me meet misfortune with none but friends by my side. Away with you, or + I shall forget myself and dirty my hands with your mean carcass.” + </p> + <p> + The hireling slunk off, and as he slunk George stormed and thundered after + him, “And wherever you may go, may sorrow and sickness—no!” + </p> + <p> + George turned to Jacky, who sat coolly by, his eyes sparkling at the + prospect of a row. “Jacky!” said he, and then he seemed to choke, and + could not say another word. + </p> + <p> + “Suppose I get the make-thunder, then you shoot him.” + </p> + <p> + “Shoot him! what for?” + </p> + <p> + “Too much bungality,* shoot him dead. He let the sheep come that have my + two fingers so on their backs;” here Jacky made a V with his middle and + forefinger, “so he kill the other sheep—yet still you not shoot him—that + so stupid I call.” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * Stupidity. +</pre> + <p> + “Oh Jacky, hush! don't you know me better than to think I would kill a man + for killing my sheep. Oh fie! oh fie! No, Jacky, Heaven forbid I should do + the man any harm; but when I think of what he has brought on my head, and + then to skulk and leave me in my sore strait and trouble, me that never + gave him ill language as most masters would; and then, Jacky, do you + remember when he was sick how kind you and I were to him—and now to + leave us. There, I must go into the house, and you come and call me out + when that man is off the premises—not before.” + </p> + <p> + At twelve o'clock selfish Abner started to walk thirty miles to Mr. + Meredith's. Smarting under the sense of his contemptibleness and of the + injury he was doing his kind, poor master, he shook his fist at the house + and told Jacky he hoped the scab would rot the flock, and that done fall + upon the bipeds, on his own black hide in particular. Jacky only answered + with his eye. When the man was gone he called George. + </p> + <p> + George's anger had soon died. Jacky found him reading a little book in + search of comfort, and when they were out in the air Jacky saw that his + eyes were rather red. + </p> + <p> + “Why you cry?” said Jacky. “I very angry because you cry.” + </p> + <p> + “It is very foolish of me,” said George, apologetically, “but three is a + small company, and we in such trouble; I thought I had made a friend of + him. Often I saw he was not worth his wages, but out of pity I wouldn't + part with him when I could better have spared him than he me, and now—there—no + more about it. Work is best for a sore heart, and mine is sore and heavy, + too, this day.” + </p> + <p> + Jacky put his finger to his head, and looked wise. “First you listen me—this + one time I speak a good many words. Dat stupid fellow know nothing, and so + because you not shoot him a good way* behind—you very stupid. One,” + counted Jacky, touching his thumb, “he know nothing with these (pointing + to his eyes). Jacky know possum,** Jacky know kangaroo, know turkey, know + snake, know a good many, some with legs like dis (four fingers), some with + legs like dis (two flngers)—dat stupid fellow know nothing but + sheep, and not know sheep, let him die too much. Know nothing with 'um + eyes. One more (touching his forefinger). Know nothing with dis (touching + his tongue). Jacky speak him good words, he speak Jacky bad words. Dat so + stupid—he know nothing with dis. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * Long ago. + + ** Opossum. +</pre> + <p> + “One more. You do him good things—he do you bad things; he know + nothing with these (indicating his arms and legs as the seat of moral + action), so den because you not shoot him long ago now you cry; den + because you cry Jacky angry. Yes, Jacky very good. Jacky a little good + before he live with you. Since den very good—but when dat fellow + know nothing, and now you cry at the bottom* part Jacky a little angry, + and Jacky go hunting a little not much direckly.” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * At last. +</pre> + <p> + With these words the savage caught up his tomahawk and two spears, and was + going across country without another word, but George cried out in dismay, + “Oh, stop a moment! What! to-day, Jacky? Jacky, Jacky, now don't ye go + to-day. I know it is very dull for the likes of you, and you will soon + leave me, but don't ye go to-day; don't set me against flesh and blood + altogether.” + </p> + <p> + “I come back when the sun there,” pointing to the east, “but must hunt a + little, not much. Jacky uncomfortable,” continued he, jumping at a word + which from its size he thought must be of weight in any argument, “a good + deal uncomfortable suppose I not hunt a little dis day.” + </p> + <p> + “I say no more, I have no right—goodby, take my hand, I shall never + see you any more. + </p> + <p> + “I shall come back when the sun there.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! well I daresay you think you will. Good-by, Jacky; don't you stay to + please me.” + </p> + <p> + Jacky glided away across country. He looked back once and saw George + watching him. George was sitting sorrowful upon a stone, and as this last + bit of humanity fell away from him and melted away in the distance his + heart died within him. “He thinks he will come back to me, but when he + gets in the open and finds the track of animals to hunt he will follow + them wherever they go, and his poor shallow head won't remember this place + nor me; I shall never see poor Jacky any more!” + </p> + <p> + The black continued his course for about four miles until a deep hollow + hid him from George. Arrived here he instantly took a line nearly opposite + to his first, and when he had gone about three miles on this tack he began + to examine the ground attentively and to run about like a hound. After + near half an hour of this he fell upon some tracks and followed them at an + easy trot across the country for miles and miles, his eye keenly bent upon + the ground. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0039" id="link2HCH0039"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIX. + </h2> + <h3> + OUR story has to follow a little way an infinitesimal personage. + </h3> + <p> + Abner, the ungratefulish one, with a bundle tied up in a handkerchief, + strode stoutly away toward Mr. Meredith's grazing ground. “I am well out + of that place,” was his reflection. As he had been only once over the + ground before, he did not venture to relax his pace lest night should + overtake him in a strange part. He stepped out so well that just before + the sun set he reached the head of a broad valley that was all Meredith's. + About three miles off glittered a white mansion set in a sea of pasture, + studded with cattle instead of sails. “Ay! ay!” thought the ungratefulish + one, no fear of the scab breaking up this master—“I'm all right + now.” As he chuckled over his prospects a dusky figure stole noiselessly + from a little thicket—an arm was raised behind him—crosssh! a + hard weapon came down on his skull, and he lay on his face with the blood + trickling from his mouth and ears. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0040" id="link2HCH0040"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XL. + </h2> + <p> + HE who a few months ago was so lighthearted and bright with hope now rose + at daybreak for a work of Herculean toil as usual, but no longer with the + spirit that makes labor light. The same strength, the same dogged + perseverance were there, but the sense of lost money, lost time, and + invincible ill-luck oppressed him; then, too, he was alone—everything + had deserted him but misfortune. + </p> + <p> + “I have left my Susan and I have lost her—left the only friend I had + or ever shall have in this hard world.” This was his constant thought, as + doggedly but hopelessly he struggled against the pestilence. Single-handed + and leaden-hearted he had to catch a sheep, to fling her down, to hold her + down, to rub the ointment into her, and to catch another that had been + rubbed yesterday and take her to the pool and fling her in and keep her in + till every part of her skin was soaked. + </p> + <p> + Four hours of this drudgery had George gone through single-handed and + leaden-hearted, when as he knelt over a kicking, struggling sheep, he + became conscious of something gliding between him and the sun; he looked + up and there was Jacky grinning. + </p> + <p> + George uttered an exclamation: “What, come back! Well, now that is very + good of you I call. How do you do?” and he gave him a great shake of the + hand. + </p> + <p> + “Jacky very well, Jacky not at all uncomfortable after him hunt a little.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I am very glad you have had a day's sport, leastways a night's, I + call it, since it has made you comfortable, Jacky.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! yes, very comfortable now,” and his white teeth and bright eye + proclaimed the relief and satisfaction his little trip had afforded his + nature. + </p> + <p> + “There, Jacky, if the ointment is worth the trouble it gives me rubbing of + it in, that sheep won't ever catch the scab, I do think. Well, Jacky, + seems to me I ought to ask your pardon—I did you wrong. I never + expected you would leave the kangaroos and opossums for me once you were + off. But I suppose fact is you haven't quite forgotten Twofold Bay.” + </p> + <p> + “Two fool bay!” inquired Jacky, puzzled. + </p> + <p> + “Where I first fell in with you. You made one in a hunt that day, only + instead of hunting you was hunted and pretty close, too, and if I hadn't + been a good cricketer and learned to fling true—Why, I do declare I + think he has forgotten the whole thing, shark and all!” + </p> + <p> + At the word shark a gleam of intelligence came to the black's eye; it was + succeeded by a look of wonder. “Shark come to eat me—you throw stone—so + we eat him. I see him now a little—a very little—dat a long + way off—a very long way off. Jacky can hardly see him when he try a + good deal. White fellow see a long way off behind him back—dat is + very curious.” + </p> + <p> + George colored. “You are right, lad—it was a long while ago, and I + am vexed for mentioning it. Well, any way you are come back and you are + welcome. Now you shall do a little of the light work, but I'll do all the + heavy work because I'm used to it;” and indeed poor George did work and + slave like Hercules; forty times that day he carried a full-sized sheep in + his hands a distance of twenty yards and flung her into the water and + splashed in and rubbed her back in the water. + </p> + <p> + The fourth day after Jacky's return George asked him to go all over the + ground and tell him how many sheep he saw give signs of the fatal + disorder. + </p> + <p> + About four o'clock in the afternoon Jacky returned driving before him with + his spear a single sheep. The agility of both the biped and quadruped were + droll; the latter every now and then making a rapid bolt to get back to + the pasture and Jacky bounding like a buck and pricking her with a spear. + </p> + <p> + For the first time he found George doing nothing. “Dis one scratch um back—only + dis one.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we have driven out the murrain and the rest will live. A hard fight! + Jacky, a hard fight! but we have won it at last. We will rub this one + well; help me put her down, for my head aches.” + </p> + <p> + After rubbing her a little George said, “Jacky, I wish you would do it for + me, for my head do ache so I can't abide to hold it down and work, too.” + </p> + <p> + After dinner they sat and looked at the sheep feeding. “No more dis,” said + Jacky gayly, imitating a sheep rubbing against a tree. + </p> + <p> + “No! I have won the day; but I haven't won it cheap. Jacky, that fellow, + Abner, was a bad man—an ungrateful man.” + </p> + <p> + These words George spoke with a very singular tone of gravity. + </p> + <p> + “Never you mind you about him.” + </p> + <p> + “No! I must try to forgive him; we are all great sinners; is it cold + to-day?” + </p> + <p> + “No! it is a good deal hot + </p> + <p> + “I thought it must, for the wind is in a kindly quarter. Well, Jacky, I am + as cool as ice.” + </p> + <p> + “Dat very curious.” + </p> + <p> + “And my head do ache so I can hardly bear myself.” + </p> + <p> + “You ill a little—soon be well.” + </p> + <p> + “I doubt I shall be worse before I am better.” + </p> + <p> + “Never you mind you. I go and bring something I know. We make it hot with + water, den you drink it; and after dat you a good deal better.” + </p> + <p> + “Do, Jacky. I won't take doctor's stuff; it is dug out of the ground and + never was intended for man's inside. But you get me something that grows + in sight and I'll take that; and don't be long, Jacky—for I am not + well.” + </p> + <p> + Jacky returned toward evening with a bundle of simples. He found George + shivering over a fire. He got the pot and began to prepare an infusion. + “Now you soon better,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “I hope so, Jacky,” said George very gravely, “thank you, all the same. + Jacky, I haven't been not to say dry for the last ten days with me washing + the sheep, and I have caught a terrible chill—a chill like death; + and, Jacky, I have tried too much—I have abused my strength. I am a + very strong man as men go, and so was my father; but he abused his + strength—and he was took just as I am took now, and in a week he was + dead. I have worked hard ever since I came here, but since Abner left me + at the pinch it hasn't been man's work, Jacky; it has been a + wrestling-match from dawn to dark. No man could go on so and not break + down; but I wanted so to save the poor sheep. Well, the sheep are saved; + but—” + </p> + <p> + When Jacky's infusion was ready he made George take it and then lie down. + Unfortunately the attack was too violent to yield to this simple remedy. + Fever was upon George Fielding—fever in his giant shape; not as he + creeps over the weak, but as he rushes on the strong. George had never a + headache in his life before. Fever found him full of blood and turned it + all to fire. He tossed—he raged—and forty-eight hours after + his first seizure the strong man lay weak as a child, except during those + paroxysms of delirium which robbed him of his reason while they lasted, + and of his strength when they retired. + </p> + <p> + On the fourth day—-after a raging paroxysm—he became suddenly + calm, and looking up saw Jacky seated at some little distance, his bright + eye fixed upon him. + </p> + <p> + “You better now?” inquired he, with even more than his usual gentleness of + tone. “You not talk stupid things any more?” + </p> + <p> + “What, Jacky, are you watching me?” said the sick man. “Now I call that + very kind of you. Jacky, I am not the man I was—we are cut down in a + day like the ripe grass. How long is it since I was took ill?” + </p> + <p> + “One, one, one, and one more day.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! Ay! My father lasted till the fifth day, and then—Jacky!” + </p> + <p> + “Here Jacky! what you want?” + </p> + <p> + “Go out on the hill and see whether any of the sheep are rubbing + themselves.” + </p> + <p> + Jacky went out and soon returned. + </p> + <p> + “Not see one rub himself.” + </p> + <p> + A faint gleam lighted George's sunken eye. “That is a comfort. I hope I + shall be accepted not to have been a bad shepherd, for I may say 'I have + given my life for my sheep.' Poor things.” + </p> + <p> + George dozed. Toward evening he awoke, and there was Jacky just where he + had seen him last. “I didn't think you had cared so much for me, Jacky, my + boy.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, care very much for you. See, um make beef-water for you a good + deal.” + </p> + <p> + And sure enough he had boiled down about forty pounds of beef and filled a + huge calabash with the extract, which he set by George's side. + </p> + <p> + “And why are you so fond of me, Jacky? It isn't on account of my saving + your life, for you had forgotten that. What makes you such a friend to + me?” + </p> + <p> + “I tell you. Often I go to tell you before, but many words dat a good deal + trouble. One—when you make thunder the bird always die. One—you + take a sheep so and hold him up high. Um never see one more white fellow + able do dat. One—you make a stone go and hit thing; other white + fellow never hit. One—little horse come to you; other white fellow + go to horse—horse run away. Little horse run to you, dat because you + so good. One—Carlo fond of you. All day now he come in and go out, + and say so (imitating a dog's whimper). He so uncomfortable because you + lie down so. One—when you speak to Jacky you not speak big like + white fellow, you speak small and like a fiddle—dat please Jacky's + ear. + </p> + <p> + “One—when you look at Jacky always your face make like a hot day + when dere no rain—dat please Jacky's eye; and so when Jacky see you + stand up one day a good deal high and now lie down—dat makes him + uncomfortable; and when he see you red one day and white dis day—dat + make him uncomfortable a good deal; and when he see you so beautiful one + day and dis day so ugly—dat make him so uncomfortable, he afraid you + go away and speak no more good words to Jacky—and dat make Jacky + feel a thing inside here (touching his breast), no more can breathe—and + want to do like the gin, but don't know how. Oh, dear! don't know how!” + </p> + <p> + “Poor Jacky! I do wish I had been kinder to you than I have. Oh, I am very + short of wind, and my back is very bad!” + </p> + <p> + “When black fellow bad in um back he always die,” said Jacky very gravely. + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” said George quietly. “Jacky, will you do one or two little things + for me now?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, do um all.” + </p> + <p> + “Give me that little book that I may read it. Thank you. Jacky, this is + the book of my religion; and it was given to me by one I love better than + all the world. I have disobeyed her—I have thought too little of + what is in this book and too much of this world's gain. God forgive me! + and I think He will, because it was for Susan's sake I was so greedy of + gain.” + </p> + <p> + Jacky looked on awestruck as George read the book of his religion. “Open + the door, Jacky.” + </p> + <p> + Jacky opened the door; then coming to George's side, he said with an + anxious, inquiring look and trembling voice, “Are you going to leave me, + George?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Jacky, my boy,” said George, “I doubt I am going to leave you. So + now thank you and bless you for all kindness. Put your face close down to + mine-there—I don't care for your black skin—He who made mine + made yours; and I feel we are brothers, and you have been one to me. + Good-by, dear, and don't stay here. You can do nothing more for your poor + friend George.” + </p> + <p> + Jacky gave a little moan. “Yes, um can do a little more before he go and + hide him face where there are a good deal of trees.” + </p> + <p> + Then Jacky went almost on tiptoe, and fetched another calabash full of + water and placed it by George's head. Then he went very softly and fetched + the heavy iron which he had seen George use in penning sheep, and laid it + by George's side; next he went softly and brought George's gun, and laid + it gently by George's side down on the ground. + </p> + <p> + This done he turned to take his last look of the sick man now feebly + dozing, the little book in his drooping hand. But as he gazed nature + rushed over the poor savage's heart and took it quite by surprise. Even + while bending over his white brother to look his last farewell, with a + sudden start he turned his back on him, and sinking on his hams he burst + out crying and sobbing with a wild and terrible violence. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0041" id="link2HCH0041"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLI. + </h2> + <p> + FOR near an hour Jacky sat upon the ground, his face averted from his sick + friend, and cried; then suddenly he rose, and without looking at him went + out at the door, and turning his face toward the great forests that lay + forty miles distant eastward, he ran all the night, and long before dawn + was hid in the pathless woods. + </p> + <p> + A white man feels that grief, when not selfish, is honorable, and + unconsciously he nurses such grief more or less; but to simple-minded + Jacky grief was merely a subtle pain, and to be got rid of as quickly as + possible, like any other pain. + </p> + <p> + He ran to the vast and distant woods, hoping to leave George's death a + long way behind him, and so not see what caused his pain so plain as he + saw it just now. It is to be observed that he looked upon George as dead. + The taking into his hand of the book of his religion, the kind embrace, + the request that the door might be opened, doubtless for the disembodied + spirit to pass out, all these rites were understood by Jacky to imply that + the last scene was at hand. Why witness it? it would make him still more + uncomfortable. Therefore he ran, and never once looked back, and plunged + into the impenetrable gloom of the eastern forests. + </p> + <p> + The white man had left Fielding to get a richer master. The half-reasoning + savage left him to cure his own grief at losing him. There he lay + abandoned in trouble and sickness by all his kind. But one friend never + stirred; a single-hearted, single-minded, non-reasoning friend. + </p> + <p> + Who was this pure-minded friend? A dog. + </p> + <p> + Carlo loved George. They had lived together, they had sported together, + they had slept together side by side on the cold, hard deck of the <i>Phoenix</i>, + and often they had kept each other warm, sitting crouched together behind + a little bank or a fallen tree, with the wind whistling and the rain + shooting by their ears. + </p> + <p> + When day after day George came not out of the house, Carlo was very + uneasy. He used to patter in and out all day, and whimper pitifully, and + often he sat in the room where George lay and looked toward him and + whined. But now when his master was left quite alone his distress and + anxiety redoubled; he never went ten yards away from George. He ran in and + out moaning and whining, and at last he sat outside the door and lifted up + his voice and howled day and night continually. His meaner instincts lay + neglected; he ate nothing; his heart was bigger than his belly; he would + not leave his friend even to feed himself. And still day and night without + cease his passionate cry went up to heaven. + </p> + <p> + What passed in that single heart none can tell for certain but his + Creator; nor what was uttered in that deplorable cry; love, sorrow, + perplexity, dismay—all these perhaps, and something of prayer—for + still he lifted his sorrowful face toward heaven as he cried out in sore + perplexity, distress, and fear for his poor master—oh! o-o-o-h! + o-o-o-o-h! o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-h! + </p> + <p> + So we must leave awhile poor, honest, unlucky George, sick of a fever, ten + miles from the nearest hut. + </p> + <p> + Leather-heart has gone from him to be a rich man's hireling. + </p> + <p> + Shallow-heart has fled to the forest, and is hunting kangaroos with all + the inches of his soul. + </p> + <p> + Single-heart sits fasting from all but grief before the door, and utters + heartrending, lamentable cries to earth and heaven. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0042" id="link2HCH0042"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLII. + </h2> + <p> + —— JAIL is still a grim and castellated mountain of masonry, + but a human heart beats and a human brain throbs inside it now. + </p> + <p> + Enter without fear of seeing children kill themselves, and bearded men + faint like women, or weep like children—horrible sights. + </p> + <p> + The prisoners no longer crouch and cower past the officers, nor the + officers look at them and speak to them as if they were dogs, as they do + in most of these places, and used to here. + </p> + <p> + Open this cell. A woman rises with a smile! why a smile? Because for + months an open door has generally let in what is always a great boon to a + separate prisoner—a human creature with a civil word. We remember + when an open door meant “way for a ruffian and a fool to trample upon the + solitary and sorrowful!” + </p> + <p> + What is this smiling personage doing? as I live she is watchmaking! A + woman watchmaking, with neat and taper fingers, and a glass at her eye + sometimes, but not always, for in vision as well as in sense of touch and + patience nature has been bounteous to her. She is one of four. Eight, + besides these four, were tried and found incapable of excellence in this + difficult craft. They were put to other things; for permanent failures are + not permitted in —— Jail. The theory is that every home can + turn some sort of labor to profit. + </p> + <p> + Difficulties occur often. Impossibilities will bar the way now and then; + but there are so few real impossibilities. When a difficulty arises, the + three hundred industrious arts and crafts are freely ransacked for a + prisoner; ay!—ransacked as few rich men would be bothered to sift + the seven or eight liberal professions in order to fit a beloved son. + </p> + <p> + Here, as in the world, the average of talent is low. The majority can only + learn easy things, and vulgar things, and some can do higher things and a + few can do beautiful things, and one or two have developed first-rate + gifts and powers. + </p> + <p> + There are 25 shoemakers (male); 12 tailors, of whom 6 female; 24 weavers, + of whom 10 female; 4 watchmakers, all female; 6 printers and composers, 5 + female; 4 engrainers of wood, 2 female. (In this art we have the first + artist in Britain, our old acquaintance, Thomas Robinson. He has passed + all his competitors by a simple process. Beautiful specimens of all the + woods have been placed and kept before him, and for a month he has been + forced to imitate nature with his eye never off her. His competitors in + the world imitate nature from memory, from convention, or from tradition. + By such processes truth and beauty are lost at each step down the ladder + of routine. Mr. Eden gave clever Tom at first starting the right end of + the stick, instead of letting him take the wrong.) Nine joiners and + carpenters, 3 female; 3 who color prints downright well, 1 female; 2 + painters, 1 female; 3 pupils shorthand writing, 1 female. + </p> + <p> + [Fancy these attending the Old Bailey and taking it all down solemn as + judges.] + </p> + <p> + Workers in gutta-percha, modelers in clay, washers and getters-up of + linen, hoe-makers, spade-makers, rake-makers, woodcarvers, stonecutters, + bakers, etc., etc., etc., ad infinitum. Come to the hard-labor yard. Do + you see those fifteen stables? there lurk in vain the rusty cranks; + condemned first as liars they fell soon after into disrepute as weapons of + half-science to degrade minds and bodies. They lurk there grim as the + used-up giants in “Pilgrim's Progress,” and like them can't catch a soul. + </p> + <p> + Hark to the music of the shuttle and the useful loom. We weave linen, + cotton, woolen, linsey-woolsey, and, not to be behind the rogues outside, + cottonsey-woolsey and cottonsey-silksey; damask we weave, and a little + silk and poplin, and Mary Baker velvet itself for a treat now and then. We + of the loom relieve the county of all expense in keeping us, and enrich a + fund for taking care of discharged industrious prisoners until such time + as they can soften prejudices and obtain lucrative employment. The old + plan was to kick a prisoner out and say: + </p> + <p> + “There, dog! go without a rap among those who will look on you as a dog + and make you starve or steal. We have taught you no labor but crank, and + as there are no cranks in the outside world, the world not being such an + idiot as we are, you must fill your belly by means of the only other thing + you have ever been taught—theft.” + </p> + <p> + Now the officers take leave of a discharged prisoner in English. Farewell; + good-by!—a contraction for God be wi' ye—etc. It used to be in + French, Sans adieu! au revoir! and the like. + </p> + <p> + Having passed the merry, useful looms open this cell. A she-thief looks up + with an eye six times as mellow as when we were here last. She is busy + gilding. See with what an adroit and delicate touch the jade slips the + long square knife under the gossamer gold-leaf which she has blown gently + out of the book—and turns it over; and now she breathes gently and + vertically on the exact center of it, and the fragile yet rebellious leaf + that has rolled itself up like a hedgehog is flattened by that human + zephyr on the little leathern easel. Now she cuts it in three with + vertical blade; now she takes her long flat brush and applies it to her + own hair once or twice; strange to say the camel-hair takes from this + contact a soupcon of some very slight and delicate animal oil, which + enables the brush to take up the gold-leaf, and the artist lays a square + of gold in its place on the plaster bull she is gilding. Said bull was + cast in the prison by another female prisoner who at this moment is + preparing a green artificial meadow for the animal to stand in. These two + girls had failed at the watchmaking. They had sight and the fine sensation + of touch required, but they lacked the caution, patience and judgment so + severe an art demanded; so their talents were directed elsewhere. This one + is a first-rate gilder, she mistressed it entirely in three days. + </p> + <p> + The last thing they did in this way was an elephant. Cost of casting him, + reckoning labor and the percentage he ought to pay to the mold, was 1s. + 4d. Plaster, chrome, water-size and oil-size, 3d.; goldleaf, 3s.; 1 foot + of German velvet, 4d.; thread, needles and wear of tools, 1d.; total, 5s. + </p> + <p> + Said gold elephant standing on a purple cushion was subjected to a severe + test of his value. He was sent to a low auction room in London. There he + fell to the trade at 18s. This was a “knock-out” transaction; twelve + buyers had agreed not to bid against one another in the auction room, a + conspiracy illegal but customary. The same afternoon these twelve held one + of their little private unlawful auctions over him; here the bidding was + like drops of blood oozing from flints, but at least it was bona-fide, and + he rose to 25s. The seven shillings premium was divided among the eleven + sharpers. Sharper No. 12 carried him home and sold him the very next day + for 37s. to a lady who lived in Belgravia, but shopped in filthy alleys, + misled perhaps by the phrase “dirt cheap.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden conceived him, two detected ones made him at a cost of 5s., + twelve undetected ones caught him first for 18s., and now he stands in + Belgravia, and the fair ejaculate over him, “What a duck!” + </p> + <p> + The aggregate of labor to make and gild this elephant was not quite one + woman's work (12 hours). Taking 18s. as the true value of the work, for in + this world the workman has commonly to sell his production under the above + disadvantages, forced sale and the conspiracies of the unimprisoned—we + have still 13s. for a day's work by a woman. + </p> + <p> + From the bull greater things are expected. The cast is from the bull of + the Vatican, a bull true to Nature, and Nature adorned the very meadows + when she produced the bull. What a magnificent animal is a bull! what a + dewlap! what a front! what clean pasterns! what fearless eyes! what a deep + diapason is his voice! of which beholding this his true and massive effigy + in —— Jail we are reminded. When he stands muscular, majestic, + sonorous, gold, in his meadow pied with daisies, it shall not be “sweet” + and “love” and “duck”—words of beauty but no earthly signification; + it shall be, “There, I forgive Europa.” + </p> + <p> + And need I say there were more aimed at in all this than pecuniary profit. + Mr. Eden held that the love of production is the natural specific antidote + to the love of stealing. He kindled in his prisoners the love of + producing, of what some by an abuse of language call “creating.” And the + producers rose in the scale of human beings. Their faces showed it—the + untamed look melted away—the white of the eye showed less, and the + pupil and iris more, and better quality. + </p> + <p> + Gold-leaf when first laid on adheres in visible squares with uncouth + edges, a ragged affair; then the gilder takes a camelhair brush and under + its light and rapid touch the work changes as under a diviner's rod, so + rapidly and majestically come beauty and finish over it. Perhaps no other + art has so delicious a one minute as this is to the gilder. The first work + our prisoner gilded she screamed with delight several times at this + crisis. She begged to have the work left in her cell one day at least. “It + lights up the cell and lights up my heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course it does,” said Mr. Eden. “Aha! what, there are greater + pleasures in the world than sinning, are there?” + </p> + <p> + “That there are. I never was so pleased in my life. May I have it a few + minutes?” + </p> + <p> + “My child, you shall have it till its place is taken by others like it. + Keep it before your eyes, feed on it, and ask yourself which is the best, + to work and add something useful or beautiful to the world's material + wealth, or to steal; to be a little benefactor to your kind and yourself, + or a little vermin preying on the industrious. Which is best?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll never take while I can make.” + </p> + <p> + This is, of course, but a single specimen out of scores. To follow Mr. + Eden from cell to cell, from mind to mind, from sex to sex, would take + volumes and volumes. I only profess to reveal fragments of such a man. He + never hoped from the mere separate cell the wonders that dreamers hope. It + was essential to the reform of prisoners that moral contagion should be + checkmated, and the cell was the mode adopted, because it is the laziest, + cheapest, selfishest and cruelest way of doing this. That no discretion + was allowed him to let the converted or the well-disposed mix and + sympathize, and compare notes, and confirm each other in good under a + watchful officer's eye; this he thought a frightful blunder of the system. + </p> + <p> + Generally he held the good effect of separate confinement to be merely + negative; he laughed to scorn the chimera that solitude is an active + agent, capable of converting a rogue. Shut a rogue from rogues and let + honest men in upon him—the honest men get a good chance to convert + him, but if they do succeed it was not solitude that converted him but + healing contact. The moments that most good comes to him are the moments + his solitude is broken. + </p> + <p> + He used to say solitude will cow a rogue and suspend his overt acts of + theft by force, and so make him to a non-reflector seem no longer a thief; + but the notion of the cell effecting permanent cures might honestly be + worded thus: “I am a lazy self-deceiver, and want to do by machinery and + without personal fatigue what St. Paul could only do by working with all + his heart, with all his time, with all his wit, with all his soul, with + all his strength and with all himself.” Or thus: “Confine the leopards in + separate cages, Jock; <i>the cages</i> will take their spots out while + ye're sleeping.” + </p> + <p> + Generally this was Mr. Eden's theory of the cell—a check to further + contamination, but no more. He even saw in the cell much positive ill + which he set himself to qualify. + </p> + <p> + “Separate confinement breeds monstrous egotism,” said he, “and egotism + hardens the heart. You can't make any man good if you never let him say a + kind word or do an unselfish action to a fellow-creature. Man is an acting + animal. His real moral character all lies in his actions, and none of it + in his dreams or cogitations. Moral stagnation or cessation of all bad + acts and of all good acts is a state on the borders of every vice and a + million miles from virtue.” + </p> + <p> + His reverence attacked the petrifaction and egotism of the separate cell + as far as the shallow system of this prison let him. First, he encouraged + prisoners to write their lives for the use of the prison; these were + weeded, if necessary (the editor was strong-minded and did not weed out + the re-poppies); printed and circulated in the jail. The writer's number + was printed at the foot if he pleased, but never his name. Biography begot + a world of sympathy in the prison. Second, he talked to one prisoner + acquainted with another prisoner's character, talked about No. 80 to No. + 60, and would sometimes say: “Now could you give No. 60 any good advice on + this point?” + </p> + <p> + Then if 80's advice was good he would carry it to 60, and 60 would think + all the more of it that it came from one of his fellows. + </p> + <p> + Then in matters of art he would carry the difficulties of a beginner or a + bungler to a proficient, and the latter would help the former. The + pleasure of being kind on one side, a touch of gratitude on the other, + seeds of interest and sympathy in both. Then such as had produced pretty + things were encouraged to lend them to other cells to adorn them and + stimulate the occupants. + </p> + <p> + For instance, No. 140, who gilded the bull, was reminded that No. 120, who + had cast him, had never had the pleasure of setting him on her table in + her gloomy cell and so raising its look from dungeon to workshop. Then No. + 140 said, “Poor No. 120! that is not fair; she shall have him half the day + or more if you like, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Thus a grain of self-denial, justice and charity was often drawn into the + heart of a cell through the very keyhole. + </p> + <p> + No. 19, Robinson, did many a little friendly office for other figures, + received their thanks, and, above all, obliging these figures warmed and + softened his own heart. + </p> + <p> + You might hear such dialogues as this: + </p> + <p> + No. 24. “And how is poor old No. 50 to-day (Strutt)?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “Much the same.” + </p> + <p> + No. 24. “Do you think you will bring him round, sir?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “I have great hopes; he is much improved since he had the garden + and the violin.” + </p> + <p> + No. 24. “Will you give him my compliments, sir? No. 24's compliments and + tell him I bid him 'never say die'?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden. “Well, ——, how are you this morning?” + </p> + <p> + “I am a little better, sir. This room (the infirmary) is so sweet and + airy, and they give me precious nice things to eat and drink.” + </p> + <p> + “Are the nurses kind to you?” + </p> + <p> + “That, they are, sir, kinder than I deserve.” + </p> + <p> + “I have a message for you from No. — on your corridor.” + </p> + <p> + “No! have you, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “He sends his best wishes for your recovery.” + </p> + <p> + “Now that is very good of him.” + </p> + <p> + “And he would be very glad to hear from yourself how you feel.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, you tell him I am a trifle better, and God bless him for + troubling his head about me.” + </p> + <p> + In short, his reverence reversed the Hawes system. Under that a prisoner + was divested of humanity and became a number and when he fell sick the + sentiment created was, “The figure written on the floor of that cell looks + faint.” When he died or was murdered, “There is such and such a figure + rubbed off our slate.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden made these figures signify flesh and blood, even to those who + never saw their human faces. When he had softened a prisoner's heart then + he laid the deeper truths of Christianity to that heart. They would not + adhere to ice or stone or brass. He knew that till he had taught a man to + love his brother whom he had seen he could never make him love God whom he + has not seen. To vary the metaphor, his plan was, first warm and soften + your wax then begin to shape it after Heaven's pattern. The old-fashioned + way is freeze, petrify and mold your wax by a single process. Not that he + was mawkish. No man rebuked sin more terribly than he often rebuked it in + many of these cells; and when he did so see what he gained by the personal + kindness that preceded these terrible rebukes! The rogue said: “What! is + it so bad that his reverence, who I know has a regard for me, rebukes me + for it like this?—why, it must be bad indeed!” + </p> + <p> + A loving friend's rebuke is a rebuke—sinks into the heart and + convinces the judgment; an enemy's or stranger's rebuke is invective and + irritates—not converts. The great vice of the new prisons is general + self-deception varied by downright calculating hypocrisy. A shallow zealot + like Mr. Lepel is sure to drive the prisoners into one or other of these. + It was Mr. Eden's struggle to keep them out of it. He froze cant in the + bud. Puritanical burglars tried Scriptural phrases on him as a matter of + course, but they soon found it was the very worse lay they could get upon + in —— Jail. The notion that a man can jump from the depths of + vice up to the climax of righteous habits, spiritual-mindedness, at one + leap, shocked his sense and terrified him for the daring dogs that profess + these saltatory powers and the geese that believe it. He said to such: + “Let me see you crawl heavenward first, then walk heavenward; it will be + time enough to soar when you have lived soberly, honestly, piously a year + or two—not here, where you are tied hands, feet and tongue, but free + among the world's temptations.” He had no blind confidence in + learned-by-heart texts. “Many a scoundrel has a good memory,” said he. + </p> + <p> + Here he was quite opposed to his friend Lepel. This gentleman attributed a + sort of physical virtue to Holy Writ poured anyhow into a human vessel. + His plan of making a thief honest will appear incredible to a more + enlightened age; yet it is widely accepted now and its advocates call Mr. + Eden a dreamer. It was this: He came into a cell cold and stern and set + the rogues a lot of texts. Those that learned a great many he called good + prisoners, and those that learned few—black sheep; and the prisoners + soon found out that their life, bitter as it was, would be bitterer if + they did not look sharp and learn a good many texts. So they learned lots—and + the slyest scoundrels learned the most. “Why not?” said they, “in these + cursed holes we have nothing better to do; and it is the only way to get + the parson's good word, and that is always worth having in jail.” + </p> + <p> + One rogue on getting out explained his knowledge of five hundred texts + thus: “What did it hurt me learning texts? I'd just as lieve be learning + texts as turning a crank, and as soon be d—d as either.” + </p> + <p> + This fellow had been one of Mr. Lepel's sucking saints—a show + prisoner. The Bible and brute force—how odd they sound together! Yet + such was the Lepel system, humbug apart. Put a thief in a press between an + Old Testament and a New Testament. Turn the screw, crush the texts in, and + the rogue's vices out! Conversion made easy! What a wonder he opposes + cunning cloaked with religion to brutality cloaked under religion. Ay, + brutality, and laziness, and selfishness, all these are the true + foundation of that system. Selfishness—for such a man won't do + anything he does not like. No! “Why should I make myself 'all things to + all men' to save a soul? I will save them this one way or none—this + is my way and they shall all come to it,” says the reverend Procrustes, + forgetting that if the heart is not won in vain is the will crushed; or + perhaps not caring so that he gets his own way. + </p> + <p> + To work on Mr. Eden's plan is a herculean effort day by day repeated; but + to set texts is easy, easier even than to learn them—and how easy + that is appears from the multitude of incurable felons who have swapped + texts for tickets-of-leave. Messieurs Lepel, who teach solitary depressed + sinners the Bible with screw and lifted lash and no love nor pity, a word + in your ear. Begin a step higher. Go first to some charitable priest and + at his feet learn that Bible yourselves! + </p> + <p> + Forgive my heat, dear reader. I am not an Eden, and these fellows rile me + when I think of the good they might do, and they do nothing but force + hypocrisy upon men who were bad enough without that. I allow a certain + latitude; don't want to swim in hot water by quarreling with every madman + or every dunce, but I do doubt any man's right to combine contradictory + vices. Now these worthies are stupid yet wild, thick-headed yet delirious—tortoises + and March hares. + </p> + <p> + My sketch of Mr. Eden and his ways is feeble and unworthy. But I conclude + it with one master-stroke of eulogy—He was the opposite of these + men. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0043" id="link2HCH0043"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLIII. + </h2> + <p> + WE left Thomas Robinson writing his life. He has written it. It has been + printed by prisoners and circulated among prisoners. One copy lay in + Robinson's cell till he left the prison, and to this copy were appended + Mr. Eden's remarks in MS. + </p> + <p> + This autobiography is a self-drawn portrait of a true Bohemian and his + mind from boyhood up to the date when he fell into my hands. + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately we cannot afford so late in our story to make any retrograde + step. The “Autobiography of a Thief” must therefore be thrust into my + Appendix or printed elsewhere. + </p> + <p> + The reader has seen Robinson turned into a fiend by cruelty and turned + back to a man by humanity. + </p> + <p> + On this followed many sacred, softening, improving lessons, and as he + loved Mr. Eden his heart was open to them. + </p> + <p> + Most prisoners are very sensible of genuine kindness, and docile as wax in + the hands of those who show it. They are the easiest class in the world to + impress. The difficulty is to make the impression permanent. But the + people who pretend to you that kindness does not greatly affect, persuade + and help convince them HAVE NEVER TRIED ANYTHING BUT BRUTALITY, and never + will; for nothing greater, wiser or better is in them. + </p> + <p> + I will now indicate the other phases through which his mind passed in + —— Jail. + </p> + <p> + Being shown that his crimes were virtually the cause of Mary's hapless + life and untimely death, and hard pressed by his father confessor, he fell + into religious despondency; believed his case desperate, and his sins too + many for Heaven's mercy. + </p> + <p> + Of all states of mind this was the one Mr. Eden most dreaded. He had + observed that the notion that they cannot be reconciled to God and man is + the cause of prisoners' recklessness, and one great means by which jail + officers and society, England A.D. 185—, confirm them in ill. + </p> + <p> + He soothed and cheered the poor fellow with many a hopeful message from + the gospel of mercy and soon drew him out of the Slough of Despond; but he + drew him out with so eager an arm that up went this impressionable + personage from despond to the fifth heaven. He was penitent, forgiven, + justified, sanctified, all in three weeks. Moreover, he now fell into a + certain foul habit. Of course Scripture formed a portion of his daily + reading and discourse with the chaplain. Robinson had a memory that seized + and kept everything like a vise, so now a text occurred to him for every + occasion, and he interwove them with all his talk. Your shallow observers + would have said, “What a hypocrite!” + </p> + <p> + Not a hypocrite, oh Criticaster, but a chameleon! who had been months out + of the atmosphere of vice and in an atmosphere of religion. + </p> + <p> + His reverence broke him of this nasty habit of chattering Bible, and + generally cooled him down. Finally he became sober, penitent for his past + life, and firmly resolved to lead a better. With this began to mingle + ambition to rise very high in the world, and a violent impatience to + begin. + </p> + <p> + Through all these phases ran one excellent and saving thing, a genuine + attachment to his good friend the chaplain. The attachment was reciprocal, + and there was something touching in the friendship of two men so different + in mind and worldly station. But they had suffered together. And indeed a + much more depraved prisoner than Robinson would have loved such a + benefactor and brother as Eden; and many a scoundrel in this place did + love him as well as he could love anything; and as to the other, the clew + to him is simple. While the vulgar self-deceiving moralist loathes the + detected criminal, and never (whatever he may think) really rises to + abhorrence of crime, the saint makes two steps upward toward the mind of + Heaven itself, abhors crime, and loves, pities, and will not despair of + the criminal. + </p> + <p> + But besides this Robinson was an engaging fellow, full of thought and full + of facts, and the Rev. Francis Tender-Conscience often spent an extra five + minutes in his cell and then reproached himself for letting the more + interesting personage rob other depressed and thirsty souls of those drops + of dew. + </p> + <p> + One day Mr. Eden, who had just entered the cell, said to Robinson, “Give + me your hand. It is as I feared, your nerves are going.” + </p> + <p> + “Are they?” said Robinson ruefully. + </p> + <p> + “Do you not observe that you are becoming tremulous?” + </p> + <p> + “I notice that when my door is opened suddenly it makes me shake a little + and twitches come in my thigh.” + </p> + <p> + “I feared as much. It is not every man that can bear separate confinement + for twelve months. You cannot.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall have to, whether I can or not.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you?” + </p> + <p> + Three days after this Mr. Eden came into his cell and said with a sad + smile, “I have good news for you; you are going to leave me. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, your reverence! is that good news?” + </p> + <p> + “Those who have the disposal of you are beginning to see that all + punishment (except hanging) is for the welfare of the culprit, and must + never be allowed to injure him. Strutt left the prison for my house a + fortnight ago, and you are to cross the water next week.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, your reverence! Heaven forgive me for feeling glad.” + </p> + <p> + “For being human, eh, my poor fellow?” + </p> + <p> + In the course of this conversation Mr. Eden frankly regretted that + Robinson was going so soon. “Four months more prison would have made you + safer, and I would have kept you here till the last minute of your + sentence for the good of your soul,” said he grimly; “but your body and + nerves might have suffered,” added he tenderly; “we must do all for the + best.” + </p> + <p> + A light burst on Robinson. “Why, your reverence,” cried he, “is it for + fear? Why you don't ever think that I shall turn rogue again after I get + out of prison?” + </p> + <p> + “You are going among a thousand temptations.” + </p> + <p> + “What! do you really think all your kindness has been wasted on me? Why, + sir, if a thousand pounds lay there I would not stretch out my hand to + take one that did not belong to me. How ungrateful you must think me, and + what a fool into the bargain after all my experience!” + </p> + <p> + “Ungrateful you are not, but you are naturally a fool—a weak, + flexible fool. A man with a tenth of your gifts would lead you by the nose + into temptation. But I warn you if you fall now conscience will prick you + as it never yet has; you will be miserable, and yet though miserable + perhaps will never rise again, for remorse is not penitence.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson was so hurt at this want of confidence that he said nothing in + reply, and then Mr. Eden felt sorry he had said so much, “for, after all,” + thought he, “these are mere misgivings; by uttering them I only pain him. + I can't make him share them. Let me think what I can do.” + </p> + <p> + That very day he wrote to Susan Merton. The letter contained the + following: “Thomas Robinson goes to Australia next week. He will get a + ticket-of-leave almost immediately on landing. I am in great anxiety; he + is full of good resolves, but his nature is unstable, yet I should not + fear to trust him anywhere if I could but choose his associates. In this + difficulty I have thought of George Fielding. You know I can read + characters, and though you never summed George up to me, his sayings and + doings reveal him to me. He is a man in whom honesty is engrained. Poor + Robinson with such a companion would be as honest as the day, and a useful + friend, for he is full of resources. Then, dear friend, will you do a + Christian act and come to our aid. I want you to write a note to Mr. + Fielding and let this poor fellow take it to him. Armed with this my + convert will not be shy of approaching the honest man, and the exile will + not hate me for this trick—will he? I send you inclosed the poor + clever fool's life written by himself and printed by my girls. Read it and + tell me are we wrong in making every effort to save such a man?” etc. + </p> + <p> + By return of post came a reply from Susan Merton, full of pity for + Robinson and affectionate zeal to co-operate in any way with her friend. + Inclosed was a letter addressed to George Fielding, the envelope not + closed. Mr. Eden slipped in a banknote and a very small envelope and + closed it, placed it in a larger envelope, sealed that and copied the + first address on its cover. + </p> + <p> + He now gave Robinson more of his time than ever and seemed to cling to him + with almost a motherly apprehension. Robinson noticed it and felt it very, + very much, and his joy at getting out of prison oozed away more and more + as the day drew near. + </p> + <p> + That day came at last. Robinson was taken by Evans to the chaplain's room + to bid him farewell. He found him walking about the room in deep thought. + “Robinson, when you are thousands of miles from me bear this in mind, that + if you fall again you will break my heart.” + </p> + <p> + “I know it, sir; I know it; for you would say, 'If I could not save him + who can I hope to?'” + </p> + <p> + “You would not like to break my heart—to discourage your friend and + brother in the good work, the difficult work?” + </p> + <p> + “I would rather die; if it is to be so I pray Heaven to strike me dead in + this room while I am fit to die!” + </p> + <p> + “Don't say that; live to repair your crimes and to make me prouder of you + than a mother of her first-born.” He paused and walked the room in + silence. Presently he stopped in front of Robinson. “You have often said + you owed me something.” + </p> + <p> + “My life and my soul's salvation,” was the instant reply. + </p> + <p> + “I ask a return; square the account with me.” + </p> + <p> + “That I can never do.” + </p> + <p> + “You can! I will take two favors in return for all you say I have done for + you. No idle words—but yes or no upon your honor. Will you grant + them or won't you?” + </p> + <p> + “I will, upon my honor.” + </p> + <p> + “One is that you will pray very often, not only morning and evening, but + at sunset, at that dangerous hour to you when evil association begins; at + that hour honest men retire out of sight and rogues come abroad like + vermin and wild beasts; but most of all at any hour of the day or night a + temptation comes near you, at that moment pray! Don't wait to see how + strong the temptation is, and whether you can't conquer it without help + from above. At the sight of an enemy put on heavenly armor—pray! No + need to kneel or to go apart. Two words secretly cast heavenward, 'Lord, + help me,' are prayer. Will you so pray?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” + </p> + <p> + “Then give me your hand; here is a plain gold ring to recall this sacred + promise; put it on, wear it, and look at it, and never lose it or forget + your promise.” + </p> + <p> + “Them that take it must cut my hand off with it.” + </p> + <p> + “Enough, it is a promise. My second request is that the moment you are + free you will go and stay with an honest man.” + </p> + <p> + “I ask no better, sir, if he will have me.” + </p> + <p> + “George Fielding; he has a farm near Bathurst.” + </p> + <p> + “George Fielding, sir? He affronted me when I was in trouble. It was no + more than I deserved. I forgive him; but you don't know the lad, sir. He + would not speak to me; he would not look at me. He would turn his back on + me if we ran against one another in a wilderness.” + </p> + <p> + “Here is a talisman that will insure you a welcome from him—a letter + from the woman he loves. Come, yes or no?” + </p> + <p> + “I will, sir, for your sake, not for theirs. Sir, do pray give me + something harder to do for you than these two things!” + </p> + <p> + “No, I won't overweight you—nor encumber your memory with pledges—these + two and no more. And here we part. See what it is to sin against society. + I, whom your conversation has so interested, to whom your company is so + agreeable—in one word, I, who love you, can find no kinder word to + say to you to-day than this—let me never see your face again—let + me never hear your name in this world!” + </p> + <p> + His voice trembled as he said these words—and he wrung Robinson's + hand, and Robinson groaned and turned away. + </p> + <p> + “So now I can do no more for you—I must leave the rest to God.” And + with these words, for the second time in their acquaintance, the good soul + kneeled down and prayed aloud for this man. And this time he prayed at + length with ardor and tenderness unspeakable. He prayed as for a brother + on the brink of a precipice. He wrestled with Heaven; and ere he concluded + he heard a subdued sound near him, and it was poor Robinson, who, touched + and penetrated by such angelic love, and awestruck to hear a good man pour + out his very soul at the mercy-seat of Heaven, had crept timidly to his + side and knelt there, bearing his mute part in this fervent supplication. + </p> + <p> + As Mr. Eden rose from his knees Evans knocked gently at the door. He had + been waiting some minutes, but had heard the voice of prayer and + reverently forbore to interrupt it. At his knock the priest and the thief + started. The priest suddenly held out both his hands; the thief bowed his + head and kissed them many times, and on this they parted hastily with + swelling hearts and not another word—except the thousands that their + moist eyes exchanged in one single look—the last. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0044" id="link2HCH0044"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLIV + </h2> + <p> + THE ship was to sail in a week, and meantime Robinson was in the hulks at + Portsmouth. Now the hulks are a disgrace to Europe, and a most incongruous + appendage to a system that professes to cure by separate confinement. One + or two of the worst convicts made the usual overtures of evil + companionship to Robinson. These were coldly declined; and it was a good + sign that Robinson, being permitted by the regulations to write one + letter, did not write to any of his old pals in London or elsewhere, but + to Mr. Eden. He told him that he regretted his quiet cell where his ears + were never invaded with blasphemy and indecency, things he never took + pleasure in even at his worst—and missed his reverence's talk sadly. + He concluded by asking for some good books by way of antidote. + </p> + <p> + He received no answer while at Portsmouth, but the vessel having sailed + and lying two days off Plymouth, his name was called just before she + weighed again and a thick letter handed to him. He opened it eagerly and + two things fell on deck—a sovereign and a tract. The sovereign + rolled off and made for the sea. Robinson darted after it and saved it + from the deep and the surrounding rogues. Then he read a letter which was + also in the inclosure. It was short. In it Mr. Eden told him he had sent + him the last tract printed in the prison. “It is called 'The Wages of Sin + are Death.' It is not the same one you made into cards; that being out of + print and the author dead I have been tempted by that good, true title to + write another. I think you will value it none the less for being written + by me and printed by our brothers and sisters in this place. I inclose one + pound that you may not be tempted for want of a shilling.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson looked round for the tract; it was not to be seen; nobody had + seen it. N. B. It had been through a dozen light-fingered hands already + and was now being laughed at and blasphemed over by two filthy ruffians + behind a barrel on the lower deck. Robinson was first in a fury and then, + when he found it was really stolen from him, he was very much cut up. “I + wish I had lifted it and let the money roll.” However, thought he, “if I + keep quiet I shall hear of it.” + </p> + <p> + He did hear of it, but he never saw it; for one of these hardened + creatures that had got hold of it had a spite against Robinson for + refusing his proffered amity, and the malicious dog, after keeping it + several hours, hearing Robinson threaten to inform against whoever had + taken it, made himself safe and gratified his spite by flinging it into + the Channel. + </p> + <p> + This, too, came in due course to Robinson's ears. He moralized on it. “I + made the first into the devil's books,” said he, “and now a child of the + devil has robbed me of the second. I shan't get a third chance. I would + give my sovereign and more to see what his reverence says about 'The wages + of sin are death.' The very title is a sermon. I pray Heaven the dirty + hand that robbed me of it may rot off at the—no! I forgot. Bless and + curse not!” + </p> + <p> + And now Robinson was confined for five months in a wooden prison with the + scum of our jails. No cell to take refuge in from evil society. And in + that wretched five months this perpetual contact with criminals, many of + them all but incurable, took the gloss off him. His good resolutions were + unshaken, but his repugnance to evil associates became gradually worn + away. + </p> + <p> + At last they landed at Sydney. They were employed for about a fortnight in + some government works, a mile from the town; and at the end of that time + he was picked out by a gentleman who wanted a servant. + </p> + <p> + Robinson's work was to call him not too early, to clean his boots, go on + errands into the town, and be always in the way till five o'clock. From + that hour until about two in the morning Mr. Miles devoted to amusement, + returning with his latch key, and often rousing the night owl and his + servant with a bacchanalian or Anacreontic melody. In short, Mr. Miles was + a loose fish; a bachelor who had recently inherited the fortune of an old + screw his uncle, and was spending thrift in all the traditional modes. + Horses, dogs, women, cards, etc. + </p> + <p> + He was a good-natured creature, and one morning as he brought him up his + hot water and his soda-water Robinson ventured on a friendly remonstrance. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Miles flung canting rogue and half a dozen oaths and one boot at his + head, and was preparing to add a tumbler, when his mentor whipped into the + lobby. Robinson could not have fallen to a worse master than this, whose + irregularities were so regular that his servant had always seven hours to + spend in the town as he pleased. There he was often solicited to join in + depredations on property. For he found half his old acquaintances were + collected by the magic of the law on this spot of earth. + </p> + <p> + Robinson took a particular pride in telling these gentlemen that he had no + objection to taking a friendly glass with them and talking over old times, + but that as for taking what did not belong to him all that was over + forever. In short, he improved on Mr. Eden's instructions. Instead of + flying from temptation, like a coward conscious of weakness, he nobly + faced it and walked cool, collected and safe on the edge of danger. + </p> + <p> + One good result of this was that he spent his wages every month faster + than he got them, and spent the clothes his master gave him, and these + were worth more than his wages, for Mr. Miles was going the pace—wore + nothing after the gloss was off it. But Robinson had never lived out of + prison at less than five hundred per annum, and the evening is a good time + in the day for spending money in a town, and his evenings were all his + own. + </p> + <p> + One evening a young tradeswoman with whom he was flirting in the character + of a merchant's clerk, tremendously busy, who could only get out in the + evening; this young woman, whom he had often solicited to go to the + theater, consented. + </p> + <p> + “I could go with you to-morrow, my sister and I,” said she. + </p> + <p> + Robinson expressed his delight, but consulting his pockets found he had + not the means of paying for their seats, and he could not pawn any + clothes, for he had but two sets. One (yellowish) that government + compelled him to wear by daylight, and one a present from his master + (black). That, together with a mustache, admitted him into the bosom of + society at night. What was to be done? Propose to the ladies to pay, that + was quite without precedent. Ask his master for an advance, impossible. + His master was gone kangaroo hunting for three days. Borrow some of his + master's clothes and pawn them, that was too like theft. He would pawn his + ring, it would only be for a day or two, and he would not spend a farthing + more till he had got it back. + </p> + <p> + He pawned Mr. Eden's ring; it just paid for their places at the theater, + where they saw the living puppets of the colony mop and mow and rant under + the title of acting. This was so interesting that Robinson was thinking of + his ring the whole time, and how to get it back. The girls agreed between + themselves they had never enjoyed so dull a cavalier. + </p> + <p> + The next day a line from Mr. Miles to say that he should not be back for a + week. No hope of funds from him. So Robinson pawned his black coat and got + back his ring; and as the trousers and waistcoat were no use now, he + pawned them for pocket-money, which soon dissolved. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Robinson now was out of spirits. + </p> + <p> + “Service is not the thing for me. I am of an active turn—I want to + go into business that will occupy me all day long—business that + requires some head. Even his reverence, the first man in the country, + acknowledged my talents—and what is the vent for them here? The + blacking-bottle.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0045" id="link2HCH0045"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLV. + </h2> + <p> + IN a low public outside the town—in a back room—with their + arms on the table and their low foreheads nearly touching, sat whispering + two men—types. One had the deep-sunk, colorless eyes, the protruding + cheek-bones, the shapeless mouth, and the broad chin good in itself but + bad in the above connection; the other had the vulpine chin, and the + fiendish eyebrows descending on the very nose in two sharp arches. Both + had the restless eye, both the short-cropped hair, society's comment, + congruous and auxiliary, though in itself faint by the side of habit's + seal and Nature's. + </p> + <p> + A small north window dimly lighted the gloomy, uncouth cabin, and revealed + the sole furniture—four chairs, too heavy to lift, too thick to + break, and a table discolored with the stains of a thousand filthy + debauches and dotted here and there with the fresh ashes of pipes and + cigars. + </p> + <p> + In this appropriate frame behold two felons putting their heads together. + By each felon's side smoked in a glass hot with heat and hotter with + alcohol, the enemy of man. It would be difficult to give their dialogue, + for they spoke in thieves' Latin. The substance was this: They had scent + of a booty in a house that stood by itself three miles out of the town. + But the servants were incorruptible, and they could not get access to + inspect the premises, which were intricate. Now your professional burglar + will no more venture upon unexplored premises than a good seaman will run + into an unknown channel without pilot, soundings or chart. It appeared + from the dialogue that the two men were acquainted with a party who knew + these premises, having been more than once inside them with his master. + </p> + <p> + The more rugged one objected to this party. “He is no use, he has turned + soft. I have heard him refuse a dozen good plants the last month. Besides, + I don't want a canting son of a gun for my pal—ten to one if he + don't turn tail and perhaps split.” + </p> + <p> + N. B.—All this not in English, but in thieve's cant, with an oath or + a nasty expression at every third word. The sentences measled with them. + </p> + <p> + “You don't know how to take him,” replied he of the Mephistopheles + eye-brow. “He won't refuse me.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “He is an old pal of mine, and I never found the thing I could not + persuade him to. He does not know how to say me nay—you may bully + him and queer him till all is blue, and he won't budge, and that is the + lay you have been upon with him. Now I shall pull a long face—make + up a story—take him by his soft bit—tell him I can't get on + without him, and patter old lang syne to him. Then we'll get a fiddle and + lots of whisky; and when we have had a reel and he has shaken his foot on + the floor and drank a gill or two, you will see him thaw, and then you + leave him to me and don't put in your jaw to spoil it. If we get him it + will be all right—he is No. 1; his little finger has seen more than + both our carcasses put together.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0046" id="link2HCH0046"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLVI. + </h2> + <p> + FOUR days after this, mephistopheles with a small m and brutus with a + little b sat again in the filthy little cabin where men hatch burglaries—but + this time the conference wore an air of expectant triumph. + </p> + <p> + “Didn't I tell you?” + </p> + <p> + “You didn't do it easy.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I had almost to go on my knees to him.” + </p> + <p> + “He isn't worth so much trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “He is worth it ten times over. Look at this,” and the speaker produced a + plan of the premises they were plotting against. “Could you have done + this?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't say I could.” + </p> + <p> + “Could any man you know have done it? See here is every room and every + door and window and passage put down, and what sort of keys and bolts and + fastenings to each.” + </p> + <p> + “How came he to know so much; he never was in the house but twice.” + </p> + <p> + “A top-sawyer like him looks at everything with an eye to business. If he + was in a church he'd twig the candlesticks and the fastenings, while the + rest were mooning into the parson's face—he can't help it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he may be a top-sawyer, but I don't like him. See how loth he was, + and, when he did agree, how he turned to and drank as if he would drown + his pluck before it could come to anything.” + </p> + <p> + “Wait till you see him work. He will shake all that nonsense to blazes + when he finds himself out under the moon with the swag on one side and the + gallows on the other.” + </p> + <p> + To go back a little. Mr. Miles did not return at the appointed day; and + Robinson, who had no work to do, and could not amuse himself without + money, pawned Mr. Eden's ring. He felt ashamed and sorrowful, but not so + much so as the first time. + </p> + <p> + This evening, as he was strolling moodily through the suburbs, a voice + hailed him in tones of the utmost cordiality. He looked up and there was + an old pal, with whom he had been associated in many a merry bout and + pleasant felony; he had not seen the man for two years; a friendly glass + was offered and accepted. Two girls were of the party, to oblige whom + Robinson's old acquaintance sent for Blind Bill, the fiddler, and soon + Robinson was dancing and shouting with the girls like mad—“High + cut,” “side cut,” “heel and toe,” “sailor's fling,” and the double + shuffle. + </p> + <p> + He did not leave till three in the morning, and after a promise to meet + the same little party again next evening—to dance and drink and + drive away dull care. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0047" id="link2HCH0047"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLVII. + </h2> + <p> + ON a certain evening some days later, the two men whose faces were + definitions sat on a bench outside that little public in the suburbs—one + at the end of a clay-pipe, the other behind a pewter mug. It was dusk. + </p> + <p> + “He ought to be here soon,” said the one into whose forehead holes seemed + dug and little bits of some vitreous substance left at the bottom. “Well, + mate,” cried he harshly, “what do you want that you stick to us so tight?” + This was addressed to a peddler who had been standing opposite showing the + contents of his box with a silent eloquence. Now this very asperity made + the portable shopman say to himself, “wants me out of the way—perhaps + buy me out.” So he stuck where he was, and exhibited his wares. + </p> + <p> + “We don't want your gim-cracks,” said mephistopheles quietly. + </p> + <p> + The man eyed his customers and did not despair. “But, gents,” said he, “I + have got other things besides gim-cracks; something that will suit you if + you can read.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course we can read,” replied sunken-eyes haughtily; and in fact they + had been too often in jail to escape this accomplishment. + </p> + <p> + The peddler looked furtively in every direction; and after this precaution + pressed a spring and brought a small drawer out from the bottom of his + pack. The two rogues winked at one another. Out of the drawer the peddler + whipped a sealed packet. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” asked mephistopheles, beginning to take an interest. + </p> + <p> + “Just imported from England,” said the peddler, a certain pomp mingling + with his furtive and mysterious manner. + </p> + <p> + “—— England,” was the other's patriotic reply. + </p> + <p> + “And translated from the French.” + </p> + <p> + “That is better! but what is it?” + </p> + <p> + “Them that buy it—they will see!” + </p> + <p> + “Something flash?” + </p> + <p> + “Rather, I should say.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there plenty about the women in it?” + </p> + <p> + The trader answered obliquely. + </p> + <p> + “What are we obliged to keep it dark for?”—the other put in, “Why of + course there is.” + </p> + <p> + “Well!” said sunken-eyes affecting carelessness. “What do you want for it? + Got sixpence, Bill?” + </p> + <p> + “I sold the last to a gentleman for three-and-sixpence. But as this is the + last I've got—say half a crown.” + </p> + <p> + Sunken-eyes swore at the peddler. + </p> + <p> + “What! half a crown for a book no thicker than a quire of paper?” + </p> + <p> + “Only half a crown for a thing I could be put in prison for selling. Is + not my risk to be paid as well as my leaves?” + </p> + <p> + This logic went home, and after a little higgling two shillings was + offered and accepted, but in the very act of commerce the trader seemed to + have a misgiving. + </p> + <p> + “I daren't do it unless you promise faithfully never to tell you had it of + me. I have got a character to lose, and I would not have it known—not + for the world, that James Walker had sold such loose—licentious—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! what it is very spicy, is it? Come, hand it over. There's the two + bob.” + </p> + <p> + “My poverty and not my will consents,” sighed the trader. + </p> + <p> + “There, you be off, or we shall have all the brats coming round us.” + </p> + <p> + The peddler complied and moved off, and so willing was he to oblige his + customers that on turning the corner he shouldered his pack and ran with + great agility down the street, till he gained a network of small alleys in + which he wriggled and left no trace. + </p> + <p> + Meantime sunken-eyes had put his tongue to the envelope and drawn out the + contents. “I'll go into the light and see what it is all about.” + </p> + <p> + mephistopheles left alone had hardly given his pipe two sucks ere brutus + returned black with rage and spouting oaths like a whale. + </p> + <p> + “Why, what is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “Matter! Didn't he sell this to me for a flash story?” + </p> + <p> + “Why he didn't say so. But certainly he dropped a word about loose books.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course he did.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! and ain't they?” + </p> + <p> + “Ain't they!” cried the other with fury. “Here, you young shaver, bring + the candle out here. Ain't they? No they ain't——and——and——the + —— ——. Look here!” + </p> + <p> + mephisto. “'Mend your Ways,' a tract.” + </p> + <p> + brutus. “I'll break his head instead.” + </p> + <p> + mephisto. “'Narrative of Mr. James the Missionary.'” + </p> + <p> + brutus. “The cheating, undermining rip.” + </p> + <p> + mephisto. “And here is another to the same tune.” + </p> + <p> + brutus. “Didn't I tell you so. The hypocritical, humbugging rascal—” + </p> + <p> + mephisto. “Stop a bit. Here is a little one: 'Memoirs of a Gentleman's + Housekeeper.'” + </p> + <p> + brutus. “Oh! is there? I did not see that.” + </p> + <p> + mephisto. “You are so hasty. The case mayn't be so black as it looks. The + others might be thrown in to make up the parcel. Hold the candle nearer. + </p> + <p> + brutus. “Ay! let us see about the housekeeper.” + </p> + <p> + The two men read “The Housekeeper” eagerly, but as they read the momentary + excitement of hope died out of their faces. Not a sparkle of the ore they + sought; all was dross. “The Housekeeper” was one of those who make + pickles, not eat them—and in a linen apron a yard wide save their + master's money from the fangs of cook and footman, not help him scatter it + in a satin gown. + </p> + <p> + There was not even a stray hint or an indelicate expression for the poor + fellow's two shillings. The fraud, was complete. It was not like the + ground coffee, pepper and mustard in a London shop—in which there is + as often as not a pinch of real coffee, mustard and pepper to a pound of + chicory and bullock's blood, of red lead, dirt, flour and turmeric. Here + the do was pure. + </p> + <p> + Then brutus relieved his swelling heart by a string of observations partly + rhetorical, partly zoological. He devoted to horrible plagues every square + inch of the peddler, enumerating more particularly those interior organs + that subserve vitality, and concluded by vowing solemnly to put a knife + into him the first fair opportunity. “I'll teach the rogue to—” Sell + you medicine for poison, eh? + </p> + <p> + mephistopheles, either because he was a more philosophic spirit or was not + the one out of pocket, took the blow more coolly. “It is a bite and no + mistake. But what of it? Our money,” said he, with a touch of sadness, + “goes as it comes. This is only two bob flung in the dirt. We should not + have invested them in the Three per Cents; and to-night's swag will make + it up.” + </p> + <p> + He then got a fresh wafer and sealed the pamphlets up again. “There,” said + he, you keep dark and sell the first flat you come across the same way the + varmint sold you. + </p> + <p> + brutus, sickened at heart by the peddler's iniquity, revived at the + prospect of selling some fellow-creature as he had been sold. He put the + paper-trap in his pocket; and, cheated of obscenity, consoled himself with + brandy such as Bacchus would not own, but Beelzebub would brew for man if + permitted to keep an earthly distillery. + </p> + <p> + Presently they were joined by the third man, and for two hours the three + heads might all have been covered by one bushel-basket, and peddler + Walker's heartless fraud was forgotten in business of a higher order. + </p> + <p> + At last mephistopheles gave brutus a signal, and they rose to interrupt + the potations of the newcomer, who was pouring down fire and hot water in + rather a reckless way. + </p> + <p> + “We won't all go together,” said mephistopheles. “You two meet me at + Jonathan's ken in an hour.” + </p> + <p> + As brutus and the newcomer walked along an idea came to brutus. “Here is a + fellow that passes for a sharp. What if I sell him my pamphlets and get a + laugh at his expense. Mate,” said he, “here is a flash book all sealed up. + What will you give me for it?” + </p> + <p> + “Well! I don't much care for that sort of reading, old fellow.” + </p> + <p> + “But this is cheap. I got it a bargain. Come—a shilling won't hurt + you for it. See there is more than one under the cover.” + </p> + <p> + Now the other had been drinking till he was in that state in which a + good-natured fellow's mind if decomposed would be found to be all “Yes,” + and “Dine with me to-morrow,” so he fell into the trap. + </p> + <p> + “I'll give it you, my boy,” said he. “Let us see it? There are more than + one inside it. You're an honest fellow. Owe you a shilling.” And the + sealed parcel went into his pocket. Then, seeing brutus look rather rueful + at this way of doing business, he hiccoughed out, “Stop your bob out of + the swag”—and chuckled. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0048" id="link2HCH0048"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLVIII. + </h2> + <p> + A SNOW-WHITE suburban villa standing alone with its satellites that + occupied five times as much space as itself; coach-house, stable, offices, + greenhouse clinging to it like dew to a lily, and hot-house farther in the + rear. A wall of considerable height inclosed the whole. It booked as + secure and peaceful as innocent in the fleeting light the young moon cast + on it every time the passing clouds left her clear a moment. Yet at this + calm thoughtful hour crime was waiting to invade this pretty little place. + </p> + <p> + Under the scullery-window lurked brutus and mephistopheles—faces + blackened, tools in hand—ready to whip out a pane of said window and + so penetrate the kitchen, and from the kitchen the pantry, where they made + sure of a few spoons, and up the back stairs to the plate-chest. They + would be in the house even now but a circumstance delayed them—a + light was burning on the second floor. Now it was contrary to their creed + to enter a house where a light was burning, above all, if there was the + least chance of that light being in a sitting-room. Now they had been some + hours watching the house and that light had been there all the time, + therefore, argued mephistopheles, “It is not a farthing glim in a bedroom + or we should have seen it lighted. It is some one up. We must wait till + they roost.” + </p> + <p> + They waited and waited and waited. Still the light burned. They cursed the + light. No wonder. Light seems the natural enemy of evil deeds. + </p> + <p> + They began to get bitter, and their bodies cold. Even burglary becomes a + bore when you have to wait too long idle out in the cold. + </p> + <p> + At last, at about half past two, the light went out. Then, keenly + listening, the two sons of darkness heard a movement in the house, and + more than one door open and shut, and then the sound of feet going rapidly + down the road toward Sydney. + </p> + <p> + “Why! it is a party only just broke up. Lucky I would not work till the + glim was out.” + </p> + <p> + “But I say, Bill—he is at that corner—the nobs must have + passed close to him—suppose they saw him.” + </p> + <p> + “He is not so green as let them see him.” + </p> + <p> + The next question was how long they should wait to let the inmates close + their peepers. All had been still and dark more than half an hour when the + pair began to work, mephisto took out a large piece of putty and dabbed it + on the middle of the pane; this putty he worked in the center up to a + pyramid; this he held with his left hand, while with his right be took out + his glazier's diamond and cut the pane all round the edges. By the hold + the putty gave him, he prevented the pane from falling inside the house + and making a noise, and finally whipped it out clean and handed it to + brutus. A moment more the two men were in the scullery, thence into the + kitchen through a door which they found open; in the kitchen were two + doors—trying one they found it open into a larder. Here casting the + light of his dark lantern round, brutus discovered some cold fowl and a + ham; they took these into the kitchen, and somewhat coolly took out their + knives and ate a hasty but hearty supper. Their way of hacking the ham was + as lawless as all the rest. They then took off their shoes and dropped + them outside the scullery window, and now the serious part of the game + began. Creeping like cats, they reached the pantry, and sure enough found + more than a dozen silver spoons and forks of different sizes that had been + recently used. These they put into a small bag, and mephisto went back + through the scullery into the back garden and hid these spoons in a bush. + “Then, if we should be interrupted, we can come back for them.” + </p> + <p> + And now the game became more serious and more nervous—the pair drew + their clasp knives and placed them in their bosoms ready in case of + extremity; then creeping like cats, one foot at a time and then a pause, + ascended the back stairs, at the top of which was a door. But this door + was not fastened, and in another moment they passed through it and were on + the first landing. The plan, correct in every particular, indicated the + plate closet to their right. A gleam from the lantern showed it; the + key-hole was old-fashioned as also described, and in a moment brutus had + it open. Then mephisto whipped out a green baize bag with compartments, + and in a minute these adroit hands had stowed away cups, tureens, baskets, + soup-spoons, etc., to the value of three hundred pounds, and scarce a + chink heard during the whole operation. It was done; a look passed as much + as to say this is enough, and they crept back silent and cat-like as they + had come, brutus leading with the bag. Now just as he had his hand on the + door through which they had come up—snick! click!—a door was + locked somewhere down below. + </p> + <p> + brutus looked round and put the bag gently down. “Where?” he whispered. + </p> + <p> + “Near the kitchen,” was the reply scarce audible. “Sounded to me to come + from the hall,” whispered the other. + </p> + <p> + Both men changed color, but retained their presence of mind and their + cunning. brutus stepped back to the plate-closet, put the bag in it, and + closed it, but without locking it. “Stay there,” whispered he, “and if I + whistle—run out the back way empty-handed. If I mew—out with + the bag and come out by the front door; nothing but inside bolts to it, + plan says.” + </p> + <p> + They listened a moment, there was no fresh sound. Then brutus slipped down + the front stairs in no time; he found the front door not bolted; he did + not quite understand that, and drawing a short bludgeon, he opened it very + cautiously; the caution was not superfluous. Two gentlemen made a dash at + him from the outside the moment the door was open; one of their heads + cracked like a broken bottle under the blow the ready ruffian struck him + with his bludgeon, and he dropped like a shot; but another was coming + flying across the lawn with a drawn cutlass, and brutus, finding himself + overmatched, gave one loud whistle and flew across the hall, making for + the kitchen. Flew he never so fast mephisto was there an instant before + him. As for the gentleman at the door he was encumbered with his hurt + companion, who fell across his knees as he rushed at the burglar. brutus + got a start of some seconds and dashed furiously into the kitchen and flew + to the only door between them and the scullery-window. + </p> + <h3> + THE DOOR WAS LOCKED. + </h3> + <p> + The burglar's eyes gleamed in their deep caverns, “Back, Will—and + cut through them,” he cried—and out flashed his long bright knife. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0049" id="link2HCH0049"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XLIX. + </h2> + <p> + WHILE the two burglars were near the scullery-window watching the light in + the upper story a third man stood sentinel on the opposite side of the + house; he was but a few yards from the public road, yet hundreds would + have passed and no man seen him; for he had placed himself in a thick + shadow flat against the garden-wall. His office was to signal danger from + his side should any come. Now the light that kept his comrades inactive + was not on his side of the house; he waited therefore expecting every + moment their signal that the job was done. On this the cue was to slip + quietly off and all make by different paths for the low public-house + described above and there divide the swag. + </p> + <p> + The man waited and waited and waited for this signal; it never came; we + know why. Then he became impatient—miserable; he was out of his + element—wanted to be doing something. At last all this was an + intolerable bore. Not feeling warm toward the job, he had given the active + business to his comrades, which he now regretted for two reasons. First, + he was kept here stagnant and bored; and second, they must be a pair of + bunglers; he'd have robbed a parish in less time. He would light a cigar. + Tobacco blunts all ills, even ennui. Putting his hand in his pocket for a + cigar, it ran against a hard, square substance. What is this?—oh! + the book mephisto had sold him. No, he would not smoke, he would see what + the book was all about; he knelt down and took off his hat, and put his + dark-lantern inside it before he ventured to move the slide; then undid + the paper, and putting it into the hat, threw the concentrated rays on the + contents and peered in to examine them. Now the various little pamphlets + had been displaced by mephisto, and the first words that met the thief's + eye in large letters on the back of a tract were these, “THE WAGES OF SIN + ARE DEATH.” + </p> + <p> + Thomas Robinson looked at these words with a stupid gaze. At first he did + not realize all that lay in them. He did not open the tract; he gazed + benumbed at the words, and they glared at him like the eyes of green fire + when we come in the dark on some tiger-cat crouching in his lair. + </p> + <p> + Oh that I were a painter and could make you see what cannot be described—the + features of this strange incident that sounds so small and was so great! + The black night, the hat, the renegade peering under it in the wall's deep + shadows to read something trashy, and the half-open lantern shooting its + little strip of intense fire, and the grim words springing out in a moment + from the dark face of night and dazzling the renegade's eyes and chilling + his heart: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “THE WAGES OF SIN ARE DEATH.” + </pre> + <p> + To his stupor now succeeded surprise and awe. “How comes this?” he + whispered aloud, “was this a trick of ——'s? No! he doesn't + know—This is the devil's own doing—no! it is not—more + likely it is—The third time!—I'll read it. My hands shake so I + can hardly hold it. It is by him—yes—signed F. E. Heaven, have + mercy on me!—This is more than natural.” + </p> + <p> + He read it, shaking all over as he read. + </p> + <p> + The tract was simply written. It began with a story of instances, some of + them drawn from the histories of prisoners, and it ended with an earnest + exhortation and a terrible warning. When the renegade came to this part, + his heart beat violently; for along with the earnest, straightforward, + unmincing words of sacred fire there seemed to rise from the paper the + eloquent voice, the eye rich with love, the face of inexhaustible + intelligence and sympathy that had so often shone on Robinson, while just + words such as these issued from those golden lips. + </p> + <p> + He read on, but not to the end; for as he read he came to one paragraph + that made him fancy that Mr. Eden was by his very side. “You, into whose + hands these words of truth shall fall, and find you intending to do some + foolish or wicked thing to-morrow, or the next day, or to-day, or this + very hour—stop!—do not that sin! on your soul do it not!—fall + on your knees and repent the sin you have meditated; better repent the + base design than suffer for the sin, as suffer you shall so surely as the + sky is pure, so surely as God is holy and sin's wages are death.” + </p> + <p> + At these words, as if the priest's hand had been stretched across the + earth and sea and laid on the thief's head, he fell down upon his knees + with his back toward the scene of burglary and his face toward England, + crying out, “I will, your reverence. I am!—Lord, help me!” cried he, + then first remembering how he had been told to pray in temptation's hour. + The next moment he started to his feet, he dashed his lantern to the + ground, and leaped over a gate that stood in his way, and fled down the + road to Sydney. + </p> + <p> + He ran full half a mile before he stopped; his mind was in a whirl. + Another reflection stopped him. He was a sentinel, and had betrayed his + post; suppose his pals were to get into trouble through reckoning on him; + was it fair to desert them without warning? What if he were to go back and + give the whistle of alarm, pretend he had seen some one watching, and so + prevent the meditated crime, as well as be guiltless of it himself; but + then, thought he, “and suppose I do go back what will become of me?” + </p> + <p> + While he hesitated, the question was decided for him. As he looked back + irresolute, his keen eye noticed a shadow moving along the hedge-side to + his left. + </p> + <p> + “Why, they are coming away,” was his first thought. But looking keenly + down the other edge which was darker still he saw another noiseless moving + shadow. “Why are they on different sides of the road and both keeping in + the shadow?” thought this shrewd spirit, and he liked it so ill that he + turned at once and ran off toward Sydney. + </p> + <p> + At this out came the two figures with a bound into the middle of the road, + and, with a loud view-halloo, raced after him like the wind. + </p> + <p> + Robinson, as he started and before he knew the speed of his pursuers, + ventured to run sidewise a moment to see who or what they were. He caught + a glimpse of white waistcoats and glittering studs, and guessed the rest. + </p> + <p> + He had a start of not more than twenty yards, but he was a good runner, + and it was in his favor that his pursuers had come up at a certain speed, + while he started fresh after a rest. He squared his shoulders, opened his + mouth wide for a long race, and ran as men run for their lives. + </p> + <p> + In the silent night Robinson's highlows might have been heard half a mile + off clattering along the hard road. Pit pit pit pat! came two pair of + dress-boots after him. Robinson heard the sound with a thrill of fear: + “They in their pumps and I in boots,” thought he, and his pursuers heard + the hunted one groan, and redoubled their efforts as dogs when the stag + begins to sob. + </p> + <p> + He had scarce run a hundred yards with his ears laid back like a hare's, + when he could not help thinking the horrible pit pit pit got nearer; he + listened with agonized keenness as he ran, and so fine did his danger make + his ear that he could tell the exact position of his pursuers. A cold + sweat crept over him as he felt they had both gained ten yards out of the + twenty on him; then he distinctly felt one pursuer gain upon the other, + and this one's pit pit pit crept nearer and nearer, an inch every three or + four yards; the other held his own—no more—no less. + </p> + <p> + At last so near crept No. 1 that Robinson felt his hot breath at his ear. + He clinched his teeth and gave a desperate spurt, and put four or five + yards between them; he could have measured the ground gained by the pit + pit pat. But the pursuer put on a spurt, and reduced the distance by half. + </p> + <p> + “I may as well give in,” thought the hunted one—but at that moment + came a gleam of hope; this pursuer began suddenly to pant very loud. He + had clinched his teeth to gain the twenty yards; he had gained them but + had lost his wind. Robinson heard this, and feared him no longer, and in + fact after one or two more puffs came one despairing snort, and No. 1 + pulled up dead short, thoroughly blown. + </p> + <p> + As No. 2 passed him, he just panted out + </p> + <p> + “Won't catch him.” + </p> + <p> + “Won't I!” ejaculated No 2, expelling the words rather than uttering them. + </p> + <p> + Klopetee klop, klopetee klop, klopetee, klopetee, klopetee klop. + </p> + <p> + Pit pat, pit pat, pit pat pat, pit pit pat. Ten yards apart, no more no + less. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Nor nearer might the dog attain, + Nor farther might the quarry strain. +</pre> + <p> + “They have done me between them,” thought poor Robinson. “I could have run + from either singly, but one blows me, and then the other runs me down. I + can get out of it by fighting perhaps, but then there will be another + crime.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson now began to pant audibly, and finding he could not shake the + hunter off, he with some reluctance prepared another game. + </p> + <p> + He began to exaggerate his symptoms of distress, and imperceptibly to + relax his pace. On this the pursuer came up hand over head. He was scarce + four yards behind when Robinson suddenly turned and threw himself on one + knee, with both hands out like a cat's claws. The man ran on full tilt; in + fact, he could not have stopped. Robinson caught his nearest ankle with + both hands and rose with him and lifted him, aided by his own impulse, + high into the air and sent his heels up perpendicular. The man described a + parabola in the air, and came down on the very top of his head with + frightful force; and as he lay, his head buried in his hat and his heels + kicking, Robinson without a moment lost jumped over his body, and klopetee + klop rang fainter and fainter down the road alone. + </p> + <p> + The plucky pursuer wrenched his head with infinite difficulty out of his + hat, which sat on his shoulders with his nose pointing through a chasm + from crown to brim, shook himself, and ran wildly a few yards in pursuit—but + finding he had in his confusion run away from Robinson as well as Robinson + from him, and hopeless of recovering the ground now lost, he gave a rueful + sort of laugh, made the best of it, put his hands in his pockets and + strolled back to meet No. 1. + </p> + <p> + Meantime, Robinson, fearful of being pursued on horseback, relaxed his + speed but little and ran the three miles out into Sydney. He came home + with his flank heating and a glutinous moisture on his lip, and a hunted + look in his eye. He crept into bed, but spent the night thinking, ay, and + praying, too, not sleeping. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0050" id="link2HCH0050"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER L. + </h2> + <p> + THOMAS ROBINSON rose from his sleepless bed an altered man; altered above + all in this that his self-confidence was clean gone. “How little I knew + myself,” said he, “and how well his reverence knew me! I am the weakest + fool on earth—he saw that and told me what to do. He provided help + for me—and I, like an ungrateful idiot, never once thought of + obeying him; but from this hour I see myself as I am and as he used to + call me—a clever fool. I can't walk straight without some honest man + to hold by. Well, I'll have one, though I give up everything else in the + world for it.” + </p> + <p> + Then he went to his little box and took out the letter to George Fielding. + He looked at it and reproached himself for forgetting it so long. “A + letter from the poor fellow's sweetheart, too. I ought to have sent it by + the post if I did not take it. But I will take it. I'll ask Mr. Miles's + leave the moment he comes home, and start that very day.” Then he sat down + and read the tract again, and as he read it was filled with shame and + contrition. + </p> + <p> + By one of those freaks of mind which it is so hard to account for, every + good feeling rushed upon him with far greater power than when he was in + —— Prison, and, strange to say, he now loved his reverence + more and took his words deeper to heart than he had done when they were + together. His flesh crept with horror at the thought that he had been a + criminal again, at least in intention, and that but for Heaven's mercy he + would have been taken and punished with frightful severity, and above all + would have wounded his reverence to the heart in return for more than + mortal kindness, goodness and love. And, to do Robinson justice, this last + thought made his heart sicken and his flesh creep more than all the rest. + He was like a man who had fallen asleep on the brink of an unseen + precipice—awoke—and looked down. + </p> + <p> + The penitent man said his prayers this morning and vowed on his knees + humility and a new life. Henceforth he would know himself; he would not + attempt to guide himself; he would just obey his reverence. And to begin, + whenever a temptation came in sight he would pray against it then and + there and fly from it, and the moment his master returned he would leave + the town and get away to honest George Fielding with his passport—Susan's + letter. + </p> + <p> + With these prayers and these resolutions a calm complacency stole over + him; he put his reverence's tract and George's letter in his bosom and + came down into the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + The first person he met was the housemaid, Jenny. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, here is my lord!” cried she. “Where were you last night?” + </p> + <p> + Robinson stammered out, “Nowhere in particular. Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, because the master was asking for you, and you weren't to be found + high or low.” + </p> + <p> + “What, is he come home?” + </p> + <p> + “Came home last night.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll go and take him his hot water.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, he is not in the house, stupid. He dressed the moment he came home + and went out to a party. He swore properly at your not being in the way to + help him dress.” + </p> + <p> + “What did he say?” asked Robinson, a little uneasy. + </p> + <p> + The girl's eyes twinkled. “He said, 'How ever am I to lace myself now that + scamp is not in the way?'” + </p> + <p> + “Come, none of your chaff, Jenny.” + </p> + <p> + “Why you know you do lace him, and pretty tight, too.” + </p> + <p> + “I do nothing of the kind.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, of course you won't tell on one another. Tell me our head scamp does + not wear stays! A man would not be as broadshouldered as that and have a + waist like a wasp and his back like a board without a little lacing, and a + good deal, too.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, have it your own way, Jenny. Won't you give me a morsel of + breakfast?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Tom, I can give you some just for form's sake; but bless you, you + won't able to eat it.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “Gents that are out all night bring a headache home in the morning in + place of an appetite.” + </p> + <p> + “But I was not out all night. I was at home soon after twelve.” + </p> + <p> + “Really?” + </p> + <p> + “Really!” + </p> + <p> + “Tom?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Jane!” + </p> + <p> + “Those that ain't clever enough to hide secrets should trust them to those + that are.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know what you mean, my lass.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, nothing; only I sat up till halfpast one in the kitchen, and I + listened till three in my room. + </p> + <p> + “You took a deal of trouble on my account.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, it was more curiosity than regard,” was the keen reply. + </p> + <p> + “So I should say.” + </p> + <p> + The girl colored and seemed nettled by this answer. She set demurely about + the work of small vengeance. “Now,” said she with great cordiality, “you + tell me what you were doing all night and why you broke into the house + like a—a—hem! instead of coming into it like a man, and then + you'll save me the trouble of finding it out whether you like or not.” + </p> + <p> + These words chilled Robinson. What! had a spy been watching him—perhaps + for days—and above all a female spy—a thing with a velvet paw, + a noiseless step, an inscrutable countenance, and a microscopic eye. + </p> + <p> + He hung his head over his cup in silence. Jenny's eye was scanning him. He + felt that without seeing it. He was uneasy under it, but his self-reproach + was greater than his uneasiness. + </p> + <p> + At this juncture the street door was opened with a latch-key. “Here comes + the head scamp,' said Jenny, with her eye on Robinson. The next moment a + bell was rung sharply. Robinson rose. + </p> + <p> + “Finish your breakfast,” said Jenny, “I'll answer the bell,” and out she + went. She returned in about ten minutes with a dressing-gown over her arm + and a pair of curling-irons in her hand. “There,” said she, “you are to go + in the parlor, and get up the young buck; curl his nob and whiskers. I + wish it was me, I'd curl his ear the first thing I'd curl.” + </p> + <p> + “What, Jane, did you take the trouble to bring them down for me?” + </p> + <p> + “They look like it,” replied the other tartly, as if she repented the good + office. + </p> + <p> + Robinson went in to his master. He expected a rebuke for being out of the + way; but no! he found the young gentleman in excellent humor and high + spirits. “Help me off with this coat, Tom.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! not so rough, confound you. Ah! Ugh!” + </p> + <p> + “Coat's a little too tight, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “No it isn't—it fits me like a glove but I am stiff and sore. There, + now, get me a shirt.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson came back with the shirt, and aired it close to the fire; and + this being a favorable position for saying what he felt awkward about, he + began: + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Miles, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Hallo!” + </p> + <p> + “I am going to ask you a favor.” + </p> + <p> + “Out with it!” + </p> + <p> + “You have been a kind master to me.” + </p> + <p> + “I should think I have, too. By Jove, you won't find such another in a + hurry.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I am sure I should not, but there is an opening for me of a + different sort altogether. I have a friend, a squatter, near Bathurst, and + I am to join him if you will be so kind as to let me go.” + </p> + <p> + “What an infernal nuisance!” cried the young gentleman, who was like most + boys, good-natured and selfish. “The moment I get a servant I like he + wants to go to the devil.” + </p> + <p> + “Only to Bathurst, sir,” said Robinson deprecatingly, to put him in a good + humor. + </p> + <p> + “And what am I to do for another?” + </p> + <p> + At this moment in came Jenny with all the paraphernalia of breakfast. + “Here, Jenny,” cried he, “here's Robinson wants to leave us. Stupid ass!” + </p> + <p> + Jenny stood transfixed with the tray in her hand. “Since when?” asked she + of her master, but looking at Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “This moment. The faithful creature greeted my return with that proposal.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, a servant isn't a slave and suppose he has a reason?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! they have always got a reason, such as it is. Wants to go and squat + at Bathurst. Well, Tom, you are a fool for leaving us, but of course we + shan't pay you the compliment of keeping you against your will, shall we?” + looking at Jane. + </p> + <p> + “What have I to do with it?” replied she, opening her gray eyes. “What is + it to me whether he goes or stays?” + </p> + <p> + “Come, I like that. Why you are the housemaid and he is the footman, and + those two we know are always”—and the young gentleman eked out his + meaning by whistling a tune. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Miles,” said Jenny, very gravely, like an elder rebuking a younger, + “you must excuse me, sir, but I advise you not to make so free with your + servants. Servants are encroaching, and they will be sure to take + liberties with you in turn; and,” turning suddenly red and angry, “if you + talk like that to me I shall leave the room.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, if you must! you must! but bring the tea-kettle back with you. That + is a duck!” + </p> + <p> + Jenny could not help laughing, and went for the tea-kettle. On her return + Robinson made signals to her over the master's head, which he had begun to + frizz. At first she looked puzzled, but following the direction of his eye + she saw that her master's right hand was terribly cut and swollen. “Oh!” + cried the girl. “Oh, dear! Oh, dear!” + </p> + <p> + “Eh?” cried Mr. Miles, “what is the row?” + </p> + <p> + “Look at your poor hand, sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, ay! isn't it hideous. Met with an accident. Soon get well.” + </p> + <p> + “No, it won't, not of itself; but I have got a capital lotion for bruises, + and I shall bathe it for you.” + </p> + <p> + Jenny brought in a large basin of warm water and began to foment it first, + touching it so tenderly. “And his hand that was as white as a lady's,” + said Jenny pitifully, “po-o-r bo-y!” This kind expression had no sooner + escaped her than she colored and bent her head down over her work, hoping + it might escape notice. + </p> + <p> + “Young woman,” said Mr. Miles with paternal gravity, “servants are advised + not to make too free with their masters; or the beggars will forget their + place and take liberties with you. He! He! He!” + </p> + <p> + Jenny put his hand quietly down into the water and got up and ran across + the room for the door. Her course was arrested by a howl from the jocose + youth. + </p> + <p> + “Murder! Take him off, Jenny; kick him; the beggar is curling and laughing + at the same time. Confound you, can't you lay the irons down when I say a + good thing. Ha! Ha! Ha!” + </p> + <p> + This strange trio chuckled a space. Miles the loudest. “Tom, pour out my + tea; and you, Jenny, if you will come to the scratch again, ha! ha!—I'll + tell you how I came by this.” + </p> + <p> + This promise brought the inquisitive Jenny to the basin directly. + </p> + <p> + “You know Hazeltine?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, a tall gentleman that comes here now and then. That is the one + you are to run a race with on the public course,” put in Jenny, looking up + with a scandalized air. + </p> + <p> + “That is the boy; but how the deuce did you know?” + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen to run with all the dirty boys looking on like horses,” + remonstrated the grammatical one, “it is a disgrace.” + </p> + <p> + “So it is—for the one that is beat. Well, I was to meet Hazeltine to + supper out of town. By-the-by, you don't know Tom Yates?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh,” said Jenny, “I have heard of him, too.” + </p> + <p> + “I doubt that; there are a good many of his name.” + </p> + <p> + “The rake, I mean; lives a mile or two out of Sydney. + </p> + <p> + “So do half a dozen more of them.” + </p> + <p> + “This one is about the biggest gambler and sharper unhung.” + </p> + <p> + “All right! that is my friend! Well, he gave us a thundering supper—lots + of lush.” + </p> + <p> + “What is lush?” + </p> + <p> + “Tea and coffee and barley-water, my dear. Oh! can't you put the + thundering irons down when I say a good thing? Well, I mustn't be witty + any more, the penalty is too severe.” + </p> + <p> + I need hardly say it was not Mr. Miles's jokes that agitated Robinson now; + on the contrary, in the midst of his curiosity and rising agitation these + jokes seemed ghastly impossibilities. + </p> + <p> + “Well, at ten o'clock we went upstairs to a snug little room, and all four + sat down to a nice little green table.” + </p> + <p> + “To gamble?” + </p> + <p> + “No! to whist; but now comes the fun. We had been playing about four + hours, and the room was hot, and Yates was gone for a fresh pack, and old + Hazeltine was gone into the drawing-room to cool himself. Presently he + comes back and he says in a whisper, “Come here, old fellows.” We went + with him to the drawing-room, and at first sight we saw nothing, but + presently flash came a light right in our eyes; it seemed to come from + something glittering in the field. And these flashes kept coming and + going. At last we got the governor, and he puzzled over it a little while. + 'I know what it is,' cried he, 'it is my cucumber glass.'” + </p> + <p> + Jenny looked up. “Glass might glitter,” said she, “but I don't see how it + could flash.” + </p> + <p> + “No more did we, and we laughed in the governor's face; for all that we + were wrong. 'There is somebody under that wall with a dark lantern,' said + Tom Yates, 'and every now and then the glass catches the glare and + reflects it this way.' 'Solomon!' cried the rest of us. The fact is, + Jenny, when Tom Yates gets half drunk he develops sagacity more than + human. (Robinson gave a little groan.) Aha,” cried Miles, “the beggar has + burned his finger. I'm glad of it. Why should I be the only sufferer by + his thundering irons? 'Here is a lark,' said I, 'we'll nab this dark + lantern—won't we, Hazy?' 'Rather,' said Hazy. 'Wait till I get my + pistols, and I'll give you a cutlass, George,' says Tom Yates. I forget + who George was; but he said he was of noble blood, and I think myself he + was some relation to the King-of-trumps, the whole family came about him + so—mind my hair now. 'Oh, bother your artillery,' said I. 'Thrice is + he armed that hath his quarrel just.' When I'm a little cut you may know + it by my quoting Shakespeare. When I'm sober I don't remember a word of + him—and don't want to.” + </p> + <p> + “No, the <i>Sporting Magazine</i>, that is your Bible, sir,” suggested + Jenny. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and let me read it without your commentary—mind my hair now. + Where was I? Oh. Hazeltine and I opened the door softly and whipped out, + but the beggar was too sharp for us. No doubt he heard the door. Anyway, + before we could get through the shrubbery he was off, and we heard him + clattering down the road ever so far off. However we followed quietly on + the grass by the road-side at a fair traveling pace, and by and by what do + you think? Our man had pulled up in the middle of the road and stood stock + still. 'That is a green trick,' thought I. However, before we could get up + to him he saw us or heard us, and off down the road no end of a pace. + 'Tally ho!' cried I. Out came Hazy from the other hedge, and away we went—'Pug' + ahead, 'Growler' and 'Gay-lad' scarce twenty yards from his brush, and the + devil take the hindmost. Well, of course, we made sure of catching him in + about a hundred yards—two such runners as Hazy and me—” + </p> + <p> + “And did not you?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you. At first we certainly gained on him a few yards, but after + that I could not near him. But Hazy put on a tremendous spurt, and left me + behind for all I could do. 'Here is a go,' thought I, 'and I have backed + myself for a hundred pounds in a half-mile race against this beggar.' + Well, I was behind, but Hazy and the fox seemed to me to be joined + together running, when all of a sudden—pouff! Hazy's wind and his + pluck blew out together. He tailed off. Wasn't I pleased! 'Good-by, Hazy,' + says I, as I shot by him and took up the running. Well, I tried all I + knew; but this confounded fellow ran me within half a mile of Sydney (N. + B., within two miles of it). My throat and all my inside was like an oven, + and I was thinking of tailing off, too, when I heard the beggar puff and + blow, so then I knew I must come up with him before long.” + </p> + <p> + “And did you, sir?” asked Jenny in great excitement. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the other, “I passed him even.” + </p> + <p> + “But did you catch him?” + </p> + <p> + “Well! why—yes—I caught him—as the Chinese caught the + Tartar. This was one of your downy coves that are up to every move. When + he found he hadn't legs to run from me he slips back to meet me. Down he + goes under my leg—I go blundering over him twenty miles an hour. He + lifts me clear over his head and I come flying down from the clouds heel + over tip. I'd give twenty pounds to know how it was done, and fifty to see + it done—to a friend, All I know is that I should have knocked my own + brains out if it had not been for my hat and my hand—they bore the + brunt between them, as you see.” + </p> + <p> + “And what became of the poor man?” asked Jane. + </p> + <p> + “Well, when the poor man had flung me over his head he ran on faster than + ever, and by the time I had shaken my knowledge-box and found out north + from south, I heard the poor man's nailed shoes clattering down the road. + To start again a hundred yards behind a poor man who could run like that + would have been making a toil of a trouble, so I trotted back to meet + Hazy. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am glad he got off clear—ain't you, Tom?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes—no. A scoundrel that hashed the master like this—why, + Jane, you must be mad!” + </p> + <p> + “Spare your virtuous indignation,” said the other coolly. “Remember I had + been hunting him like a wild beast till his heart was nearly broke, and, + when I was down, he could easily have revenged himself by giving me a kick + with his heavy shoes on the head or the loins that would have spoiled my + running for a month of Sundays. What do you say to that?” + </p> + <p> + Robinson colored. “I say you are very good to make excuses for an + unfortunate man—for a rascal—that is to say, a burglar; a—” + </p> + <p> + “And how do you know he was all that?” asked Jenny very sharply. + </p> + <p> + “Why did he run if he was not guilty?” inquired Robinson cunningly. + </p> + <p> + “Guilty—what of?” asked Jenny. + </p> + <p> + “That is more than I can tell you,” replied Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “I dare say,” said Jenny, “it was some peaceable man that took fright at + seeing two wild young gentlemen come out like mad bulls after him.” + </p> + <p> + “When I have told you my story you will be better able to judge.” + </p> + <p> + “What, isn't the story ended?” + </p> + <p> + “Ended? The cream of it is coming.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir,” cried Jenny, “please don't go on till I come back. I am going + for the cold lotion now; I have fomented it enough.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, look sharp, then—here is the other all in a twitter with + excitement.” + </p> + <p> + “Me, sir? No—yes. I am naturally interested.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you haven't been long. I don't think I want any lotion, the hot + water has done it a good deal of good.” + </p> + <p> + “This will do it more.” + </p> + <p> + “But do you know it is rather a bore to have only one hand to cut bread + and butter with?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll cut it, sir,” said Robinson, laying down his irons for a moment. + </p> + <p> + “How long shall you be, Jenny?” asked Mr. Miles. + </p> + <p> + “I shall have done by when your story is done,” replied she coolly. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Miles laughed. “Well, Jenny,” said he, “I hadn't walked far before I + met Hazeltine. 'Have you got him?' says he. 'Do I look like it?' said I + rather crustily. Fancy a fool asking me whether I had got him! So I told + him all about it, and we walked back together. By-and-by we met the other + two just outside the gate. Well, just as we were going in Tom Yates said, + 'I say, suppose we look round the premises before we go to bed.' We went + softly round the house and what did we find but a window with the glass + taken out; we poked about and we found a pair of shoes. 'Why, there's some + one in the house,' says Tom Yates, 'as I'm a sinner.' So we held a council + of war. Tom was to go into the kitchen, lock the door leading out, and + ambush in the larder with his pistols; and we three were to go in by the + front door and search the house. Well, Hazeltine and I had got within a + yard or two of it and the knave of trumps in the rear with a sword or + something, when, by George! sir, the door began to open, and out slips a + fellow quietly. Long Hazy and I went at him, Hazy first. Crack he caught + Hazy on the head with a bludgeon, down went daddy-long-legs, and I got + entangled in him, and the robber cut like the wind for the kitchen. 'Come + on,' shouted I to the honorable thingunibob, bother his name—there—the + knave of trumps, and I pulled up Hazy but couldn't wait for him, and after + the beggar like mad. Well, as I came near the kitchen-door I heard a small + scrimmage, and back comes my man flying bludgeon in one hand and knife in + the other, both whirling over his head like a windmill. I kept cool, + doubled my right, and put in a heavy one from the armpit; you know, Tom; + caught him just under the chin, you might have heard his jaw crack a mile + off; down goes my man on his back flat on the bricks, and his bludgeon + rattled one way and his knife the other—such a lark. Oh! oh! oh! + what are you doing, Robinson, you hurt me most confoundedly—I won't + tell you any more. So now he was down, in popped the knave of swords and + fell on him, and Hazy came staggering in after and insulted him a bit and + we bagged him.” + </p> + <p> + “And the other, sir,” asked Tom, affecting an indifferent tone, “he didn't + get off, I hope?” + </p> + <p> + “What other?” inquired Jenny. + </p> + <p> + “The other unfor—the other rascal—the burglar.” + </p> + <p> + “Why he never said there were two.” + </p> + <p> + “Y—yes!—he said they found their shoes.” + </p> + <p> + “No, he said he found a pair of shoes.” + </p> + <p> + “For all that you are wrong, Jenny, and he is right—there were two; + and, what is more, Tom Yates had got the other, threatening to blow out + his brains if he moved, so down he sat on the dresser and took it quite + easy and whistled a tune while we trussed the other beggar with his own + bludgeon and our chokers. Tom Yates says the cool one tumbled down from + upstairs just as we drove our one in. Tom let them try the door before he + bounced out; then my one flung a chair at Tom's head and cut back, Tom + nailed the other and I floored mine. Hurrah!” + </p> + <p> + Through this whole narrative Robinson had coolly and delicately to curl + live hair with a beating heart, and to curl the very man who was relating + all the time how he had hunted him and caught his comrades. Meantime a + shrewd woman there listening with all her ears, a woman, too, who had + certain vague suspicions about him, and had taken him up rather sharper + than natural, he thought, when, being off his guard for a moment he + anticipated the narrator, and assumed there were two burglars in the + house. + </p> + <p> + Tom, therefore, though curious and anxious, shut his face and got on his + guard, and it was with an admirable imitation of mere sociable curiosity + that he inquired, “And what did the rascals say for themselves?” + </p> + <p> + “What could they say?” said Jenny, “they were caught in the fact.” + </p> + <p> + “To do them justice they did not speak of themselves, but they said three + or four words too—very much to the point.” + </p> + <p> + “How interesting it is!” cried Jenny—“what about?” + </p> + <p> + “Well! it was about your friend.” + </p> + <p> + “My friend?” + </p> + <p> + “The peaceable gentleman the two young ruffians had chased down the road.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! he was one of them,” said Jane, “that is plain enough now in course. + What did they say about him?” + </p> + <p> + “'Sold!' says my one to Tom's. 'And no mistake,' says Tom's. Oh! they + spoke out, took no more notice of us four than if we had no ears. Then + says mine: 'What do you think of <i>your</i> pal now?' and what do you + think Tom's answered, Jenny?—it was rather a curious answer—multum + in parvo as we say at school, and one that makes me fear there is a storm + brewing for our mutual friend, the peaceable gentleman, Jenny—alias + the downy runner.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, what did he say?” + </p> + <p> + “He said, 'I think—he won't be alive this day week! '” + </p> + <p> + “The wretches!” + </p> + <p> + “No! you don't see—they thought he had betrayed them.” + </p> + <p> + “But, of course, you undeceived them,” said Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “No! I didn't. Why, you precious greenhorn, was that our game?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” cried Robinson cheerfully, “any way it was a good night's + work. The only thing vexes me,” added he, with an intense air of + mortification, “is that the worst scoundrel of the lot got clear off; that + is a pity—a downright pity.” + </p> + <p> + “Make your mind easy,” replied Mr. Miles calmly, “he won't escape; we + shall have him before the day is out.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you, sir? that is right—but how?” + </p> + <p> + “The honorable thingumbob, Tom Yates's friend, put us up to it. We sent + the pair down to Sydney in the break and we put Yates's groom (he is a + ticket-of-leave) in with them, and a bottle of brandy, and he is to + condole with them and have a guinea if they let out the third man's name, + and they will—for they are bitter against him.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson sighed. “What is the matter?” said his master, trying to twist + his head round. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing! only I am afraid they—they won't split; fellows of that + sort don't split on a comrade where they can get no good by it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, if they don't, still we shall have him. One of us saw his face.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” + </p> + <p> + “It was the honorable—the knave of trumps. While Yates was getting + the arms, Trumps slipped out by the garden gate and caught a glimpse of + our friend; he saw him take the lantern up and fling it down and run. The + light fell full on his face and he could swear to it out of a thousand. So + the net is round our friend and we shall have him before the day is out.” + </p> + <p> + “Dring-a-dong-dring” (a ring at the bell). + </p> + <p> + “Have you done, Tom?” + </p> + <p> + “Just one more turn, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, Jenny, you see who that is?” + </p> + <p> + Jenny went and returned with an embossed card, “It is a young gentleman—mustache + and lavender gloves; oh, such a buck!” + </p> + <p> + “Who can it be? the 'Honorable George Lascelles?' why that is the very + man. I remember he said he would do himself the honor to call on me. That + is the knave of trumps; go down directly, Robinson, and tell him I'm at + home and bring him up.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir! Well, then, why don't you go!” + </p> + <p> + “Um! perhaps Jenny will go while I clear these things away;” and without + waiting for an answer Robinson hastened to encumber himself with the + tea-tray, and flung the loaf and curling-irons into it, and bustled about + and showed a sudden zeal lest this bachelor's room should appear in + disorder; and as Jenny mounted the front stairs followed by the sprig of + nobility, he plunged heavily laden down the back stairs into the kitchen + and off with his coat and cleaned knives like a mad thing. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! if I had but a pound in my pocket,” thought he, “I would not stay + another hour in Sydney. I'd get my ring and run for Bathurst and never + look behind me. How comfortable and happy I was until I fell back into the + old courses, and now see what a life mine has been ever since! What a + twelve hours! hunted like a wild beast, suspected and watched by my + fellow-servant and forced to hide my thoughts from this one and my face + from that one; but I deserve it and I wish it was ten times as bad. Oh! + you fool—you idiot—you brute—it is not the half of what + you deserve. I ask but one thing of Heaven—that his reverence may + never know; don't let me break that good man's heart; I'd much rather die + before the day is out!” + </p> + <p> + At this moment Jenny came in. Robinson cleaned the poor knives harder + still and did not speak; his cue was to find out what was passing in the + girl's mind. But she washed her cup and saucer and plates in silence. + Presently the bell rang. + </p> + <p> + “Tom!” said Jenny quietly. + </p> + <p> + “Would you mind going, Jenny?” + </p> + <p> + “Me! it is not my business.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Jenny! but once in a way if you will be so kind.” + </p> + <p> + “Once! why I have been twice to the door for you to-day. You to your place + and I to mine. Shan't go!” + </p> + <p> + “Look at me with my coat off and covered with brickdust.” + </p> + <p> + “Put your coat on and shake the dust off.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Jenny! that is not like you to refuse me such a trifle. I would not + disoblige you so.” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't refuse,” said Jenny, making for the door; “I only said 'no' once + or twice—<i>we</i> don't call that refusing;” but as she went out of + the door she turned sharp as if to catch Robinson's face off its guard; + and her gray eye dwelt on him with one of those demure, inexplicable looks + her sex can give all <i>ab extra</i>—seeing all, revealing nothing. + </p> + <p> + She returned with her face on fire. “That is what I get for taking your + place!” + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “That impudent young villain wanted to kiss me.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! is that all?” + </p> + <p> + “No! it is not all; he said I was the prettiest girl in Sydney” (with an + appearance of rising indignation). + </p> + <p> + “Well! but, Jenny, that is no news, I could have told him that.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why did you never tell me?” + </p> + <p> + “I thought by your manner—you knew it.” + </p> + <p> + Having tried to propitiate the foe thus, Robinson lost no more time, but + went upstairs and asked Mr. Miles for the trifle due to him as wages. Mr. + Miles was very sorry, but he had been cleaned out at his friend Yates's—had + not a shilling left and no hopes of any for a fortnight to come. + </p> + <p> + “Then, sir,” said Robinson doggedly, “I hope you will allow me to go into + the town and try and make a little for myself, just enough to pay my + traveling expenses. + </p> + <p> + “By all means,” was the reply; “tell me if you succeed—and I'll + borrow a sovereign of you.” + </p> + <p> + Out went Robinson into the town of Sydney. He got into a respectable + street, and knocked at a good house with a green door. He introduced + himself to the owner as a first-rate painter and engrainer, and offered to + turn this door into a mahogany, walnut, oak or what-not door. “The house + is beautiful, all but the door,” said sly Tom; “it is blistered.” + </p> + <p> + “I am quite content with it as it is,” was the reply in a rude, + supercilious tone. + </p> + <p> + Robinson went away discomfited; he went doggedly down the street begging + them all to have their doors beautified, and wincing at every refusal. At + last he found a shopkeeper who had no objection, but doubted Robinson's + capacity. “Show me what you can do,” said he slyly, “and then I'll talk to + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Send for the materials,” replied the artist, “and give me a board and + I'll put half a dozen woods on the face of it.” + </p> + <p> + “And pray,” said the man, “why should I lay out my money in advertising + you? No! you bring me a specimen, and if it is all right I'll give you the + job.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a bargain,” replied Robinson, and went off. “How hard they make + honesty to a poor fellow,” muttered he bitterly, “but I'll beat them,” and + he clinched his teeth. + </p> + <p> + He went to a pawnbroker and pawned the hat off his head—it was a new + one; then for a halfpenny he bought a sheet of brown paper and twisted it + into a workman's cap; he bought the brushes and a little paint and a + little varnish, and then he was without a penny again. He went to a + wheelwright's and begged the loan of a small valueless worm-eaten board he + saw kicking about, telling him what it was for. The wealthy wheelwright + eyed him with scorn. “Should I ever see it again?” asked he ironically. + </p> + <p> + “Keep it for your coffin,” said Robinson fiercely, and passed on. “How + hard they make honesty to a poor fellow! I was a fool for asking for it + when I might have taken it. What was there to hinder me? Honesty, my lass, + you are bitter.” + </p> + <p> + Presently he came to the suburbs and there was a small wooden cottage. The + owner, a common laborer, was repairing it as well as he could. Robinson + asked him very timidly if he could spare a couple of square feet off a + board he was sawing. “What for?” Robinson showed his paintpot and brushes, + and told him how he was at a stand-still for want of a board. “It is only + a loan of it I ask,” said he. + </p> + <p> + The man measured the plank carefully, and after some hesitation cut off a + good piece. “I can spare that much,” said he; “poor folk should feel for + one another.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll bring it back, you may depend,” said Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “You needn't trouble,” replied the laboring man with a droll wink, as much + as to say, “Gammon!” + </p> + <p> + When Robinson returned to the skeptical shopkeeper with a board on which + oak, satin-wood, walnut, etc., were imitated to the life in squares, that + worthy gave a start and betrayed his admiration, and Robinson asked him + five shillings more than he would if the other had been more considerate. + In short, before evening the door was painted a splendid imitation of + walnut-wood, the shopkeeper was enchanted, and Robinson had fifteen + shillings handed over to him. He ran and got Mr. Eden's ring out of pawn, + and kissed it and put it on; next he liberated his hat. He slept better + this night than the last. “One more such day and I shall have enough to + pay my expenses to Bathurst.” + </p> + <p> + He turned, out early and went into the town. He went into the street where + he had worked last evening, and when he came near this door there was a + knot of persons round it. Robinson joined them. Presently one of the + shop-boys cried out, “Why, here he is; this is the painter!” + </p> + <p> + Instantly three or four hands were laid on Robinson. “Come and paint my + door.” + </p> + <p> + “No, come and paint mine!” + </p> + <p> + “No, mine!” + </p> + <p> + Tom had never been in such request since he was an itinerant quack. His + sly eye twinkled, and this artist put himself up to auction then and + there. He was knocked down to a tradesman in the same street—twenty-one + shillings the price of this door (mock mahogany). While he was working + commissions poured in and Robinson's price rose, the demand for him being + greater than the supply. The mahogany door was really a chef-d'oeuvre. He + came home triumphant with thirty shillings in his pocket, he spread them + out on the kitchen table and looked at them with a pride and a thrill of + joy money never gave him before. He had often closed the shutters and + furtively spread out twice as many sovereigns, but they were only his, + these shillings were his own. And they were not only his own but his own + by labor. Each sacred shilling represented so much virtue; for industry is + a virtue. He looked at them with a father's pride. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + How sweet the butter our own hands have churned!—T. T. +</pre> + <p> + He blessed his reverend friend for having taught him an art in a dunghole + where idiots and savages teach crank. He blessed his reverence's four + bones, his favorite imprecation of the benevolent kind. I conclude the + four bones meant the arms and legs. If so it would have been more to the + point had he blessed the fifth—the skull. + </p> + <p> + Jenny came in and found him gloating over his virtuous shillings. She + stared. He told her what he had been about these two days past, his + difficulties, his success, the admiration his work excited throughout the + capital (he must exaggerate a little or it would not be Tom Robinson), and + the wealth he was amassing. + </p> + <p> + Jenny was glad to hear this, very glad, but she scolded him well for + pawning his hat. “Why didn't you ask me?” said she; “I would have lent you + a pound or even two, or given them you for any <i>honest purpose</i>.” And + Jenny pouted and got up a little quarrel. + </p> + <p> + The next day a gentleman caught Robinson and made him paint two doors in + his fancy villa. Satin-wood this time; and he received three pounds three + shillings, a good dinner, and what Bohemians all adore—Praise. Now + as he returned in the evening a sudden misgiving came to him. “I have not + thought once of Bathurst to-day. I see—all this money-making is a + contrivance to keep me in Sydney. It is absurd my coining paint at this + rate. I see your game, my lad; either I am to fall into bad company again, + or to be split upon and nabbed for that last job. To-morrow I will be on + the road to Bathurst. I can paint there just as well as here; besides I + have got my orders from his reverence to go, and I'll go.” + </p> + <p> + He told Jane his resolution. She made no answer. While these two were + sitting cozily by the fireside—for since Robinson took to working + hard all day he began to relish the hearth at night—suddenly + cheerful, boisterous voices, and Mr. Miles and two friends burst in and + would have an extempore supper, and nothing else would serve these + libertines but mutton-chops off the gridiron. So they invaded the kitchen. + Out ran Jenny to avoid them—or put on a smarter cap; and Robinson + was to cut the chops and lay a cloth on the dresser and help cook. While + his master went off to the cellar the two rakes who remained chattered and + laughed both pretty loud. They had dined together and the bottle had not + stood still. + </p> + <p> + “I have heard that voice before,” thought Robinson. “It is a very peculiar + voice. Whose voice is that?” + </p> + <p> + He looked the gentleman full in the face and could hardly suppress a + movement of surprise. + </p> + <p> + The gentleman by the instinct of the eye caught his, and his attention was + suddenly attracted to Robinson, and from that moment his eye was never off + Robinson, following him everywhere. Robinson affected not to notice this; + the chops were grilling, Jenny came in and bustled about and pretended not + to hear the side-compliments of the libertines. Presently the young + gentleman with the peculiar voice took out his pocketbook and said, “I + have a bet to propose. I'll bet you fifty pounds I find the man you two + hunted down the road on Monday night.” + </p> + <p> + “No takers,” replied Mr. Hazeltine with his mouth full. + </p> + <p> + “Stop a bit. I don't care if I make a time bet,” said Miles. “How soon + will you bet you catch him?” + </p> + <p> + “In half an hour,” was the cool reply. And the Honorable George while + making it managed at the same time in a sauntering sort of way to put + himself between Robinson and the door that led out into the garden. + Robinson eyed him in silence and never moved. + </p> + <p> + “In half a hour. That is a fair bet,” said Mr. Miles. “Shall I take him?” + </p> + <p> + “Better not; he is a knowing one. He has seen him to earth somewhere or he + would not offer you such a bet.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I'll bet you five to three,” proposed the Honorable George. + </p> + <p> + “Done!” + </p> + <p> + “Done!” + </p> + <p> + Robinson put in a hasty word: “And what is to become of Thimble-rig Jem, + sir?” These words, addressed to Mr. Lascelles, produced a singular effect. + That gentleman gave an immediate shiver, as if a bullet had passed clean + through him and out again, then opened his eyes and looked first at one + door then at the other as if hesitating which he should go by. Robinson + continued, addressing him with marked respect, “What I mean, sir, is that + there is a government reward of two hundred pounds for Thimble-rig Jem, + and the police wouldn't like to be drawn away from two hundred pounds + after a poor fellow like him you saw on Monday night, one that is only + suspected and no reward offered. Now Jem is a notorious culprit.” + </p> + <p> + “Who is this Jem, my man? What is he?” asked Mr. Lascelles with a + composure that contrasted remarkably with his late emotion. + </p> + <p> + “A convict escaped from Norfolk Island, sir; an old offender. I fell in + with him once. He has forgotten me I dare say, but I never forget a man. + They say he has grown a mustache and whiskers and passes himself off for a + nob; but I could swear to him.” + </p> + <p> + “How? By what?” cried Mr. Miles. + </p> + <p> + “If he should ever be fool enough to get in my way—” + </p> + <p> + “Hang Thimble-rig Jem,” cried Hazeltine. “Is it a bet, Lascelles?” + </p> + <p> + “What?” + </p> + <p> + “That you nab our one in half an hour?” Mr. Lascelles affected an + aristocratic drawl. “No, I was joking. I couldn't afford to leave the fire + for thirty pounds. Why should I run after the poor dayvil? Find him + yourselves. He never annoyed me. Got a cigar, Miles?” + </p> + <p> + After their chops, etc., the rakes went off to finish the night elsewhere. + </p> + <p> + “There, they are gone at last! Why, Jenny, how pale you look!” said + Robinson, not seeing the color of his own cheek. “What is wrong?” Jenny + answered by sitting down and bursting out crying. Tom sat opposite her + with his eyes on the ground. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, what I have gone through this day!” cried Jenny. “Oh! oh! oh! oh!” + sobbing convulsively. + </p> + <p> + What could Tom do but console her? And she found it so agreeable to be + consoled that she prolonged her distress. An impressionable Bohemian on + one side a fireplace, and a sweet, pretty girl crying on the other, what + wonder that two o'clock in the morning found this pair sitting on the same + side of the fire aforesaid—her hand in his? + </p> + <p> + The next morning at six o'clock Jenny was down to make his breakfast for + him before starting. If she had said, “Don't go,” it is to be feared the + temptation would have been too strong, but she did not; she said + sorrowfully, “You are right to leave this town.” She never explained. Tom + never heard from her own lips how far her suspicions went. He was a + coward, and seeing how shrewd she was, was afraid to ask her; and she was + one of your natural ladies who can leave a thing unsaid out of delicacy. + </p> + <p> + Tom Robinson was what Jenny called “capital company.” He had won her + admiration by his conversation, his stories of life, and now and then a + song, and by his good looks and good nature. She disguised her affection + admirably until he was in danger and about to leave her—and then she + betrayed herself. If she was fire he was tow. At last it came to this: + “Don't you cry so, dear girl. I have got a question to put to you—IF + I COME BACK A BETTER MAN THAN I GO, WILL YOU BE MRS. ROBINSON?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0051" id="link2HCH0051"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LI. + </h2> + <p> + ROBINSON started for Bathurst. Just before he got clear of the town he + passed the poor man's cottage who had lent him the board. “Bless me, how + came I to forget him?” said he. At that moment the man came out to go to + work. “Here I am,” said Robinson, meeting him full, “and here is your + board;” showing it to him painted in squares. “Can't afford to give it you + back—it is my advertisement. But here is half-a-crown for it and for + your trusting me.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, to be sure,” cried the man. “Now who'd have thought this? Why, if + the world is not turning honest. But half-a-crown is too much; 'tain't + worth the half of it.” + </p> + <p> + “It was worth five pounds to me. I got employment through it. Look here,” + and he showed him several pounds in silver; “all this came from your + board; so take your half-crown and my thanks on the head of it.” + </p> + <p> + The half-crown lay in the man's palm; he looked in Robinson's face. + “Well,” cried he with astonishment, “you are the honestest man ever I fell + in with.” + </p> + <p> + “I am the honestest man! You will go to heaven for saying those words to + me,” cried Robinson warmly and with agitation. “Good-by, my good, + charitable soul; you deserve ten times what you have got,” and Robinson + made off. + </p> + <p> + The other, as soon as he recovered the shock, shouted after him, “Good-by, + honest man, and good luck wherever you go.” + </p> + <p> + And Robinson heard him scuttle about and hastily convene small boys and + dispatch them down the road to look at an honest man. But the young wood + did not kindle at his enthusiasm. Had the rarity been a bear with a monkey + on him, well and good. + </p> + <p> + “I'm pretty well paid for a little honesty,” thought Robinson. He stepped + gallantly out in high spirits, and thought of Jenny, and fell in love with + her, and saw in her affection yet another inducement to be honest and + industrious. Nothing of note happened on his way to Bathurst, except that + one day as he was tramping along very hot and thirsty a luscious prickly + pear hung over a wall, and many a respectable man would have taken it + without scruple; but Tom was so afraid of beginning again he turned his + back on it and ran on instead of walking to make sure. + </p> + <p> + When he reached Bathurst his purse was very low, and he had a good many + more miles to go, and not feeling quite sure of his welcome he did not + care to be penniless, so he went round the town with his advertising-board + and very soon was painting doors in Bathurst. He found the natives + stingier here than in Sydney, and they had a notion a traveler like him + ought to work much cheaper than an established man; but still he put by + something every day. + </p> + <p> + He had been three days in the town when a man stepped up to him as he + finished a job and asked him to go home with him. The man took him to a + small but rather neat shop, plumber's, glazier's and painter's. + </p> + <p> + “Why, you don't want me,” said Robinson; “we are in the same line of + business.” + </p> + <p> + “Step in,” said the man. In a few words he let Robinson know that he had a + great bargain to offer him. “I am going to sell the shop,” said he. “It is + a business I never much fancied, and I had rather sell it to a stranger than + to a Bathurst man, for the trade have offended me. There is not a man in + the colony can work like you, and you may make a little fortune here.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson's eyes sparkled a moment, then he replied, “I am too poor to buy + a business. What do you want for it?” + </p> + <p> + “Only sixty pounds for the articles in the shop and the good will and + all.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I dare say it is moderate, but how am I to find sixty pounds?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll make it as light as a feather. Five pounds down. Five pounds in a + month; after that—ten pounds a month till we are clear. Take + possession and sell the goods and work the good-will on payment of the + first five.” + </p> + <p> + “That is very liberal,” said Robinson. “Well, give me till next Thursday + and I'll bring you the first five.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I can't do that; I give you the first offer, but into the market it + goes this evening, and no later.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll call this evening and see if I can do it.” Robinson tried to make up + the money, but it was not to be done. Then fell a terrible temptation upon + him. Handling George Fielding's letter with his delicate fingers, he had + satisfied himself there was a bank-note in it. Why not borrow this + bank-note? The shop would soon repay it. The idea rushed over him like a + flood. At the same moment he took fright at it. “Lord, help me!” he + ejaculated. + </p> + <p> + He rushed to a shop, bought two or three sheets of brown paper and a lot + of wafers. With nimble fingers he put the letter in one parcel, that + parcel in another, that in another, and so on till there were a dozen + envelopes between him and the irregular loan. This done he confided the + grand parcel to his landlord. + </p> + <p> + “Give it me when I start.” + </p> + <p> + He went no more near the little shop till he had made seven pounds; then + he went. The shop and business had been sold just twenty-four hours. + Robinson groaned. “If I had not been so very honest! Never mind. I must + take the bitter with the sweet.” + </p> + <p> + For all that the town became distasteful to him. He bought a cheap + revolver—for there was a talk of bushrangers in the neighborhood—and + started to walk to George Fielding's farm. He reached it in the evening. + </p> + <p> + “There is no George Fielding here,” was the news. “He left this more than + six months ago.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know where he is?” + </p> + <p> + “Not I.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson had to ask everybody he met where George Fielding was gone to. At + last, by good luck, he fell in with George's friend, McLaughlan, who told + him it was twenty-five miles off. + </p> + <p> + “Twenty-five miles? that must be for to-morrow, then.” + </p> + <p> + McLaughlan told him he knew George Fielding very well. “He is a fine lad.” + Then he asked Robinson what was his business. Robinson took down a very + thin light board with ornamented words painted on it. + </p> + <p> + “That is my business,” said he. + </p> + <p> + At the sight of a real business the worthy Scot offered to take care of + him for the night, and put him on the road to Fielding's next morning. + Next morning Robinson painted his front door as a return for bed and + breakfast. McLaughlan gave him somewhat intricate instructions for + to-morrow's route. Robinson followed them and soon lost his way. He was + set right again, but lost it again; and after a tremendous day's walk made + up his mind he should have to camp in the open air and without his supper—when + he heard a dog baying in the distance. “There is a house of some kind + anyway,” thought Robinson, “but where?—I see none—better make + for the dog.” + </p> + <p> + He made straight for the sound, but still he could not see any house. At + last, however, coming over a hill he found a house beneath him, and on the + other side of this house the dog was howling incessantly. Robinson came + down the hill, walked round the house, and there sat the dog on the steps. + </p> + <p> + “Well, it is you for howling anyway,” said Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “Anybody at home?” he shouted. No one answered, and the dog howled on. + </p> + <p> + “Why, the place is deserted, I think. Haven't I seen that dog before? Why, + it is Carlo! Here, Carlo, poor fellow, Carlo, what is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + The dog gave a little whimper as Robinson stooped and patted him, but no + sign of positive recognition, but he pattered into the house. Robinson + followed him, and there he found the man he had come to see—stretched + on his bed—pale and hollow-eyed and grisly—and looking like a + corpse in the fading light. + </p> + <p> + Robinson was awestruck. “Oh! what is this?” said he. “Have I come all this + way to bury him?” + </p> + <p> + He leaned over and felt his heart; it beat feebly but equably, and he + muttered something unintelligible when Robinson touched him. Then Robinson + struck a light, and right glad he was to find a cauldron full of + gelatinized beef soup. He warmed some and ate a great supper, and Carlo + sat and whimpered, and then wagged his tail and plucked up more and more + spirit, and finally recognized Tom all in a moment somehow and announced + the fact by one great disconnected bark and a saltatory motion. This done + he turned to and also ate a voracious supper. Robinson rolled himself up + in George's great-coat and slept like a top on the floor. Next morning he + was waked by a tapping, and there was Carlo seated bolt upright with his + tail beating the floor because George was sitting up in the bed looking + about him in a puzzled way. + </p> + <p> + “Jacky,” said he, “is that you?” + </p> + <p> + Robinson got up, rubbed his eyes, and came toward the bed. George stared + in his face and rubbed his eyes, too, for he thought he must be under an + ocular delusion. “Who are you?” + </p> + <p> + “A friend.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! I didn't think to see you under a roof of mine again.” + </p> + <p> + “Just the welcome I expected,” thought Robinson bitterly. He answered + coldly: “Well, as soon as you are well you can turn me out of your house, + but I should say you are not strong enough to do it just now.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I am weak enough, but I am better—I could eat something.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you could do that! what! even if I cooked it? Here goes, then.” + </p> + <p> + Tom lit the fire and warmed some beef soup. George ate some, but very + little; however he drank a great jugful of water—then dozed and fell + into a fine perspiration. It was a favorable crisis, and from that moment + youth and a sound constitution began to pull him through; moreover no + assassin had been there with his lancet. + </p> + <p> + Behold the thief turned nurse! The next day as he pottered about clearing + the room, opening or shutting the windows, cooking and serving, he noticed + George's eye following him everywhere with a placid wonder which at last + broke into words: + </p> + <p> + “You take a deal of trouble about me.” + </p> + <p> + “I do,” was the dry answer. + </p> + <p> + “It is very good of you, but—” + </p> + <p> + “You would as lieve it was anybody else; but your other friends have left + you to die like a dog,” said Robinson sarcastically. “Well, they left you + when you were sick—I'll leave you when you are well.” + </p> + <p> + “What for? Seems to me that you have earned a right to stay as long as you + are minded. The man that stands by me in trouble I won't bid him go when + the sun shines again.” + </p> + <p> + And at this precise point in his sentence, without the least warning, Mr. + Fielding ignited himself—and inquired with fury whether it came + within Robinson's individual experience that George Fielding was of an + ungrateful turn, or whether such was the general voice of fame. “Now, + don't you get in a rage and burst your boiler,” said Robinson. “Well, + George—without joking, though—I have been kind to you. Not for + nursing you—what Christian would not do that for his countryman and + his old landlord sick in a desert?—but what would you think of me if + I told you I had come a hundred and sixty miles to bring you a letter? I + wouldn't show it you before, for they say exciting them is bad for fever, + but I think I may venture now; here it is.” And Robinson tore off one by + one the twelve envelopes, to George's astonishment and curiosity. “There.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know the hand,” said George. But opening the inclosure he caught + a glance of a hand he did know, and let everything else drop on the bed, + while he held this and gazed at it, and the color flushed into his white + cheek. “Oh!” cried he, and worshipped it in silence again; then opened it + and devoured it. First came some precious words of affection and + encouragement. He kissed the letter. “You are a good fellow to bring me + such a treasure; and I'll never forget it as long as I live!” + </p> + <p> + Then he went back to the letter. “There is something about you, Tom!” + </p> + <p> + “About me?” + </p> + <p> + “She tells me you never had a father, not to say a father—” + </p> + <p> + “She says true.” + </p> + <p> + “Susan says that is a great disadvantage to any man, and so it is—and—poor + fellow—” + </p> + <p> + “What?” + </p> + <p> + “She says they came between your sweetheart and you—Oh! poor Tom!” + </p> + <p> + “What?” + </p> + <p> + “You lost your sweetheart; no wonder you went astray after that. What + would become of me if I lost my Susan? And—ay, you were always + better than me, Susan. She says she and I have never been sore tempted + like you.” + </p> + <p> + “Bless her little heart for making excuses for a poor fellow; but she was + always a charitable, kind-hearted young lady.” + </p> + <p> + “Wasn't she, Tom?” + </p> + <p> + “And what sweet eyes!” + </p> + <p> + “Ain't they, Tom? brimful of heaven I call them.” + </p> + <p> + “And when she used to smile on you, Master George, oh! the ivories.” + </p> + <p> + “Now you take my hand this minute. How foolish I am. I can't see—now + you shall read it on to me because you brought it.” + </p> + <p> + “'And you, George, that are as honest a man as ever lived, do keep him by + you a while, and keep him in the right way. He is well-disposed but weak—do + it to oblige me.'” + </p> + <p> + “Will you stay with me, Tom?” inquired George, cheerful and business-like. + “I am not a lucky man, but while I have a shilling there's sixpence for + the man that brought me this—dew in the desert I call it. And to + think you have seen her since I have; how was she looking; had she her + beautiful color; what did she say to you with her own mouth?” + </p> + <p> + Then Robinson had to recall every word Susan had said to him; this done, + George took the inclosure. “Stop, here is something for you: 'George + Fielding is requested to give this to Robinson for the use of Thomas + Sinclair.' There you are, Tom—well!—what is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing. It is a name I have not heard a while. I did not know any + creature but me knew it; is it glamour, or what?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Tom! what is the matter? don't look like that. Open it, and let us + see what there is inside.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson opened it, and there was the five-pound note for him, with this + line: “If you have regained the name of Sinclair, keep it.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson ran out of the house, and walked to and fro in a state of + exaltation. “I'm well paid for my journey; I'm well paid for not fingering + that note! Who would not be honest if they knew the sweets? How could he + know my name? is he really more than man? Keep it? Will I not!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0052" id="link2HCH0052"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LII. + </h2> + <p> + THE old attachment was revived. Robinson had always a great regard for + George, and after nursing and bringing him through a dangerous illness + this feeling doubled. And as for George, the man who had brought him a + letter from Susan one hundred and sixty miles became such a benefactor in + his eyes that he thought nothing good enough for him. + </p> + <p> + In a very few days George was about again and on his pony, and he and + Robinson and Carlo went a shepherding. One or two bullocks had gone to + Jericho while George lay ill, and the poor fellow's heart was sore when he + looked at his diminished substance and lost time. Robinson threw himself + heart and soul into the business, and was of great service to George; but + after a bit he found it a dull life. + </p> + <p> + George saw this, and said to him: “You would do better in a town. I should + be sorry to lose you, but if you take my advice you will turn your back on + unlucky George, and try the paint-brush in Bathurst.” + </p> + <p> + For Robinson had told him all about it—and painted his front door. + “Can't afford to part from Honesty,” was the firm reply. + </p> + <p> + George breathed again. Robinson was a great comfort to the weak, solitary, + and now desponding man. One day for a change they had a thirty-mile walk, + to see a farmer that had some beasts to sell a great bargain; he was going + to boil them down if he could not find a customer. They found them all + just sold. “Just my luck,” said George. + </p> + <p> + They came home another way. Returning home, George was silent and + depressed. + </p> + <p> + Robinson was silent, but appeared to be swelling with some grand idea. + Every now and then he shot ahead under its influence. When they got home + and were seated at supper, he suddenly put this question to George, “Did + you ever hear of any gold being found in these parts?” + </p> + <p> + “No! never!” + </p> + <p> + “What, not in any part of the country?” + </p> + <p> + “No! never!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is odd!” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid it is a very bad country for that.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay to make it in, but not to find it in.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “George,” said the other, lowering his voice mysteriously, “in our walk + to-day we passed places that brought my heart into my mouth; for if this + was only California those places would be pockets of gold.” + </p> + <p> + “But you see it is not California, but Australia, where all the world + knows there is nothing of what your mind is running on.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't say 'knows,' say 'thinks.' Has it ever been searched for gold?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll be bound it has; or, if not, with so many eyes constantly looking on + every foot of soil a speck or two would have come to light.” + </p> + <p> + “One would think so; but it is astonishing how blind folks are, till they + are taught how to look, and where to look. 'Tis the mind that sees things, + George, not the eye.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” said George with a sigh, “this chat puts me in mind of 'The Grove.' + Do you mind how you used to pester everybody to go out to California?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! and I wish we were there now.” + </p> + <p> + “And all your talk used to be gold—gold—gold.” + </p> + <p> + “As well say it as think it.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true. Well, we shall be very busy all day to-morrow, but in the + afternoon dig for gold an hour or two—then you will be satisfied.” + </p> + <p> + “But it is no use digging here; it was full five-and-twenty miles from + here the likely-looking place.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why didn't you stop me at the place?” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” replied Robinson, sourly, “because his reverence did so snub me + whenever I got upon that favorite topic, that I really had got out of the + habit. I was ashamed to say, 'George, let us stop on the road and try for + gold with our finger-nails.' I knew I should only get laughed at.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said George sarcastically, “since the gold mine is twenty-five + miles off, and our work is round about the door, suppose we pen sheep + to-morrow—and dig for gold when there is nothing better to be done.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson sighed. Unbucolical to the last degree was the spirit in which + our Bohemian tended the flocks next morning. + </p> + <p> + His thoughts were deeper than the soil. And every evening up came the old + topic. Oh! how sick George got of it. At last one night he said: “My lad, + I should like to tell you a story—but I suppose I shall make a + bungle of it; shan't cut the furrow clean I am doubtful.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind; try!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then. Once upon a time there was an old chap that had heard or read + about treasures being found in odd places, a pot full of guineas or + something; and it took root in his heart till nothing would serve him but + he must find a pot of guineas, too; he used to poke about all the old + ruins, grubbing away, and would have taken up the floor of the church, but + the churchwardens would not have it. One morning he comes down and says to + his wife, 'It is all right, old woman, I've found the treasure.' + </p> + <p> + “'No! have you, though?' says she. + </p> + <p> + “'Yes!' says he; 'leastways, it is as good as found; it is only waiting + till I've had my breakfast, and then I'll go out and fetch it in.' + </p> + <p> + “'La, John, but how did you find it?' + </p> + <p> + “'It was revealed to me in a dream,' says he, as grave as a judge. + </p> + <p> + “'And where is it?' asks the old woman. + </p> + <p> + “'Under a tree in our own orchard—no farther,' says he. + </p> + <p> + “'Oh, John! how long you are at breakfast to-day!' Up they both got and + into the orchard. 'Now, which tree is it under?' + </p> + <p> + “John, he scratches his head, 'Blest if I know.' + </p> + <p> + “'Why, you old ninny,' says the mistress, 'didn't you take the trouble to + notice?' + </p> + <p> + “'That I did,' said he; 'I saw plain enough which tree it was in my dream, + but now they muddle it all, there are so many of 'em.' + </p> + <p> + “'Drat your stupid old head,' says she, 'why didn't you put a nick on the + right one at the time?'” + </p> + <p> + Robinson burst out laughing. George chuckled. “Oh!” said he, “there were a + pair of them for wisdom, you may take your oath of that. 'Well,' says he, + 'I must dig till I find the right one.' The wife she loses heart at this; + for there was eighty apple-trees, and a score of cherry-trees. 'Mind you + don't cut the roots,' says she, and she heaves a sigh. John he gives them + bad language, root and branch. 'What signifies cut or no cut; the old + faggots—they don't bear me a bushel of fruit the whole lot. They + used to bear two sacks apiece in father's time. Drat 'em.' + </p> + <p> + “'Well, John,' says the old woman, smoothing him down; 'father used to + give them a deal of attention.'—' 'Tain't that! 'tain't that!' says + he quick and spiteful-like; 'they have got old like ourselves, and good + for fire-wood.' Out pickax and spade and digs three foot deep round one, + and finding nothing but mould goes at another, makes a little mound all + round him, too—no guinea-pot. Well, the village let him dig three or + four quiet enough; but after that curiosity was awakened, and while John + was digging, and that was all day, there was mostly seven or eight + watching through the fence and passing jests. After a bit a fashion came + up of flinging a stone or two at John; then John he brought out his gun + loaded with dust-shot along with his pick and spade, and the first stone + came he fired sharp in that direction and then loaded again. So they took + that hint, and John dug on in peace—till about the fourth Sunday—and + then the parson had a slap at him in church. 'Folks were not to heap up to + themselves treasures on earth,' was all his discourse.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but,” said Robinson, “this one was only heaping up mould.” + </p> + <p> + “So it seemed when he had dug the five-score holes, for no pot of gold + didn't come to light. Then the neighbors called the orchard 'Jacobs' + Folly;' his name was Jacobs—John Jacobs. 'Now then, wife,' says he, + 'suppose you and I look out for another village to live in, for their + gibes are more than I can bear.' Old woman begins to cry. 'Been here so + long—brought me home here, John—when we were first married, + John—and I was a comely lass, and you the smartest young man I ever + saw, to my fancy any way; couldn't sleep or eat my victuals in any house + but this.' + </p> + <p> + “'Oh! couldn't ye? Well, then, we must stay; perhaps it will blow over.'—'Like + everything else, John; but, dear John, do ye fill in those holes; the + young folk come far and wide on Sundays to see them.' + </p> + <p> + “'Wife, I haven't the heart,' says he. 'You see, when I was digging for + the treasure I was always a-going to find, it kept my heart up; but take + out shovel and fill them in—I'd as lieve dine off white of egg on a + Sunday.' So for six blessed months the heaps were out in the heat and + frost till the end of February, and then when the weather broke the old + man takes heart and fills them in, and the village soon forgot 'Jacobs' + Folly' because it was out of sight. Comes April, and out burst the trees. + 'Wife,' says he, 'our bloom is richer than I have known it this many a + year, it is richer than our neighbors'.' Bloom dies, and then out come + about a million little green things quite hard.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! ay!” said Robinson; “I see.” + </p> + <p> + “Michaelmas-day the old trees were staggering and the branches down to the + ground with the crop; thirty shillings on every tree one with another; and + so on for the next year, and the next; sometimes more, sometimes less, + according to the year. Trees were old and wanted a change. His letting in + the air to them, and turning the subsoil up to the frost and sun, had + renewed their youth. So by that he learned that tillage is the way to get + treasure from the earth. Men are ungrateful at times, but the soil is + never ungrateful, it always makes a return for the pains we give it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, George,” said Robinson, “thank you for your story; it is a very + good one, and after it I'll never dig for gold in a garden. But now + suppose a bare rock or an old river's bed, or a mass of shingles or + pipe-clay, would you dig or manure them for crops?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, of course not.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, those are the sort of places in which nature has planted a yellower + crop and a richer crop than tillage ever produced. And I believe there are + plums of gold not thirty miles from here in such spots waiting only to be + dug out.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Tom, I have wasted a parable, that is all. Good-night; I hope to + sleep and be ready for a good day's work to-morrow. You shall dream of + digging up gold here—if you like.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll never speak of it again,” said Robinson doggedly. + </p> + <p> + If you want to make a man a bad companion, interdict altogether the topic + that happens to interest him. Robinson ceased to vent his chimera. So it + swelled and swelled in his heart, and he became silent, absorbed, absent + and out of spirits. “Ah!” thought George, “poor fellow, he is very dull. + He won't stay beside me much longer.” + </p> + <p> + This conviction was so strong that he hesitated to close with an + advantageous offer that came to him from his friend, Mr. Winchester. That + gentleman had taken a lease of a fine run some thirty miles from George. + He had written George that he was to go and look at it, and if he liked it + better than his own he was to take it. Mr. Winchester could make no + considerable use of either for some time to come. + </p> + <p> + George hesitated. He felt himself so weak-handed with only Robinson, who + might leave him, and a shepherd lad he had just hired. However his hands + were unexpectedly strengthened. + </p> + <p> + One day as the two friends were washing a sheep an armed savage suddenly + stood before them. Robinson dropped the sheep and stood on his defense, + but George cried out, “No! no! it is Jacky! Why, Jacky, where on earth + have you been?” And he came warmly toward him. Jacky fled to a small + eminence and made warlike preparations. “You stop you a good while and I + speak. Who you?” + </p> + <p> + “Who am I? stupid. Why, who should I be but George Fielding?” + </p> + <p> + “I see you one George Fielding, but I not know you dis George Fielding. + George die. I see him die. You alive. You please you call dog Carlo! Carlo + wise dog.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I never! Hie, Carlo! Carlo!” + </p> + <p> + Up came Carlo full pelt. George patted him, and Carlo wagged his tail and + pranced about in the shape of a reaping-hook. Jacky came instantly down, + showed his ivories, and admitted his friend's existence on the word of the + dog. “Jacky a good deal glad because you not dead now. When black fellow + die he never live any more. Black fellow stupid fellow. I tink I like + white fellow a good deal bigger than black fellow. Now I stay with you a + good while.” + </p> + <p> + George's hands thus strengthened he wrote and told Mr. Winchester he would + go to the new ground, which, as far as he could remember, was very good, + and would inspect it, and probably make the exchange with thanks. It was + arranged that in two days' time the three friends should go together, + inspect the new ground and build a temporary hut there. + </p> + <p> + Meantime Robinson and Jacky make great friends. Robinson showed him one or + two sleight-of-hand tricks that stamped him at once a superior being in + Jacky's eyes, and Jacky showed Robinson a thing or two He threw his + boomerang and made it travel a couple of hundred yards, and return and + hover over his head like a bird and settle at his feet; but he was shy of + throwing his spear. “Keep spear for when um angry, not throw him straight + now. + </p> + <p> + “Don't you believe that, Tom,” said George. “Fact is the little varmint + can't hit anything with 'em. Now look at that piece of bark leaning + against that tree. You don't hit it. Come, try, Jacky.” Jacky yawned and + threw a spear carelessly. It went close by but did not hit it. + </p> + <p> + “Didn't I tell you so?” said George. “I'd stand before him and his spears + all day with nothing but a cricket-stump in my hand, and never be hit, and + never brag, neither.” Jacky showed his ivories. “When I down at Sydney + white man put up a little wood and a bit of white money for Jacky. Then + Jacky throw straight a good deal.” + </p> + <p> + “Now hark to that! black skin or white skin 'tis all the same; we can't do + our best till we are paid for it. Don't you encourage him, Tom, I won't + have it.” + </p> + <p> + The two started early one fine morning for the new ground, distant full + thirty miles. At first starting Robinson was in high glee; his nature + delighted in change; but George was sad and silent. Three times he had + changed his ground and always for the better. But to what end. These + starts in early morning for fresh places used once to make him buoyant, + but not now. All that was over. He persisted doggedly, and did his best + like a man, but in his secret heart not one grain of hope was left. Indeed + it was but the other day he had written to Susan and told her it was not + possible he could make a thousand pounds. The difficulties were too many, + and then his losses had been too great. And he told her he felt it was + scarcely fair to keep her to her promise. “You would waste all your youth, + Susan, dear, waiting for me.” And he told her how he loved her and never + should love another; but left her free. + </p> + <p> + To add to his troubles he was scarcely well of the fever when he caught a + touch of rheumatism; and the stalwart young fellow limped along by + Robinson's side, and instead of his distancing Jacky as he used in better + days, Jacky rattled on ahead and having got on the trail of an opossum + announced his intention of hunting it down and then following the human + trail. “Me catch you before the sun go, and bring opossum—then we + eat a good deal.” And off glided Jacky after his opossum. + </p> + <p> + The pair plodded and limped on in gloomy silence, for at a part of the + road where they emerged from green meadows on rocks and broken ground + Robinson's tongue had suddenly ceased. + </p> + <p> + They plodded on, one sad and stiff, the other thoughtful. Any one meeting + the pair would have pitied them. Ill-success was stamped on them. Their + features were so good, their fortunes so unkind. Their clothes were sadly + worn, their beards neglected, their looks thoughtful and sad. The convert + to honesty stole more than one look at the noble figure that limped beside + him and the handsome face in which gentle, uncomplaining sorrow seemed to + be a tenant for life; and to the credit of our nature be it said that his + eyes filled and his heart yearned. “Oh, Honesty!” said he, “you are + ill-paid here. I have been well paid for my little bit of you, but here is + a life of honesty and a life of ill-luck and bitter disappointment. Poor + George! poor, dear George! Leave you? never while I have hands to work and + a brain to devise!” + </p> + <p> + They now began slowly to mount a gentle slope that ended in a long black + snakelike hill. “When we get to that hill we shall see my new pasture,” + said George. “New or old, I doubt 'twill be all the same.” + </p> + <p> + And he sighed and relapsed into silence. Meantime Jacky had killed his + opossum and was now following their trail at an easy trot. + </p> + <p> + Leaving the two sad ones with worn clothes and heavy hearts plodding + slowly and stiffly up the long rough slope, our story runs on before and + gains the rocky platform they are making for and looks both ways—back + toward the sad ones and forward over a grand, long, sweeping valley. This + pasture is rich in proportion as it recedes from this huge backbone of + rock that comes from the stony mountains and pierces and divides the + meadows as a cape the sea. In the foreground the grass suffers from its + stern neighbor, is cut up here and there by the channels of defunct + torrents, and dotted with fragments of rock, some of which seem to have + pierced the bosom of the soil from below, others have been detached at + different epochs from the parent rock and rolled into the valley. But + these wounds are only discovered on inspection; at a general glance from + the rocky road into the dale the prospect is large, rich and laughing; + fairer pastures are to be found in that favored land, but this sparkles at + you like an emerald roughly set, and where the backbone of rock gives a + sudden twist bursts out all at once broad smiling in your face—a + land flowing with milk and every bush a thousand nosegays. At the angle + above-mentioned, which commanded a double view, a man was standing + watching some object or objects not visible to his three companions; they + were working some yards lower down by the side of a rivulet that brawled + and bounded down the hill. Every now and then an inquiry was shouted up to + that individual, who was evidently a sort of scout or sentinel. At last + one of the men in the ravine came up and bade the scout go down. + </p> + <p> + “I'll soon tell you whether we shall have to knock off work.” And he + turned the corner and disappeared. + </p> + <p> + He shaded both his eyes with his hands, for the sun was glaring. About a + mile off he saw two men coming slowly up by a zig-zag path toward the very + point where he stood. Presently the men stopped and examined the prospect, + each in his own way. The taller one took a wide survey of the low ground, + and calling his companion to him appeared to point out to him some beauty + or peculiarity of the region. Our scout stepped back and called down to + his companions, “Shepherds!” + </p> + <p> + He then strolled back to his post with no particular anxiety. Arrived + there his uneasiness seemed to revive. The shorter of the two strangers + had lagged behind his comrade, and the watcher observed, that he was + carrying on a close and earnest inspection of the ground in detail. + </p> + <p> + He peered into the hollows and loitered in every ravine. This gave + singular offense to the keen eye that was now upon him. Presently he was + seen to stop and call his taller companion to him, and point with great + earnestness first to something at their feet, then to the backbone of + rocks; and it so happened by mere accident that his finger took nearly the + direction of the very spot where the observer of all his movements stood. + The man started back out of sight and called in a low voice to his + comrades, + </p> + <p> + “Come here.” + </p> + <p> + They came straggling up with troubled and lowering faces. “Lie down and + watch them,” said the leader. The men stooped and crawled forward to some + stunted bushes, behind which they lay down and watched in silence the + unconscious pair who were now about two furlongs distant. The shorter of + the two still loitered behind his companion, and inspected the ground with + particular interest. The leader of the band, who went by the name of Black + Will, muttered a curse upon his inquisitiveness. The others assented all + but one, a huge fellow whom the others addressed as Jem. “Nonsense,” said + Jem, “dozens pass this way and are none the wiser.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” replied Black Will, “with their noses in the air. But that is a + notice-taking fellow. Look at him with his eyes forever on the rocks, or + in the gullies, or—there if he is not picking up a stone and + breaking it!” + </p> + <p> + “Ha! ha!” laughed Jem incredulously, “how many thousand have picked up + stones and broke them and all, and never known what we know.” + </p> + <p> + “He has been in the same oven as we,” retorted the other. + </p> + <p> + Here one of the others put in his word. “That is not likely, captain; but + if it is so there are no two ways. A secret is no secret if all the world + is to know it.” + </p> + <p> + “You remember our oath, Jem,” said the leader sternly. + </p> + <p> + “Why should I forget it more than another?” replied the other angrily. + </p> + <p> + “Have you all your knives?” asked the captain gloomily. The men nodded + assent. + </p> + <p> + “Cross them with me as we did when we took our oath first.” + </p> + <p> + The men stretched out each a brawny arm, and a long sharp knife, so that + all the points came together in a focus; and this action suited well with + their fierce and animal features, their long neglected beards, their + matted hair and their gleaming eyes. It looked the prologue to some deed + of blood. This done, at another word from their ruffianly leader they + turned away from the angle in the rock and plunged hastily down the + ravine; but they had scarcely taken thirty steps when they suddenly + disappeared. + </p> + <p> + In the neighborhood of the small stream I have mentioned was a cavern of + irregular shape that served these men for a habitation and place of + concealment. Nature had not done all. The stone was soft, and the natural + cavity had been enlarged and made a comfortable retreat enough for the + hardy men whose home it was. A few feet from the mouth of the cave on one + side grew a stout bush that added to the shelter and the concealment, and + on the other the men themselves had placed two or three huge stones, + which, from the attitude the rogues had given them, appeared, like many + others, to have rolled thither years ago from the rock above. + </p> + <p> + In this retreat the whole band were now silently couched, two of them in + the mouth of the cave, Black Will and another lying flat on their stomachs + watching the angle of the road for the two men who must pass that way, and + listening for every sound. Black Will was carefully and quietly sharpening + his knife on one of the stones and casting back every now and then a + meaning glance to his companions. The pertinacity with which he held to + his idea began to tell on them, and they sat in an attitude of sullen and + terrible suspicion. But Jem wore a look of contemptuous incredulity. + However small a society may be, if it is a human one jealousy shall creep + in. Jem grudged Black Will his captaincy. Jem was intellectually a bit of + a brute. He was a stronger man than Will, and therefore thought it hard + that merely because Will was a keener spirit, Will should be over him. + Half an hour passed thus, and the two travelers did not make their + appearance. + </p> + <p> + “Not even coming this way at all,” said Jem. + </p> + <p> + “Hush!” replied Will sternly, “hold your tongue. They must come this way, + and they can't be far off. Jem, you can crawl out and see where they are, + if you are clever enough to keep that great body out of sight.” + </p> + <p> + Jem resented this doubt cast upon his adroitness, and crawled out among + the bushes. He had scarcely got twenty yards when he halted and made a + signal that the men were in sight. Soon afterward he came back with less + precaution. “They are sitting eating their dinner close by, just on the + sunny side of the rock—shepherds, as I told you—got a dog. Go + yourself if you don't believe me.” + </p> + <p> + The leader went to the spot, and soon after returned and said quietly, + “Pals, I dare say he is right. Lie still till they have had their dinner; + they are going farther, no doubt.” + </p> + <p> + Soon after this he gave a hasty signal of silence, for George and Robinson + at that moment came round the corner of the rock and stood on the road not + fifty yards above them. Here they paused as the valley burst on their + view, and George pointed out its qualities to his comrade. “It is not + first-rate, Tom, but there is good grass in patches, and plenty of water.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson, instead of replying or giving his mind to the prospect said to + George, “Why, where is he?” + </p> + <p> + “Who?” + </p> + <p> + “The man that I saw standing at this corner a while ago. He came round + this way I'll be sworn.” + </p> + <p> + “He is gone away, I suppose. I never saw any one, for my part.” + </p> + <p> + “I did, though. Gone away? How could he go away? The road is in sight for + miles, and not a creature on it. He is vanished.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't see him anyway, Tom.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course you don't, he is vanished into the bowels of the earth. I don't + like gentlemen that vanish into the bowels of the earth.” + </p> + <p> + “How suspicious you are! Bushrangers again, I suppose. They are always + running in your mind—them and gold.” + </p> + <p> + “You know the country, George. Here, take my stick.” And he handed George + a long stick with a heavy iron ferule. “If a man is safe here he owes it + to himself, not to his neighbor.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why do you give me your weapon?” said George with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “I haven't,” was the reply. “I carry my sting out of sight, like a humble + bee.” And Mr. Robinson winked mysteriously, and the process seemed to + relieve his mind and soothe his suspicions. He then fell to inspecting the + rocks; and when George pointed out to him the broad and distant pasture he + said, in an absent way, “Yes;” and turning round George found him with his + eyes glued to the ground at his feet, and his mind in a deep reverie. + George was vexed, and said somewhat warmly, “Why, Tom, the place is worth + looking at now we are come to it, surely.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson made no direct reply. “George,” said he thoughtfully, “how far + have you got toward your thousand pounds?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Tom! don't ask me, don't remind me! How can I ever make it? No market + within a thousand miles of any place in this confounded country! Forced to + boil down sheep into tallow and sell them for the price of a wild duck! I + have left my Susan, and I have lost her. Oh, why did you remind me?” + </p> + <p> + “So much for the farming lay. Don't you be down-hearted, there's better + cards in the pack than the five of spades; and the farther I go and the + more I see of this country the surer I am. There is a good day coming for + you and me. Listen, George. When I shut my eyes for a moment now where I + stand, and then open them—I'm in California.” + </p> + <p> + “Dreaming?” + </p> + <p> + “No, wide awake—wider than you are now. George, look at these hills; + you could not tell them from the golden range of California.. But that is + not all; when you look into them you find they are made of the same stuff, + too—granite, mica and quartz. Now don't you be cross.” + </p> + <p> + “No! no! why should I? Show me,” said George, trying out of + kindheartedness to take an interest in this subject, which had so often + wearied him. + </p> + <p> + “Well, here are two of them. That great dark bit out there is mica, and + all this that runs in a vein like is quartz. Quartz and mica are the + natural home of gold; and some gold is to be found at home still, but the + main of it has been washed out and scattered like seed all over the + neighboring clays. You see, George, the world is a thousand times older + than most folks think, and water has been working upon gold thousands and + thousands of years before ever a man stood upon the earth, ay or a dog + either, Carlo, for as wise as you look squatting out there thinking of + nothing and pretending to be thinking of everything.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, drop gold,” said George, “and tell me what this is,” and he handed + Robinson a small fossil. + </p> + <p> + Robinson eyed it with wonder and interest. “Where on earth did you find + this?” + </p> + <p> + “Hard by; what is it?” + </p> + <p> + “Plenty of these in California. What is it? Why, I'll tell you; it is a + pale old Joey.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't say so; looks like a shell.” + </p> + <p> + “Sit down a moment, George, and let us look at it. He bids me drop gold—and + then goes and shows me a proof of gold that never deceived us out there.” + </p> + <p> + “You are mad. How can this be a sign of gold? I tell you it is a shell.” + </p> + <p> + “And I tell you that where these things are found among mica, quartz and + granite, there gold is to be found if men have the wit, the patience and + the skill to look for it. I can't tell you why; the laws of gold puzzle + deeper heads than mine, but so it is. I seem to smell gold all round me + here.” And Robinson flushed all over, so powerfully did the great idea of + gold seated here on his native throne grapple and agitate his mind. + </p> + <p> + “Tom,” said the other doggedly, “if there is as much gold on the ground of + New South Wales as will make me a wedding-ring—I am a Dutchman;” and + he got up calmly and jerked the pale old Joey a tremendous way into the + valley. + </p> + <p> + This action put Robinson's blood up. “George,” cried he, springing up like + fire and bringing his foot down sharp upon the rocky floor, “IF I DON'T + STAND UPON GOLD—I'M D——D!” + </p> + <p> + And a wild but true inspiration seemed to be upon the man; a stranger + could hardly have helped believing him, but George had heard a good deal + of this, though the mania had never gone quite so far. He said quickly, + “Come, let us go down into the pasture.” + </p> + <p> + “Not I,” replied Robinson. “Come, George, prejudice is for babies, + experience for men. Here is an unknown country with all the signs of gold + thicker than ever. I have got a calabash—stay and try for gold in + this gully; it looks to me just like the mouth of a purse.” + </p> + <p> + “Not I.” + </p> + <p> + “I will, then.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not? I don't think you will find anything in it, but anyway you will + have a better chance when I am not by to spoil you. Luck is all against + me. If I want rain, comes drought; if I want sun, look for a deluge, if + there is money to be made by a thing I'm out of it; to be lost, I'm in it; + if I loved a vixen she'd drop into my arms like a medlar; I love an angel + and that is why I shall never have her, never. From a game of marbles to + the game of life I never had a grain of luck like other people. Leave me, + Tom, and try if you can find gold; you will have a chance, my poor fellow, + if unlucky George is not aside you.” + </p> + <p> + “Leave you, George! not if I know it.” + </p> + <p> + “You are to blame if you don't. Turn your back on me as I did on you in + England.” + </p> + <p> + “Never! I'd rather not find gold than part with honesty. There, I'm coming—let + us go—quick—come, let us leave here.” And the two men left the + road and turned their faces and their steps across the ravine. + </p> + <p> + During all this dialogue the men in the cave had strained both eyes and + ears to comprehend the speakers. The distance was too great for them to + catch all the words, but this much was clear from the first, that one of + the men wished to stay on the spot for some purpose, and the other to go + on; but presently, as the speakers warmed, a word traveled down the breeze + that made the four ruffians start and turn red with surprise, and the next + moment darken with anger and apprehension. The word came again and again; + they all heard it—its open vowel gave it a sonorous ring; it seemed + to fly farther than any other word the speaker uttered, or perhaps when he + came to it he spoke it louder than smaller words, or the hearers' ears + were watching for it. + </p> + <p> + The men interchanged terrible looks, and then they grasped their knives + and watched their leader's eye for some deadly signal. Again and again the + word “g-o-l-d” came like an Aeolian note into the secret cave, and each + time eye sought eye and read the unlucky speaker's death-warrant there. + But when George prevailed and the two men started for the valley, the men + in the cave cast uncertain looks on one another, and he we have called Jem + drew a long breath and said brutally, yet with something of satisfaction, + “You have saved your bacon this time.” The voices now drew near and the + men crouched close, for George and Robinson passed within fifteen yards of + them. They were talking now about matters connected with George's + business, for Robinson made a violent effort and dropped his favorite + theme to oblige his comrade. They passed near the cave, and presently + their backs were turned to it. + </p> + <p> + “Good-by, my lads,” whispered Jem. “And curse you for making us lose a + good half hour,” muttered another of the gang. The words were scarce out + of his mouth before a sudden rustle was heard and there was Carlo. He had + pulled up in mid career and stood transfixed with astonishment, literally + pointing the gang; it was but for a moment—he did not like the looks + of the men at all; he gave a sharp bark that made George and Robinson turn + quickly round, and then he went on hunting. + </p> + <p> + “A kangaroo!” shouted Robinson, “it must have got up near that bush; come + and look—if it is we will hunt it down.” + </p> + <p> + George turned back with him, but on reflection he said, “No! Tom, we have + a long road to go, let us keep on, if you please;” and they once more + turned their backs to the cave, whistled Carlo, and stepped briskly out + toward the valley. A few yards before them was the brook I have already + noticed—it was about three yards broad at this spot. However, + Robinson, who was determined not to make George lose any more time, took + the lead and giving himself the benefit of a run, cleared it like a buck. + But as he was in the air his eye caught some object on this side the + brook, and making a little circle on the other side, he came back with + ludicrous precipitancy, and jumping short, landed with one foot on shore + and one in the stream. George burst out laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Do you see this?” cried Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “Yes; somebody has been digging a hole here,” said George very coolly. + </p> + <p> + “Come higher up,” cried Robinson, all in a flutter—“do you see + this?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; it is another hole.” + </p> + <p> + “'It is. Do you see this wet, too?” + </p> + <p> + “I see there has been some water spilled by the brook side.” + </p> + <p> + “What kind of work has been done here? have they been digging potatoes, + farmer?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't be foolish, Tom.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it any kind of work you know? Here is another trench dug.” + </p> + <p> + “No! it is nothing in my way, that is the truth.” + </p> + <p> + “But it is work the signs of which I know as well as you know a plowed + field from a turnpike-road.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, what is it then?” + </p> + <p> + “It is gold washing.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't say so, Tom.” + </p> + <p> + “This is gold washing as beginners practice it in California and Mexico + and Peru, and wherever gold-dust is found. They have been working with a + pan, they haven't got such a thing as a cradle in this country. Come lower + down; this was yesterday's work, let us find to-day's.” + </p> + <p> + The two men now ran down the stream busy as dogs hunting an otter. A + little lower down they found both banks of the stream pitted with holes + about two feet deep and the sides drenched with water from it. + </p> + <p> + “Well, if it is so, you need not look so pale; why, dear me, how pale you + are, Tom!” + </p> + <p> + “You would be pale,” gasped Tom, “if you could see what a day this is for + you and me, ay! and for all the world, old England especially. George, in + a month there will be five thousand men working round this little spot. + Ay! come,” cried he, shouting wildly at the top of his voice, “there is + plenty for all. GOLD! GOLD! GOLD! I have found it. I, Tom Robinson, I've + found it, and I grudge it to no man. I, a thief that was, make a present + of it to its rightful owner, and that is all the world. Here GOLD! GOLD! + GOLD!” + </p> + <p> + Though George hardly understood his companion's words, he was carried away + by the torrent of his enthusiasm, and even as Robinson spoke his cheeks in + turn flushed and his eyes flashed, and he grasped his friend's hands + warmly, and cried, “GOLD! GOLD! blessings on it if it takes me to Susan; + GOLD! GOLD!” + </p> + <p> + The poor fellows' triumph and friendly exultation lasted but a moment; the + words were scarce out of Robinson's mouth when to his surprise George + started from him, turned very pale, but at the same time lifted his + iron-shod stick high in the air and clinched his teeth with desperate + resolution. Four men with shaggy beards and wild faces and murderous eyes + were literally upon them, each with a long glittering knife raised in the + air. + </p> + <p> + At that fearful moment George learned the value of a friend that had seen + adventure and crime; rapid and fierce and unexpected as the attack was, + Robinson was not caught off his guard. His hand went like lightning into + his bosom, and the assailants, in the very act of striking, were met in + the face by the long glistening barrels of a rifle revolver, while the + cool, wicked eye behind it showed them nothing was to be hoped in that + quarter from flurry, or haste, or indecision. + </p> + <p> + The two men nearest the revolver started back, the other two neither + recoiled nor advanced, but merely hung fire. George made a movement to + throw himself upon them; but Robinson seized him fiercely by the arm—he + said steadily but sternly, “Keep cool, young man—no running among + their knives while they are four. Strike across me and I shall guard you + till we have thinned.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you?” said Black Will, “here, pals!” The four assailants came + together like a fan for a moment and took a whisper from their leader. + They then spread out like a fan and began to encircle their antagonists, + so as to attack on both sides at once. + </p> + <p> + “Back to the water, George,” cried Robinson quickly, “to the broad part + here.” Robinson calculated that the stream would protect his rear, and + that safe he was content to wait and profit by the slightest error of his + numerous assailants; this, however, was to a certain degree a + miscalculation, for the huge ruffian we have called Jem sprang boldly + across the stream higher up and prepared to attack the men behind, the + moment they should be engaged with his comrades. The others no sooner saw + him in position than they rushed desperately upon George and Robinson in + the form of a crescent, and as they came on Jem came flying knife in hand + to plunge it into Robinson's back. As the front assailants neared them, + true to his promise, Robinson fired across George, and the outside man + received a bullet in his shoulder-blade, and turning round like a top fell + upon his knees. Unluckily George wasted a blow at this man which sung idly + over him, he dropping his head and losing his knife and his powers at the + very moment. By this means Robinson, the moment he had fired his pistol, + had no less than three assailants; one of these George struck behind the + neck so furiously with a back-handed stroke of his iron-shod stick that he + fell senseless at Robinson's feet. The other, met in front by the + revolver, recoiled, but kept Robinson at bay while Jem sprang on him from + the rear. This attack was the most dangerous of all; in fact, neither + Robinson nor George had time to defend themselves against him even if they + had seen him, which they did not. Now as Jem was in the very act of making + his spring from the other side of the brook, a spear glanced like a streak + of light past the principal combatants and pierced Jem through and through + the fleshy part of the thigh, and there stood Jacky at forty yards' + distance, with the hand still raised from which the spear had flown, and + his emu-like eye glittering with the light of battle. + </p> + <p> + Jem, instead of bounding clear over the stream, fell heavily into the + middle of it and lay writhing and floundering at George's mercy, who + turning in alarm at the sound stood over him with his long deadly staff + whirling and swinging round his head in the air, while Robinson placed one + foot firmly on the stunned man's right arm and threatened the leader Black + Will with his pistol, and at the same moment with a wild and piercing yell + Jacky came down in leaps like a kangaroo, his tomahawk flourished over his + head, his features entirely changed, and the thirst of blood written upon + every inch of him. Black Will was preparing to run away and leave his + wounded companions, but at sight of the fleet savage he stood still and + roared out for mercy. “Quarter! quarter!” cried Black Will. + </p> + <p> + “Down on your knees!” cried Robinson in a terrible voice. + </p> + <p> + The man fell on his knees, and in that posture Jacky would certainly have + knocked out his brains but that Robinson pointed the pistol at his head + and forbade him; and Carlo, who had arrived hastily at the sound of + battle, in great excitement but not with clear ideas, seeing Jacky, whom + he always looked on as a wild animal, opposed in some way to Robinson, + seized him directly by the leg from behind and held him howling in a vise. + “Hold your cursed noise, all of you,” roared Robinson. “D'ye ask quarter?” + </p> + <p> + “Quarter!” cried Black Will. + </p> + <p> + “Quarter!” gurgled Jem. + </p> + <p> + “Quarter!” echoed more faintly the wounded man. The other was insensible. + </p> + <p> + “Then throw me your knives.” + </p> + <p> + The men hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “Throw me them this instant, or—” + </p> + <p> + They threw down their knives. + </p> + <p> + “George, take them and tie them up in your wipe.” George took the knives + and tied them up. + </p> + <p> + “Now pull that big brute out of the water or he'll drown himself.” George + and Jacky pulled Jem out of the water with the spear sticking in him; the + water was discolored with his blood. + </p> + <p> + “Pull the spear out of him!” George pulled and Jem roared with pain, but + the spear-head would not come back through the wound; then Jacky came up + and broke the light shaft off close to the skin, and grasping the head + drew the remainder through the wound forward, and grinned with a sense of + superior wisdom. + </p> + <p> + By this time the man whom George had felled sat up on his beam ends + winking and blinking and confused, like a great owl at sunrise. + </p> + <p> + Then Robinson, who had never lost his presence of mind, and had now + recovered his sang-froid, made all four captives sit around together on + the ground in one little lot, “While I show you the error of your ways,” + said he. “I could forgive a rascal but I hate a fool. You thought to keep + such a secret as this all to yourselves—you dunces—the very + birds in the air would carry it; it never was kept secret in any land and + never will. And you would spill blood sooner than your betters should know + it—ye ninny-cumpoops! What the worse are you for our knowing it? If + a thousand knew it to-day would that lower the price of gold a penny an + ounce? No! All the harm they could do you would be this, that some of them + would show you where it lies thickest, and then you'd profit by it. You + had better tie that leg of yours up; you have lost blood enough I should + say by the look of you; haven't you got a wipe? here, take mine—you + deserve it, don't you? No man's luck hurts his neighbor at this work; how + clever you were, you have just pitched on the unlikeliest place in the + whole gulley, and you wanted to kill the man that would have taught you + which are the likelier ones. I shall find ten times as much gold before + the sun sets as you will find in a week by the side of that stream; why, + it hasn't been running above a thousand years or two, I should say, by the + look of it; you have got plenty to learn, you bloody-minded greenhorns! + Now I'll tell you what it is,” continued Robinson, getting angry about it, + “since you are for keeping dark what little you know, I'll keep you dark; + and in ten minutes my pal here and the very nigger shall know more about + gold-finding than you know, so be off, for I'm going to work. Come, + march!” + </p> + <p> + “Where are we to go, mate?” said the leader sullenly. + </p> + <p> + “Do you see that ridge about three miles west? well, if we catch you on + this side of it we will hang you like wild cats. On the other side of it + do what you like, and try all you know; but this gully belongs to us now; + you wanted to take something from us that did not belong to you—our + blood—so now we take something from you that didn't belong to us a + minute or two ago. Come, mizzle, and no more words, or—” and he + pointed the tail of his discourse with his revolver. + </p> + <p> + The men rose, and with sullen, rueful, downcast looks moved off in the + direction of the boundary; but one remained behind, the man was Jem. + </p> + <p> + “Well!” + </p> + <p> + “Captain, I wish you would let me join in with you!” + </p> + <p> + “What for?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, captain, you've lent me your wipe, and I think a deal of it, for + it's what I did not deserve; but that is not all. You are the best man, + and I like to be under the best man if I must be under anybody.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson hesitated a moment. “Come here,” said he. The man came and + fronted him. “Look me in the face! now give me your hand—quick, no + thinking about how.” The man gave him his hand readily. Robinson looked + into his eyes. “What is your name?” + </p> + <p> + “Jem.” + </p> + <p> + “Jem, we take you on trial.” + </p> + <p> + Jem's late companions, who perfectly comprehended what was passing, turned + and hooted the deserter; Jem, whose ideas of repartee were primitive, + turned and hooted them in reply. + </p> + <p> + While the men were retreating Robinson walked thoughtfully with his hands + behind him, backward and forward, like a great admiral on his quarter deck—enemy + to leeward. Every eye was upon him and watched him in respectful, + inquiring silence. “Knowledge is power;” this was the man now, the rest + children. + </p> + <p> + “What tools have you?” + </p> + <p> + “There is a spade and trowel in that bush, captain.” + </p> + <p> + “Fetch them, George. Hadn't you a pan?” + </p> + <p> + “No, captain; we used a calabash. He will find it lower down.” + </p> + <p> + George, after a little search, found all these objects, and brought them + back. “Now,” cried Robinson, “these greenhorns have been washing in a + stream that runs now, but perhaps in the days of Noah was not a river at + all; but you look at the old bed of a stream down out there. That was a + much stronger stream than this in its day, and it ran for more than a + hundred thousand years before it dried up.” + </p> + <p> + “How can you tell that?” said George, resuming some of his incredulity. + </p> + <p> + “Look at those monstrous stones in it here, there and everywhere. It has + been a powerful stream to carry such masses with it as that, and it has + been running many thousand years, for see how deep it has eaten into its + rocky sides here and there. That was a river, my lads, and washed gold + down for hundreds of thousands of years before ever Adam stood on the + earth.” + </p> + <p> + The men gave a hurrah, and George and Jacky prepared to run and find the + treasure. “Stop,” cried Robinson, “you are not at the gold yet. Can you + tell in what parts of the channel it lies thick and where there isn't + enough to pay the labor of washing it? Well, I can—look at that bend + where the round pebbles are collected so; there was a strong eddy there. + Well, under the ridge of that eddy is ten times as much gold lying as in + the level parts. Stop a bit again. Do you know how deep or how shallow it + lies—do you think you can find it by the eye? Do you know what clays + it sinks through, as if they were a sieve, and what stops it like an iron + door? Your quickest way is to take Captain Robinson's time—and that + is now.” + </p> + <p> + He snatched the spade, and giving full vent to the ardor he had so long + suppressed with difficulty, plunged down a little declivity that led to + the ancient stream, and drove his spade into its shingle, the debris of + centuries of centuries. George sprang after him, his eyes gleaming with + hope and agitation; the black followed in wonder and excitement, and the + wounded Jem limped last, and, unable through weakness to work, seated + himself with glowing eyes upon that ancient river's bank. + </p> + <p> + “Away with all this gravel and shingle—these are all newcomers—the + real bed of the stream is below all this, and we must go down to that.” + </p> + <p> + Trowel and spade and tomahawk went furiously to work, and soon cleared + away the gravel from a surface of three or four feet. + </p> + <p> + Beneath this they found a bed of gray clay. + </p> + <p> + “Let us wash that, captain,” said Jem eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “No! Jem,” was the reply; “that is the way novices waste their time. This + gray clay is porous, too porous to hold gold—we must go deeper.” + </p> + <p> + Tomahawk, spade and trowel went furiously to work again. + </p> + <p> + “Give me the spade,” said George, and he dug and shoveled out with + herculean strength and amazing ardor; his rheumatism was gone and nerves + came back from that very hour. “Here is a white clay.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me see it. Pipe-clay! go no deeper, George; if you were to dig a + hundred feet you would not find an ounce of gold below that.” + </p> + <p> + George rested on his spade. “What are we to do, then? try somewhere else?” + </p> + <p> + “Not till we have tried here first.” + </p> + <p> + “But you say there is nothing below this pipe-clay.” + </p> + <p> + “No more there is.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then.” + </p> + <p> + “But I don't say there is nothing above it!!!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but there is nothing much above it except the gray, without 'tis + this small streak of brownish clay; but that is not an inch thick.” + </p> + <p> + “George! in that inch lies all the gold we are likely to find; if it is + not there we have only to go elsewhere. Now while I get water you stick + your spade in and cut the brown clay away from the white it lies on. Don't + leave a spot of the brown sticking to the white—the lower part of + the brown clay is the likeliest.” + </p> + <p> + A shower having fallen the day before, Robinson found water in a hole not + far distant. He filled his calabash and returned; meantime George and + Jacky had got together nearly a barrowful of the brown or rather + chocolate-colored clay, mixed slightly with the upper and lower strata, + the gray and white. + </p> + <p> + “I want yon calabash and George's as well.” Robinson filled George's + calabash two-thirds full of the stuff, and pouring some water upon it, + said good-naturedly to Jem, “There—you may do the first washing, if + you like.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, captain,” said Jem, who proceeded instantly to stir and + dissolve the clay and pour it carefully away as it dissolved. Jacky was + sent for more water, and this, when used as described, had left the clay + reduced to about one-sixth of its original bulk. + </p> + <p> + “Now, captain,” cried Jem in great excitement. + </p> + <p> + “No, it's not now, captain, yet,” said Robinson; “is that the way you do + pan-washing?” + </p> + <p> + He then took the calabash from Jem, and gave him Jacky's calabash + two-thirds full of clay to treat like the other, and this being done he + emptied the dry remains of one calabash into the other, and gave Jem a + third lot to treat likewise. This done, you will observe he had in one + calabash the results of three first washings. But now he trusted Jem no + longer. He took the calabash and said, “You look faint, you are not fit to + work; besides you have not got the right twist of the hand yet, my lad. + Pour for me, George.” Robinson stirred and began to dissolve the three + remainders, and every now and then with an artful turn of the hand he sent + a portion of the muddy liquid out of the vessel. At the end of this + washing there remained scarce more than a good handful of clay at the + bottom. More water was poured on this. “Now,” said Robinson, “we shall + know this time, and if you see but one spot of yellow among it, we are all + gentlemen and men of fortune.” + </p> + <p> + He dissolved the clay, and twisted and turned the vessel with great + dexterity, and presently the whole of the clay was liquefied. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said Robinson, “all your eyes upon it, and if I spill anything I + ought to keep—you tell me.” He said this conceitedly but with + evident agitation. He was now pouring away the dirty water with the utmost + care, so that anything, however small, that might be heavier than clay + should remain behind. Presently he paused and drew a long breath. He + feared to decide so great a question. It was but for a moment; he began + again to pour the dirty water away very slowly and carefully. Every eye + was diving into the vessel. There was a dead silence! + </p> + <p> + Robinson poured with great care. There was now little more than a + wine-glassful left. + </p> + <h3> + DEAD SILENCE! + </h3> + <p> + Suddenly a tremendous cry broke from all these silent figures at the same + instant. A cry! it was a yell. I don't know what to compare it to. But + imagine that a score of wolves had hunted a horse for two centuries up and + down, round and round, sometimes losing a yard, sometimes gaining one on + him, and at last, after a thousand disappointments and fierce alternations + of hope and despair, the horse had suddenly stumbled and the wild gluttons + had pounced on him at last. Such a fierce yell of triumph burst from four + human bosoms now. + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah! we are the greatest men above ground. If a hundred emperors and + kings died to-day, their places could be filled to-morrow; but the world + could not do without us and our find. We are gentlemen—we are + noblemen—we are whatever we like to be. Hurrah!” cried Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah!” cried George, “I see my Susan's eyes in you, you beauty.” + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah!” whined Jem feebly, “let me see how much there is,” and clutching + the calabash he fainted at that moment from loss of blood and fell forward + insensible, his face in the vessel that held the gold, and his hands + grasping it so tight that great force had to be used to separate them. + </p> + <p> + They lifted Jem and set him up again, and sprinkled water in his face. The + man's thick lip was cut by the side of the vessel, and more than one drop + of blood had trickled down its sides and mingled with the gold-dust. + </p> + <p> + No comment was made on this at the time. They were so busy. + </p> + <p> + “There, he's coming to, and we've no time to waste in nursing the sick. + Work!” and they sprang up on to the work again. + </p> + <p> + It was not what you have seen pass for work in Europe, it was men working + themselves for once as they make horses work forever. Work? It was battle; + it was humanity fighting and struggling with Nature for her prime treasure—(so + esteemed). How they dug and scraped, and fought tooth, and spade, and + nail, and trowel, and tomahawk for gold! Their shirts were wet through + with sweat, yet they felt no fatigue. Their trousers were sheets of clay, + yet they suffered no sense of dirt. The wounded man recovered a portion of + his strength, and, thirsting for gold, brought feeble hands but + indomitable ardor to the great cause. They dug, they scraped, they bowed + their backs, and wrought with fury and inspiration unparalleled; and when + the sun began to decline behind the hills these four human mutes felt + injured. They lifted their eyes a moment from the ground, and cast a + fretful look at the great, tranquil luminary. + </p> + <p> + “Are you really going to set this afternoon the same as usual, when we + need your services so?” + </p> + <p> + Would you know why that wolfish yell of triumph? Would you see what sight + so electrified those gloating eyes and panting bosoms? Would you realize + that discovery, which in six months peopled that barren spot with + thousands of men from all the civilized tribes upon earth, and in a few + years must and will make despised Australia a queen among the nations—nations + who must and will come with the best thing they have, wealth, talent, + cunning, song, pencil, pen, tongue, arm, and lay them all at her feet for + this one thing? + </p> + <p> + Would you behold this great discovery the same in appearance and magnitude + as it met the eyes of the first discoverers, picked with a knife from the + bottom of a calabash, separated at last by human art and gravity's great + law from the meaner dust it had lurked in for a million years—Then + turn your eyes hither, for here it is: + </p> + <p> + [Knife handle drawing] + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0053" id="link2HCH0053"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LIII. + </h2> + <p> + MR. MEADOWS dispatched his work in Shropshire twice as fast as he had + calculated, and returned home with two forces battling inside him—love + and prudence. The battle was decided for him. + </p> + <p> + William Fielding's honest but awkward interference had raised in Susan + Merton a desire to separate her sentiments from his by showing Mr. Meadows + a marked respect. She heard of his arrival and instantly sent her father + to welcome him home. Old Merton embraced the commission, for he happened + to need Meadows's advice and assistance. The speculations into which he + had been led by Mr. Clinton, after some fluctuations, wore a gloomy look, + “which could only be temporary,” said that gentleman. Still a great loss + would be incurred by selling out of them at a period of depression, and + Mr. Clinton advised him to borrow a thousand pounds and hold on till + things brightened. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Meadows smiled grimly as the fly came and buzzed all this in his web: + “Dear! dear! what a pity my money is locked up! Go to Lawyer Crawley. Use + my name. He won't refuse my friend, for I could do him an ill turn if I + chose.” + </p> + <p> + “I will. You are a true friend. You will look in and see us, of course, + market-day?” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + Meadows did not resume his visits at Grassmere without some twinges of + conscience and a prudent resolve not to anchor his happiness upon Susan + Merton. “That man might come here any day with his thousand pounds and + take her from me,” said he. “He seems by his letters to be doing well, and + they say any fool can make money in the colonies. Well, if he comes home + respectable and well to do—I'll go out. If I am not to have the only + woman I ever loved or cared for, let thousands and thousands of miles of + sea lie between me and that pair.” But still he wheeled about the flame. + </p> + <p> + Ere long matters took a very different turn. The tone of George's letters + began to change. His repeated losses of bullocks and sheep were all + recorded in his letters to Susan, and these letters were all read with + eager anxiety by Meadows a day before they reached Grassmere. + </p> + <p> + The respectable man did not commit this action without some iron passing + through his own soul—<i>Nemo repente turpissimus.</i> The first + letter he opened it was like picking a lock. He writhed and blushed, and + his uncertain fingers fumbled with another's property as if it had been + red-hot. The next cost him some shame, too, but the next less, and soon + these little spasms of conscience began to be lost in the pleasure the + letters gave him. “It is clear he will never make a thousand pounds out + there, and if he doesn't the old farmer won't give him Susan. Won't? He + shan't! He shall be too deep in my debt to venture on it even if he was + minded.” Meadows exulted over the letters; and as he exulted they stabbed + him, for by the side of the records of his ill fortune the exile never + failed to pour out his love and confidence in his Susan and to acknowledge + the receipt of some dear letter from her, which Meadows could see by + George's must have assured him of undiminished or even increased + affection. + </p> + <p> + Thus did sin lead to sin. By breaking a seal which was not his and reading + letters which were not his, Meadows filled himself with the warmest hopes + of possessing Susan one day, and got to hate George for the stabs the + young man innocently gave him. At last he actually looked on George as a + sort of dog in the manger, who could not make Susan happy, yet would come + between her heart and one who could. All weapons seemed lawful against + such a mere pest as this—a dog in the manger. + </p> + <p> + Meadows started with nothing better nor worse than a commonplace + conscience. A vicious habit is an iron that soon sears that sort of + article. When he had opened and read about four letters, his moral nature + turned stone-blind of one eye. And now he was happier (on the surface) + than he had been ever since he fell in love with Susan. + </p> + <p> + Sure now that one day or another she must be his, he waited patiently, + enjoyed her society twice a week, got everybody into his power, and bided + his time. And one frightful thing in all this was that his love for Susan + was not only a strong but in itself a good love. I mean it was a love + founded on esteem; it was a passionate love, and yet a profound and tender + affection. It was the love which, under different circumstances, has often + weaned men, ay, and women, too, from a frivolous, selfish, and sometimes + from a vicious life. This love Meadows thought and hoped would hallow the + unlawful means by which he must crown it. In fact, he was mixing vice and + virtue. The snow was to whiten the pitch, not the pitch blacken the snow. + Thousands had tried this before him and will try it after him. Oh, that I + could persuade them to mix fire and gunpowder instead! Men would bless me + for this when all else I have written has been long, long forgotten. + </p> + <p> + He felt good all over when he sat with Susan and thought how his means + would enable that angel to satisfy her charitable nature, and win the + prayers of the poor as well as the admiration of the wealthy. “If ever a + woman was cherished she shall be! If ever a woman was happy she shall be!” + And as for him, if he had done wrong to win her, he would more than + compensate it afterward. In short, he had been for more than twenty years + selling, buying, swapping, driving every conceivable earthly bargain—so + now he was proposing one to Heaven. + </p> + <p> + At last came a letter in which George told Susan of the fatal murrain + among his sheep, of his fever that had followed immediately, of the + further losses while he lay ill, and concluded by saying that he had no + right to tie her to his misfortunes, and that he felt it would be more + manly to set her free. + </p> + <p> + When he read this, Meadows' exultation broke all bounds. “Ah ha!” cried + he, “is it come to that at last? Well, he is a fine fellow after all, and + looks at it the sensible way, and if I can do him a good turn in business + I always will.” + </p> + <p> + The next day he called at Grassmere. Susan met him all smiles and was more + cheerful than usual. The watchful man was delighted. “Come, she does not + take it to heart.” He did not guess that Susan had cried for hours and + hours over the letter, and then had sat quietly down and written a letter + and begged George to come home and not add separation to their other + misfortunes; and that it was this decision, and having acted upon it, that + had made her cheerful. Meadows argued in his own favor, and now made sure + to win. The next week he called three times at Grassmere instead of twice, + and asked himself how much longer he must wait before he should speak out. + Prudence said, “A little more patience;” and so he still hid in his bosom + the flame that burned him the deeper for this unnatural smothering. But he + drank deep, silent draughts of love, and reveled in the bright future of + his passion. It was no longer hope, it was certainty. Susan liked him; her + eye brightened at his coming; her father was in his power. There was + nothing between them but the distant shadow of a rival; sooner or later + she must be his. So passed three calm, delicious weeks away. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0054" id="link2HCH0054"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LIV. + </h2> + <h3> + MEADOWS sat one day in his study receiving Crawley's report. + </h3> + <p> + “Old Mr. Merton came yesterday. I made difficulties as instructed. Is to + come to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “He shall have the eight hundred.” + </p> + <p> + “That makes two thousand four hundred; why, his whole stock won't cover + it.” + </p> + <p> + “No!” + </p> + <p> + “Don't understand it, it is too deep for me. What is the old gentleman + doing?” + </p> + <p> + “Hunting Will-o'-the-wisp. Throwing it away in speculations that are + colored bright for him by a man that wants to ruin him.” + </p> + <p> + “Aha!” cackled Crawley. + </p> + <p> + “And do him no harm.” + </p> + <p> + “Augh! How far is it to the bottom of the sea, sir, if you please? I'm + sure you know? Mr. Levi and you.” + </p> + <p> + “Crawley,” said Meadows, suddenly turning the conversation, “the world + calls me close-fisted, have you found me so?” + </p> + <p> + “Liberal as running water, sir. I sometimes say how long will this last + before such a great man breaks Peter Crawley and flings him away and takes + another?” and Crawley sighed. + </p> + <p> + “Then your game is to make yourself necessary to me.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish I could,” said Peter, with mock candor. “Sir,” he crept on, “if + the most ardent zeal, if punctuality, secrecy, and unscrupulous fidelity—” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your gammon! Are we writing a book together! Answer me this in + English. How far dare you go along with me?” + </p> + <p> + “As far as your purse extends: only—” + </p> + <p> + “Only what? Only your thermometer is going down already, I suppose.” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; but what I mean is, I shouldn't like to do anything too bad.” + </p> + <p> + “What d'ye mean by too bad?” + </p> + <p> + “Punishable by law.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not your conscience you fear, then?” asked the other gloomily. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, dear, no, sir, only the law.” + </p> + <p> + “I envy you. There is but one crime punishable by law, and that I shall + never counsel you to.” + </p> + <p> + “Only one—too deep, sir, too deep. Which is that?” + </p> + <p> + “The crime of getting found out.” + </p> + <p> + “What a great man! how far would I go with you? To the end of the earth. I + have but one regret, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And what is that?” + </p> + <p> + “That I am not thought worthy of your confidence. That after so many years + I am still only a too—I mean an honored instrument, and not a humble + friend.” + </p> + <p> + “Crawley,” said Meadows, solemnly, “let well alone. Don't ask my + confidence, for I am often tempted to give it you, and that would be all + one as if I put the blade of a razor in your naked hand.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't care, sir! You are up to some game as deep as a coal-pit; and I + go on working and working all in the dark. I'd give anything to be in your + confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “Anything is nothing; put it in figures,” sneered Meadows, incredulously. + </p> + <p> + “I'll give twenty per cent off all you give me if you will let me see the + bottom.” + </p> + <p> + “The bottom?” + </p> + <p> + “The reason, sir—the motive!—the why!—the wherefore—the + what it is all to end in. The bottom!” + </p> + <p> + “Why not say you would like to read John Meadows' heart?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't be angry, sir; it is presumption, but I can't help it. Deduct + twenty per cent for so great a honor.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, the fool is in earnest.” + </p> + <p> + “He is; we have all got our little vanity, and like to be thought worthy + of confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “Humph!” + </p> + <p> + “And then I can't sleep for puzzling. Why should you stop every letter + that comes here from Australia. Oh, bless me, how neglectful I am; here is + a letter from there, just come. To think of me bringing it, and then + forgetting.” + </p> + <p> + “Give it me, directly.” + </p> + <p> + “There it is. And then, why on earth are we ruining old Mr. Merton without + benefiting you? and you seem so friendly with him; and indeed, you say he + is not to be harmed—only ruined; it makes my head ache. Why, what is + the matter, Mr. Meadows, sir? What is wrong? No ill news, I hope. I wish + I'd never brought the letter.” + </p> + <p> + “That will do, Crawley,” said Meadows, faintly, “you may go.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley rose with a puzzled air. + </p> + <p> + “Come here to-morrow evening at nine o'clock, and you shall have your + wish. All the worse for you,” added he, moodily. “All the worse for me. + Now go, without one word.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley retired dumfounded. He saw the iron man had received some strange, + unexpected and terrible blow; but for a moment awe suppressed curiosity, + and he went off on tiptoe, saying almost in a whisper, “To-morrow night at + nine, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows spread George's letter on the table and leaned on his two hands + over it. + </p> + <p> + The letter was written some weeks after the last desponding one. It was + full of modest, but warm and buoyant exultation. Heaven had been very good + to Susan and him. Robinson had discovered gold; gold in such abundance and + quality as beat even California. The thousand pounds, so late despaired + of, was now a certainty. Six months' work, with average good fortune, + would do it. Robinson said five thousand apiece was the least they ought + to bring home; but how could he (George) wait so long as that would take! + “And, Susan, dear, if anything could make this wonderful luck sweeter, it + is to think that I owe it to you and to your goodness. It was you that + gave Tom the letter, and bade me be kind to him, and keep him by me for + his good; he has repaid me by making us two man and wife, please God. See + what a web life is! Tom and I often talk of this. But Tom says it is + Parson Eden I have to thank for it, and the lessons he learned in the + prison; but I tell him if he goes so far back as that, he should go + farther, and thank Farmer Meadows, for he it was that sent Tom to the + prison, where he was converted, and became as honest a fellow as any in + the world, and a friend to your George as true as steel.” + </p> + <p> + The letter concluded as it began, with thanks to Heaven, and bidding Susan + expect his happy return in six months after this letter. In short, the + letter was one “Hurrah!” tempered with simple piety and love. + </p> + <p> + Meadows turned cold as death in reading it. At the part where Farmer + Meadows was referred to as the first link in the golden chain, he dashed + it to the ground and raised his foot to trample on it, but forbore lest he + should dirty a thing that must go to Susan. + </p> + <p> + Then he walked the room in great agitation. + </p> + <p> + “Too late, George Fielding,” he cried aloud—“too late; I can't shift + my heart like a weathercock to suit the changes in your luck. You have + been feeding me with hopes till I can't live without them. I never longed + for a thing yet but what I got it, and I'll have this though I trample a + hundred George Fieldings dead on my way to it. Now let me think.” + </p> + <p> + He pondered deeply, his great brows knitted and lowered. For full half an + hour invention and resource poured scheme after scheme through that + teeming brain, and prudence and knowledge of the world sat in severe and + cool judgment on each in turn, and dismissed the visionary ones. At last + the deep brow began to relax, and the eye to kindle; and when he rose to + ring the bell his face was a sign-post with Eureka written on it in + Nature's vivid handwriting. In that hour he had hatched a plot worthy of + Machiavel—-a plot complex yet clear. A servant-girl answered the + bell. + </p> + <p> + “Tell David to saddle Rachel directly.” + </p> + <p> + And in five minutes Mr. Meadows, with a shirt, a razor, a comb, and a map + of Australia, was galloping by cross lanes to the nearest railway station. + There he telegraphed Mr. Clinton to meet him at Peel's Coffee-House at two + o'clock. The message flashed up to town like lightning. The man followed + it slowly like the wind. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0055" id="link2HCH0055"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LV. + </h2> + <p> + MEADOWS found Mr. Clinton at Peel's. “Mr. Clinton, I want a man of + intelligence to be at my service for twenty-four hours. I give you the + first offer.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Clinton replied that really he had so many irons in the fire that + twenty-four hours— + </p> + <p> + Meadows put a fifty-pound note on the table. + </p> + <p> + “Will all your irons iron you out fifty pounds as flat as that?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, hem?” + </p> + <p> + “No, nor five. Come, sir, sharp is the word. Can you be my servant for + twenty-four hours for fifty pounds? yes or no!” + </p> + <p> + “Why, this is dramatic—yes!” + </p> + <p> + “It is half-past two. Between this and four o'clock I must buy a few + hundred acres in Australia, a fair bargain.” + </p> + <p> + “Humph! Well, that can be done. I know an old fellow that has land in + every part of the globe.” + </p> + <p> + “Take me to him.” + </p> + <p> + In ten minutes they were in one of those dingy, narrow alleys in the city + of London, that look the abode of decent poverty, and they could afford to + buy Grosvenor Square for their stables; and Mr. Clinton introduced his + friend to a blear-eyed merchant in a large room papered with maps; the + windows were incrusted; mustard and cress might have been grown from them. + Beauty in clean linen collar and wristbands would have shown here with + intolerable luster; but the blear-eyed merchant did not come out bright by + contrast; he had taken the local color. You could see him and that was + all. He was like a partridge in a furrow. A snuff-colored man; coat rusty + all but the collar, and that greasy; poor as its color was, his linen had + thought it worth emulating; blackish nails, cotton wipe, little bald place + on head, but didn't shine for the same reason the windows didn't. Mr. + Clinton approached this “dhirrrty money,” this rusty coin, in the spirit + of flunkyish. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said he, in a low reverential tone, “this party is disposed to + purchase a few hundred acres in the colonies.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rich looked up from his desk and pointed with a sweep of his pen to + the walls. + </p> + <p> + “There are the maps; the red crosses are my land. They are numbered. Refer + to the margin of map, and you will find the acres and the latitude and + longitude calculated to a fraction. When you have settled in what part of + the world you buy, come to me again; time is gold.” + </p> + <p> + And the blear-eyed merchant wrote and sealed and filed and took no notice + of his customers. They found red crosses in several of the United States, + in Canada, in Borneo, in nearly all the colonies, and as luck would have + it they found one small cross within thirty miles of Bathurst, and the + margin described it as five hundred acres. Mr. Meadows stepped toward the + desk. + </p> + <p> + “I have found a small property near Bathurst.” + </p> + <p> + “Bathurst? where is that?” + </p> + <p> + “In Australia.” + </p> + <p> + “Suit?” + </p> + <p> + “If the price suits. What is the price, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “The books must tell us that.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rich stretched out his arm and seized a ledger, and gave it Meadows. + </p> + <p> + “I have but one price for land, and that is five per cent profit on my + outlay. Book will tell you what it stands me in, you can add five per cent + to that, and take the land away or leave it.” + </p> + <p> + With this curt explanation, Mr. Rich resumed his work. + </p> + <p> + “It seems you gave five shillings an acre, sir,” said Mr. Clinton. “Five + times five hundred shillings, one hundred and twenty-five pounds. Interest + at five per cent, six pounds five.” + </p> + <p> + “When did I buy it?” asked Mr. Rich. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, when did you buy it, sir?” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Rich snatched the book a little pettishly, and gave it to Meadows. + </p> + <p> + “You make the calculation,” said he; “the figures are all there. Come to + me when you have made it.” + </p> + <p> + The land had been bought twenty-seven years and some months ago. Mr. + Meadows made the calculation in a turn of the hand and announced it. Rich + rang a hand bell. Another snuffy figure with a stoop and a bald head and a + pen came through a curtain. + </p> + <p> + “Jones, verify that calculation.” + </p> + <p> + “Penny, halfpenny, twopence, penny, halfpenny, twopence. Mum, mum! + Halfpenny wrong, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “There is a halfpenny wrong!” cried Mr. Rich to Meadows, with a most + injured air. + </p> + <p> + “There is, sir,” said Meadows, “but it is on the right side for you. I + thought I would make it even money against myself.” + </p> + <p> + “There are only two ways, wrong and right,” was the reply. “Jones, make it + right. There, that is the price for the next half hour; after business + hours to-day add a day's interest; and, Jones—if he does not buy, + write your calculation into the book with date—save time, next + customer comes for it.” + </p> + <p> + “You need not trouble, Mr. Jones,” said Meadows. “I take the land. Here is + two hundred and fifty pounds—that is rather more than half the + purchase-money. + </p> + <p> + “Jones—count.” + </p> + <p> + “When can I have the deeds?” + </p> + <p> + “Ten, to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Receipt for two hundred and fifty pounds,” said Meadows, falling into the + other's key. + </p> + <p> + “Jones, write receipt—two five naught.” + </p> + <p> + “Write me an agreement to sell,” proposed Meadows. + </p> + <p> + “No, you write it; I'll sign it. Jones, enter transaction in the books. + Have you anything to do, young gentleman?” addressing Clinton. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Then draw this pen through the two crosses on the map and margin. Good + morning, gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + And the money-making machine rose and dismissed them, as he had received + them, with a short, sharp business <i>conge'.</i> + </p> + <p> + Ye fair, who turn a shop head over heels, maul sixty yards of ribbon and + buy six, which being sent home insatiable becomes your desire to change it + for other six which you had fairly, closely, and with all the powers of + your mind compared with it during the seventy minutes the purchase + occupied, let me respectfully inform you that the above business took just + eight minutes, and that “when it was done, 'twas done.” (Shakespeare.) + </p> + <p> + “You have given too much, my friend,” said Mr. Clinton. + </p> + <p> + “Come to my inn,” was all the reply. “This is the easy part, the game is + behind.” + </p> + <p> + After dinner. “Now,” said Meadows, “business. Do you know any respectable + firm disposed toward speculation in mines?” + </p> + <p> + “Plenty.” + </p> + <p> + “Any that are looking toward gold?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, no. Gold is a metal that ranks very low in speculation. Stop! yes, I + know one tip-top house that has gone a little way in it, but they have + burned their fingers, so they will go no farther.” + </p> + <p> + “You are wrong; they will be eager to go on—first to recover the + loss on that article of account, and next to show their enemies, and in + particular such of them as are their friends, that they didn't blunder. + You will go to them to-morrow and ask if they can allow you a commission + for bringing them an Australian settler on whose land gold has been + found.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, my good sir,” began Mr. Clinton, a little superciliously, “that is + not the way to gain the ear of such a firm as that. The better way will be + for you to show me your whole design and leave me to devise the best means + for carrying it into effect.” + </p> + <p> + Up to this moment Meadows had treated Mr. Clinton with a marked deference, + as from yeoman to gentleman. The latter, therefore, was not a little + surprised when the other turned sharp on him thus: + </p> + <p> + “This won't do; we must understand one another. You think you are the man + of talent and I am the clodhopper. Think so to-morrow night; but for the + next twenty-four hours you must keep that notion out of your head or you + will bitch my schemes and lose your fifty pounds. Look here, sir. You + began life with ten thousand pounds; you have been all your life trying + all you know to double it—and where is it? The pounds are pence and + the pence on the road to farthings. I started with a whip and a + smock-frock, and this,” touching his head, “and I have fifty thousand + pounds in government securities. Which is the able man of these two—the + bankrupt that talks like an angel and loses the game, or the wise man that + quietly wins it and pockets what all the earth are grappling with him for? + So much for that. And now which is master, the one who pays or the one who + is paid? I am not a liberal man, sir; I am a man that looks at every + penny. I don't give fifty pounds. I sell it. That fifty pounds is the + price of your vanity for twenty-four hours. I take a day's loan of it. You + are paid fifty pounds per diem to see that there is more brains in my + little finger than in all your carcass. See it for twenty-four hours or I + won't fork out, or don't see it but obey me as if you did see it. You + shan't utter a syllable or move an inch that I have not set down for you. + Is this too hard? then accept ten pounds for to-day's work, and let us + part before you bungle your master's game as you have done your own.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Clinton was red with mortified vanity, but forty pounds! He threw + himself back in his chair. + </p> + <p> + “This is amusing,” said he. “Well, sir, I will act as if you were Solomon + and I nobody. Of course under these circumstances no responsibility rests + with me.” + </p> + <p> + “You are wasting my time with your silly prattle,” said Meadows, very + sternly. “Man alive! you never made fifty pounds cash since you were + calved. It comes to your hand to-day, and even then you must chatter and + jaw instead of saying yes and closing your fingers on it like a vise.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” shouted Clinton; “there.” + </p> + <p> + “Take that quire,” said Meadows, sharply. “Now I'll dictate the very words + you are to say; learn them off by heart and don't add a syllable or + subtract one or—no fifty pounds.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows being a general by nature (not Horse-Guards) gave Clinton + instructions down to the minutest matters of detail, and he whose life had + been spent in proving he would succeed—and failing—began to + suspect the man who had always succeeded might perhaps have had something + to do with his success. + </p> + <p> + Next morning, well primed by Meadows, Mr. Clinton presented himself to + Messrs. Brathwaite & Stevens and requested a private audience. He + inquired whether they were disposed to allow him a commission if he would + introduce them to an Australian settler on whose land gold had been + discovered. + </p> + <p> + The two members of the firm looked at one another. After a pause one of + them said: + </p> + <p> + “Commission really must depend on how such a thing turned out. They had + little confidence in such statements, but would see the settler and put + some questions to him.” + </p> + <p> + Clinton went out and introduced Meadows. This happened just as Meadows had + told him it would. Outside the door Mr. Meadows suddenly put on a rustic + carriage and so came in and imitated natural shyness with great skill; he + had to be twice asked to sit down. + </p> + <p> + The firm cross-examined him. He told them gold had been discovered within + a stone's throw of his land, thirty miles from Bathurst; that his friends + out there had said go home to England and they will give you a heavy price + for your land now; that he did hope to get a heavy price, and so be able + to live at home—didn't want to go out there again; that the land was + worth money—for there was no more to be sold in that part; + government land all round and they wouldn't sell, for he had tried them + (his sharp eye had seen this fact marked on Mr. Rich's map). + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said the senior partner, “we have information that gold has been + discovered in that district; the report came here two days ago by the <i>Anne + Amelia.</i> But the account is not distinct as yet. We do not hear on + whose land it is found if at all. I presume you have not seen gold found.” + </p> + <p> + “Could I afford to leave my business out there and come home—on a + speculation?” + </p> + <p> + The eyes of the firm began to glitter. + </p> + <p> + “Have you got any gold to show us?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing to speak of, sir; only what they chucked me for giving them a + good dinner. But they are shoveling it about like grains of wheat, I + assure you.” + </p> + <p> + The firm became impatient. + </p> + <p> + “Show us what they gave you as the price of a dinner?” + </p> + <p> + Meadows dug into a deep pocket, and chased into a corner, and caught, and + produced a little nugget of quartz and gold worth about four pounds, also + another of somewhat less value. + </p> + <p> + “They don't look handsome, gents,” said he, “but you may see the stuff + glitter here and there; and here is some of the dust. I had to buy this; + gave them fifty shillings an ounce for it. I wish I had bought a + hundred-weight, for they tell me it is worth three pound ten here.” + </p> + <p> + “May we inspect these specimens?” + </p> + <p> + “Why not, sir? I'll trust it with you. I wouldn't with everybody, though.” + </p> + <p> + The partners retired with the gold, tested it with muriatic acid, weighed + it, and after a short, excited interview one of them brought it back and + asked with great nonchalance the price of the land. + </p> + <p> + Meadows hung his head. + </p> + <p> + “Twenty thousand pounds.” + </p> + <p> + “Twenty thousand pounds!” and the partner laughed in his face. + </p> + <p> + “I don't wonder you are surprised, sir. I wonder at myself asking so much. + Why, before this, if you had offered me five thousand, I would have jumped + into your arms, as the saying is; but they all say I ought to have twenty + thousand, and they have talked to me till they make me greedy.” + </p> + <p> + The partner retired and consulted, and the firm ended by offering ten + thousand. + </p> + <p> + “I am right down ashamed to say no,” was the answer, “but I suppose I must + not take it.” + </p> + <p> + The firm undertook to prove it was a magnificent offer. Meadows offered no + resistance, he thought so too; but he must not take it, everybody told him + it was worth more. At last, when his hand was on the door, they offered + him twelve thousand five hundred. + </p> + <p> + He begged to consider it. + </p> + <p> + No! they were peremptory. If he was off, they were off. + </p> + <p> + He looked this way and that way with a frightened air. + </p> + <p> + “What shall I do, sir?” said he, helplessly, to Clinton, and nudged him + secretly. + </p> + <p> + “Take it, and think yourself very lucky,” said that gentleman, exchanging + a glance with the firm. + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, if you say so, I will. You shall have it, gentlemen, five + hundred acres in two lots—400 and 100.” + </p> + <p> + Clinton, acting on his secret instructions, now sought a private interview + with the firm. + </p> + <p> + “I am to have a commission, gentlemen?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! fifty pounds; but, really, we can hardly afford it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, as you give me an interest in it, I say—pin him.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you see he is one of those soft fellows who listen to everybody. If + he goes away, and they laugh at him for not getting more for it, I really + could hardly answer for his ever coming back here.” + </p> + <p> + The firm came in cheerfully. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. —— Mr.” + </p> + <p> + “Not Mr., sir. Crawley—plain John Crawley.” + </p> + <p> + “We will terminate this affair with you. We will have a contract of sale + drawn up and make you an advance. When can you give us the title deeds?” + </p> + <p> + “In a couple of hours, if the lawyer is at home.” + </p> + <p> + “By the by, you will not object to draw upon us at three months for one + half of the money?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir. I should say by the look of you you were as good as the bank.” + </p> + <p> + “The other half by check in two hours.” The parties signed the contract + respectively. + </p> + <p> + Then Meadows and Clinton went off to the Five-per-Center, completed with + him, got the title deeds, brought them, received check and accepted draft. + Clinton, by Meadows' advice, went in and dunned for his commission then + and there, and got it, and the confederates went off and took a hasty + dinner together. After dinner they settled. + </p> + <p> + “As you showed me how to get this commission out of them, it belongs to + you,” said Clinton, sorrowfully. + </p> + <p> + “It does, sir. Give it to me. I return it to you, sir; do me the favor to + accept it.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very generous, Mr. Meadows.” + </p> + <p> + “And here is the other fifty you have earned.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, my good sir. Are you satisfied with the day's work?” + </p> + <p> + “Amply, sir. Your skill and ingenuity brought us through triumphant,” said + Meadows, resuming the deferential, since he risked nothing by it now. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I think I managed it pretty well. By the by, that gold you showed + them, was it really gold?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! because I thought—” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, you did not. A man of your ability knows I would not risk ten + thousand pounds for want of a purchase I could not lose ten shillings by + ——. Ore is not a fancy article.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! ah! yes, very true; no, of course not. One question more. Where did + the gold come from?” + </p> + <p> + “California.” + </p> + <p> + “But, I mean, how did you get it?” + </p> + <p> + “I bought it out of a shop window those two knowing ones pass twice every + day of their lives.” + </p> + <p> + “Ha! ha! ha!” + </p> + <p> + “You pass it oftener than that, sir. Excuse me, sir; I must catch the + train. But one word before I go. My name must never be mentioned in this + business.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well; it never shall transpire, upon my honor.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows felt pretty safe. As he put on his greatcoat he thought to + himself: “When the story is blown and laughed over, this man's vanity will + keep my name out of it. He won't miss a chance of telling the world how + clever he is. My game is to pass for honest, not for clever, no, thank + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Good-by, sir,” was his last word. “It is you for hoodwinking them.” + </p> + <p> + “Ha! ha! ha! Good-by, farmer.” (In a patronizing tone.) + </p> + <p> + Soon after this, Meadows was in a corner of a railway-carriage, twelve + thousand four hundred and fifty pounds in his pocket, and the second part + of his great complex scheme boiling and bubbling in his massive head. + There he sat silent as the grave, his hat drawn over his powerful brows + that were knitted all the journey by one who never knitted them in vain. + </p> + <p> + He reached home at eight and sat down to his desk and wrote for more than + half an hour. Then he sealed up the paper, and when Crawley came he found + him walking up and down the room. At a silent gesture Crawley took a chair + and sat quivering with curiosity. Meadows walked in deep thought. + </p> + <p> + “You demanded my confidence. It is a dangerous secret, for once you know + it you must serve me with red-hot zeal, or be my enemy and be crushed out + of life like a blind-worm, or an adder, Peter Crawley.” + </p> + <p> + “I know that, dear sir,” assented Peter, ruefully. + </p> + <p> + “First, how far have you guessed?” + </p> + <p> + “I guess Mr. Levi is somehow against us.” + </p> + <p> + “He is,” replied Meadows, carelessly. + </p> + <p> + “Then that is a bad job. He will beat us. He is as cunning as a fox.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows looked up contemptuously; but as he could not afford to let such a + sneak as Crawley think him anything short of invincible, he said coolly, + “He is, and I have measured cunning with a fox.” + </p> + <p> + “You have? That must have been a tight match.” + </p> + <p> + “A fox used to take my chickens one hard winter; an old fox cautious and + sly as the Jew you rate so high. The men sat up with guns for him—no; + a keeper set traps in a triangle for him—no. He had the eye of a + hawk, the ear of a hare, and his own nose. He would have the chickens, and + he would not get himself into trouble. The women complained to me of the + fox. I turned a ferret loose into the rabbit-hutch, and in half a minute + there was as nice a young rabbit dead as ever you saw.” + </p> + <p> + “Lookee there now,” cried Crawley. + </p> + <p> + “I choked the ferret off, but never touched the rabbit. I took the rabbit + with a pair of tongs; the others had handled their baits and pug crept + round 'em and nosed the trick. I poured twenty drops of croton oil into + the little hole ferret had made in bunny's head, and I dropped him in the + grass near pug's track. Next morning rabbit had been drawn about twenty + yards and the hole in his head was three times as big. Pug went the + nearest way to blood; went in at ferret's hole. I knew he would.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir! yes! yes! yes! and there lay the fox.” + </p> + <p> + “No signs of him. Then I said: 'Go to the nearest water. Croton oil makes + 'em dry.' They went along the brook—and on the very bank there lay + an old dog-fox blown up like bladder, as big as a wolf and as dead as a + herring. Now for the Jew. Look at that;” and he threw him a paper. + </p> + <p> + “Why, this is the judgment on which I arrested Will Fielding, and here is + the acceptance.” + </p> + <p> + “Levi bought them to take the man out of my power. He left them with old + Cohen. I have got them again, you see, and got young Fielding in my power + spite of his foxy friend.” + </p> + <p> + “Capital, sir, capital!” cried the admiring Crawley. He then looked at the + reconquered documents. “Ah!” said he, spitefully, “how I wish I could + alter one of these names, only one!” + </p> + <p> + “What d'ye mean?” + </p> + <p> + “I mean that I'd give fifty pound (if I had it) if it was but that brute + George Fielding that was in our power instead of this fool William.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows opened his eyes: “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because he put an affront upon me,” was the somewhat sulky reply. + </p> + <p> + “What was that?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no matter, sir!” + </p> + <p> + “But it is matter. Tell me. I am that man's enemy.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I am in luck. You are just the enemy I wish him.” + </p> + <p> + “What was the affront?” + </p> + <p> + “He called me a pettifogger.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, is that all?” + </p> + <p> + “No. He discharged me from visiting his premises.” + </p> + <p> + “That was not very polite.” + </p> + <p> + “And threatened to horsewhip me next time I came there.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, is that where the shoe pinches?” + </p> + <p> + “No, it is not!” cried Crawley, almost in a shriek; “but he altered his + mind, and did horsewhip me then and there. Curse him!” + </p> + <p> + Meadows smiled grimly. He saw his advantage. “Crawley,” said he, quickly, + “he shall rue the day he lifted his hand over you. You want to see to the + bottom of me.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mr. Meadows, that is too far for the naked eye to see,” was the + despondent reply. + </p> + <p> + “Not when it suits my book. I am going to keep my promise and show you my + heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” + </p> + <p> + “Listen and hear the secret of my life. Are you listening?” + </p> + <p> + “What do you think, sir?” was the tremulous answer. + </p> + <p> + “I—love—Miss—Merton;” and for once his eyes sank before + Crawley's. + </p> + <p> + “Sir! you—love—a—woman?” + </p> + <p> + “Not as libertines love, nor as boys flirt and pass on. Heaven have mercy + on me, I love her with all my heart and soul and brain! I love her with + more force than such as you can hate!” + </p> + <p> + “The deuce you do!” + </p> + <p> + “I love the sweetheart—of the man—who lashed you—like a + dog.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley winced and rubbed his hands. + </p> + <p> + “And your fortune is made if you help me to win her.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley rubbed his hands. + </p> + <p> + “Old Merton has promised the woman I love to this George Fielding if he + comes back with a thousand pounds.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you be frightened, sir; that he will never do.” + </p> + <p> + “Will he not? Read this letter.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! the letter that put you out so. Let me see—Mum! mum! Found + gold. Pheugh! Pheugh! Pheeeugh!!” + </p> + <p> + “Crawley, most men reading that letter would have given in then and there, + and not fought against such luck as this. I only said to myself, 'Then it + will cost me ten thousand pounds to win the day.' Well, between yesterday + eleven forenoon and this hour I made the ten thousand pounds.” + </p> + <p> + He told him briefly how. + </p> + <p> + “Beautiful, sir! What, did you make the ten thousand out of your own + rival's letter?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I taxed the enemy for the expenses of the war.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mr. Meadows, what a fool, what a villain I was to think Mr. Levi was + as great a man as you! I must have been under a hallucination.” + </p> + <p> + “Crawley, the day that John and Susan Meadows walk out of church man and + wife I put a thousand pounds into your hand and set you up in any business + you like; in any honest business, for from that day our underhand dealings + must end. The husband of that angel must never grind the poor or wrong a + living creature. If Heaven consents to my being happy in this way, the + least I can do is to walk straight and straightforward the rest of my + days, and I will, s'help me God.” + </p> + <p> + “That is fair. I knew you were a great man, but I had no idea you were + such a good one.” + </p> + <p> + “Crawley,” said the other, with a sudden gloomy misgiving, “I am trying to + cheat the devil. I fear no man can do that;” and he hung his head. + </p> + <p> + “No ordinary man, sir,” replied the parasite, “but your skill has no + bounds. Your plan, sir, at once, that I may co-operate and not thwart your + great skill through ignorance.” + </p> + <p> + “My plan has two hands; one must work here, the other a great many miles + from here. If I could but cut myself in two, all would be well; but I + can't; I must be one hand, you the other. <i>I</i> work thus: Post-office + here is under my thumb. I stop all letters from him to her. Presently + comes a letter from Australia telling among pork, grains, etc., how George + Fielding has made his fortune and married a girl out there.” + </p> + <p> + “But who is to write the letter?” + </p> + <p> + “Can't you guess?” + </p> + <p> + “Haven't an idea. She won't believe it.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at first, perhaps, but when she gets no more letters from him she + will.” + </p> + <p> + “So she will. So then you will run him down to her.” + </p> + <p> + “Not such a fool, she would hate me. I shall never mention his name. I + make one of my tools hang jail over old Merton. Susan thinks George + married. I strike upon her pique and her father's distress. I ask him for + his daughter. Offer to pay my father-in-law's debts and start him afresh.” + </p> + <p> + “Beautiful! Beautiful!” + </p> + <p> + “Susan likes me already. I tell her all I suffered silent while she was on + with George. I press her to be mine. She will say no perhaps three or four + times, but the fifth she will say yes!” + </p> + <p> + “She will; you are a great man.” + </p> + <p> + “And she will be happy.” + </p> + <p> + “Can't see it.” + </p> + <p> + “A man that marries a virtuous woman and loves her is no man at all if he + can't make her love him; they can't resist our stronger wills except by + flight or by leaning upon another man. I'll be back directly.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Meadows returned with a bottle of wine and two glasses. Crawley was + surprised. This was a beverage he had never seen his friend drink or offer + him. Another thing puzzled him. When Mr. Meadows came back with the wine + he had not so much color as usual in his face—not near so much. + </p> + <p> + “Crawley,” said Meadows, in a low voice, “suppose, while I am working, + this George Fielding were to come home with money in both pockets?” + </p> + <p> + “He would kick it all down in a moment.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad you see that. Then you see one hand is not enough; another must + be working far away.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but I don't see—” + </p> + <p> + “You will see. Drink a glass of wine with me, my good friend; your + health.” + </p> + <p> + “Same to you, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it to your mind?” + </p> + <p> + “Elixir! This is the stuff that sharpens a chap's wit and puts courage in + his heart.” + </p> + <p> + “I brought it for that. You and I have no chicken's play on hand. Another + glass.” + </p> + <p> + “Success to your scheme, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Crawley, George Fielding must not come back this year with one thousand + pounds.” + </p> + <p> + “No, he must not—thank you, sir, your health. Mustn't, he shan't; + but how on earth can you prevent him?” + </p> + <p> + “That paper will prevent him; it is a paper of instructions. My very + brains lie in that paper—put it in your pocket.” + </p> + <p> + “In my pocket, sir? Highly honored—shall be executed to the letter. + What, wine!” + </p> + <p> + “And this is a check-book.” + </p> + <p> + “No! is it though?” + </p> + <p> + “You will draw on me for one hundred pounds per month.” + </p> + <p> + “No! shall I, though? Sir, you are a king!” + </p> + <p> + “Of which you will account for fifty pounds only.” + </p> + <p> + “Liberal, sir; as I said before, liberal as running water.” + </p> + <p> + “You are going a journey.” + </p> + <p> + “Am I? well! Don't you turn pale for that—I'll come back to you—nothing + but death shall part us. Have a drop of this, sir; it will put blood into + your cheek, and fire into your heart. That is right. Where am I going, + sir?” + </p> + <p> + “What, don't you know?” + </p> + <p> + “No! nor I don't care, so long as it is in your service I go.” + </p> + <p> + “Still it is a long journey.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, is it? Your health then, and my happy return.” + </p> + <p> + “You are not afraid of the sea or the wind?” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid of nothing but your wrath, and—and—the law. The + sea be hanged, and the wind be blowed! When I see your talent and energy, + and hold your checkbook in my hand and your instructions in my pocket, I + feel to play at football with the world. When shall I start?” + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow morning.” + </p> + <p> + “To-night, if you like. Where am I to go to?” + </p> + <p> + “To AUSTRALIA!” + </p> + <p> + That single word suspended the glass going to Crawley's lips, and the + chuckle coming from them. A dead silence on both sides followed it. And + now two colorless faces looked into one another's eyes across the table. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0056" id="link2HCH0056"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LVI. + </h2> + <p> + THREE days the gold-finders worked alone upon the pre-Adamite river's bed. + At evening on the third day they looked up and saw a figure perched + watching them with a pipe in its mouth. It disappeared in silence. Next + day there were men on their knees beside them, digging, scraping, washing + and worshipping gold. Soon they were the center of a group—soon + after of a humming mob. As if the birds had really carried the secret + north, south, east and west, men swarmed and buzzed and settled like + locusts on the gold-bearing tract. They came in panting, gleaming, dusty + and travel-stained and flung off their fatigue at sight, and, running up, + dived into the gullies and plied spade and pickax with clinched teeth and + throbbing hearts. They seamed the face of Nature for miles; turned the + streams to get at their beds; pounded and crushed the solid rock to + squeeze out the subtle stain of gold it held in its veins; hacked through + the crops as through any other idle impediment; pecked and hewed and + fought and wrestled with Nature for the treasure that lay so near yet in + so tight a grip. + </p> + <p> + We take off our clothes to sleep and put them on to play at work, but + these put on their clothes to sleep in, and tore them off at peep of day, + and labor was red-hot till night came and cooled it; and in this fight + lives fell as quickly as in actual war, and by the same enemy—Disease. + Small wonder, when hundreds and hundreds wrought the livelong day one half + in icy water, the other half dripping with sweat. + </p> + <p> + Men rotted like sheep, and died at the feet of that Gold whom they stormed + here in his fortress; and some alas met a worse fate. For that befell + which the world has seen in every age and land where gold has come to + light upon a soil; men wrestling fiercely with Nature jostled each other; + cupidity inflamed hate to madness, and human blood flowed like water over + that yellow dirt. And now from this one burning spot gold fever struck + inward to the heart of the land; burned its veins and maddened its brain. + The workman sold his tools, bought a spade and a pickax, and fled to the + gold; the lawyer flung down his parchment and off to the gold; the + penny-a-liner his brass pen and off to a greater wonder than he had ever + fabricated; the schoolmaster to whom little boys were puzzling out + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Quid non mortalia pectora cogis + Auri sacra fames— +</pre> + <p> + made the meaning perfectly clear; he dropped ferrule and book and ran with + the national hunt for gold. Shops were closed for want of buyers and + sellers; the grass crept up between the paving-stones in great + thoroughfares; outward-bound ships lay deserted and helpless in the roads; + the wilderness was peopled and the cities desolate; commerce was + paralyzed, industry contracted. The wise and good trembled for the destiny + of the people, the government trembled for itself—idle fear. That + which shook this colony for a moment settled it as firm as a granite + mountain and made it great with a rapidity that would have astounded the + puny ages cant appeals to as the days of wonders. + </p> + <p> + The <i>sacra fames</i> was not Australian, but human; and so at the first + whisper of gold the old nations poured the wealth they valued—their + food and clothes and silk and coin—and the prime treasure they + valued not, their men—into that favored land. + </p> + <p> + Then did great Labor, insulted and cheated so many years in narrow, + overcrowded corners of the huge unpeopled globe, lift his bare arm and + cry, “Who bids for this?” and a dozen gloved hands jumped and clutched at + the prize. And in bargains where a man went on one side and money on the + other, the money had to say, “Thank you,” over it instead of the man. + </p> + <p> + But still, though the average value of labor was now full as high in the + cities as in the mine, men flowed to the desert and the gold, tempted by + the enormous prizes there, that lay close to all and came to fortune's + favorites. + </p> + <p> + Hence a new wonder, a great moral phenomenon the world had never seen + before on such a wide scale. At a period of unparalleled civilization and + refinement, society, with its artificial habits and its jealous class + distinctions on its back, took a sudden unprepared leap from the heights + it had been centuries constructing—into a gold mine; it emerged, its + delicate fabric crushed out of all recognizable shape, its petty prides + annihilated, and even its just distinctions turned topsy-turvey. For mind + is really more honorable than muscle, yet when these two met in a gold + mine it fared ill with mind. Classical and mathematical scholars joined + their forces with navvies to dig gold; and nearly always the scholars were + found after a while cooking, shoe cleaning, and doing generally menial + offices for the navvies. + </p> + <p> + Those who had no learning, but had good birth, genteel manners and kid + gloves and feeble loins, sunk lower and became the dregs of gold-digging + society ere a week's digging had passed over their backs. Not that all wit + yielded to muscle. Low cunning often held its own; hundreds of lazy + leeches settled on labor's bare arm and bled it. Such as could minister to + the diggers' physical needs, appetites, vices, had no need to dig; they + made the diggers work for them, and took toll of the precious dust as it + fell into their hands. + </p> + <p> + One brute that could not spell chicory to save himself from the gallows + cleared two thousand pounds a month by selling it and hot water at a pinch + a cup. Thus ran his announcement, “Cofy allus rady.” + </p> + <p> + Meantime Trigonometry was frying steaks and on Sunday blacking boots. + </p> + <p> + After a while lucky diggers returned to the towns clogged with gold, and + lusting and panting for pleasure. + </p> + <p> + They hired carriages and sweethearts, and paraded the streets all day, + crying, “We be the hairy-stocracy, now!!” + </p> + <p> + The shopkeepers bowed down and did them homage. + </p> + <p> + Even here Nature had her say. The sexes came out—the men sat in the + carriages in their dirty fustian and their checkered shirts and no jacket; + their inamoritas beside them glittered in silk and satin. And some fiend + told these poor women it was genteel to be short-sighted; so they all + bought gold spy-glasses, and spied without intermission. + </p> + <p> + Then the old colonial aristocracy, who had been born in broadcloth and + silk, and unlike the new had not been transported, but only their papas + and mammas, were driven to despair; but at last they hit upon a remedy. + They would be distinguished by hook or by crook, and the only way left now + was always to go on foot. So they walked the pavement—wet or dry, + nothing could induce them to enter the door of a carriage. Item: they gave + up being shortsighted; the few who for reasons distinct from fashion could + not resign the habit concealed it, as if it was a defect instead of a + beauty. + </p> + <p> + This struggle of classes in the towns, with its hundred and one incidents, + was an excellent theme for satire of the highest class. How has it + escaped? is it that even Satire, low and easy art, is not so low and easy + as Detraction? But these are the outskirts of a great theme. The theme + itself belonged, not to little satire, but to great epic. + </p> + <p> + In the sudden return of a society far more complex, artificial and + conventional than Pericles ever dreamed of, to elements more primitive + than Homer had to deal with; in this, with its novelty, and nature, and + strange contrasts, + </p> + <p> + In the old barbaric force and native color of the passions, as they burst + out undisguised around the gold, + </p> + <p> + In the hundred and one personal combats and trials of cunning, + </p> + <p> + In a desert peopled, and cities thinned by the magic of cupidity, + </p> + <p> + In a huge army collected in ten thousand tents, not as heretofore by one + man's constraining will, but each human unit spurred into the crowd by his + own heart, + </p> + <p> + In “the siege of Gold,” defended stoutly by Rock and Disease, + </p> + <p> + In the world-wide effect of the discovery, the peopling of the earth at + last according to Heaven's long-published and resisted design, + </p> + <p> + Fate offered poetry a theme broad and high, yet piquant, and various as + the dolphin and the rainbow. + </p> + <p> + I cannot sing this song, because I am neither Lamartine, nor Hugo, nor + Walter Scott. I cannot hum this song, because the severe conditions of my + story forbid me even to make the adventurous attempt. I am here to tell, + not the great tale of gold, but the little story of how Susan Merton was + affected thereby. Yet it shall never be said that my pen passed close to a + great man or a great thing without a word of homage and sympathy to set + against the sneers of groveling criticasters, the blindness of + self-singing poetasters, and the national itch for detraction of all great + things and men that live, and deification of dead dwarfs. + </p> + <p> + God has been bountiful to the human race in this age. Most bountiful to + Poets; most bountiful to all of us who have a spark of nobleness in + ourselves, and so can see and revere at sight the truly grand and noble + (any snob can do this after it has been settled two hundred years by other + minds that he is to do it). He has given us warlike heroes more than we + can count—far less honor as they deserve; and valor as full of + variety as courage in the Iliad is monotonous—except when it takes + to its heels. + </p> + <p> + He has given us one hero, a better man than Hector or Achilles. For Hector + ran away from a single man; this hero was never known to run away at all. + Achilles was a better egotist than soldier; wounded in his personal + vanity, he revenged himself, not on the man who had wronged him—Prudence + forbade—but on the army, and on his country. This antique hero + sulked; my hero, deprived of the highest command, retained a higher still—the + command that places the great of heart above all petty personal feeling. + He was a soldier, and could not look from his tent on battle and not + plunge into it. What true soldier ever could? He was not a Greek but a + Frenchman—and could not love himself better than his country. Above + all, he was not Achilles, but Canrobert. + </p> + <p> + He has given us to see Nineveh disinterred by an English hero. + </p> + <p> + He has given us to see the northwest passage forced, and winter bearded on + his everlasting throne, by another. (Is it the hero's fault if self and + snowdrop-singing poetasters cannot see this feat with the eyes of + Camoens?) + </p> + <p> + He has given us to see Titans enslaved by man; Steam harnessed to our + carriages and ships; Galvanism tamed into an alphabet—a Gamut, and + its metal harp-strings stretched across the earth <i>malgre''</i> mountains + and the sea, and so men's minds defying the twin monsters Time and Space; + and now, gold revealed in the East and West at once, and so mankind now + first in earnest peopling the enormous globe. Yet old women and children + of the pen say, this is a bad, a small, a lifeless, an unpoetic age—and + they are not mistaken. For they lie. + </p> + <p> + As only tooth-stoppers, retailers of conventional phrases, links in the + great cuckoo-chain, universal pill-venders, Satan, and ancient + booksellers' ancient nameless hacks can lie, they lie. + </p> + <p> + It is they who are <i>small-eyed.</i> Now, as heretofore, weaklings cannot + rise high enough to take a bird's-eye view of their own age, and calculate + its dimensions. + </p> + <p> + The age, smaller than epochs to come, is a giant compared with the past, + and full of mighty materials for any great pen in prose or verse. + </p> + <p> + My little friends aged nineteen and downward—fourscore and upward—who + have been lending your ears to the stale little cant of every age, as + chanted in this one by Buffo-Bombastes and other foaming-at-the-pen old + women of both sexes—take by way of antidote to all that poisonous, + soul-withering drivel, ten honest words. + </p> + <p> + I say before heaven and earth that the man who could grasp the facts of + this day and do an immortal writer's duty by them, i.e., so paint them as + a later age will be content to engrave them, would be the greatest writer + ever lived. Such is the force, weight and number of the grand topics that + lie this day on the world's face. I say that he who has eyes to see may + now see greater and far more poetic things than human eyes have seen since + our Lord and his Apostles and his miracles left the earth. + </p> + <p> + It is very hard to write a good book or a good play, or to invent a good + picture, and having invented paint it. But it always was hard, except to + those—to whom it was impossible. Bunglers will not mend matters by + blackening the great canvases they can't paint on, nor the impotent become + males by detraction. + </p> + <p> + “Justice!” + </p> + <p> + When we write a story or sing a poem of the great nineteenth century, + there is but one fear—not that our theme will be beneath us, but we + miles below it; that we shall lack the comprehensive vision a man must + have from heaven to catch the historical, the poetic, the lasting features + of the Titan events that stride so swiftly past IN THIS GIGANTIC AGE. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0057" id="link2HCH0057"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LVII. + </h2> + <p> + THE life of George Fielding and Thomas Robinson for months could be + composed in a few words: tremendous work from sunrise to sundown, and on + Sunday welcome rest, a quiet pipe, and a book. + </p> + <p> + At night they slept in a good tent, with Carlo at their feet and a little + bag between them; this bag never left their sight; it went out to their + work and in to sleep. + </p> + <p> + It is dinner-time; George and Tom are snatching a mouthful, and a few + words over it. + </p> + <p> + “How much do you think we are, Tom?” + </p> + <p> + “Hush! don't speak so loud, for Heaven's sake;” he added in a whisper, + “not a penny under seven hundred pounds' worth.” + </p> + <p> + George sighed. + </p> + <p> + “It is slower work than I thought; but it is my fault, I am so unlucky.” + </p> + <p> + “Unlucky! and we have not been eight months at it.” + </p> + <p> + “But one party near us cleared four thousand pounds at a haul; one + thousand pounds apiece—ah!” + </p> + <p> + “And hundreds have only just been able to keep themselves. Come, you must + not grumble, we are high above the average.” + </p> + <p> + George persisted. + </p> + <p> + “The reason we don't get on is we try for nothing better than dust. You + know what you told me, that the gold was never created in dust, but in + masses, like all metals; the dust is only a trifle that has been washed + off the bulk. Then you said we ought to track the gold-dust coarser and + coarser till we traced the metal to its home in the great rocks.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! ay! I believe I used to talk so; but I am wiser now. Look here, + George, no doubt the gold was all in block when the world started, but how + many million years ago was that? This is my notion, George; at the + beginning of the world the gold was all solid, at the end it is all to be + dust; now which are we nearer, the end or the beginning?” + </p> + <p> + “Not knowing, can't say, Tom.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I can, for his reverence told me. We are fifty times nearer the end + than the beginning, follows there is fifty times as much gold-dust in + nature as solid gold.” + </p> + <p> + “What a head you ha' got, Tom! but I can't take it up so. Seems to me this + dust is like the grain that is shed from a ripe crop before it comes to + the sickle. Now if we could trace—” + </p> + <p> + “How can you trace syrup to the lump when the lump is all turned to + syrup?” + </p> + <p> + George held his peace—shut up, but not convinced. + </p> + <p> + “Hallo! you two lucky ones,” cried a voice distant about thirty yards. + “Will you buy our hole, it is breaking our heart here.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson went up and found a large hole excavated to a great depth; it was + yielding literally nothing, and this determined that paradoxical personage + to buy it if it was cheap. “What there is must be somewhere all in a + lump.” + </p> + <p> + He offered ten pounds for it, which was eagerly snapped at. + </p> + <p> + “Well done, Gardiner,” said one of the band. “We would have taken ten + shillings for it,” explained he to Robinson. + </p> + <p> + Robinson paid the money, and let himself down into the hole with his + spade. He drove his spade into the clay, and the bottom of it just reached + the rock; he looked up. “I would have gone just one foot deeper before I + gave in,” said he; he called George. “Come, George, we can know our fate + in ten minutes.” + </p> + <p> + They shoveled the clay away down to about one inch above the rock, and + there in the white clay they found a little bit of gold as big as a pin's + head. + </p> + <p> + “We have done it this time,” cried Robinson, “shave a little more off, not + too deep, and save the clay.” This time a score of little nuggets came to + view sticking in the clay; no need for washing, they picked them out with + their knives. + </p> + <p> + The news soon spread, and a multitude buzzed round the hole and looked + down on the men picking out peas and beans of pure gold with their knives. + </p> + <p> + Presently a voice cried, “Shame, give the men back their hole!” + </p> + <p> + “Gammon,” cried others, “they paid for a chance, and it turned out well; a + bargain is a bargain.” Gardiner and his mates looked sorrowfully down. + Robinson saw their faces and came out of the hole a moment. He took + Gardiner aside and whispered, “Jump into our hole like lightning, it is + worth four pound a day.” + </p> + <p> + “God bless you!” said Gardiner. He ran and jumped into the hole just as + another man was going to take possession. By digger's law no party is + allowed to occupy two holes. + </p> + <p> + All that afternoon there was a mob looking down at George and Robinson + picking out peas and beans of gold, and envy's satanic fire burned many a + heart. These two were picking up at least a hundred pounds an hour. + </p> + <p> + Now it happened late in the afternoon that a man of shabby figure, + evidently not a digger, observing that there was always more or less crowd + in one place, shambled up and looked down with the rest; as he looked + down, George happened to look up; the newcomer drew back hastily. After + that his proceedings were singular; he remained in the crowd more than two + hours, not stationary, but winding in and out. He listened to everything + that was said, especially if it was muttered and not spoken out; and he + peered into every face, and peering into every face it befell that at last + his eye lighted on one that seemed to fascinate him; it belonged to a + fellow with a great bull neck, and hair and beard flowing all into one—a + man more like the black-maned lion of North Africa than anything else. But + it was not his appearance that fascinated the serpentine one, it was the + look he cast down upon those two lucky diggers; a scowl of tremendous + hatred—hatred unto death. Instinct told the serpent there must be + more in this than extempore envy. He waited and watched, and, when the + black-maned one moved away, he followed him about everywhere till at last + he got him alone. + </p> + <p> + Then he sidled up, and in a cringing way said: + </p> + <p> + “What luck some men have, don't they?” + </p> + <p> + The man answered by a fierce grunt. + </p> + <p> + The serpent was half afraid of him, but he went on. + </p> + <p> + “There will be a good lump of gold in their tent to-night.” + </p> + <p> + The other seemed struck with these words. + </p> + <p> + “They have been lucky a long time,” explained the other, “and now this + added—” + </p> + <p> + “Well, what about it?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing! only I wish somebody else had it instead.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “That is a secret for the present. I only tell you because I think somehow + they are no friends of yours either.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps not! what then.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we might perhaps do business together; it will strike you singular, + but I have a friend who would give money to any one that would take a + little from those two.” + </p> + <p> + “Say that again.” + </p> + <p> + “Would give money to any one that would take it from those two.” + </p> + <p> + “And you won't ask for any share of the swag?” + </p> + <p> + “Me? I have nothing to do with it.” + </p> + <p> + “Gammon! well, your friend! will he?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a farthing!” + </p> + <p> + “And what will he give, suppose I have a friend that will do the trick?” + </p> + <p> + “According to the risk!” + </p> + <p> + The man gave a whistle. A fellow with forehead villainously low came from + behind some tents. + </p> + <p> + “What is it, Will?” asked the newcomer. + </p> + <p> + “A plant.” + </p> + <p> + “This one in it?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! This is too public, come to Bevan's store.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0058" id="link2HCH0058"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LVIII. + </h2> + <h3> + “GEORGE, I want you to go to Bathurst.” + </h3> + <p> + “What for?” + </p> + <p> + “To buy some things.” + </p> + <p> + “What things?” + </p> + <p> + “First of all, a revolver; there were fellows about our tent last night, + creeping and prowling.” + </p> + <p> + “I never heard them.” + </p> + <p> + “No more you would an earthquake—but I heard them, and got up and + pointed my revolver at them; so then they cut—all the better for + them. We must mind our eye, George; a good many tents are robbed every + week, and we are known to have a good swag.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I must start this moment if I am to be back.” + </p> + <p> + “And take a pound of dust and buy things that we can sell here to a + profit.” + </p> + <p> + George came back at night looking rather sheep-faced. + </p> + <p> + “Tom,” said he, “I am afraid I have done wrong. You see there was a + confounded auction, and what with the hammer, and the folk bidding, and + his palaver, I could not help it.” + </p> + <p> + “But what is it you have bought?” + </p> + <p> + “A bit o' land, Tom.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson groaned; but, recovering himself, he said gayly: + </p> + <p> + “Well, have you brought it with you?” + </p> + <p> + “No, it is not so small as all that; as nice a bit of grass as ever you + saw, Tom, and just outside the town of Bathurat; only I didn't ought to + have spent your money as well as my own.” + </p> + <p> + “Stuff and nonsense—I accept the investment. Let me load your new + revolver. Now look at my day's work. I wouldn't take a hundred pound for + these little fellows.” + </p> + <p> + George gloated over the little nuggets, for he saw Susan's eyes in them. + To-night she seemed so near. The little bag was placed between them, the + day's spoils added to it, and the tired friends were soon asleep. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0059" id="link2HCH0059"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LIX. + </h2> + <p> + “HELP! help! murder! help! murder!” Such were the cries that invaded the + sleepers' ears in the middle of the night, to which horrible sounds was + added the furious barking of Carlo. + </p> + <p> + The men seized their revolvers and rushed out of the tent. At about sixty + yards distant they saw a man on the ground struggling under two fellows, + and still crying, though more faintly, “murder” and “help.” + </p> + <p> + “They are killing him!” cried George; and Robinson and he cocked their + revolvers and ran furiously toward the men. But these did not wait the + attack. They started up and off like the wind, followed by two shots from + Robinson that whistled unpleasantly near them. + </p> + <p> + “Have they hurt you, my poor fellow?” said Robinson. + </p> + <p> + The man only groaned for answer. + </p> + <p> + Robinson turned his face up in the moonlight, and recognized a man to whom + he had never spoken, but whom his watchful eye had noticed more than once + in the mine—it was, in fact, the peddler Walker. + </p> + <p> + “Stop, George, I have seen this face in bad company. Oh! back to our tent + for your life, and kill any man you see near it!” + </p> + <p> + They ran back. They saw two dark figures melting into the night on the + other side the tent. They darted in—they felt for the bag. Gone! + They felt convulsively all round the tent. Gone! With trembling hands + Robinson struck a light. Gone—the work of months in a moment—-the + hope of a life snatched out of a lover's very hand, and held out a mile + off again! + </p> + <p> + The poor fellows rushed wildly out into the night. They saw nothing but + the wretched decoy vanishing behind the nearest tents. They came into the + tent again. They sat down and bowed to the blow in silence, and looked at + one another, and their lips quivered, and they feared to speak lest they + should break into unmanly rage or sorrow. So they sat like stone till + daybreak. + </p> + <p> + And when the first streak of twilight came in, George said in a firm + whisper: + </p> + <p> + “Take my hand, Tom, before we go to work.” + </p> + <p> + So the two friends sat hand in hand a minute or two; and that hard grip of + two workingmen's hands, though it was not gently eloquent like beauty's + soft, expressive palm, did yet say many things good for the heart in this + bitter hour. + </p> + <p> + It said: “A great calamity has fallen; but we do not blame each other, as + some turn to directly and do. It is not your fault, George. It is not your + fault, Tom.” + </p> + <p> + It said: “We were lucky together; now we are unlucky together—all + the more friends. We wrought together; now we have been wronged together—all + the more friends.” With this the sun rose, and for the first time they + crept to their work instead of springing to it. + </p> + <p> + They still found gold in it, but not quite so abundant or so large. They + had raised the cream of it for the thieves. Moreover, a rush had been made + to the hole, claims measured off actually touching them; so they could not + follow the gold-bearing strata horizontally—it belonged to their + neighbors. They worked in silence, they ate their meal in silence. But as + they rose to work again, Robinson said, very gravely, even solemnly: + </p> + <p> + “George, now I know what an honest man feels when he is robbed of the + fruits of his work and his self-denial and his sobriety. If I had known it + fifteen years ago, I should never have been a—what I have been.” + </p> + <p> + For two months the friends worked stoutly with leaden hearts, but did + little more than pay their expenses. The bag lay between them light as a + feather. One morning Tom said to George: + </p> + <p> + “George, this won't do. I am going prospecting. Moore will lend me his + horse for a day.” + </p> + <p> + That day George worked alone. Robinson rode all over the country with a + tin pan at his back, and tested all the places that seemed likely to his + experienced eye. At night he returned to their tent. George was just lying + down. + </p> + <p> + “No sleep to-night, George,” said he, instinctively lowering his voice to + a whisper; “I have found surface gold ten miles to the southward.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we will go to it to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “What, by daylight, watched as we are? We, the two lucky ones,” said + Robinson bitterly. “No. Wait till the coast is clear—then strike + tent and away.” + </p> + <p> + At midnight they stole out of the camp. By peep of day they were in a + little dell with a brook running at the bottom of it. + </p> + <p> + “Now, George, listen to me. Here is ten thousand pounds if we could keep + this gully and the creek a fortnight to ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Tom! and we will. Nobody will find us here, it is like a box.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson smiled sadly. The men drove their spades in close to the little + hole which Robinson had made prospecting yesterday, and the very first + cradleful yielded an ounce of gold-dust extremely small and pure. They + found it diffused with wonderful regularity within a few inches of the + surface. Here for the first time George saw gold-dust so plentiful as to + be visible. When a spadeful of the clay was turned up it glittered all + over. When they tore up the grass, which was green as an emerald, specks + of bright gold came up clinging to the roots. They fell like spaded tigers + on the prey. + </p> + <p> + “What are you doing, George?” + </p> + <p> + “Going to light a fire for dinner. We must eat, I suppose, though I do + grudge the time.” + </p> + <p> + “We must eat, but not hot.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “Because, if you light a fire, the smoke will be seen miles off, and half + the diggings will be down upon us. I have brought three days' cold meat—-here + it is.” + </p> + <p> + “Will this be enough?” asked George, simply, his mouth full. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it will be enough,” replied the other, bitterly. “Do you hear that + bird, George? They call him a leather-head. What is he singing?” + </p> + <p> + George laughed. “Seems to me he is saying, 'Off we go!' 'Off we go!' 'Off + we go!'” + </p> + <p> + “That is it. And look now, off he is gone; and, what is more, he has gone + to tell all the world he saw two men pick up gold like beans.” + </p> + <p> + “Work!” cried George. + </p> + <p> + That night the little bag felt twice as heavy as last night, and Susan + seemed nearer than for many a day. These two worked for their lives. They + counted each minute, and George was a Goliath; the soil flew round him + like the dust about a wmnnowing-machine. He was working for Susan. + Robinson wasted two seconds admiring him. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said he, “gold puts us all on our mettle, but you beat all I ever + saw. You are a man.” + </p> + <p> + It was the morning of the third day, and the friends were filling the + little bag fast; and at breakfast George quizzed Robinson's late fears. + </p> + <p> + “The leather-head didn't tell anybody, for here we are all alone.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson laughed. + </p> + <p> + “But we should not have been, if I had let you light a fire. However, I + really begin to hope now they will let us alone till we have cleared out + the gully. Hallo!” + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “Look there, George.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it? Smoke rising—down the valley?” + </p> + <p> + “We are done! Didn't I tell you?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't say so, Tom. Why, it is only smoke, and five miles off.” + </p> + <p> + “What signifies what it is or where it is? It is on the road to us.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope better.” + </p> + <p> + “What is the use of hoping nonsense? Was it there yesterday? Well, then.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you be faint-hearted,” said George. “We are not caught yet. I + wonder whether Susan would say it was a sin to try and mislead them?” + </p> + <p> + “A sin! I wish I knew how, I'd soon see. That was a good notion. This + place is five hundred pound a day to us. We must keep it to-day by hook or + by crook. Come with me, quick. Bring your tools and the bag.” + </p> + <p> + George followed Robinson in utter ignorance of his design; that worthy + made his way as fast as he could toward the smoke. When they got within a + mile of it the valley widened and the smoke was seen rising from the side + of the stream. Concealing themselves, they saw two men beating the ground + on each side like pointers. Robinson drew back. “They are hunting up the + stream,” said he, “it is there we must put the stopper on them.” + </p> + <p> + They made eastward for the stream which they had left. + </p> + <p> + “Come,” said Robinson, “here is a spot that looks likely to a novice; dig + and cut it up all you can.” + </p> + <p> + George was mystified but obeyed, and soon the place looked as if men had + been at work on it some time. Then Robinson took out a handful of + gold-dust and coolly scattered it over a large heap of mould. + </p> + <p> + “What are you at? Are you mad, Tom? Why, there goes five pounds. What a + sin!” + </p> + <p> + “Did you never hear of the man that flung away a sprat to catch a whale? + Now turn back to our hole. Stop, leave your pickax, then they will think + we are coming back to work.” + </p> + <p> + In little more than half an hour they were in their little gully working + like mad. They ate their dinner working. At five o'clock George pointed + out to Robinson no less than seven distinct columns of smoke rising about + a mile apart all down the valley. + </p> + <p> + “Ay!” said Robinson, “those six smokes are hunting the smoke that is + hunting us! but we have screwed another day out.” + </p> + <p> + Just as the sun was setting, a man came into the gully with a pickax on + his shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! how d'ye do?” said Robinson, in a mock friendly accent. “We have been + expecting you. Thank you for bringing us our pickax.” + </p> + <p> + The man gave a sort of rueful laugh and came and delivered the pick and + coolly watched the cradle. + </p> + <p> + “Why don't you ask what you want to know?” said Robinson. + </p> + <p> + The man sneered. “Is that the way to get the truth from a digger?” said + he. + </p> + <p> + “It is from me, and the only one.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! then what are you doing, mate?” + </p> + <p> + “About ten ounces of gold per hour.” + </p> + <p> + The man's mouth and eyes both opened. “Come, my lad,” said Robinson, + good-naturedly, “of course I am not glad you have found us, but since you + are come, call your pals, light fires, and work all night. To-morrow it + will be too late.” + </p> + <p> + The man whistled. He was soon joined by two more and afterward by others. + The whole party was eight. A hurried conference took place, and presently + the captain, whose name was Ede, came up to Robinson with a small barrel + of beer and begged him and his pal to drink as much as they liked. They + were very glad of the draught and thanked the men warmly. + </p> + <p> + The newcomers took Robinson's advice, lighted large fires, divided their + company, and groped for gold. Every now and then came a shout of joy, and, + in the light of the fires, the wild figures showed red as blood against + the black wall of night, and their excited eyes glowed like carbuncles as + they clawed the sparkling dust. George and Robinson, fatigued already by a + long day, broke down about three in the morning. They reeled into their + tent, dug a hole, put in their gold bag, stamped it down, tumbled dead + asleep down over it, and never woke till morn. + </p> + <p> + Gn l r-r-r! gn l r-r-r! + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter, Carlo?” + </p> + <p> + Gn l r-r-r. + </p> + <p> + Hum! hum! hum! Crash! crash! + </p> + <p> + At these sounds Robinson lifted up the corner of his tent. The gully was a + digging. He ran out to see where he was to work, and found the whole soil + one enormous tan-yard, the pits ten feet square, and so close there was + hardly room to walk to your hole without tumbling into your neighbor's. + You had to balance yourself like boys going along a beam in a timber-yard. + In one of these he found Ede and his gang working. Mr. Ede had acquired a + black eye, ditto one of his mates. + </p> + <p> + “Good-morning, Captain Robinson,” said this personage, with a general + gayety of countenance that contrasted most drolly with the mourning an + expressive organ had gone into. + </p> + <p> + “Well, was I right?” asked Robinson, looking ruefully round the crowded + digging. + </p> + <p> + “You were, Captain Robinson, and thank you for last night.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you have picked up my name somehow. Now just tell me how you picked + up something else. How did you suspect us in this retired spot?” + </p> + <p> + “We were working just clear of the great digging by the side of the creek, + and doing no good, when your cork came down.” + </p> + <p> + “My cork?” + </p> + <p> + “Cork out of your bottle.” + </p> + <p> + “I had no bottle. Oh, yes! my pal had a bottle of small beer.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, he must have thrown it into the creek, for a cork came down to us. + Then I looked at it, and I said, 'Here is a cork from Moore's store; there + is a party working up stream by this cork.'” + </p> + <p> + Robinson gave a little groan. “We are never to be at the bottom of gold + digging,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “So we came up the stream and tried several places as we came, but found + nothing; at last we came to your pickax and signs of work, so my lads + would stay and work there, and I let them an hour or two, and then I said, + 'Come now, lads, the party we are after is higher up.'” + </p> + <p> + “Now how could you pretend to know that?” inquired Robinson, with + curiosity. + </p> + <p> + “Easy enough. The water came down to us thick and muddyish, so I knew you + were washing up stream.” + </p> + <p> + “Confound my stupid head,” cried Robinson, “I deserve to have it cut off + after all my experience.” + </p> + <p> + And he actually capered with vexation. + </p> + <p> + “The best may make a mistake,” said the other soothingly. “Well, captain, + you did us a good turn last night, so here is your claim. We put your + pal's pick in it—here close to us. Oh! there was a lot that made + difficulties, but we over-persuaded them.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! How?” + </p> + <p> + “Gave them a hiding, and promised to knock out any one's brains that went + into it. Oh! kindness begets kindness, even in a gold mine.” + </p> + <p> + “It does,” cried Robinson, “and the proof is—that I give you the + claim. Here come this way and seem to buy it of me. All their eyes are + upon us. Now split your gang, and four take my claim.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is good of you. But what will you do, captain? Where shall you + go?” And his eyes betrayed his curiosity. + </p> + <p> + “Humph! Well, I will tell you on condition that you don't bring two + thousand after me again. You should look behind you as well as before, + stupid.” + </p> + <p> + These terms agreed to, Robinson let Ede know that he was going this moment + back to the old digging. The other was greatly surprised. Robinson then + explained that in the old digging gold lay at various depths and was + inexhaustible; that this afternoon there would be a rush made from it to + Robinson's Gully (so the spot where they stood was already called); that + thousands of good claims would thus by diggers' law be vacated; and that + he should take the best before the rush came back, which would be + immediately, since Robinson's Gully would be emptied of its gold in four + hours. + </p> + <p> + “So clear out your two claims,” said he. “It won't take you two hours. All + the gold lies in one streak four inches deep. Then back after me; I'll + give you the office. I'll mark you down a good claim.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Ede, who was not used to this sort of thing since he fought for gold, + wore a ludicrous expression of surprise and gratitude. Robinson read it + and grinned superior, but the look rendered words needless, so he turned + the conversation. + </p> + <p> + “How did you get your black eye?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! didn't I tell you? Fighting with the blackguards for your claim.” + </p> + <p> + It was now Robinson's turn to be touched. + </p> + <p> + “You are a good fellow. You and I must be friends. Ah! if I could but get + together about forty decent men like you, and that had got gold to lose.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Ede, “why not? Here are eight that have got gold to lose, + thanks to you, and your own lot—that makes ten. We could easy make + up forty for any good lay; there is my hand for one. What is it?” + </p> + <p> + Robinson took Ede's hand with a haste and an energy that almost startled + him, and his features darkened with an expression unusual now to his + good-natured face. “To put down thieving in the camp,” said he, sternly. + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” said the other, half sadly (the desirableness of this had occurred + to him before now); “but how are we to do that?” asked he, incredulously. + “The camp is choke-full of them.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson looked blacker, uglier and more in earnest. So was his answer + when it came. + </p> + <p> + “Make stealing death by the law.” + </p> + <p> + “The law! What law?” + </p> + <p> + “Lynch!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0060" id="link2HCH0060"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LX. + </h2> + <p> + ABOUT a fortnight after Robinson's return to the diggings two men were + seated in a small room at Bevan's store. There was little risk of their + being interrupted by any honest digger, for it was the middle of the day. + </p> + <p> + “I know that well enough,” growled the black-maned one, “everybody knows + the lucky rip has got a heavier swag than ever, but we shan't get it so + cheap, if we do at all.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “He is on his guard now, night and day, and what is more he has got + friends in the mine that would hang me or you either up to dry, if they + but caught us looking too near his tent.” + </p> + <p> + “The ruffians. Well, but if he has friends he has enemies.” + </p> + <p> + “Not so many; none that I know of but you and me. I wonder what he has + done to you?” + </p> + <p> + The other waived this question and replied: “I have found two parties that + hate him; two that came in last week.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you? then, if you are in earnest, make me acquainted with them, for + I am weak-handed; I lost one of my pals yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! how?” + </p> + <p> + “They caught him at work and gave him a rap over the head with a spade. + The more —— fool he for being caught. Here is to his memory.” + </p> + <p> + “Ugh! what, is he, is he—” + </p> + <p> + “Dead as a herring.” + </p> + <p> + “Where shall we all go to? What lawless fellows these diggers are. I will + bring you the men.” + </p> + <p> + For the last two months the serpentine man had wound in and out the camp, + poking about for a villain of the darker sort as minutely as Diogenes did + for an honest man, and dispensing liquor and watching looks and words. He + found rogues galore, and envious spirits that wished the friends ill, but + none of them seemed game to risk their lives against two men, one of whom + said openly he would kill any stranger he caught in his tent, and whom + some fifty stout fellows called Captain Robinson, and were ready to take + up his quarrel like fire. But at last he fell in with two old lags, who + had a deadly grudge against the captain, and a sovereign contempt for him + into the bargain. By the aid of liquor he wormed out their story. This was + the marrow of it: The captain had been their pal, and, while they were all + three cracking a crib, had with unexampled treachery betrayed them, and + got them laid by the heels for nearly a year; in fact, if they had not + broken prison they would not have been here now. In short, in less than + half an hour he returned with our old acquaintances, brutus and + mephistopheles. + </p> + <p> + These two came half reluctant, suspicious and reserved. But at sight of + Black Will they were reassured, villain was so stamped on him. With + instantaneous sympathy and an instinct of confidence the three compared + notes, and showed how each had been aggrieved by the common enemy. Next + they held a council of war, the grand object of which was to hit upon some + plan of robbing the friends of their new swag. + </p> + <p> + It was a difficult and very dangerous job. Plans were proposed and + rejected, and nothing agreed upon but this, that the men should be + carefully watched for days to find out where they kept their gold at night + and where by day, and an attempt timed and regulated accordingly. + Moreover, the same afternoon a special gang of six was formed, including + Walker, which pitiful fox was greatly patronized by the black-maned lion. + At sight of him, brutus, who knew him not indeed by name but by a literary + transaction, was “for laying on,” but his patron interposed, and, having + inquired and heard the offense, bellowed with laughter, and condemned the + ex-peddler to a fine of half a crown in grog. This softened brutus, and a + harmonious debauch succeeded. Like the old Egyptians they debated first + sober and then drunk, and to stagger my general notion that the ancients + were unwise, candor compels me to own, it was while stammering, maudling, + stinking and in every sense drunk that mephistopheles driveled out a + scheme so cunning and so new as threw everybody and everything into the + shade. It was carried by hiccoughation. + </p> + <p> + To work this scheme mephistopheles required a beautiful large new tent; + the serpentine man bought it. Money to feed the gang; serpent advanced it. + </p> + <p> + Robinson's tent was about thirty yards from his claim, which its one + opening faced. So he and George worked with an eye ever upon their tent. + At night two men of Robinson's party patrolled armed to the teeth; they + relieved guard every two hours. Captain Robinson's orders to these men, if + they saw anybody doing anything suspicious after dark, were these: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + First fire, + Then inquire. +</pre> + <p> + This general order was matter of publicity for a quarter of a mile round + Robinson's tent, and added to his popularity and our rascals' + perplexities. + </p> + <p> + These orders had surely the double merit of conciseness and melody; well, + for all that, they were disgustingly offensive to one true friend of the + captain, viz., to George Fielding. + </p> + <p> + “What is all the gold in the world compared with a man's life?” said he, + indignantly. + </p> + <p> + “An ounce of it is worth half a dozen such lives as some here,” was the + cool reply. + </p> + <p> + “I have heard you talk very different. I mind when you could make excuses + even for thieves that were never taught any better, poor unfortunate + souls.” + </p> + <p> + “Did I?” said the captain, a little taken aback. “Well, perhaps I did; it + was natural, hem, under the circumstances. No! not for such thieves as + these, that haven't got any honor at all.” + </p> + <p> + “Honor, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! honor. Look here, suppose in my unconverted days I had broke into a + jeweler's shop (that comes nearest to a mine) with four or five pals, do + you think I should have held it lawful to rob my pals of any part of the + swag just because we happened to be robbing a silversmith? Certainly not; + I assure you, George, the punishment of such a nasty, sneaking, + dishonorable act would be death in every gang, and cheap, too. Well, we + have broken into Nature's shop here, and we are to rifle her, and not turn + to like unnatural monsters, and rob our ten thousand pals.” + </p> + <p> + “Thieving is thieving, in my view,” was the prejudiced reply. + </p> + <p> + “And hanging is hanging—as all thieves shall find if caught + convenient.” + </p> + <p> + “You make my flesh creep, Tom. I liked you better when you were not so + great a man, more humble like; have you forgotten when you had to make + excuses for yourself; then you had Susan on your side and brought me + round, for I was bitter against theft; but never so bad as you are now.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, never mind what I said in those days; why, you must be well aware I + did not know what I was talking about. I had been a rogue and a fool, and + I talked like both. But now I am a man of property, and my eyes are open + and my conscience revolts against theft, and the gallows is the finest + institution going, and next to that comes a jolly good prison. I wish + there was one in this mine as big as Pentonville, then property—” + </p> + <p> + Here the dialogue was closed by the demand the pick made upon the man of + property's breath. But it rankled, and on laying down the pick he burst + out: “Well, to think of an honest man like you having a word to say for + thieving. Why, it is a despicable trait in a gold mine. I'll go farther, + I'll prove it is the sin of sins all round the world. Stolen money never + thrives—goes for drink and nonsense. Now you pick and I'll wash. + Theft corrupts the man that is robbed as well as the thief; drives him to + despair and drink and ruin temporal and eternal. No country could stand + half an hour without law!! The very honest would turn thieves if not + protected, and there would be a go. Besides, this great crime is like a + trunk railway, other little crimes run into it and out of it; lies buzz + about it like these Australian flies—drat you! Drunkenness precedes + and follows it, and perjury rushes to its defense.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Tom, you are a beautiful speaker.” + </p> + <p> + “I haven't done yet. What wonder it degrades a man when a dog loses his + dignity under it. Behold the dog who has stolen; look at Carlo yesterday + when he demeaned himself to prig Jem's dinner (the sly brute won't look at + ours). How mean he cut with his tail under his belly, instead of turning + out to meet folk all jolly and waggle-um-tail-um as on other occasions—Hallo, + you, sir! what are you doing so near our tent?” and up jumped the man of + property and ran cocking a revolver to a party who was kneeling close to + the friends' tent. + </p> + <p> + The man looked up coolly; he was on his knees. + </p> + <p> + “We are newly arrived and just going to pitch, and a digger told us we + must not come within thirty yards of the captain's tent, so we are + measuring the distance.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, measure it—and keep it.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson stayed by his tent till the man, whose face was strange to him, + had measured and marked the ground. Soon after the tent in question was + pitched, and it looked so large and new that the man of property's + suspicions were lulled. + </p> + <p> + “It is all right,” said he, “tent is worth twenty pounds at the lowest + farthing.” + </p> + <p> + While Black Will and his gang were scheming to get the friends' gold, + Robinson, though conscious only of his general danger, grew more and more + nervous as the bag grew heavier, and strengthened his defenses every day. + </p> + <p> + This very day one was added to the cause of order in a very characteristic + way. I must first observe that Mr. McLaughlan had become George's bailiff, + that is, on discovery of the gold he had agreed to incorporate George's + flocks, to use his ground and to account to him, sharing the profits, and + George running the risks. George had, however, encumbered the property + with Abner as herdsman. That worthy had come whining to him lame of one + leg from a blow on the head, which he convinced George Jacky had given him + with his battle-ax. + </p> + <p> + “I'm spoiled for life and by your savage. I have lost my place; do + something for me.” + </p> + <p> + Good-hearted George did as related, and moreover promised to give Jacky a + hiding if ever he caught him again. George's aversion to bloodshed is + matter of history; it was also his creed that a good hiding did nobody any + harm. + </p> + <p> + Now it was sheep-shearing time and McLaughlan was short of hands; he came + into the mine to see whether out of so many thousands he could not find + four or five who would shear instead of digging. + </p> + <p> + When he put the question to George, George shook his head doubtfully. + “However,” said he, “look out for some unlucky ones, that is your best + chance, leastways your only one.” + </p> + <p> + So McLaughlan went cannily about listening here and there to the men who + were now at their dinners, and he found Ede's gang grumbling and growling + with their mouths full; in short, enjoying at the same time a good dinner + and an Englishman's grace. + </p> + <p> + “This will do,” thought the Scot, misled like continental nations by that + little trait of ours; he opened the ball. + </p> + <p> + “I'm saying—my lads—will ye gie ower this <i>weary warrk a wee + whilee</i> and sheer a wheen sheep to me?” + </p> + <p> + The men looked in his face, then at one another, and the proposal struck + them as singularly droll. They burst out laughing in his face. + </p> + <p> + McLaughlan (keeping his temper thoroughly, but not without a severe + struggle). “Oh, fine I ken I'll ha'e to pay a maist deevelich price for + your highnesses—aweel, I'se pay—aw thing has its price; jaast + name your wage for shearing five hunder sheep.” + </p> + <p> + The men whispered together. The Scot congratulated himself on his success; + it would be a question of price, after all. + </p> + <p> + “We will do it for—the wool.” + </p> + <p> + “Th' 'oo?—oo ay! but hoo muckle o' th' 'oo? for ye ken—” + </p> + <p> + “How muckle? why, all.” + </p> + <p> + “A' the 'oo! ye blackguard, ye're no blate.” + </p> + <p> + “Keep your temper, farmer, it is not worth our while to shear sheep for + less than that.” + </p> + <p> + “De'il go wi' ye then!” and he moved off in great dudgeon. + </p> + <p> + “Stop,” cried the captain, “you and I are acquainted—you lived out + Wellington way—me and another wandered to your hut one day and you + gave us our supper.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, lad, I mind o' ye the noo!” + </p> + <p> + “The jolliest supper ever I had—a haggis you called it.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, did I, my fine lad. I cookit it till ye myssel. Ye meicht help me for + ane.” + </p> + <p> + “I will,” said Captain Ede; and a conference took place in a whisper + between him and his men. + </p> + <p> + “It is a' reicht the noo!” thought McLaughlan. + </p> + <p> + “We have an offer to make you,” said Ede, respectfully. + </p> + <p> + “Let us hear't.” + </p> + <p> + “Our party is large; we want a cook for it, and we offer you the place in + return for past kindness.” + </p> + <p> + “Me a cuik, y' impudent vagabond!” cried the Caledonian, red as a + turkey-cock; and, if a look could have crushed a party of eight, their + hole had been their grave. + </p> + <p> + McLaughlan took seven ireful steps—wide ones—then his hot + anger assumed a cold, sardonic form, he returned, and with blighting + satire speered this question by way of gratifying an ironical curiosity. + </p> + <p> + “An' whaat would ye ha'e the cheek t'offer a McLanghlan to cuik till ye, + you that kens sae fine the price o' wark?” + </p> + <p> + “Thirty shillings.” + </p> + <p> + “Thretty shilling the week for a McLaughlan!” + </p> + <p> + “The week,” cried Ede, “nonsense—thirty shillings a day of course. + We sell work for gold, sir, and we give gold for it; look here!” and he + suddenly bared a sturdy brown arm, and, smacking it, cried, “That is dirt + where you come from, but it is gold here.” + </p> + <p> + “Ye're a fine lad,” said the Scot, smoothly, “and ye've a boeny aerm,” + added he, looking down at it. “I'se no deny that. I'm thinking—I'll + just come—and cuik till ye a wee—for auld lang syne—thretty + schelln the day—an' ye'll buy the flesh o' me. I'll sell it a hantle + cheaper than thir warldly-minded fleshers.” + </p> + <p> + Bref, he came to be shorn, and remained to fleece. + </p> + <p> + He went and told George what he had done. + </p> + <p> + “Hech! hech!” whined he, “thir's a maist awfu' come doon for the + McLaughlans—-but wha wadna' stuip to lift gowd?” + </p> + <p> + He left his head man, a countryman of his own, in charge of the flocks, + and tarried in the mine. He gave great satisfaction, except that he used + to make his masters wait for dinner while he pronounced a thundering long + benediction; but his cookery compensated the delay. + </p> + <p> + Robinson enrolled him in his police and it was the fashion openly to quiz, + and secretly respect him. + </p> + <p> + Robinson also made friends with the women, in particular with one Mary + McDogherty, wife of a very unsuccessful digger. Many a pound of potatoes + Pat and she had from the captain, and this getting wind secured the good + will of the Irish boys. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0061" id="link2HCH0061"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXI. + </h2> + <h3> + GEORGE was very homesick. + </h3> + <p> + “Haven't we got a thousand pounds apiece yet?” + </p> + <p> + “Hush! no! not quite; but too much to bawl about.” + </p> + <p> + “And we never shall till you take my advice, and trace the gold to its + home in the high rocks. Here we are plodding for dust, and one good nugget + would make us.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! well!” said Robinson, “the moment the dry weather goes you shall + show me the home of the gold.” Poor George and his nuggets! + </p> + <p> + “That is a bargain,” said George, “and now I have something more to say. + Why keep so much gold in our tent? It makes me fret. I am for selling some + of it to Mr. Levi. + </p> + <p> + “What, at three pounds the ounce? not if I know it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why not leave it with him to keep?” + </p> + <p> + “Because it is safer in its little hole in our tent. What do the diggers + care for Mr. Levi? You and I respect him, but I am the man they swear by. + No, George, Tom Weasel isn't caught napping twice in the same year. Don't + you see I've been working this four months past to make my tent safe? and + I've done it. It is watched for me night and day, and if our swag was in + the Bank of England it wouldn't be safer than it is. Put that in your + pipe. Well, Carlo, what is the news in your part?” + </p> + <p> + Carlo came running up to George, and licked his face, which just rose + above the hole. + </p> + <p> + “What is it, Carlo?” asked George, in some astonishment. + </p> + <p> + “Ha! ha!” laughed the other. “Here is the very dog come out to encourage + his faint-hearted master.” + </p> + <p> + “No!” said George, “it can't be that—he means something—be + quiet, Carlo, licking me to pieces—but what it is Heaven only knows; + don't you encourage him; he has no business out of the tent—go back, + Carlo—go into kennel, sir;” and off slunk Carlo back into the tent, + of which he was the day sentinel. + </p> + <p> + “Tom,” remarked George, thoughtfully, “I believe Carlo wanted to show me + something; he is a wonderful wise dog.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense,” cried Robinson, sharply, “he heard you at the old lay, + grumbling, and came to say cheer up, old fellow.” + </p> + <p> + While Robinson was thus quizzing George, a tremendous noise was suddenly + heard in their tent. A scuffle—a fierce, muffled snarl—and a + human yell; with a cry, almost as loud, the men bounded out of their hole, + and, the blood running like melting ice down their backs with + apprehension, burst into the tent; then they came upon a sight that almost + drew the eyes out of their heads. + </p> + <p> + In the center of the tent, not six inches from their buried treasure, was + the head of a man emerging from the bowels of the earth, and cursing and + yelling, for Carlo had seized his head by the nape of the neck, and bitten + it so deep that the blood literally squirted, and was stamping and going + back snarling and pulling and hauling in fierce jerks to extract it from + the earth, while the burly-headed ruffian it belonged to, cramped by his + situation, and pounced on unawares by the fiery teeth, was striving and + battling to get down into the earth again. Spite of his disadvantage, such + were his strength and despair that he now swung the dog backward and + forward. But the men burst in. George seized him by the hair of his head, + Tom by the shoulder, and with Carlo's help, wrenched him on to the floor + of the tent, where he was flung on his back with Tom's revolver at his + temple, and Carlo flew round and round barking furiously, and now and then + coming flying at him; on which occasions he was always warded off by + George's strong arm, and passed devious, his teeth clicking together like + machinery, the snap and the rush being all one design that must succeed or + fail together. Captain Robinson put his lips to his whistle, and the tent + was full of his friends in a moment. + </p> + <p> + “Get me a bullock rope.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay!” + </p> + <p> + “And drive a stout pole into the ground.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay!” + </p> + <p> + In less than five minutes brutus was tied up to a post in the sun, with a + placard on his breast on which was written in enormous letters— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THIEF +</pre> + <p> + (and underneath in smaller letters—) + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Caught trying to shake Captain Robinson's tent. + First offense. + N B—To be hanged next time. +</pre> + <p> + Then a crier was sent through the mine to invite inspection of brutus's + features, and ere sunset thousands looked into his face, and when he tried + to lower it pulled it savagely up. + </p> + <p> + “I shall know you again, my lad,” was the common remark, “and, if I catch + you too near my tent, rope or revolver, one of the two.” + </p> + <p> + Captain Robinson's men did not waste five minutes with brutus. They tied + him to the stake, and dashed into their holes to make up lost time, but + Robinson and George remained quiet in their tent. + </p> + <p> + “George,” said Tom, in a low, contrite, humble voice, “let us return + thanks to Heaven, for vain is man's skill.” + </p> + <p> + And they did. + </p> + <p> + “George,” said Tom, rising from his knees, “the conceit is taken out of me + for about the twentieth time; I felt so strong and I was nobody. The + danger came in a way I never dreamed, and when it had come we were saved + by a friend I never valued. Give a paw, Carlo.” + </p> + <p> + Carlo gave a paw. + </p> + <p> + “He has been a good friend to us this day,” said George. “I see it all + now; he must have heard the earth move and did not understand it so he + came for me, and, when you would not let me go, he went back, and says he, + 'I dare to say it is a rabbit burrowing up.' So he waited still as death, + watching, and nailed six feet of vermin instead of bunny.” + </p> + <p> + Here they both fell to caressing Carlo, who jumped and barked and finished + with a pretended onslaught on the captain as he was kneeling, looking at + their so late imperiled gold, and knocked him over and slobbered his face + when he was down. Opinions varied, but the impression was he knew he had + been a clever dog. This same evening, Jem made a collar for him on which + was written “Policeman C.” + </p> + <p> + The fine new tent was entered and found deserted, nothing there but an + enormous mound of earth that came out of the subterranean, which Robinson + got a light and inspected all the way to its <i>debouchure</i> in his own + tent. As he returned, holding up his light and peering about, he noticed + something glitter at the top of the arch; he held the light close to it + and saw a speck or two of gold sparkling here and there. He took out his + knife and scraped the roof in places, and brought to light in detached + pieces a layer of gold-dust about the substance of a sheet of + blotting-paper and full three yards wide; it crossed the subterranean at + right angles, dipping apparently about an inch in two yards. The conduct + of brutus and co. had been typical. They had been so bent on theft, that + they were blind to the pocketfuls of honest, safe, easy gold they rubbed + their very eyes and their thick skulls against on their subterraneous path + to danger and crime. + </p> + <p> + Two courses occurred to Robinson; one was to try and monopolize this vein + of gold, the other to take his share of it and make the rest add to his + popularity and influence in the mine. He chose the latter, for the + bumptiousness was chilled in him. This second attack on his tent made him + tremble. + </p> + <p> + “I am a marked man,” said he. “Well, if I have enemies, the more need to + get friends all round me.” + </p> + <p> + I must here observe that many men failed altogether at the gold diggings + and returned in rags and tatters to the towns; many others found a little, + enough to live like a gentleman anywhere else, but too little for bare + existence in a place where an egg cost a shilling, a cabbage a shilling, + and baking two pounds of beef one shilling and sixpence, and a pair of + mining boots eight pounds, and a frying-pan thirty shillings, and so on. + </p> + <p> + Besides, the hundreds that fell by diarrhea, their hands clutching in vain + the gold that could not follow them, many a poor fellow died of a broken + heart and hardships suffered in vain, and some, long unlucky but + persevering, suddenly surprised by a rich find of gold, fell by the shock + of good fortune, went raving mad, dazzled by the gold, and perished + miserably. For here all was on a great heroic scale, starvation, wealth, + industry, crime, retribution, madness and disease. + </p> + <p> + Now the good-natured captain had his eye upon four unlucky men at this + identical moment. + </p> + <p> + No. 1, Mr. Miles, his old master, who, having run through his means, had + come to the diggings. He had joined a gang of five; they made only about + three pounds a week each, and had expelled him, alleging that his work was + not quite up to their mark. He was left without a mate and earned a + precarious livelihood without complaining, for he was game; but Robinson's + quick eye and ear saw his clothes were shabby and that he had given up his + ha! ha! ha! + </p> + <p> + No. 2, Jem, whose mate had run away and robbed him, and he was left solus + with his tools. + </p> + <p> + No. 3, Mr. Stevens, an accomplished scholar, and, above all, linguist, + broad in the forehead but narrow in the chest, who had been successively + rejected by five gangs and was now at a discount. He picked up a few + shillings by interpreting, but it was a suspicious circumstance that he + often came two miles from his end of the camp to see Robinson just at + dinner-time. Then a look used to pass between those two good-hearted + creatures, and Mr. Stevens was served first and Carlo docked till evening. + Titles prevailed but little in the mine. They generally addressed the + males of our species thus: + </p> + <p> + “Hi! man!” + </p> + <p> + The females thus: + </p> + <p> + “Hi! woman!” + </p> + <p> + The Spartans! but these two made an exception in favor of this reduced + scholar. They called him “Sir,” and felt abashed his black coat should be + so rusty; and they gave him the gristly bits, for he was not working, but + always served him first. + </p> + <p> + No. 4, Unlucky Jack, a digger. This man really seemed to be unlucky. Gangs + would find the stuff on four sides of him, and he none; his last party had + dissolved, owing they said to his ill-luck, and he was forlorn. These four + Robinson convened, with the help of Mary McDogherty, who went for Stevens; + and made them a little speech, telling them he had seen all their four + ill-lucks, and was going to end that with one blow. He then, taking the + direction of brutus's gold-vein, marked them out a claim full forty yards + off, and himself one close to them; organized them, and set them working + in high spirits, tremulous expectation, and a fervor of gratitude to him, + and kindly feeling toward their unlucky comrades. + </p> + <p> + “You won't find anything for six feet,” said the captain. “Meantime, all + of you turn to and tell the rest how you were the unluckiest man in the + whole mine—till you fell in with me—he! he!” + </p> + <p> + And the captain chuckled. His elastic vanity was fast recovering from + brutus, and his spirits rising. + </p> + <p> + Toward evening he collected his whole faction, got on the top of two + cradles, made a speech, thanked them for their good-will, and told them he + had now an opportunity of making them a return. He had discovered a vein + of gold which he could have kept all to himself, but it was more just and + more generous to share it with his partisans. + </p> + <p> + “Now, pass through this little mine one at a time,” said he, “and look at + the roof, where I have stuck the two lighted candles, and then pass on + quick to make room for others.” + </p> + <p> + The men dived one after another, examined the roof, and, rushing wildly + out at the other end in great excitement, ran and marked out claims on + both sides of the subterranean. + </p> + <p> + But, with all their greediness and eagerness, they left ten feet square + untouched on each side the subterranean. + </p> + <p> + “What is this left for?” + </p> + <p> + “That is left for the clever fellow that found the gold after a thief had + missed it,” cried one. + </p> + <p> + “And for the generous fellow that parted his find,” roared another, from a + distance. + </p> + <p> + Robinson seemed to reflect. + </p> + <p> + “No! I won't spoil the meat by cutting myself the fat—no! I am a + digger, but not only a digger, I aspire to the honor of being a captain of + diggers; my claim lies out there.” + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah; three cheers for Captain Robinson!” + </p> + <p> + “Will you do me a favor in return?” + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah! won't we?” + </p> + <p> + “I am going to petition the governor to send us out police to guard our + tents.” + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah!” + </p> + <p> + “And even beaks, if necessary” (doubtful murmurs). “And, above all, + soldiers to take our gold safe down to Sydney.” + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah!” + </p> + <p> + “Where we can sell it at three fifteen the ounce.” + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah! hurrah! hurrah!” + </p> + <p> + “Instead of giving it away here for three pounds, and then being robbed. + If you will all sign, Mr. Stevens and I will draw up the petition; no + country can stand without law!” + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah for Captain Robinson, the diggers' friend.” + </p> + <p> + And the wild fellows jumped out of the holes, and four seized the diggers' + friend, and they chaired him in their rough way, and they put Carlo into a + cradle, and raised him high, and chaired him; and both man and dog were + right glad to get safe out of the precarious honor. + </p> + <p> + The proceedings ended by brutus being loosed and set between two long + lines of men with lumps of clay, and pelted and knocked down, and knocked + up again, and driven, bruised, battered and bleeding, out of that part of + the camp. He found his way to a little dirty tent not much bigger than a + badger's hole, crawled in, and sank down in a fainting state, and lay on + his back stiff and fevered, and smarting soul and body many days. + </p> + <p> + And while Robinson was exulting in his skill, his good fortune, his + popularity, his swelling bag, and the constabulary force he was collecting + and heading, this tortured ruffian, driven to utter desperation by the + exposure of his features to all the camp with “Thief” blazing on him, lay + groaning stiff and sore—but lived for revenge. + </p> + <p> + “Let him keep his gold—I don't care for his gold now. I'll have his + blood!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0062" id="link2HCH0062"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXII. + </h2> + <p> + “I WONDER at you giving away the claim that lay close to the gold; it is + all very well to be generous, but you forget—Susan.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you be silly, George. The vein dips, and those that cut down on it + where it is horizontalish will get a little; we, that nick it nearly + verticalish, will get three times as much out of a ten-foot square claim.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! you are a sharp fellow, to be sure; but, if it is so, why on earth + did you make a favor to them of giving them the milk and taking the + cream?” + </p> + <p> + “Policy, George! policy!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0063" id="link2HCH0063"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXIII. + </h2> + <h3> + SUNDAY. + </h3> + <p> + “TOM, I invite you to a walk.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! ay! I'd give twenty pounds for one; but the swag?” + </p> + <p> + “Leave it this one day with Mr. Levi; he has got two young men always + armed in his tent, and a little peevish dog, and gutta-percha pipes + running into all the Jews' tents that are at his back like chicks after + the old hen.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, he is a deep one.” + </p> + <p> + “And he has got mouth-pieces to them, and so he could bring thirty men + upon a thief in less than half a minute.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, George! a walk is a great temptation, this beautiful day.” + </p> + <p> + In short, by eight o'clock the gold was deposited, and the three friends, + for Policeman C must count for one, stepped lustily out in the morning + air. + </p> + <p> + It was the month of January; a blazing hot day was beginning to glow + through the freshness of morning; the sky was one cope of pure blue, and + the southern air crept slowly up, its wings clogged with fragrance, and + just tuned the trembling leaves—no more. + </p> + <p> + “Is not this pleasant, Tom—isn't it sweet?” + </p> + <p> + “I believe you, George! and what a shame to run down such a country as + this. There they come home, and tell you the flowers have no smell, but + they keep dark about the trees and bushes being haystacks of flowers. + Snuff the air as we go, it is a thousand English gardens in one. Look at + all those tea-scrubs each with a thousand blossoms on it as sweet as + honey, and the golden wattles on the other side, and all smelling like + seven o'clock; after which flowers be hanged!” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, lad! it is very refreshing; and it is Sunday, and we have got away + from the wicked for an hour or two; but in England there would be a little + white church out yonder, and a spire like an angel's forefinger pointing + from the grass to heaven, and the lads in their clean smock-frocks like + snow, and the wenches in their white stockings and new shawls, and the old + women in their scarlet cloaks and black bonnets, all going one road, and a + tinkle-tinkle from the belfry, that would turn all these other sounds and + colors and sweet smells holy, as well as fair, on the Sabbath morn. Ah! + England. Ah!” + </p> + <p> + “You will see her again—no need to sigh.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I was not thinking of her in particular just then.” + </p> + <p> + “Of who?” + </p> + <p> + “Of Susan!” + </p> + <p> + “Prejudice be hanged, this is a lovely land.” + </p> + <p> + “So 'tis, Tom, so 'tis. But I'll tell you what puts me out a little bit; + nothing is what it sets up for here. If you see a ripe pear and go to eat + it,—it is a lump of hard wood. Next comes a thing the very sight of + which turns your stomach—and that is delicious, a loquot, for + instance. There now, look at that magpie! well, it is Australia—so + that magpie is a crow and not a magpie at all. Everything pretends to be + some old friend or other of mine, and turns out a stranger. Here is + nothing but surprises and deceptions. The flowers make a point of not + smelling, and the bushes that nobody expects to smell, or wants to smell, + they smell lovely. + </p> + <p> + “What does it matter where the smell comes from, so that you get it?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Tom,” replied George, opening his eyes, “it makes all the + difference. I like to smell a flower—flower is not complete without + smell—but I don't care if I never smell a bush till I die. Then the + birds they laugh and talk like Christians; they make me split my sides, + God bless their little hearts; but they won't chirrup. Oh, dear, no, bless + you, they leave the Christians to chirrup—they hold conversations + and giggle and laugh and play a thing like a fiddle—it is Australia! + where everything is inside-out and topsy-turvy. The animals have four + legs, so they jump on two. Ten-foot square of rock lets for a pound a + month; ten acres of grass for a shilling a year. Roasted at Christmas, + shiver o' cold on midsummer-day. The lakes are grass, and the rivers turn + their backs on the sea and run into the heart of the land; and the men + would stand on their heads, but I have taken a thought, and I've found out + why they don't.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because if they did their heads would point the same way a man's head + points in England.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson laughed, and told George he admired the country for these very + traits. “Novelty for me against the world. Who'd come twelve thousand + miles to see nothing we couldn't see at home? Hang the same old story + always; where are we going, George?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, not much farther, only about twelve miles from the camp?” + </p> + <p> + “Where to?” + </p> + <p> + “To a farmer I know. I am going to show you a lark, Tom,” said George. His + eyes beamed benevolence on his comrade. + </p> + <p> + Robinson stopped dead short. “George,” said he, “no! don't let us. I would + rather stay at home and read my book. You can go into temptation and come + out pure; I can't. I am one of those that, if I go into a puddle up to my + shoe, I must splash up to my middle.” + </p> + <p> + “What has that to do with it?” + </p> + <p> + “Your proposing to me to go in for a lark on the Sabbath day. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Tom, am I the man to tempt you to do evil?” asked George, hurt. + </p> + <p> + “Why, no! but, for all that, you proposed a lark.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, but an innocent one, one more likely to lift your heart on high than + to give you ill thoughts.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, this is a riddle;” and Robinson was intensely puzzled. + </p> + <p> + “Carlo,” cried George, suddenly, “come here. I will not have you hunting + and tormenting those kangaroo rats to-day. Let us all be at peace, if you + please. Come to heel.” + </p> + <p> + The friends strode briskly on, and a little after eleven o'clock they came + upon a small squatter's house and premises. “Here we are,” cried George, + and his eyes glittered with innocent delight. + </p> + <p> + The house was thatched and whitewashed, and English was written on it and + on every foot of ground round it. A furzebush had been planted by the + door. Vertical oak palings were the fence, with a five-barred gate in the + middle of them. From the little plantation all the magnificent trees and + shrubs of Australia had been excluded with amazing resolution and + consistency, and oak and ash reigned safe from overtowering rivals. They + passed to the back of the house, and there George's countenance fell a + little, for on the oval grass-plot and gravel walk he found from thirty to + forty rough fellows, most of them diggers. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, well,” said he, on reflection, “we could not expect to have it all to + ourselves, and indeed it would be a sin to wish it, you know. Now, Tom, + come this way; here it is, here it is—there.” Tom looked up, and in + a gigantic cage was a light brown bird. + </p> + <p> + He was utterly confounded. “What, is it this we came twelve miles to see?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! and twice twelve wouldn't have been much to me.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, but what is the lark you talked of?” + </p> + <p> + “This is it.” + </p> + <p> + “This? This is a bird.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, and isn't a lark a bird?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, ay! I see! ha! ha! ha! ha!” + </p> + <p> + Robinson's merriment was interrupted by a harsh remonstrance from several + of the diggers, who were all from the other end of the camp. + </p> + <p> + “Hold your —— cackle,” cried one, “he is going to sing;” and + the whole party had their eyes turned with expectation toward the bird. + </p> + <p> + Like most singers, he kept them waiting a bit. But at last, just at noon, + when the mistress of the house had warranted him to sing, the little + feathered exile began as it were to tune his pipes. The savage men + gathered round the cage that moment, and amid a dead stillness the bird + uttered some very uncertain chirps, but after a while he seemed to revive + his memories, and call his ancient cadences back him to one by one, and + string them sotto voce. + </p> + <p> + And then the same sun that had warmed his little heart at home came + glowing down on him here, and he gave music back for it more and more, + till at last—amid breathless silence and glistening eyes of the + rough diggers hanging on his voice—out burst in that distant land + his English song. + </p> + <p> + It swelled his little throat and gushed from him with thrilling force and + plenty, and every time he checked his song to think of its theme, the + green meadows, the quiet stealing streams, the clover he first soared + from, and the spring he sang so well, a loud sigh from many a rough bosom, + many a wild and wicked heart, told how tight the listeners had held their + breath to hear him; and when he swelled with song again, and poured with + all his soul the green meadows, the quiet brooks, the honey clover and the + English spring, the rugged mouths opened and so stayed, and the shaggy + lips trembled, and more than one drop trickled from fierce unbridled + hearts down bronzed and rugged cheeks. + </p> + <p> + <i>Dulce dornurn!</i> + </p> + <p> + And these shaggy men, full of oaths and strife and cupidity, had once been + white-headed boys, and had strolled about the English fields with little + sisters and little brothers, and seen the lark rise, and heard him sing + this very song. The little playmates lay in the churchyard, and they were + full of oaths and drink and lusts and remorses—but no note was + changed in this immortal song. And so for a moment or two years of vice + rolled away like a dark cloud from the memory, and the past shone out in + the song-shine. They came back, bright as the immortal notes that lighted + them, those faded pictures and those fleeted days; the cottage, the old + mother's tears when he left her without one grain of sorrow; the + village-church and its simple chimes; the clover-field hard by in which he + lay and gamboled, while the lark praised God overhead; the chubby + playmates that never grew to be wicked, the sweet hours of youth—and + innocence—and home. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0064" id="link2HCH0064"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXIV. + </h2> + <p> + “WHAT will you take for him, mistress? I will give you five pounds for + him.” + </p> + <p> + “No! no! I won't take five pounds for my bird!” + </p> + <p> + “Of course she won't,” cried another, “she wouldn't be such a flat. Here, + missus,” cried he, “I'll give you that for him;” and he extended a brown + hand with at least thirty new sovereigns glittering in it. + </p> + <p> + The woman trembled; she and her husband were just emerging from poverty + after a hard fight. “Oh!” she cried, “it is a shame to tempt a poor woman + with so much gold. We had six brought over, and all died on the way but + this one!” and she threw her white apron over her head, not to see the + glittering bribe. + </p> + <p> + “—— you, put the blunt up and don't tempt the woman,” was the + cry. Another added: “Why, you fool, it wouldn't live a week if you had + it,” and they all abused the merchant. But the woman turned to him kindly + and said: + </p> + <p> + “You come to me every Sunday, and he shall sing to you. You will get more + pleasure from him so,” said she, sweetly, “than if he was always by you.” + </p> + <p> + “So I will, old girl,” replied the rough, in a friendly tone. + </p> + <p> + George stayed till the lark gave up singing altogether, and then he said: + “Now I am off. I don't want to hear bad language after that; let us take + the lark's chirp home to bed with us;” and they made off; and true it was + the pure strains dwelt upon their spirits, and refreshed and purified + these sojourners in a godless place. Meeting these two figures on Sunday + afternoon, armed each with a double-barreled gun and a revolver, you would + never have guessed what gentle thoughts possessed them wholly. They talked + less than they did coming, but they felt so quiet and happy. + </p> + <p> + “The pretty bird,” purred George (seeing him by the ear), “I feel after + him—there—as if I had just come out o' church.” + </p> + <p> + “So do I, George, and I think his song must be a psalm, if we knew all.” + </p> + <p> + “That it is, for Heaven taught it him. We must try and keep all this in + our hearts when we get among the broken bottles, and foul language, and + gold,” says George. “How sweet it all smells, sweeter than before.” + </p> + <p> + “That is because it is afternoon.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! or along of the music; that tune was a breath from home that makes + everything please me. Now this is the first Sunday that has looked, and + smelled, and sounded Sunday.” + </p> + <p> + “George, it is hard to believe the world is wicked. Everything seems good, + and gentle, and at peace with heaven and earth.” + </p> + <p> + A jet of smoke issued from the bush, followed by the report of a gun, and + Carlo, who had taken advantage of George's revery to slip on ahead, gave a + sharp howl, and spun round upon all fours. + </p> + <p> + “The scoundrels!” shrieked Robinson. And in a moment his gun was at his + shoulder, and he fired both barrels slap into the spot whence the smoke + had issued. + </p> + <p> + Both the men dashed up and sprang into the bush revolver in hand, but ere + they could reach it the dastard had run for it; and the scrub was so thick + pursuit was hopeless. The men returned full of anxiety for Carlo. + </p> + <p> + The dog met them, his tail between his legs, but at sight of George he + wagged his tail, and came to him and licked George's hand, and walked on + with them, licking George's hand every now and then. + </p> + <p> + “Look, Tom, he is as sensible as a Christian. He knows the shot was meant + for him, though they didn't hit him.” + </p> + <p> + By this time the men had got out of the wood, and pursued their road, but + not with tranquil hearts. Sunday ended with the noise of that coward's + gun. They walked on hastily, guns ready, fingers on trigger—at war. + Suddenly Robinson looked back, and stopped and drew George's attention to + Carlo. He was standing with all his four legs wide apart, like a statue. + </p> + <p> + George called him; he came directly, and was for licking George's hand, + but George pulled him about and examined him all over. + </p> + <p> + “I wish they may not have hurt him after all, the butchers; they have, + too. See here, Tom, here is one streak of blood on his belly, nothing to + hurt, though, I do hope. Never mind, Carlo,” cried George, “it is only a + single shot by what I can see, 'tisn't like when Will put the whole charge + into you, rabbit-shooting, is it, Carlo? No, says he; we don't care for + this, do we, Carlo?” cried George, rather boisterously. + </p> + <p> + “Make him go into that pool, there,” said Robinson; “then he won't have + fever.” + </p> + <p> + “I will; here—cess! cess!” He threw a stone into the pool of water + that lay a little off the road, and Carlo went in after it without + hesitation, though not with his usual alacrity. After an unsuccessful + attempt to recover the stone he swam out lower down, and came back to the + men and wagged his tail slowly, and walked behind George. + </p> + <p> + They went on. + </p> + <p> + “Tom,” said George, after a pause, “I don't like it.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't like what?” + </p> + <p> + “He never so much as shook himself.” + </p> + <p> + “What of that? He did shake himself, I should say.” + </p> + <p> + “Not as should be. Who ever saw a dog come out of the water and not shake + himself? Carlo, hie, Carlo!” and George threw a stone along the ground, + after which Carlo trotted; but his limbs seemed to work stiffly; the stone + spun round a sharp corner in the road, the dog followed it. + </p> + <p> + “He will do now,” said Robinson. + </p> + <p> + They walked briskly on. On turning the corner they found Carlo sitting up + and shivering, with the stone between his paws. + </p> + <p> + “We must not let him sit,” said Tom; “keep his blood warm. I don't think + we ought to have sent him into the water.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know,” muttered George, gloomily. “Carlo,” cried he, cheerfully, + “don't you be down-hearted; there is nothing so bad as faint-heartedness + for man or beast. Come, up and away ye go, and shake it off like a man.” + </p> + <p> + Carlo got up and wagged his tail in answer, but he evidently was in no + mood for running; he followed languidly behind. + </p> + <p> + “Let us get home,” said Robinson; “there is an old pal of mine that is + clever about dogs, he will cut the shot out if there is one in him, and + give him some physic.” + </p> + <p> + The men strode on, and each, to hide his own uneasiness, chatted about + other matters; but all of a sudden Robinson cried out, “Why, where <i>is</i> + the dog?” They looked back, and there was Carlo some sixty yards in the + rear, but he was not sitting this time, he was lying on his belly. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! this is a bad job,” cried George. The men ran up in real alarm; Carlo + wagged his tail as soon as they came near him, but he did not get up. + </p> + <p> + “Carlo,” cried George, despairingly, “you wouldn't do it, you couldn't + think to do it. Oh, my dear Carlo, it is only making up your mind to live; + keep up your heart, old fellow; don't go to leave us alone among these + villains. My poor, dear, darling dog! Oh, no! he won't live, he can't + live; see how dull his poor, dear eye is getting. Oh, Carlo! Carlo!” + </p> + <p> + At the sound of his master's voice in such distress, Carlo whimpered, and + then he began to stretch his limbs out. At the sight of this Robinson + cried hastily: + </p> + <p> + “Rub him, George; we did wrong to send him into the water.” + </p> + <p> + George rubbed him all over. After rubbing him a while, he said: + </p> + <p> + “Tom, I seem to feel him turning to dead under my hand.” + </p> + <p> + George's hand in rubbing Carlo came round to the dog's shoulder, then + Carlo turned his head and for the third time began to lick George's hand. + George let him lick his hand and gave up rubbing him, for where was the + use? Carlo never left off licking his hand, but feebly, very feebly, more + and more feebly. + </p> + <p> + Presently, even while he was licking his hand, the poor thing's teeth + closed slowly on his loving tongue, and then he could lick the beloved + hand no more. Breath fluttered about his body a little while longer; but + in truth he had ceased to live when he could no longer kiss his master's + hand. + </p> + <p> + And so the poor single-hearted soul was gone. + </p> + <p> + George took it up tenderly in his arms. Robinson made an effort to console + him. “Don't speak to me, if you please,” said George, gently but quickly. + He carried it home silently, and laid it silently down in a corner of the + tent. + </p> + <p> + Robinson made a fire and put some steaks on, and made George slice some + potatoes to keep him from looking always at what so little while since was + Carlo. Then they sat down silently and gloomily to dinner, it was long + past their usual hour and they were workingmen. Until we die we dine, come + what may. The first part of the meal passed in deep silence. Then Robinson + said sadly: + </p> + <p> + “We will go home, George. I fall into your wishes now. Gold can't pay for + what we go through in this hellish place.” + </p> + <p> + “Not it,” replied George, quietly. + </p> + <p> + “We are surrounded by enemies.” + </p> + <p> + “Seems so,” was the reply, in a very languid tone. + </p> + <p> + “Labor by day and danger by night.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay,” but in a most indifferent tone. + </p> + <p> + “And no Sabbath for us two.” + </p> + <p> + “No!” + </p> + <p> + “I'll do my best for you, and when we have five hundred pounds more you + shall go home to Susan.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you. He was a good friend to us that lies there under my coat; he + used to lie over it, and then who dare touch it?” + </p> + <p> + “No! but don't give way to that, George—do eat a bit, it will do you + good.” + </p> + <p> + “I will, Tom, I will. Thank you kindly. Ah! now I see why he came to me + and kept licking my hand so the moment he got the hurt. He had more sense + than we had; he knew he and I were to part that hour. And I tormented his + last minutes sending him into the water and after stones, when the poor + thing wanted to be bidding me good-by all the while. Oh, dear! oh, dear!” + and George pushed his scarce-tasted dinner from him, and left the tent + hurriedly, his eyes thick with tears. + </p> + <p> + Thus ended this human day so happily begun; and thus the poor dog paid the + price of fidelity this Sunday afternoon. + </p> + <p> + <i>Siste viator iter</i>—and part with poor Carlo—for whom + there are now no more little passing troubles—no more little simple + joys. His duty is performed, his race is run. Peace be to him, and to all + simple and devoted hearts. Ah me! how rare they are among men! + </p> + <p> + “What are you doing, Tom, if you please?” + </p> + <p> + “Laying down a gut line to trip them up when they get into our tent.” + </p> + <p> + “When—who?” + </p> + <p> + “Those that shot Carlo.” + </p> + <p> + “They won't venture near me. + </p> + <p> + “Won't they? What was the dog shot for? They will come—and come to + their death; to-night, I hope. Let them come! you will hear me cry 'Carlo' + in their ears as I put my revolver to their skulls and pull the trigger.” + </p> + <p> + George said nothing, but he clinched his teeth. After a pause he muttered, + “We should pray against such thoughts.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson was disappointed, no attack was made; in fact, even if such a + thing was meditated, the captain's friends watched his tent night and day, + and made such a feat a foolhardy enterprise, full of danger from without + and within. + </p> + <p> + In the course of the next week a good deal of rain fell and filled many of + the claims, and caused much inaction and distress among the diggers, and + Robinson guarded the tent, and wrote letters and studied Australian + politics, with a view to being shortly a member of Congress in these + parts. George had his wish at last and cruised about looking for the home + of the gold. George recollected to have seen what he described as a river + of quartz sixty feet broad, and running between two black rocks. It ran in + his head that gold in masses was there locked up, for, argued he, all the + nuggets of any size I have seen were more than half quartz. Robinson had + given up debating the point. + </p> + <p> + George was uneasy and out of spirits at not hearing from Susan for several + months, and Robinson was for indulging him in everything. + </p> + <p> + Poor George! he could not even find his river of quartz. And when he used + to come home day after day empty-handed and with this confession, the + other's lips used to twitch with the hard struggle not to laugh at him; + and he used to see the struggle and be secretly more annoyed than if he + had been laughed out at. + </p> + <p> + One afternoon Tom Robinson, internally despising the whole thing, and + perfectly sure in his own mind that there was no river of quartz, but + paternal and indulgent to his friend's one weakness, said to him: + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you how to find this river of quartz, if it is anywhere except + in your own head.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be much obliged to you. How?” + </p> + <p> + “Jem has come back to camp and he tells me that Jacky is encamped with a + lot more close to the gully he is working—it was on the other side + the bush there-and Jacky inquired very kind after you.” + </p> + <p> + “The little viper.” + </p> + <p> + “He grinned from ear to ear, Jem tells me; and says he, 'Me come and see + George a good deal soon,' says he.” + </p> + <p> + “If he does, George will tan his black hide for him.” + </p> + <p> + “What makes you hold spite so long against poor Jacky?” + </p> + <p> + “He is a little sneaking varmint.” + </p> + <p> + “He knows every part of this country, and he would show you 'the home of + the gold,'” observed Robinson, restraining his merriment with great + difficulty. + </p> + <p> + This cock would not fight, as vulgar wretches say. Jacky had rather + mortified George by deserting him upon the first discovery of gold. “Dis a + good deal stupid,” was that worthy's remark on the second day. “When I + hunt tings run, and I run behind and catch dem. You hunt—it not run—yet + you not catch it always. Dat a good deal stupid. Before we hunt gold you + do many tings, now do one; dat a good deal stupid. Before, you go so + (erecting a forefinger); now you always so (crooking it). Dat too stupid.” + And with this—whir! my lord was off to the woods. + </p> + <p> + On the head of this came Abner limping in, and told how a savage had been + seen creeping after him with a battle-ax, and how he had lain insensible + for days, and now was lame for life. George managed to forgive Jacky's + unkind desertion, but for creeping after Abner and “spoiling him for + life,” to use Abner's phrase, he vowed vengeance on that black hide and + heart. + </p> + <p> + Now if the truth must be told, Jacky had come back to the camp with Jem, + and would have marched before this into George's tent. But Robinson, + knowing how angry George was with him, and not wishing either Jacky to be + licked or George to be tomahawked, insisted on his staying with Jem till + he had smoothed down his friend's indignation. Soon after this dialogue + Robinson slipped out, and told Jacky to stay with Jem and keep out of + George's way for a day or two. + </p> + <p> + And now the sun began to set red as blood, and the place to sparkle far + and wide with the fiery rays emitted from a hundred thousand bottles that + lay sown broadcast over the land; and the thunder of the cradles ceased, + and the accordions came out all over five miles of gold mine. Their + gentler strains lasted till the sun left the sky; then, just at dusk, came + a tremendous discharge of musketry roaring, rattling, and re-echoing among + the rocks. This was tens of thousands of diggers discharging their muskets + and revolvers previous to reloading them for the night; for, calm as the + sun had set to the music of accordions, many a deadly weapon they knew + would be wanted to defend life and gold ere that same tranquil sun should + rise again. + </p> + <p> + Thus the tired army slept not at their ease, like other armies, guarded by + sentinels and pickets, but every man in danger every night and every hour + of it. Each man lay in his clothes with a weapon of death in his hand; + Robinson with two, a revolver and a cutlass ground like a razor. Outside + it was all calm and peaceful. No boisterous revelry—all seemed to + sleep innocent and calm in the moonlight after the day of herculean toil. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps if any one eye could have visited the whole enormous camp, the + children of theft and of the night might have been seen prowling and + crawling from one bit of shade to another. But in the part where our + friends lay the moon revealed no human figures but Robinson's patrol, + three men, who, with a dark-lantern and armed to the teeth, went their + rounds and guarded forty tents, above all the captain's. It was at his + tent that guard was relieved every two hours. So all was watched the + livelong night. + </p> + <p> + Two pointed rocks connected at the base faced the captain's tent. The + silver rays struck upon their foreheads wet with the vapors of night, and + made them like frost seen through phosphorus. It was startling. The soul + of silver seemed to be sentinel and eye the secret gold below. + </p> + <p> + And now a sad, a miserable sound grated on the ear of night. A lugubrious + quail doled forth a grating, dismal note at long but measured intervals, + offending the ear and depressing the heart. This was the only sound Nature + afforded for hours. The neighboring bush, though crammed with the merriest + souls that ever made feathers vibrate and dance with song, was like a tomb + of black marble; not a sound—only this little raven of a quail + tolled her harsh, lugubrious crake. + </p> + <p> + Those whose musical creed is Time before Sentiment might have put up with + this night-bird; for to do her justice she was a perfect timist—one + crake in a bar the livelong night; but her tune—ugh! She was the + mother of all files that play on iron throughout the globe. Crake!—crake!—crake! + untuning the night. + </p> + <p> + An eye of red light suddenly opened in the silver stream shows three men + standing by a snowy tent. It is the patrol waiting to be relieved. Three + more figures emerge from the distant shade and join them. The first three + melt into the shade. + </p> + <p> + Crake! + </p> + <p> + The other three remain and mutter. Now they start on their rounds. “What + is that?” mutters one. + </p> + <p> + “I'll go and see.” Click. + </p> + <p> + “Well!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, it is only that brown donkey that cruises about here. She will break + her neck in one of the pits some day.” + </p> + <p> + “Not she. She is not such an ass.” + </p> + <p> + These three melted into the night, going their rounds; and now nothing is + left in sight but a thousand cones of snow, and the donkey paddling + carefully among the pits. + </p> + <p> + Craake! + </p> + <p> + Now the donkey stands a moment still in the moonlight—now he paddles + slowly away and disappears on the dark side the captain's tent. What is he + doing? He stoops—he lies down—he takes off his head and skin + and lays them down. + </p> + <p> + It is a man! He draws his knife and puts it between his teeth. A pistol is + in his hand—he crawls on his stomach—the tent is between him + and the patrol. His hand is inside the tent—he finds the opening and + winds like a serpent into the tent. + </p> + <p> + Craake! + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0065" id="link2HCH0065"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXV. + </h2> + <p> + BLACK WILL no sooner found himself inside the tent than he took out a dark + lantern and opened the slide cautiously. There lay in one corner the two + men fast asleep side by side. Casting the glare around he saw at his feet + a dog with a chain round him. It startled him for a moment—but only + for a moment. He knew that dog was dead. mephistopheles had told him + within an hour after the feat was performed. Close to his very hand was a + pair of miner's boots. He detached them from the canvas and passed them + out of the tent; and now looking closely at the ground he observed a place + where the soil seemed loose. His eye flashed with triumph at this. He + turned up the openings of the tent behind him to make his retreat clear if + necessary. He made at once for the loose soil, and the moment he moved + forward Robinson's gut-lines twisted his feet from under him. He fell + headlong in the middle, and half a dozen little bells rang furiously at + the sleepers' heads. + </p> + <p> + Up jumped Tom and George, weapons in hand, but not before Black Will had + wrenched himself clear and bounded back to the door. At the door, in his + rage at being balked, he turned like lightning and leveled his pistol at + Robinson, who was coming at him cutlass in hand. The ex-thief dropped on + his knees and made a furious upward cut at his arm. At one and the same + moment the pistol exploded and the cutlass struck it and knocked it + against the other side of the tent. The bullet passed over Robinson's + head. Black Will gave a yell so frightful that for a moment it paralyzed + the men, and even with this yell he burst backward through the opening, + and with a violent wrench of his left hand brought the whole tent down and + fled, leaving George and Robinson struggling in the canvas like cats in an + empty flour-sack. + </p> + <p> + The baffled burglar had fled but a few yards, when, casting his eye back, + he saw their helplessness. Losing danger in hatred he came back, not now + to rob, but murder, his left hand lifted high and gleaming like his cruel + eye. As he prepared to plunge his knife through the canvas, flash bang! + flash bang! bang! came three pistol-shots in his face from the patrol, who + were running right slap at him not thirty yards off, and now it was life + or death. He turned and ran for his life, the patrol blazing and banging + at him. Eighteen shots they fired at him, one after another; more than one + cut his clothes, and one went clean through his hat, but he was too fleet, + he distanced them; but at the reports diggers peeped out of distant tents, + and at sight of him running, flash bang went a pistol at him from every + tent he passed, and George and Robinson, who had struggled out into the + night, saw the red flashes issue, and then heard the loud reports bellow + and re-echo as he dodged about down the line, and then all was still and + calm as death under the cold, pure stars. + </p> + <p> + Craake! + </p> + <p> + They put up their tent again. The patrol came panting back. “He has got + off—but he carried some of our lead in him. Go to bed, captain, we + won't leave your tent all night.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson and George lay down again thus guarded. The patrol sat by the + tent. Two slept, one loaded the arms again and watched. In a few minutes + the friends were actually fast asleep again, lying silent as the vast camp + lay beneath the silver stars. + </p> + <p> + Craake! + </p> + <p> + And now it was cold, much colder than before, darker, too, no moon now, + only the silver stars; it makes one shiver. Nature seemed to lie stark and + stiff and dead, and that accursed craake her dirge. All tended to + shivering and gloom. Yet a great event approached. + </p> + <p> + Craake! + </p> + <p> + A single event, a thousand times weightier to the world, each time it + comes, than if with one fell stroke all the kingdoms of the globe became + republics and all the republics empires, so to remain a thousand years. An + event a hundred times more beautiful than any other thing the eye can hope + to see while in the flesh, yet it regaled the other senses, too, and + blessed the universal heart. + </p> + <p> + Before this prodigious event came its little heralds sweeping across the + face of night. First came a little motion of cold air—it was + dead-still before; then an undefinable freshness; then a very slight but + rather grateful smell from the soil of the conscious earth. Next twittered + from the bush one little hesitating chirp. + </p> + <p> + Craake! went the lugubrious quail, pooh-poohing the suggestion. Then + somehow rocks and forest and tents seemed less indistinct in shape; + outlines peeped where masses had been. + </p> + <p> + Jug! jug! went a bird with a sweet jurgle in his deep throat. Craake! went + the ill-omened one directly, disputing the last inch of nature. But a gray + thrush took up the brighter view; otock otock tock! o tuee o o! o tuee oo! + o chio chee! o chio chee! sang the thrush, with a decision as well as a + melody that seemed to say: “Ah! but I am sure of it; I am sure, I am sure, + wake up, joy! joy!” + </p> + <p> + From that moment there was no more craake. The lugubrious quail shut up in + despair, perhaps in disdain,* and out gurgled another jug! jug! jug! as + sweet a chuckle as Nature's sweet voice ever uttered in any land; and with + that a mist like a white sheet came to light, but only for a moment, for + it dared not stay to be inspected, “I know who is coming, I'm off,” and + away it crept off close to the ground—and little drops of dew peeped + sparkling in the frost-powdered grass. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * Like anonymous detraction before <i>vox populi.</i> +</pre> + <p> + Yock! yock! O chio faliera po! Otock otock tock! o chio chee! o chio chee! + </p> + <p> + Jug! jug! jug! jug! + </p> + <p> + Off we go! off we go! + </p> + <p> + And now a thin red streak came into the sky, and perfume burst from the + bushes, and the woods rang, not only with songs some shrill, some as sweet + as honey, but with a grotesque yet beautiful electric merriment of birds + that can only be heard in this land of wonders. The pen can give but a + shadow of the drollery and devilry of the sweet, merry rogues that hailed + the smiling morn. Ten thousand of them, each with half a dozen songs, + besides chattering and talking and imitating the fiddle, the fife and the + trombone. Niel gow! niel gow! niel gow! whined a leather-head. Take care + o' my hat! cries a thrush, in a soft, melancholy voice; then with + frightful harshness and severity, where is your bacca-box! your box! your + box! then before any one could answer, in a tone that said devil may care + where the box is or anything else, gyroc de doc! gyroc de doc! roc de doc! + cheboc cheboc! Then came a tremendous cackle ending with an obstreperous + hoo! hoo! ha! from the laughing jackass, who had caught sight of the red + streak in the sky—harbinger, like himself, of morn; and the piping + crows or whistling magpies modulating and humming and chanting, not like + birds, but like practiced musicians with rich baritone voices, and the + next moment creaking just for all the world like Punch, or barking like a + pug dog. And the delicious thrush with its sweet and mellow tune. Nothing + in an English wood so honey-sweet as his otock otock tock! o tuee o o! o + tuee o o! o chio chee! o chio chee! + </p> + <p> + But the leather-heads beat all. Niel gow! niel gow! niel gow! off we go! + off we go! off we go! followed by rapid conversations, the words + unintelligible but perfectly articulate, and interspersed with the oddest + chuckles, plans of pleasure for the day, no doubt. Then ri tiddle tiddle + tiddle tiddle tiddle tiddle! playing a thing like a fiddle with wires; + then “off we go” again, and bow! wow! wow! jug! jug! jug! jug! jug! and + the whole lot in exuberant spirits, such extravagance of drollery, such + rollicking jollity, evidently splitting their sides with fun, and not able + to contain themselves for it. + </p> + <p> + Oh! it was twelve thousand miles above the monotonous and scanty strains + of a European wood; and when the roving and laughing, and harshly + demanding bacca-boxes and then as good as telling you they didn't care a + feather for bacca-boxes or anything else, gyroc de doc! cheboc cheboc + cheboc! and loudly announcing their immediate departure, and perching in + the same place all the more and sweet, low modulations ending in putting + on the steam and creaking like Punch, and then almost tumbling off the + branches with laughing at the general accumulation of nonsense—when + all this drollery and devilry and joy and absurdity were at their maddest, + and a thousand feathered fountains bubbling song were at their highest, + then came the cause of all the merry hubbub—the pinnacles of rock + glowed burnished gold, Nature, that had crept from gloom to pallor, burst + from pallor to light and life and burning color—the great sun's + forehead came with one gallant stride into the sky—and it was day! + </p> + <p> + Out shone ten thousand tents of every size and hue and shape, from Isaac + Levi's rood of white canvas down to sugar-loaves, and even to miserable + roofs built on the bare ground with slips of bark, under which unlucky + diggers crept at night like badgers—roofed beds—no more—the + stars twinkling through chinks in the tester. The myriad tents were + clustered for full five miles on each side of the river, and it wound and + sparkled in and out at various distances, and shone like a mirror in the + distant background. + </p> + <p> + At the first ray the tents disgorged their inmates, and the human hive + began to hum; then came the fight, the maneuvering, the desperate wrestle + with Nature, and the keen fencing with their fellows—in short, the + battle—to which, that nothing might be wanting, out burst the + tremendous artillery of ten thousand cradles louder than thunder, and + roaring and crashing without a pause. + </p> + <p> + The base of the two-peaked rock that looked so silvery in the moon is now + seen to be covered with manuscript advertisements posted on it; we can + only read two or three as we run to our work: + </p> + <p> + “<i>Immense</i> reduction in eggs only one shilling each!!! Bevan's + store.” + </p> + <p> + “Go-ahead library and registration office for new chums. Tom Long in the + dead-horse gully.” + </p> + <p> + “If this meets the i of Tom Bowles he will ear of is pal in the iron-bark + gully.” + </p> + <p> + “This is to give notice that whereas my wife Elizabeth Sutton has taken to + drink and gone off with my mate Bob, I will not be answerable for your + debts nor hold any communication with you in future. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “JAMES SUTTON.” + </pre> + <p> + A young Jew, Nathan, issued from Levi's tent with a rough table and two or + three pair of scales and other paraphernalia of a gold assayer and + merchant. This was not the first mine by many the old Jew had traded in. + </p> + <p> + His first customers this morning were George and Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “Our tent was attacked last night, Mr. Levi.” + </p> + <p> + “Again? humph!” + </p> + <p> + “Tom thinks he has got enemies in the camp.” + </p> + <p> + “Humph! the young man puts himself too forward not to have enemies.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said George, quickly, “if he makes bitter enemies he makes warm + friends.” + </p> + <p> + George then explained that his nerve and Robinson's were giving way under + the repeated attacks. + </p> + <p> + “We have had a talk and we will sell the best part of our dust to you, + sir. Give him the best price you can afford for Susan's sake.” + </p> + <p> + And away went George to look for his quartz river, leaving the ex-thief to + make the bargain and receive the money. + </p> + <p> + In the transaction that followed Mr. Levi did not appear to great + advantage. He made a little advance on the three pounds per ounce on + account of the quantity, but he would not give a penny above three + guineas. No! business was business; he could and would have <i>given</i> + George a couple of hundred pounds in day of need, but in buying and + selling the habits of a life could not be shaken off. Wherefore Robinson + kept back eight pounds of gold-dust and sold him the rest for notes of the + Sydney Bank. + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir,” said Tom, cheerfully, “now my heart is light; what we have + got we can carry round our waists now by night or day. Well, friend, what + do you want, poking your nose into the tent?” + </p> + <p> + Coming out suddenly he had run against a man who was in a suspicious + attitude at the entrance. + </p> + <p> + “No offense,” muttered the man, “I wanted to sell a little gold-dust.” + </p> + <p> + Levi heard what Robinson said, and came quickly out. + </p> + <p> + He seated himself behind the scales. + </p> + <p> + “Where is your gold?” + </p> + <p> + The man fumbled and brought out about an ounce. All the time he weighed + it, the Jew's keen eye kept glancing into his face he lowered his eyes and + could not conceal a certain uneasiness. When he was gone, Levi asked + Robinson whether he knew that face. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Robinson, “I don't.” + </p> + <p> + Levi called Nathan out. + </p> + <p> + “Nathan, look at that man, follow him cautiously, and tell me where we + have seen him; above all, know him again. Surely that is the face of an + enemy.” + </p> + <p> + Then the old man asked himself where he had seen such an eye and brow and + shambling walk as that; and he fell into a brown study and groped among + many years for the clew. + </p> + <p> + “What! is Erin-go-bragh up with the sun for once?” cried Robinson to Mary + McDogherty, who passed him spade on shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Sure if she warn't she'd never keep up with Newgut,” was the instant + rejoinder. + </p> + <p> + “Hem! how is your husband, Mary?” + </p> + <p> + “Och, captain, it is a true friend ye are for inquiring. Then it's tied in + a knot he is. + </p> + <p> + “Mercy on us, tied in a knot?” + </p> + <p> + “Tied in a knot intirely—wid the rheumatism—and it's tin days + I'm working for him and the childhre, and my heart's broke against gravel + and stone intirely. I wish it was pratees we are digging, I'd maybe dig up + a dinner any way.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no difficulty, the secret is to look in the right place.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! ay! take your divairsion, ye sly rogue!—I wish ye had my five + childhre.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! you spiteful cat!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Ede, come to sell?” + </p> + <p> + “A little.” + </p> + <p> + “What is to do out there? seems a bit of a crowd.” + </p> + <p> + “What, haven't you heard? it is your friend Jem! he has got a slice of + luck, bought a hole of a stranger, saw the stuff glitter, so offered him + thirty pounds; he was green and snapped at it; and if Jem didn't wash four + ounces out the first cradleful I'm a Dutchman.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am right glad of that.” + </p> + <p> + A young digger now approached respectfully. “Police report, captain.” + </p> + <p> + “Hand it here. May I sit at your table a minute, Mr. Levi?” Mr. Levi bowed + assent. + </p> + <p> + “No clew to the parties that attacked our tent last night?” + </p> + <p> + “None at present, captain, but we are all on the lookout. Some of us will + be sure to hear of something, course of the day, and then I'll come and + tell you. Will you read the report? There is the week's summary as well.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course I will. Mum! mum! 'Less violence on the whole this week; more + petty larceny.' That is bad. I'll put it down, Mr. Levi. I am determined + to put it down. What an infernal row the cradles make. What is this? 'A + great flow of strangers into the camp, most thought to be honest, but some + great roughs; also a good many Yankees and Germans come in at the south + side.' What is this? 'A thief lynched yesterday. Flung headforemost into a + hole and stuck in the clay. Not expected to live after it.' Go it, my + boys! Didn't I say law is the best for all parties, thieves included? + Leave it, Andrew, I will examine it with the utmost minuteness.” + </p> + <p> + The dog used fine words on these occasions, that he might pass for a + pundit with his clique, and being now alone he pored over his police-sheet + as solemn and stern as if the nation depended on his investigations. + </p> + <p> + A short explosion of laughter from Andrew interrupted this grave + occupation. The beak looked up with offended dignity, and, in spite of a + mighty effort, fell a sniggering. For following Andrew's eyes he saw two + gig umbrellas gliding erect and peaceful side by side among the pits. + </p> + <p> + “What on earth are they?” + </p> + <p> + “Chinamen, captain. They are too lazy to dig. They go about all day + looking at the heaps and poking all over the camp. They have got eyes like + hawks. It is wonderful, I am told, what they contrive to pick up first and + last. What hats! Why, one of 'm would roof a tent.” + </p> + <p> + “Hurroo!” + </p> + <p> + “What is up now?” + </p> + <p> + “Hurroo!” And up came Mary McDogherty dancing and jumping as only Irish + ever jumped. She had a lump of dim metal in one hand and a glittering mass + in the other. She came up to the table with a fantastic spring and spanked + down the sparkling mass on it, bounding back one step like india-rubber + even as she struck the table. + </p> + <p> + “There, ould gintleman, what will ye be after giving me for that? Sure the + luck is come to the right colleen at last.” + </p> + <p> + “I deal but in the precious metals and stones,” replied Isaac, quietly. + </p> + <p> + “Sure, and isn't gould a precious metal?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you offer me this for gold? This is not even a metal. It is mica—yellow + mica. + </p> + <p> + “Mikee?” cried Mary, ruefully, with an inquiring look. + </p> + <p> + At this juncture in ran George, hot as fire. “There!” cried he, + triumphantly to Robinson, “was I right or wrong? What becomes of your + gold-dust?” And he laid a nugget as big as his fist on the table. + </p> + <p> + “Ochone!” cried the Irishwoman, “they all have the luck barrin' poor Molly + McDogherty.” + </p> + <p> + The mica was handled, and George said to her compassionately, “You see, my + poor girl, the first thing you should do is to heft it in your hand. Now + see, your lump is not heavy like—” + </p> + <p> + “Pyrites!” said Isaac, dryly, handing George back his lump. “No! pyrites + is heavier than mica—and gold than pyrites.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Levi, don't go to tell me this is not a metal,” remonstrated George, + rather sulkily, “for I won't have it.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, it is a metal,” replied Levi, calmly, “and a very useful metal, but + not of the precious metals. It is iron.” + </p> + <p> + “How can it be iron when it is yellow? And how is one to know iron from + gold, at any rate?” + </p> + <p> + “Be patient, my son.” said the old Jew calmly, “and learn. Take this + needle. Here is a scale of gold; take it up on the needle-point. You have + done it. Why? Because gold is a soft metal. Now take up this scale from + your pyrites?” + </p> + <p> + “I can't.” + </p> + <p> + “No, because iron is a hard metal. Here is another childish test—a + bloodstone, called by some the touchstone. Rub the pyrites on it. It + colors it not—a hard metal. Now rub this little nugget of pure gold + I have just bought.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! this stains the stone yellow.” + </p> + <p> + “A soft metal. Here in this little phial is muriatic acid. Pour a drop on + my nugget. The metal defies it. Now pour on your pyrites. See how it + smokes and perishes. It cannot resist the acid. There are many other + tests, but little needed. No metal, no earthly substance, resembles gold + in the least.” + </p> + <p> + “Not to a Jew's eye,” whispered Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “And much I marvel that any man or even any woman who has been in a gold + mine and seen and handled virgin gold should take mica” (here he knocked + the mica clean off the table) “or pyrites” (here he spanged that in + another direction) “for the royal metal.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you what to do, Mary,” began Robinson, cheerfully. “Hallo! she + is crying. Here is a faint heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Och! captain dear, Pat an' me we are kilt right out for want of luck. Oh! + oh! We niver found but one gould—and that was mikee. We can't fall + upon luck of any sort—good, bad or indifferent—that is where + I'm broke and spiled and kilt hintirely. Oh! oh! oh!” + </p> + <p> + “Don't cry. You have chosen a bad spot.” + </p> + <p> + “Captain, avick, they do be turning it up like carrots on both sides of + huz. And I dig right down as if I'd go through the 'orld back to dear old + Ireland again. He! he! he! oh! oh! An' I do be praying to the Virgin at + every stroke of the spade, I do, and she sends us no gould at all at all, + barrin' mikee, bad cess to 't. Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “That is it. You are on two wrong tacks. You dig perpendicular and pray + horizontal. Now you should dig horizontal and pray perpendicular.” + </p> + <p> + “Och! captain, thim's hard words for poor Molly McDogherty to quarry + through.” + </p> + <p> + “What is that in your hand?” + </p> + <p> + “Sure it is an illigant lump of lead I found,” replied poor Mary; the base + metal rising in estimation since her gold turned out dross. “Ye are great + with the revolver, captain,” said she, coaxingly, “ye'll be afther giving + me the laste pinch of the rale stuff for it?” + </p> + <p> + Robinson took the lump. “Good heavens! what a weight!” cried he. He eyed + it keenly. “Come, Mr. Levi,” cried he, “here is a find; be generous. She + is unlucky.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be just,” said the old man gravely. He weighed the lump and made + a calculation on paper, then handed her forty sovereigns. + </p> + <p> + She looked at them. “Oh, now, it is mocking me ye are, old man;” and she + would not take the money. On this he put it coolly down on the table. + </p> + <p> + “What is it at all?” asked she, faintly. + </p> + <p> + “Platinum,” replied Isaac, coldly. + </p> + <p> + “And a magnificent lump of it!” cried Robinson, warmly. + </p> + <p> + “Och, captain! och, captain, dear! and what is plateenum at all—if + ye plaze?” + </p> + <p> + “It is not like your mica,” said Isaac. “See, it is heavier than gold, and + far more precious than silver. It has noble qualities. It resists even the + simple acid that dissolves gold. Fear not to take the money. I give you + but your metal's value, minus the merchant's just profit. Platinum is the + queen of the metals.” + </p> + <p> + “Och, captain, avick! och! och! come here till I eat you!” And she flung + her arm round Robinson's neck, and bestowed a little furious kiss on him. + Then she pranced away; then she pranced back. “Platinum, you are the boy; + y'are the queen of the mitals. May the Lord bless you, ould gentleman, and + the SAINTS BLESS YOU! and the VIRGIN MARY BLESS YOU!”* And she made at + Isaac with the tears in her eyes, to kiss him; but he waved her off with + calm, repulsive dignity. “Hurroo!” And the child of Nature bounded into + the air like an antelope, and frisked three times; then she made another + set at them. “May you live till the skirts of your coat knock your brains + out, the pair of ye! hurroo!” Then with sudden demureness, “An' here's + wishing you all sorts of luck, good, bad an' indifferent, my darlin's. + Plateenum foriver, and gould to the Divil,” cried she, suddenly, with a + sort of musical war-shout, the last words being uttered three feet high in + air, and accompanied with a vague kick, utterly impossible in that + position except to Irish, and intended, it is supposed, to send the + obnoxious metal off the surface of the globe forever. And away she danced. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * These imprecations are printed on the ascending scale by + way of endeavor to show how the speaker delivered them. +</pre> + <p> + Breakfast now! and all the cradles stopped at once. + </p> + <p> + “What a delightful calm,” said Robinson, “now I can study my police-sheet + at my ease.” + </p> + <p> + This morning, as he happened to be making no noise, the noise of others + worried him. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Levi, how still and peaceful they are when their time comes to grub. + 'The still sow sups the kail,' as we used to say in the north; the English + turn the proverb differently, they say 'The silent hog—'” + </p> + <p> + “Jabber! jabber! jabber!—aie! aie!” + </p> + <p> + “Hallo! there's a scrimmage! and there go all the fools rushing to see it. + I'll go, too!” + </p> + <p> + Alas! poor human nature; the row was this. The peaceful children of the + moon, whom last we saw gliding side by side, vertical and seemingly + imperturbable, had yielded to the <i>genius loci,</i> and were engaged in + bitter combat, after the manner of their nation. The gig umbrellas were + resolved into their constituent parts; the umbrellas proper, or hats, lay + on the ground—the sticks or men rolled over one another scratching + and biting. Europe wrenched them asunder with much pain, and held them + back by their tails, grinning horribly at each other, and their long claws + working unamiably. + </p> + <p> + The diggers were remonstrating; their morality was shocked. + </p> + <p> + “Is that the way to fight? What are fists given us for, ye varmint?” + </p> + <p> + Robinson put himself at the head of the general sentiment. “I must do a + bit of beak here!!!” cried he; “bring those two tom-cats up before me!!” + </p> + <p> + The proposal was received with acclamation. A high seat was made for the + self-constituted beak, and Mr. Stevens was directed to make the Orientals + think that he was the lawful magistrate of the mine. Mr. Stevens, entering + into the fun, persuaded the Orientals, who were now gig umbrellas again, + that Robinson was the mandarin who settled property, and possessed, among + other trifles, the power of life and death. On this they took off their + slippers before him, and were awestruck, and secretly wished they had not + kicked up a row, still more that they had stayed quiet by the banks of the + Hoang-ho. + </p> + <p> + Robinson settled himself, demanded a pipe, and smoked calm and terrible, + while his myrmidons kept their countenances as well as they could. After + smoking in silence a while, he demanded of the Chinese, “What was the + row?” + </p> + <p> + 1st Chinaman. “Jabber! jabber! jabber!” + </p> + <p> + 2d Chinaman. “Jabber! jabber! jabber!” + </p> + <p> + Both. “Jabber! jabber! jabber!” + </p> + <p> + “What is that? Can't they speak any English at all?” + </p> + <p> + “No!” + </p> + <p> + “No wonder they can't conduct themselves, then,” remarked a digger. + </p> + <p> + The judge looked him into the earth for the interruption. + </p> + <p> + “You get the story from them, and tell it.” + </p> + <p> + After a conference, Mr. Stevens came forward. + </p> + <p> + “It is about a nugget of gold, which is claimed by both parties.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “Stop! bring that nugget into court; that is the regular + course.” + </p> + <p> + Great interest began to be excited, and all their necks craned forward—when + Mr. Stevens took from one of the Chinese the cause of so sanguinary a + disturbance, and placed it on the judge's table. A roar of laughter + followed—it was between a pea and a pin's head in magnitude. + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “You know this is shocking. Asia, I am ashamed of you. Silence + in the court! Proceed with the evidence.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Stevens. “This one saw the gold shining, and he said to the other, + 'Ah!'” + </p> + <p> + Robinson (writing his notes). “Said—to—the-other—'Ah!'—Stop! + what was the Chinese for 'ah'?” + </p> + <p> + Stevens. “'Ah!” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + Andrew. “Come! the beggars have got hold of some of our words!” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “Silence in the court!” + </p> + <p> + Andrew. “I ask pardon, captain.” + </p> + <p> + Stevens. “But the other pounced on it first, so they both claim it.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “Well! I call it a plain case.” + </p> + <p> + Stevens. “So I told them.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “Exactly! Which do you think ought to have it?” + </p> + <p> + Stevens. “Why, I told them we have a proverb—'Losers, seekers—finders, + keepers.'” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “Of course; and which was the finder?” + </p> + <p> + Stevens. “Oh! of course this one that—hum! Well, to be sure he only + said 'ah!' he did not point. Then perhaps—but on the other hand—hum!” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “Why, don't you see? but no!—yes! why it must be the one + that—ugh! Drat you both! why couldn't one of you find it, and the + other another?” + </p> + <p> + Robinson was puzzled. At last he determined that this his first judgment + should satisfy both parties. + </p> + <p> + “Remove the prisoners,” said he; “are they the prisoners or the witnesses? + remove them anyway, and keep them apart.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson then searched his pockets, and produced a little gold swan-shot + scarce distinguishable from the Chinese. He put this on the table, and + took up the other. + </p> + <p> + “Fetch in number one!” + </p> + <p> + The Chinaman came in with obeisances and misgivings; but when the judge + signed to him to take up the gold, which he mistook for the cause of + quarrel, his face lightened with a sacred joy—he receded, and with a + polite gesture cleared a space; then, advancing one foot with large and + lofty grace, he addressed the judge, whose mouth began to open with + astonishment, in slow, balanced and musical sentences. This done, he + retired with three flowing salaams, to which the judge replied with three + little nods. + </p> + <p> + “What on earth did the beggar say? What makes you grin, Mr. Stevens?” + </p> + <p> + Stevens. “He said—click!” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “Come! tell me first, laugh after.” + </p> + <p> + Stevens. “He said, 'May your highness flourish like a tree by the side of + a stream that never overflows, yet is never dry, but glides—(click!)—even + and tranquil as the tide of your prosperity—'” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “Well, I consent!” + </p> + <p> + Stevens. “'May dogs defile the graves of your enemies! '” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “With all my heart! provided I am not dancing over them at the + time.” + </p> + <p> + Stevens. “When satiated with earthly felicity, may you be received in + paradise by seventy dark-eyed houris—'” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “Oh! my eye!” + </p> + <p> + Stevens. “Click! 'Each bearing in her hand the wine of the faithful; and + may the applause of the good at your departure resemble the waves of the + ocean beating musically upon rocky caverns. Thy servant, inexperienced in + oratory, retires abashed at the greatness of his subject, and the + insignificance of his expressions.' So then he cut his stick!” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “A very sensible speech! Well, boys, I'm not greedy; I take the + half of that offer, and give you the rest—bring in the other + gentleman!” + </p> + <p> + No. 2 advanced with reverences and misgivings. Robinson placed the gold on + the table and assigned it to him. A sacred joy illumined him, and he was + about to retire with deep obeisances. + </p> + <p> + “Where is his speech?” cried the judge ruefuly. + </p> + <p> + Stevens explained to him that the other had returned thanks. On this No. 2 + smiled assentingly, and advancing delivered the following sentences: + </p> + <p> + “Your slave lay writhing in adversity, despoiled by the unprincipled. He + was a gourd withered by the noonday sun, until your virtues descended like + the dew, and refreshed him with your justice and benignity. + </p> + <p> + “Wherefore hear now the benediction of him whom your clemency has raised + from despair. + </p> + <p> + “May your shadow increase and cover many lands. May your offspring be a + nation dwelling in palaces with golden roofs and walls of ivory, and on + the terraces may peacocks be as plentiful as sparrows are to the + undeserving. May you live many centuries shining as you now shine; and at + your setting may rivulets of ink dug by the pens of poets flow through + meadows of paper in praise of the virtues that embellish you here on + earth. Sing-tu-Che, a person of small note but devoted to your service, + wishes these frivolous advantages to the Pearl of the West, on whom be + honor.” + </p> + <p> + Chorus of diggers. “My eye!” + </p> + <p> + Robinson rose with much gravity and delivered himself thus: + </p> + <p> + “Sing-tu-Che, you are a trump, an orator, and a humbug. All the better for + you. May felicity attend you. Heichster guchster—honi soit qui mal y + pense—donner und blitzen—tempora mutantur—O mia cara and + pax vobiscum. The court is dissolved.” + </p> + <p> + It was, and I regret to add that Judge Robinson's concluding sentences + raised him greatly in the opinion of the miners. + </p> + <p> + “Captain knows a thing or two.” + </p> + <p> + “If ever we send one to parliament that is the man.” + </p> + <p> + “Halo! you fellows, come here! come here!” + </p> + <p> + A rush was made toward Jem, who was roaring and gesticulating at Mr. + Levi's table. When they came up they found Jem black and white with rage, + and Mr. Levi seated in calm indifference. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” asked Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “The merchant refuses my gold.” + </p> + <p> + “I refuse no man's gold,” objected Levi coolly, “but this stuff is not + gold.” + </p> + <p> + “Not gold-dust,” cried a miner; and they all looked with wonder at the + rejected merchandise. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Levi took the dust and poured it out from one hand to the other; he + separated the particles and named them by some mighty instinct. + </p> + <p> + “Brass—or-molu—gilt platinum to give it weight; this is from + Birmingham, not from Australia, nor nature.” + </p> + <p> + “Such as it is it cost me thirty pounds,” cried Jem. “Keep it. I shall + find him. My spade shall never go into the earth again till I'm quits with + this one.” + </p> + <p> + “That is right,” roared the men, “bring him to us, and the captain shall + sit in judgment again;” and the men's countenances were gloomy, for this + was a new roguery and struck at the very root of gold digging. + </p> + <p> + “I'll put it down, Mr. Levi,” said Robinson, after the others had gone to + their work; “here is a new dodge, Brummagem planted on us so far from + home. I will pull it down with a tenpenny cord but I'll end it.” + </p> + <p> + Crash! went ten thousand cradles; the mine had breakfasted. I wish I could + give the European reader an idea of the magnitude of this sound whose + cause was so humble. I must draw on nature for a comparison. + </p> + <p> + Did you ever stand upon a rocky shore at evening when a great storm has + suddenly gone down, leaving the waves about as high as they were while it + raged? Then there is no roaring wind to dull the clamor of the tremendous + sea as it lashes the long re-bellowing shore. Such was the sound of ten + thousand cradles; yet the sound of each one was insignificant. Hence an + observation and a reflection—the latter I dedicate to the lovers of + antiquity—that multiplying sound, magnifies it in a way science has + not yet accounted for; and that, though men are all dwarfs, Napoleon + included, man is a giant. + </p> + <p> + The works of man are so prodigious they contradict all we see of any + individual's powers; and even so when you had seen and heard one man rock + one cradle, it was all the harder to believe that a few thousand of them + could rival thunder, avalanches, and the angry sea lashing the long + reechoing shore at night. These miserable wooden cradles lost their real + character when combined in one mighty human effort; it seemed as if giant + labor had stretched forth an arm huge as an arm of the sea and rocked one + enormous engine, whose sides where these great primeval rocks, and its + mouth a thundering sea. + </p> + <p> + Crash! from meal to meal! + </p> + <p> + The more was Robinson surprised when, full an hour before dinner-time, + this mighty noise all of a sudden became feebler and feebler, and + presently human cries of a strange character made their way to his ear + through the wooden thunder. + </p> + <p> + “What on earth is up now?” thought he—“an earthquake?” + </p> + <p> + Presently he saw at about half a mile off a vast crowd of miners making + toward him in tremendous excitement. They came on, swelled every moment by + fresh faces, and cries of vengeance and excitement were now heard, which + the wild and savage aspect of the men rendered truly terrible. At last he + saw and comprehended all at a glance. + </p> + <p> + There were Jem and two others dragging a man along whose white face and + knocking knees betrayed his guilt and his terror. Robinson knew him + directly; it was Walker, who had been the decoy-duck the night his tent + was robbed. + </p> + <p> + “Here is the captain! Hurrah! I've got him, captain. This is the beggar + that peppered the hole for me, and now we will pepper him!” + </p> + <p> + A fierce burst of exultation from the crowd. They thirsted for revenge. + Jem had caught the man at the other end of the camp, and his offense was + known by this time to half the mine. + </p> + <p> + “Proceed regularly, Jem,” said Robinson. “Don't condemn the man unheard.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no! He shall be tried, and you shall be the judge.” + </p> + <p> + “I consent,” said Robinson, somewhat pompously. + </p> + <p> + Then arose a cry that made him reflect. + </p> + <p> + “Lynch! Lynch! a seat for Judge Lynch!” and in a moment a judgment-seat + was built with cradles, and he was set on high, with six strange faces + scowling round him for one of his own clique. He determined to back out of + the whole thing. + </p> + <p> + “No, no!” cried he; “that is impossible. I cannot be a judge in such a + serious matter.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” roared several voices. + </p> + <p> + “Why not? Because I am not a regular beak; because I have not got + authority from the Crown.” + </p> + <p> + There was a howl of derision. + </p> + <p> + “We give you authority!” + </p> + <p> + “We order you to be judge!” + </p> + <p> + “We are King, Lords, and Commons!” + </p> + <p> + “Do what we bid you, or,” added a stranger, “we will hang you and the + prisoner with one rope!” + </p> + <p> + Grim assent of the surrounding faces; Robinson sat down on the + judgment-seat not a little discomposed. + </p> + <p> + “Now then,” remonstrated one; “what are you waiting for? Name the jury.” + </p> + <p> + “Me!” “Me!” “Me!” “I!” “I!” “I!” and there was a rush for the office. + </p> + <p> + “Keep cool,” replied another. “Lynch law goes quick, but it goes by rule. + Judge, name the jury.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson, a man whose wits seldom deserted him, at once determined to + lead, since he could not resist. He said with dignity: “I shall choose one + juryman from each of the different countries that are working in this + mine, that no nation may seem to be slighted, for this gold belongs to all + the world.” + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah! Well done, judge. Three cheers for Judge Lynch!” + </p> + <p> + “When I call a country, give me a name, which I will inscribe on my report + of the proceedings. I want a currency lad first.” + </p> + <p> + “Here is one. William Parker.” + </p> + <p> + “Pass over. France.” + </p> + <p> + “Present. Pierre Chanot.” + </p> + <p> + “Germany.” + </p> + <p> + “Here. Hans Muller.” + </p> + <p> + “Holland.” + </p> + <p> + “Here. Jan Van der Stegen.” + </p> + <p> + Spain and Italy were called, but no reply. Asleep, I take it. + </p> + <p> + “United States.” + </p> + <p> + “Here. Nathan Tucker.” + </p> + <p> + Here Robinson, casting his eyes round, spied McLaughlan, and, being minded + to dilute the severity of his jury, he cried out, “Scotland. McLaughlan, + you shall represent her.” + </p> + <p> + No answer. + </p> + <p> + “McLaughlan,” cried several voices, “where are ye? Don't you hear Judge + Lynch speak to you?” + </p> + <p> + “Come, McLaughlan, come over; you are a respectable man.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. McLaughlan intimated briefly in his native dialect that he was, and + intended to remain so; by way of comment on which he made a bolt from the + judgment-hall, but was rudely seized and dragged before the judge. + </p> + <p> + “For Heaven's sake, don't be a fool, McLaughlan. No man must refuse to be + a juryman in a trial by lynch. I saw a Quaker stoned to death for it in + California.” + </p> + <p> + “I guess I was thyar,” said a voice behind the judge, who shifted + uneasily. + </p> + <p> + McLaughlan went into the jury-box with a meaning look at Robinson, but + without another audible word. + </p> + <p> + “Mercy! mercy!” cried Walker. + </p> + <p> + “You must not interrupt the proceedings,” said Judge Lynch. + </p> + <p> + “Haud your whist, ye gowk. Ye are no fand guilty yet,” remonstrated a + juror. + </p> + <p> + The jury being formed, the judge called the plaintiff. + </p> + <p> + “The man sold me a claim for thirty pound. I gave him the blunt because I + saw the stuff was glittery. Well, I worked it, and I found it work rather + easy, that is a fact.” + </p> + <p> + “Haw! haw! haw!” roared the crowd, but with a horrible laughter, no + placability in it. + </p> + <p> + “Well, I found lots of dust, and I took it to the merchant, and he says it + is none of it gold. That is my tale.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you any witnesses?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know. Yes, the nigger; he saw it. Here, Jacky, come and tell + them.” + </p> + <p> + Jacky was thrust forward, but was interrupted by McLaughlan as soon as he + opened his mouth. The Scottish juror declined to receive evidence but upon + oath. The judge allowed the objection. + </p> + <p> + “Swear him in, then,” cried a hundred voices. + </p> + <p> + “Swear?” inquired Jacky, innocently. + </p> + <p> + Another brutal roar of laughter followed. + </p> + <p> + Jacky was offended. + </p> + <p> + “What for you laugh, you stupid fellows? I not a common black fellow. I + been to Sydney and learn all the white man knows. Jacky will swear,” added + he. + </p> + <p> + “Left your hond,” cried McLaughlan. “It is no swearing if you dinna left + your hond.” + </p> + <p> + “Dat so stupid,” said Jacky, lifting his hand peevishly. This done, he + delivered his evidence thus: “Damme I saw dis fellow sell dirt to dis + fellow, and damme I saw dis fellow find a good deal gold, and damme I + heard him say dis is a dam good job, and den damme he put down his spade + and go to sell, and directly he come back and say damme I am done!” + </p> + <p> + “Aweel,” said McLaughlan; “we jaast refuse yon lad's evidence, the + deevelich heathen.” + </p> + <p> + A threatening murmur. + </p> + <p> + “Silence! Hear the defendant.” + </p> + <p> + Walker, trembling like an aspen, owned to having sold the claim, but + denied that the dust was false. “This is what I dug out of it,” said he; + and he produced a small pinch of dust. + </p> + <p> + “Hand it to me,” said the judge. “It seems genuine.” + </p> + <p> + “Put it to the test. Call the merchant for a witness,” cried another. + </p> + <p> + A party ran instantly for Levi. He refused to come. They dragged him with + fearful menaces. + </p> + <p> + “A test, old man; a test of gold!” + </p> + <p> + The old Jew cast his eyes around, took in the whole scene, and with a + courage few of the younger ones would have shown, defied that wild mob. + </p> + <p> + “I will give you no test. I wash my hands of your mad passions, and your + mockeries of justice, men of Belial!” + </p> + <p> + A moment's silence and wonder, a yell of rage, and a dozen knives in the + air. + </p> + <p> + The judge rose hastily, and in a terrible voice that governed the tumult + for an instant said: “Down knives! I hang the first man that uses one in + my court.” And during the momentary pause that followed this he cried out: + “He has given me a test. Run and fetch me the bottle of acid on his + table.” + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah! Judge Lynch forever!” was now the cry, and in a minute the bottle + was thrust into the judge's hand. + </p> + <p> + “Young man,” said Isaac solemnly, “do not pour, lest Heaven bring your + soul to as keen a test one day. Who are you that judge your brother?” + </p> + <p> + Judge Lynch trembled visibly as the reverend man rebuked him thus, but, + fearing Isaac would go farther and pay the forfeit of his boldness, he + said calmly: “Friends, remove the old man from the court, but use respect. + He is an aged man.” + </p> + <p> + Isaac was removed. The judge took the bottle and poured a drop on that + small pinch of dust the man had last given him. + </p> + <p> + No effect followed. + </p> + <p> + “I pronounce this to be gold.” + </p> + <p> + “There,” put in McLaughlan, “ye see the lad was no deceiving ye; is it his + fault if a' the gowd is no the same?” + </p> + <p> + “No!” whimpered Walker, eagerly, and the crowd began to whisper and allow + he might be innocent. + </p> + <p> + The man standing behind the judge said, with a cold sneer: “That is the + stuff he did not sell—now pour on the stuff he sold.” + </p> + <p> + These words brought back the prejudice against the prisoner, and a hundred + voices shouted, “Pour!” while their eyes gleamed with a terrible + curiosity. + </p> + <p> + Judge Lynch, awestruck by this terrible roar, now felt what it is to be a + judge; he trembled and hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “Pour!” roared the crowd, still louder and more fiercely. + </p> + <p> + McLaughlan read the judge's feeling, and whimpered out, “Let it fa', lad—let + it fa'!” + </p> + <p> + “If he does our knives fall on him and you. Pour!” + </p> + <p> + Robinson poured. All their fierce eyes were fixed on the experiment. He + meant to pour a drop or two, but the man behind him jogged his arm, and + half the acid in the bottle fell upon Walker's dust. + </p> + <p> + A quantity of smoke rose from it, and the particles fizzed and bubbled + under the terrible test. + </p> + <p> + “Trash! a rope—no! dig a hole and bury him—no! fling him off + the rock into the water.” + </p> + <p> + “Silence!” roared Robinson, “I am the judge, and it is for me to pronounce + the verdict.” + </p> + <p> + “Silence! hear Judge Lynch!” Silence was not obtained for five minutes, + during which the court was like a forest of wild beasts howling. + </p> + <p> + “I condemn him to be exposed all day, with his dust tied round his neck, + and then drummed out of the camp.” + </p> + <p> + This verdict was received first with a yell of derisive laughter, then + with a roar of rage. + </p> + <p> + “Down with the judge!” + </p> + <p> + “We are the judges!” + </p> + <p> + “To the rock with him!” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, to the rock with him.” + </p> + <p> + With this, an all-overpowering rush was made, and Walker was carried off + up the rock in the middle of five hundred infuriated men. + </p> + <p> + The poor wretch cried, “Mercy! mercy!” + </p> + <p> + “Justice! dog,” was the roar in reply. The raging crowd went bellowing up + the rock like a wave, and gained a natural platform forty feet above the + great deep pool that lay dark and calm below. At the sight of it, the poor + wretch screamed to wake the dead, but the roars and yells of vengeance + drowned his voice. + </p> + <p> + “Put his dust in his pocket,” cried one, crueler than the rest. + </p> + <p> + Their thirst of vengeance was too hot to wait for this diabolical + proposal; in a moment four of them had him by the shoulders and heels; + another moment and the man was flung from the rock, uttering a terrible + death-cry in the very air; then down his body fell like lead, and struck + with a tremendous plunge the deep water that splashed up a moment, then + closed and bubbled over it. + </p> + <p> + From that moment the crowd roared no longer, but buzzed and murmured, and + looked down upon their work half stupidly. + </p> + <p> + “Hush!” + </p> + <p> + “What is that?” + </p> + <p> + “It is his head!” + </p> + <p> + “He is up again!” + </p> + <p> + “Can he swim?” + </p> + <p> + “Fling stones on him.” + </p> + <p> + “No! Let him alone, or we'll fling you atop of him.” + </p> + <p> + “He is up, but he can't swim. He is only struggling! he is down again!” + </p> + <p> + He was down, but only for a moment; then he appeared again choking and + gurgling. + </p> + <p> + “Mercy! mercy!” + </p> + <p> + “Justice, thieving dog!” was the appalling answer. + </p> + <p> + “Save me! save me! Oh, save me! save me!” + </p> + <p> + “Save yourself! if you are worth it!” was the savage reply. + </p> + <p> + The drowning, despairing man's head was sinking again, his strength + exhausted by his idle struggles, when suddenly on his left hand he saw a + round piece of rock scarce a yard from him. He made a desperate effort and + got his hand on it. Alas! it was so slimy he could not hold by it; he fell + off it into the water; he struggled up again, tried to dig his feet into + the rock, but, after a convulsive fling of a few seconds, fell back—the + slimy rock mocked his grasp. He came up again and clung, and cried + piteously for help and mercy. There was none!—but a grim silence and + looks of horrible curiosity at his idle struggles. His crime had struck at + the very root of their hearts and lives. Then this poor, cowardly wretch + made up his mind that he must die. He gave up praying to the pitiless, who + could look down and laugh at his death-agony, and he cried upon the absent + only. “My children! my wife! my poor Jenny!” and with this he shut his + eyes, and, struggling no more, sank quietly down! down! down. First his + shoulders disappeared, then his chin, then his eyes, and then his hair. + Who can fathom human nature? that sad, despairing cry, which was not + addressed to them, knocked at the bosoms that all his prayers to them for + pity had never touched. A hasty, low and uneasy murmur followed it almost + as a report follows a flash. + </p> + <p> + “His wife and children!” cried several voices with surprise; but there + were two men this cry not only touched, but pierced—the plaintiff + and the judge. + </p> + <p> + “The man has got a wife and children,” cried Jem in dismay, as he tried to + descend the rock by means of some diminutive steps. “They never offended + me—he is gone down, —— me if I see the man drowned like + a rat—Hallo!—Splash!” + </p> + <p> + Jem's foot had slipped, and, as he felt he must go, he jumped right out, + and fell twenty feet into the water. + </p> + <p> + At this the crowd roared with laughter, and now was the first shade of + good-nature mixed with the guffaw. Jem fell so near Walker that on coming + up he clutched the drowning man's head and dragged him up once more from + death. At the sight of Walker's face above water again, what did the + crowd, think you? + </p> + <p> + They burst into a loud hurrah! and cheered Jem till the echoes rang again. + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah! Bravo! Hurrah!” pealed the fickle crowd. + </p> + <p> + Now Walker no sooner felt himself clutched than he clutched in return with + the deadly grasp of a drowning man. Jem struggled to get free in vain. + Walker could not hear or see, he was past all that; but he could cling, + and he got Jem round the arms and pinned them. After a few convulsive + efforts Jem gave a loud groan. He then said quietly to the spectators, “He + will drown me in another half minute.” But at this critical moment out + came from the other extremity of the pool Judge Lynch, swimming with a + long rope in his hand; one end of this rope he had made into a bight ere + he took the water. He swam behind Walker and Jem, whipped the noose over + their heads and tightened it under their shoulders. “Haul!” cried he to + Ede, who held the other end of the rope. Ede hauled, and down went the two + heads. + </p> + <p> + A groan of terror and pity from the mob—their feelings were + reversed. + </p> + <p> + “Haul quick, Ede,” shouted Robinson, “or you will drown them, man alive.” + </p> + <p> + Ede hauled hand over hand, and a train of bubbles was seen making all + across the pool toward him. And the next moment two dripping heads came up + to hand close together, like cherries on a stalk; and now a dozen hands + were at the rope, and the plaintiff and defendant were lifted bodily up on + to the flat rock, which came nearly to the water's edge on this side the + pool. + </p> + <p> + “Augh! augh! augh! augh!” gasped Jem. + </p> + <p> + Walker said nothing. He lay white and motionless, water trickling from his + mouth, nose and ears. + </p> + <p> + Robinson swam quietly ashore. The rocks thundered with cheers over his + head. + </p> + <p> + The next moment, “the many-headed beast” remembered that all this was a + waste of time, and bolted underground like a rabbit, and dug and pecked + for the bare life with but one thought left, and that was GOLD. + </p> + <p> + “How are you, Jem?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, captain, oh!” gasped poor Jem, “I am choked—I am dead—I + am poisoned—why, I'm full of water; bring this other beggar to my + tent, and we will take a nanny-goat together.” + </p> + <p> + So Jem was taken off hanging his head, and deadly sick, supported by two + friends, and Walker was carried to the same tent, and stripped and rubbed + and rolled up in a blanket; and lots of brandy poured down him and Jem, to + counteract the poison they had swallowed. + </p> + <p> + Robinson went to Mr. Levi, to see if he would lend him a suit, while he + got his own dried. The old Jew received my lord judge with a low, ironical + bow, and sent Nathan to borrow the suit from another Israelite. He then + lectured my lord Lynch. + </p> + <p> + “Learn from this, young man, how easy it is to set a stone rolling down + hill, how hard to stop it half-way down. Law must always be above the mob, + or it cannot be law. If it fall into their hands it goes down to their own + level and becomes revenge, passion, cruelty, anything but—law. The + madmen! they have lost two thousand ounces of gold—to themselves and + to the world, while they have been wasting their time and risking their + souls over a pound of brass, and aspiring to play the judge and the + executioner, and playing nothing but the brute and the fool—as in + the days of old.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Levi concluded by intimating that there was very little common sense + left upon earth, and that little it would be lost time to search for among + the Gentiles. Finally his discourse galled Judge Lynch, who thereupon + resolved to turn the laugh against him. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Levi,” said he, “I see you know a thing or two. Will you be so good + as to answer me a question?” + </p> + <p> + “If it come within my knowledge,” replied the senior, with grave + politeness. + </p> + <p> + “Which weighs the heaviest, sir, a pound of gold or a pound of feathers?” + and he winked at Nathan, but looked in Isaac's face as demure as a + Quakeress. + </p> + <p> + “A pound of feathers,” replied Isaac. + </p> + <p> + Robinson looked half puzzled, half satirical. + </p> + <p> + “A childish question,” said Isaac sternly. “What boy knows not that + feathers are weighed by Avoirdupois, and gold by Troy weight, and + consequently that a pound of feathers weighs sixteen ounces, and a pound + of gold but twelve?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is a new answer,” cried Robinson. “Good-by, sir, you are too + hard for me;” and he made off to his own tent. It was a day of defeats. + </p> + <p> + The moment he was out of hearing, Isaac laughed. The only time he had done + it during six years. And what a laugh! How, sublimely devoid of merriment! + a sudden loud cackle of three distinct cachinni not declining into a + chuckle, as we do, but ending sharp in abrupt and severe gravity. + </p> + <p> + “I discomfited the young man, Nathan—I mightily discomfited him. Ha! + ha! ho! Nathan, did you as I bade you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, master, I found the man, and I sent Samuel, who went hastily to him + and cried out, 'Mr. Meadows is in the camp and wishes to speak to you.' + Master, he started up in wonder, and his whole face changed; without doubt + he is the man you suspected.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Isaac, reflecting deeply. “The man is Peter Crawley; and what + does he here? Some deep villainy lies at the bottom of this; but I will + fathom it, ay, and thwart it, I swear by the God of Abraham. Let me think + awhile in my tent. Sit you at the receipt of gold.” + </p> + <p> + The old man sat upon a divan in his tent, and pondered on all that had + happened in the mine; above all, on the repeated attacks that had been + made on that one tent. + </p> + <p> + He remembered, too, that George had said sorrowfully to him more than + once: “No letters for me, Mr. Levi, no letter again this month!” The + shrewd old man tied these two threads together directly. + </p> + <p> + “All these things are one,” said Isaac Levi. + </p> + <p> + Thus pondering, and patiently following out his threads, the old man paced + a mile down the camp to the post-office, for he had heard the postman's + horn, and he expected important letters from England, from his friend and + agent at Farnborough, Old Cohen. + </p> + <p> + There were letters from England, but none in old Cohen's hand. He put them + in his bosom with a disappointed look, and paced slowly, and deeply + pondering, back toward his tent. He was about half way, when, much to his + surprise, a stone fell close to him. He took, however, no notice, did not + even accelerate his pace or look round; but the next moment a lump of clay + struck him on the arm. He turned round, quivering with rage at the insult, + and then he saw a whole band of diggers behind him, who the moment he + turned his face began to hoot and pelt him. + </p> + <p> + “Who got poor Walker drowned? Ah! ah! ah!” + </p> + <p> + “Who refused to give evidence before Judge Lynch?” cried another, “Ah! ah! + ah!” + </p> + <p> + There were clearly two parties in the mob. + </p> + <p> + “Down with the Jew—the blood-sucker. We do all the work, and he gets + all the profit. Ah! ah! ah!” + </p> + <p> + And a lump of clay struck that reverend head and almost stunned the poor + old man. He sunk upon his knees, and in a moment his coat was torn to + shreds, but with unexpected activity he wriggled himself free and drew a + dagger long, bright, and sharp as a needle. His assailants recoiled a + moment. The next a voice was heard from behind, “Get on both sides of him + at once!” + </p> + <p> + Isaac looked and saw Peter Crawley. Then the old man trembled for his + life, and cried, “Help! help!” and they hemmed him in and knocked his + dagger out of his hand, and hustled and pommeled him, and would have torn + him in pieces, but he slipped down, and two of them got in front and + dragged him along the ground. + </p> + <p> + “To Walker's pool,” cried brutus, putting himself at the head of those who + followed. + </p> + <p> + All of a sudden Isaac, though half insensible, heard a roar of rage that + seemed to come from a lion—a whiz, a blow like a thunder-clap—saw + one of his assassins driven into the air and falling like a dead clod + three yards off, found himself dropped and a man striding over him. It was + George Fielding, who stood a single moment snorting and blowing out his + cheeks with rage, then went slap at the mob as a lion goes at sheep; + seized one of the small ruffians by the knees, and, by a tremendous effect + of strength and rage, actually used him as a flail, and struck brutus with + the man's head, and knocked that ruffian down stunned, and his nose + leveled with his cheeks. The mob recoiled a moment from this one hero. + George knew it could be but for a moment, so he had no sooner felled + brutus, and hurled the other's carcass in their faces, than he pounced on + Isaac, whipped him on his back and ran off with him. + </p> + <p> + He had got thirty yards with him ere the staggered mob could realize it + all. + </p> + <p> + The mob recovered their surprise, and with a yell like a pack of hounds + bursting covert dashed after the pair. The young Hercules made a wonderful + effort, but no mortal man could run very fast so weighted. In spite of his + start they caught him in about a hundred yards. He heard them close upon + him—put the Jew down—and whispered hastily, “Run to your + tent,” and instantly wheeled round and flung himself at thirty men. He + struck two blows and disabled a couple; the rest came upon him like one + battering-ram and bore him to the ground; but even as he went down he + caught the nearest assailant by the throat and they rolled over one + another, the rest kicking savagely at George's head and loins. The poor + fellow defended his head with one arm and his assailant's body for a + little while, but he received some terrible kicks on the back and legs. + </p> + <p> + “Give it him on the head!” + </p> + <p> + “Kick his life out!” + </p> + <p> + “Settle his hash!” + </p> + <p> + They were so fiercely intent on finishing George that they did not observe + a danger that menaced themselves. + </p> + <p> + As a round shot cuts a lane through a column of infantry, so clean came + two files of special constables with their short staves severing the mob + in two—crick, crack, crick, crick, crick, crick, crack, crack. In + three seconds ten heads were broken, with a sound just like glass bottles, + under the short, deadly truncheon, and there lay half a dozen ruffians + writhing on the ground and beating the Devil's tattoo with their heels. + </p> + <p> + “Charge back!” cried the head-policeman as soon as he had cut clean + through. + </p> + <p> + But at the very word the cowardly crew fled on all sides yelling. The + police followed in different directions a little way, and through this + error three of the felled got up and ran staggering off. When the + head-policeman saw that he cried out: + </p> + <p> + “Back, and secure prisoners.” + </p> + <p> + They caught three who were too stupefied to run, and rescued brutus from + George, who had got him by the throat and was hammering the ground with + his head. + </p> + <p> + “Let go, George,” cried Policeman Robinson, in some anxiety, “you are + killing the man.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I don't want to kill him neither,” said George. + </p> + <p> + And he slowly withdrew his grasp, and left off hammering with the rascal's + head, but looked at him as if he would have preferred to have gone on a + little longer. They captured the three others. + </p> + <p> + “Now secure them,” cried Ede. “Out with your wipes.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no need of wipes,” said Robinson. + </p> + <p> + He then, with a slight blush, and rather avoiding George's eye, put his + hand in his pockets and produced four beautiful sets of handcuffs, bran + new, polished to the fine. With a magical turn of the hand he handcuffed + the three men, still avoiding George's eye. Unnecessary. George's sense of + humor was very faint, and so was his sweetheart's—a sad defect. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps I may as well explain here how Robinson came so opportunely to the + rescue. The fact is, that a week ago he had ordered a lot of constables' + staves and four sets of handcuffs. The staves were nicely painted, + lettered “Captain Robinson's Police, A, B, C,” etc. They had just come + home, and Robinson was showing them to Ede and his gang, when a hullabaloo + was heard, and Levi was seen full half a mile off being hunted. Such an + opportunity of trying the new staves was not to be neglected. Ede and his + men jumped out of their claim and ran with Robinson to the rescue. But + they would have been too late if George, who had just come into the camp + at that very part, had not made his noble and desperate assault and + retreat, which baffled the assailants for two precious minutes. + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “What shall we do with them now we have got them?” + </p> + <p> + George. “Give them a kick apiece on their behinds, and let them go—the + rubbish.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “Not if I know it.” + </p> + <p> + Ede. “I say blackguard 'em.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson. “No, that would be letting ourselves down to their level. No, we + will expose them as we did my old pal here before.” + </p> + <p> + Ede. “Why that is what I mean. Ticket them—put a black card on them + with their offense wrote out large.” + </p> + <p> + No sooner said than done. All four were tied to posts in the sun, and + black-carded, or, as some spell it, placarded, thus: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + COWARD. + Attacked and abused an old man. + >N. B.—Not hanged this time because they + got a licking then and there. +</pre> + <p> + “Let us go and see after Mr. Levi, George.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Tom, I had rather not.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not? he ought to be very much obliged to you.” + </p> + <p> + “That is it, Tom. The old man is of rather a grateful turn of mind—and + it is ten to one if he doesn't go and begin praising me to my face—and + then that makes me—I don't know which way to look. Wait till he has + cooled upon it a bit.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a rum one. Well, George, I have got one proposal you won't say no + to. First, I must tell you there is really a river of quartz in the + country.” + </p> + <p> + “Didn't I tell you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and I didn't believe it. But I have spoken to Jacky about it, and he + has seen it; it is on the other side of the bush. I am ready to start for + it to-morrow, for there is little good to be done here now the weather has + broken.” + </p> + <p> + George assented with joy; but, when Robinson suggested that Jacky would be + very useful to pilot them through the bush, his countenance fell. + </p> + <p> + “Don't think of it,” said he. “I know he is here, Tom, and I shan't go + after him. But don't let him come near me, the nasty little, creeping, + murdering varmint. Poor Abner will never get over his tomahawk—not + if he lives fifty years.” + </p> + <p> + In short, it was agreed they should go alone at peep of day. + </p> + <p> + “I have talked it over with Jem already, and he will take charge of our + tent till we come back.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it.” + </p> + <p> + “We must take some provisions with us, George.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll go and get some cold meat and bread, Tom.” + </p> + <p> + “Do. I'm going to the tent.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson, it is to be observed, had not been in his tent since George and + he left it and took their gold out of it just before sunrise. As he now + carried their joint wealth about his person, his anxiety was transferred. + </p> + <p> + Now at the door of the tent he was intercepted by Jem, very red in the + face, partly with brandy, partly with rage. Walker, whose life he had + saved, whom he had taken to his own tent, and whom Robinson had seen lying + asleep in the best blanket, this Walker had absconded with his boots and + half a pound of tobacco. + </p> + <p> + “Well, but you knew he was a rogue. Why did you leave him alone in your + tent?” + </p> + <p> + “I only left him for a minute to go a few steps with you if you remember, + and you said yourself he was asleep. Well, the moment our backs were + turned he must have got up and done the trick.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't, like it,” said Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “No more don't I,” said Jem. + </p> + <p> + “If he was not asleep, he must have heard me say I was going to cross the + bush with my mate to-morrow at daybreak.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! and what if he did?” + </p> + <p> + “He is like enough to have gone and told the whole gang.” + </p> + <p> + “And what if he has?” + </p> + <p> + Robinson was about to explain to Jem. that he now carried all the joint + gold in his pocket, but he forbore. “It is too great a stake for me to + trust anybody unless I am forced,” thought he. So he only said: “Well, it + is best to be prudent. I shall change the hour for starting.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a cunning one, captain, but I really think you are overcareful + sometimes.” + </p> + <p> + “Jem,” said the other gravely, “there is a mystery in this mine. There is + a black gang in it, and that Walker is one of them. I think they have + sworn to have my gold or my life, and they shan't have either if I can + help it. I shall start two hours before the sun.” + </p> + <p> + He was quite right; Walker had been shamming sleep, and full four hours + ago he had told his confederates as a matter of course all that he had + heard in the enemy's camp. + </p> + <p> + Walker, a timid villain, was unprepared for the burst of savage exultation + from brutus and Black Will that followed this intelligence. These two, by + an instinct quick as lightning, saw the means of gratifying at one blow + their cupidity and hate. Crawley had already told them he had seen + Robinson come out of Levi's tent after a long stay, and their other spies + had told them his own tent had been left unguarded for hours. They put + these things together and conjectured at once that the men had now their + swag about them in one form or other. + </p> + <p> + “When do they go?” + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow at break of day,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “The bush is very thick!” + </p> + <p> + “And dark, too!” + </p> + <p> + “It is just the place for a job.” + </p> + <p> + “Will two of you be enough?” + </p> + <p> + “Plenty, the way we shall work.” + </p> + <p> + “The men are strong and armed.” + </p> + <p> + “Their strength will be no use to them, and they shan't get time to use + their arms.” + </p> + <p> + “For Heaven's sake, shed no blood unnecessarily,” said Crawley, beginning + to tremble at the pool of crime to whose brink he had led these men. + </p> + <p> + “Do you think they will give up their swag while they are alive?” asked + brutus, scornfully. + </p> + <p> + “Then I wash my hands of it all,” cried the little self-deceiving caitiff; + and he affected to have nothing to do with it. + </p> + <p> + Walker was then thanked for his information, and he thought this was a + good opportunity for complaining of his wrongs and demanding redress. This + fellow was a thorough egotist, saw everything from his own point of view + only. + </p> + <p> + Jem had dragged him before Judge Robinson; Robinson had played the beak + and found him guilty; Levi had furnished the test on which he had been + convicted. All these had therefore cruelly injured and nearly killed him. + </p> + <p> + Himself was not the cause. He had not set all these stones rolling by + forging upon nature and robbing Jem of thirty pounds. No! he could not see + that, nor did he thank Jem one bit for jumping in and saving his life at + risk of his own. “Why did he ever get him thrown in, the brute? If he was + not quite drowned he was nearly, and Jem the cause.” + </p> + <p> + His confederates soothed him with promises of vengeance on all their three + his enemies, and soon after catching sight of one of them, Levi, they kept + their word; they roused up some of the other diggers against Isaac on the + plea that he had refused to give evidence against Walker, and so they + launched a mob and trusted to mob nature for the rest. The recoil of this + superfluous villainy was, as often happens, a blow to the head scheme. + </p> + <p> + brutus, who was wanted at peep of day for the dark scheme already hinted + at, got terribly battered by George Fielding, and placarded, and, what was + worse, chained to a post, by Robinson and Ede. It became necessary to + sound his body and spirit. + </p> + <p> + One of the gang was sent by Crawley to inquire whether he felt strong + enough to go with Black Will on that difficult and dangerous work + to-morrow. The question put in a passing whisper was answered in a + whisper. + </p> + <p> + “I am as strong as a lion for revenge. Tell them I would not miss + to-morrow's work for all the gold in Australia.” + </p> + <p> + The lowering face spoke loud enough if the mouth whispered. + </p> + <p> + The message was brought back to Black Will and Crawley. + </p> + <p> + “What energy!” said Crawley, admiringly. + </p> + <p> + “Ay!” said Black Will, “that is your sort; give me a pal with his skin + smarting and his bones aching for the sort of job that wood shall see + to-morrow. Have they marked him?” he inquired, with a strange curiosity. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid they have; his nose is smashed frightful.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad of it; now we are brothers and will have blood for blood.” + </p> + <p> + “Your expressions are dreadfully terse,” said Crawley, trying to smile, + but looking scared instead; “but I don't understand your remark; you were + not in the late unsuccessful attack on Mr. Levi, and you escaped most + providentially in the night business—the men have not marked you, my + good friend.” + </p> + <p> + “Haven't they?” yelled the man, with a tremendous oath—“haven't + they? LOOK HERE!” A glance was enough. Crawley turned wan and shuddered + from head to foot. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0066" id="link2HCH0066"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXVI. + </h2> + <h3> + WE left Robinson and Jem talking at the entrance to the tent. + </h3> + <p> + “Come in,” said Robinson. “You will take care of this tent while we are + gone.” + </p> + <p> + Jem promised faithfully. + </p> + <p> + He then asked Robinson to explain to him the dodge of the gut-lines. + Robinson showed him, and how the bells were rung at his head by the + thief's foot. + </p> + <p> + Jem complimented him highly. + </p> + <p> + Robinson smiled, but the next moment sighed. “They will be too clever for + us some of these dark nights—see how nearly they have nicked us + again and again!” + </p> + <p> + “Don't be down on your luck, captain!” + </p> + <p> + “Jem, what frightens me is the villains getting off so; there they are to + try again, and next time the luck will be theirs—it can't be always + ours—why should it? Jem, there was a man in my tent last night.” + </p> + <p> + “There is no denying that, captain.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Jem, I can't get it off my heart that I was to kill that man, or he + me. Everything was on my side. I had my gut-lines, and I had a revolver + and a cutlass—and I took up the cutlass like a fool; if I had taken + up the revolver the man would be dead. I took up the wrong, and that man + will be my death. The cards never forgive! I had the odd trick, and didn't + take it—I shall lose the game.” + </p> + <p> + “No, ye shan't,” cried Jem, hastily. “What if the man got clear for the + moment, we will hunt him out for you. You give me his description.” + </p> + <p> + “I couldn't,” said Robinson, despondingly. “It was so dark! Here is his + pistol, but that is no use. If I had but a clew, ay, ever so slight, I'd + follow it up; but no, there is none. Hallo, what is the matter! What is + it? what on earth is the man looking at like that?” + </p> + <p> + “What was you asking for?” stammered Jem. “Wasn't it a clew?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson got up and came to Jem, who was standing with dilated eyes + looking at the ground in the very corner of the tent. He followed the + direction of Jem's eyes, and was instantly transfixed with curiosity and + rising horror. + </p> + <p> + “Take it up, Jem,” he gasped. + </p> + <p> + “No, you take it up! it was you who—” + </p> + <p> + “No—yes! there is George's voice. I wouldn't let him see such a + thing for the world. Oh, God! here is another.” + </p> + <p> + “Another?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, in the long grass! and there is George's voice.” + </p> + <p> + “Come out, Jem. Not a word to George for the world. I want to talk to you. + If it hasn't turned me sick! I should make a poor hangman. But it was in + self-defense, thank Heaven for that!” + </p> + <p> + “Where are you going in such a hurry, Tom?” said George. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, only a little way with Jem.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't be long, it is getting late.” + </p> + <p> + “No, George!” + </p> + <p> + “Jem, this is an ugly job!” + </p> + <p> + “An ugly job, no! —— him, I wish it was his head. Give them + me, captain.” + </p> + <p> + “What, will you take charge of them?” + </p> + <p> + “That I will, captain, and what is more I'll find your enemy out by them, + and—when you come back he shall be in custody—waiting your + orders. Give them me.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, take them. Oh, but I am glad to be rid of them. What a ghastly look + they have.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't care for their looks. I am right glad to see them—they are + a clew and no mistake. Keep dark to-night. Don't tell this to Ede—he + is a good fellow but chatters too much—let me work it out. I'll find + the late owner double quick,” said Jem, with a somewhat brutal laugh. + </p> + <p> + “Your orders about the prisoners, captain?” cried Ede, coming up. + </p> + <p> + Robinson reflected. + </p> + <p> + “Turn them all loose—but one.” + </p> + <p> + “And what shall I do with him?” + </p> + <p> + “Hum! Put a post up in your own tent.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Tie him to it in his handcuffs. Give him food enough.” + </p> + <p> + “And when shall we loose him?” + </p> + <p> + “At noon, to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “It shall be done! but you must come and show me which of the four it is.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson went with Ede and his men. + </p> + <p> + “Turn this one loose,” said he; it was done on the instant. + </p> + <p> + “And this.” + </p> + <p> + “And this.” + </p> + <p> + “And” (laying his finger on brutus) “keep this one prisoner in your tent, + handcuffed and chained, till noon to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + At the touch, brutus trembled with hate; at the order, his countenance + fell like Cain's. + </p> + <p> + Full two hours before sunrise the patrol called Robinson by his own order, + and the friends made for the bush, with a day's provision and their + blankets, their picks, and their revolvers. When they arrived at the edge + of the bush, Robinson halted and looked round to see if they were + followed. The night was pretty clear; no one was in sight. The men struck + rapidly into the bush, which at this part had been cut and cleared in + places, lying as it did so near a mine. + </p> + <p> + “What, are we to run, Tom?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! I want to get to the river of quartz as soon as possible,” was the + dry answer. + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart.” + </p> + <p> + After running about half a mile, George pulled up, and they walked. + </p> + <p> + “What do you keep looking behind for, Tom?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “You fidget me, Tom!” + </p> + <p> + “Can't help it. I shall be like that till daylight. They have shaken my + nerves among them.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't give way to such nonsense. What are you afraid of?” + </p> + <p> + “I am not afraid of anything. Come, George, another run.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, as you like. This beats all.” + </p> + <p> + This run brought them to the end of the broad road, and they found two + smaller paths; after some hesitation, Robinson took the left-hand one, and + it landed them in such a terribly thick scrub they could hardly move. They + forced their way through it, getting some frightful scratches, but after + struggling with it for a good half hour, began to fear it was impenetrable + and interminable, when the sun rising showed them a clear space some yards + ahead. They burst through the remainder of the scrub, and came out upon an + old clearing full a mile long and a quarter of a mile broad. They gave a + hurrah at the sight of it, but when they came to walk on it the ground was + clay and so sticky with a late shower that they were like flies moving + upon varnish, and at last were fain to take off their shoes and stockings + and run over it on the tips of their toes. At the end of this opening they + came to a place like the “Seven Dials”—no end of little paths into + the wood, and none very promising. After a natural hesitation, they took + the one that seemed to be most on their line of march, and followed it + briskly till it brought them plump upon a brook, and there it ended. Robinson + groaned. + </p> + <p> + “Confound the bush,” cried he. “You were wrong not to let me bring Jacky. + What is to be done?” + </p> + <p> + “Go back.” + </p> + <p> + “I hate going back. I would rather go thirty miles ahead than one back. + I've got an idea; off shoes and paddle up the stream; perhaps we shall + find a path that comes to it from the other side.” + </p> + <p> + They paddled up the stream a long way, and at last, sure enough, they + found a path that came down to the stream from the opposite side. They now + took a hasty breakfast, washing it down with water from the brook, then + dived into the wood. + </p> + <p> + The sun, was high in heaven, yet still they had not got out of the bush. + </p> + <p> + “I can't make it out, George; there is nothing to steer by, and these + paths twist and turn so. I don't think we shall do any good till night. + When I see the Southern Cross in the sky I shall be able to steer + northeast. That is our line.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't give in,” said George; “I think it looks clearer ahead. I believe + we are at the end of it.” + </p> + <p> + “No such luck, I am afraid,” was the despondent reply. + </p> + <p> + For all that, in a few yards more they came upon an open place. + </p> + <p> + They could not help cheering. “At last!” cried they. But this triumph gave + way to doubts. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid we are not clear yet,” said Robinson. “See, there is wood + again on the other side. Why, it is that sticky clay again. Why, George, + it is the clearing we crossed before breakfast.” + </p> + <p> + “You are talking nonsense, Tom,” cried George, angrily. + </p> + <p> + “No, I am not,” said the other, sadly. “Come across. We shall soon know by + our footsteps in the clay.” + </p> + <p> + Sure enough, half way across they found a track of footsteps. George was + staggered. “It is the place, I really think,” said he. “But, Tom, when you + talk of the footsteps, look here? You and I never made all these tracks. + This is the track of a party.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson examined the ground. + </p> + <p> + “Tracks of three men; two barefoot, one in nailed boots.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, is that us?” + </p> + <p> + “Look at the clearing, George, you have got eyes. It is the same.” + </p> + <p> + “So 'tis, but I can't make out the three tracks.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson groaned. “I can. This third track has come since we went by.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt of that, Tom. Well?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, don't you see?” + </p> + <p> + “No. What?” + </p> + <p> + “You and I are being hunted.” + </p> + <p> + George looked blank a moment. “Can't we be followed without being hunted?” + </p> + <p> + “No; others might, but not me. We are being hunted,” said Robinson, + sternly. “George, I am sick of this, let us end it. Let us show these + fellows they are hunting lions and not sheep. Is your revolver loaded?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Then come on!” And he set off to run, following the old tracks. George + ran by his side, his eyes flashing with excitement. They came to the + brook. Robinson showed. George that their pursuer had taken some steps + down the stream. “No matter,” said he, “don't lose time, George, go right + up the bank to our path. He will have puzzled it out, you may take your + oath.” + </p> + <p> + Sure enough they found another set of footsteps added to their own. + Robinson paused before entering the wood. He put fresh caps on his + revolver. “Now, George,” said he, in a low voice, “we couldn't sleep in + this wood without having our throats cut, but before night I'll be out of + danger or in my grave, for life is not worth having in the midst of + enemies. Hush! hus-s-sh! You must not speak to me but in a whisper.” + </p> + <p> + “No!” whispered George. + </p> + <p> + “Nor rustle against the boughs.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I won't,” whispered George. “But make me sensible, Tom. Tell me what + all this caution is to lead to. What are you doing?” + </p> + <p> + “I AM HUNTING THE HUNTER!” hissed. Robinson, with concentrated fury. And + he glided rapidly down the trodden path, his revolver cocked, his ears + pricked, his eye on fire, and his teeth clinched. + </p> + <p> + George followed, silent and cautious, his revolver ready cocked in his + hand. As they glided thus, following their own footsteps, and hunting + their hunter with gloomy brows, and nerves quivering, and hearts darkening + with anger and bitterness, sudden a gloom fell upon the wood—it + darkened and darkened. Meantime a breeze chill as ice disturbed its tepid + and close air, forerunner of a great wind which was soon heard, first + moaning in the distance, then howling and rushing up, and sweeping over + the tall trees and rocking them like so many bulrushes. A great storm was + coming. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0067" id="link2HCH0067"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXVII. + </h2> + <p> + THIS very afternoon Mr. Levi came to inquire for George Fielding. Unable + to find him, he asked of several diggers where the young man was; he could + get no information till Jem saw him, and came and told him. + </p> + <p> + Now when he heard they were gone, and not expected back for some days, + Isaac gave quite a start, and showed a degree of regret and vexation that + Jem was puzzled to account for. + </p> + <p> + On reflection he begged Jem to come to his tent; there he sat down and + wrote a letter. + </p> + <p> + “Young man,” said he, “I do entreat you to give this to George Fielding + the moment he returns to the camp. Why did he go without coming to see me? + my old heart is full of misgivings.” + </p> + <p> + “You needn't have any, sir,” said Jem, surprised at the depth of feeling + in the old Jew's face and voice. “He shall have the letter, you may + depend.” + </p> + <p> + Levi thanked him. + </p> + <p> + He then said to Nathan: “Strike the tents, collect our party, and let us + be gone.” + </p> + <p> + “What! going to leave us, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! young man, this very hour.” + </p> + <p> + “Well now, I am sorry for that, and so will the captain be, and his pal + that you think so much of.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall not be long parted,” said the old man, in his sweet musical + Eastern accent, “not very long, if you are faithful to your trust and give + the good young man my letter. May good angels hover round him, may the God + of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob guard him!” + </p> + <p> + “Amen!” said rough Jem; for the reverend face glowed with piety, and the + voice was the voice of prayer. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly an unpleasant reflection occurred to Jem. + </p> + <p> + “Well, but if you go, who is to buy our gold-dust?” + </p> + <p> + “The Christian merchants,” said Isaac, with an indifferent air. + </p> + <p> + “But they are such Jews,” cried Jem, inadvertently. “I mean—I mean——” + And rough as he was, he looked as if he could have bitten his tongue off. + </p> + <p> + “I know what you mean,” said Isaac, sadly. He added: “Such as they are, + they are all you have now. The old Jew was hunted and hooted and insulted + in this place yesterday; here then he trades no more; those who set no + value on him can of course supply his place.” + </p> + <p> + “The blackguards,” cried Jem, “the ruffians, I wish I had seen them. Come, + Mr. Levi, that was not the mine; that was only the riffraff; you might + forgive us that.” + </p> + <p> + “I never forgive,” was the calm reply. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0068" id="link2HCH0068"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXVIII. + </h2> + <p> + A TREMENDOUS snow-storm fell upon the mine and drove Jem into his tent, + where he was soon after joined by Jacky, a circumstance in itself + sufficient to prove the violence of the storm, for Jacky loathed indoors, + it choked him a good deal. + </p> + <p> + The more was Jem surprised when he heard a lamentable howl coming nearer + and nearer, and a woman burst into his tent, a mere pillar of snow, for + she was covered with a thousand flakes each as big as a lady's hand. + </p> + <p> + “Ochone! ochone! ochone!” cried Mary McDogherty, and, on being asked what + was the matter, she sat down and rocked herself and moaned and cried, + “Ochone—och, captain, avick, what will I do for you? an' who will I + find to save you? an' oh, it is the warm heart and the kind heart ye had + to poor Molly McDogherty that ud give her life to save yours this day.” + </p> + <p> + “The captain,” cried Jem, in great alarm. “What is wrong with the + captain?” + </p> + <p> + “He is lying could and stiff in the dark, bloody wood. Och, the murthering + villains! och, what will I do at all! och, captain, avick, warm was your + heart to the poor Irish boys, but it is could now. Ochone! ochone!” + </p> + <p> + “Woman,” cried Jem, in great agitation, “leave off blubbering and tell me + what is the matter.” + </p> + <p> + Thus blandly interrogated, Mary told him a story (often interrupted with + tears and sighs) of what had been heard and seen yester eve by one of the + Irish boys—a story that turned him cold, for it left on him the same + impression it had left on the warmhearted Irishwoman, that at this moment + his good friend was lying dead in the bush hard by. + </p> + <p> + He rose and loaded Robinson's double-barreled gun; he loaded it with + bullets, and, as he rammed them fiercely down, he said angrily: “Leave off + crying and wringing your hands; what on earth is the use of that? here + goes to save him or to revenge him.” + </p> + <p> + “An' och, James, take the wild Ingine wid ye; they know them bloody, + murthering woods better than our boys, glory be to God for taching them + that same.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course I shall take him. You hear, Jacky, will you show me how to find + the poor dear captain and his mate if they are in life?” + </p> + <p> + “If they are alive, Jacky will find them a good deal soon—if they + are dead, still Jacky will find them.” + </p> + <p> + The Irishwoman's sorrow burst out afresh at these words. The savage then + admitted the probability of that she dreaded. + </p> + <p> + “And their enemies—the cowardly villains—what will you do to + them?” asked Jem, black with rage. + </p> + <p> + Jacky's answer made Mary scream with affright, and startled even Jem's + iron nerves for a moment. At the very first word of the Irishwoman's + story, the savage had seated himself on the ground with his back turned to + the others, and, unnoticed by them, had rapidly painted his face with the + war-paint of his tribe. Words cannot describe the ghastly terrors, the + fiendish ferocity these traditional lines and colors gave his countenance. + This creature, that looked so like a fiend, came erect into the middle of + the tent with a single bound, as if that moment vomited forth by hell, and + yet with a grander carriage and princelier presence than he had worn in + time of peace; and even as he bounded he crossed his tomahawk and narrow + wooden shield, to signify that his answer was no vulgar asseveration, but + a vow of sacred war. + </p> + <h3> + “KALINGALUNGA WILL KILL THEM, AND DRINK THEIR BLOOD.” + </h3> + <p> + Kalingalunga glided from the tent. Jem followed him. The snow fell in + flakes as large as a lady's hand, and the air was dark; Jem could not see + where the hunter was taking him, but he strode after him and trusted to + his sagacity. + </p> + <p> + Five hours' hard walking, and then the snow left off. The air became + clear, and to Jem's surprise the bush, instead of being on his right hand, + was now on his left; and there on its skirts, about a mile off, was the + native camp. They had hardly come in sight of it when it was seen to break + from quietude into extraordinary bustle. + </p> + <p> + “What is up?” asked Jem. + </p> + <p> + The hunter smiled, and pointed to his own face: + </p> + <p> + “Kalingalunga painted war.” + </p> + <p> + “What eyes the beggars must have,” said Jem. + </p> + <p> + The next minute a score of black figures came tearing up in such + excitement that their long rows of white teeth and the whites of their + eyes flashed like Budelights in their black heads. + </p> + <p> + Kalingalunga soon calmed them down by letting them know that he was + painted for a private, not a national feud. He gave them no further + information. I suspect he was too keen a sportsman to put others on the + scent of his game. He went all through the camp, and ascertained from the + stragglers that no men answering the description of George and Robinson + had passed out of the wood. + </p> + <p> + “They are in the wood,” said he + </p> + <p> + He then ordered a great fire—bade Jem dry his clothes and eat; he + collected two of his wives and committed Jem to their care, and glided + like a panther into the wood. + </p> + <p> + What with the great heat succeeding to the great cold, and the great + supper the gins gave him, Jem fell fast asleep. It was near daylight when + a hand was laid on his shoulder, and there was Kalingalunga. + </p> + <p> + “Not a track on the snow.” + </p> + <p> + “No? then let us hope they are not in the wood.” + </p> + <p> + The hunter hung his head. + </p> + <p> + “Me tink they are in the wood,” said he, gravely. + </p> + <p> + Jem groaned, “Then they are lying under the soil of it or in some dark + pit.” + </p> + <p> + Kalingalunga reflected. He replied to this effect: + </p> + <p> + “That there were no more traces of an assassin than of victims, + consequently that it was impossible to know anything, and that it was a + good deal too stupid to speak a good deal knowing nothing.” + </p> + <p> + All this time Jem's fear and rage and impatience contrasted greatly with + the philosophic phlegm of the Pict, who looked so fierce and took it all + so cool, ending with an announcement that now Kalingalunga would sleep a + good deal. + </p> + <p> + The chief was soon asleep, but not till he had ordered his gins to wake + him the moment the snow should be melted. This occurred at noon, and, + after snatching a hasty meal, he put a tomahawk into Jem's hands and + darted into the bush. + </p> + <p> + All the savage's coldness disappeared now he was at work. He took Jem + right across the wood from southeast to northwest. Nothing stopped him. + When the scrub was thick above but hollow below he threw himself on his + belly and wriggled along like a snake. When it was all thick, he hacked + into it with fury and forced a path. When it was impenetrable he went + round it, and by some wonderful instinct got into the same line again. + Thus they cut clean across the wood but found no tracks. + </p> + <p> + Then the savage, being out in the open, trotted easily down the woodside + to the southwest point; here he entered and took a line straight as an + arrow to the northeast. + </p> + <p> + It was about five in the afternoon. Kalingalunga was bleeding all over + with scratches, and Jem was torn to pieces and done up. He was just about + to tell the other that he must give in, when Kalingalunga suddenly + stopped, and pointed to the ground: + </p> + <p> + “Track!” + </p> + <p> + “What of?” + </p> + <p> + “A white man's shoe.” + </p> + <p> + “How many are there?” + </p> + <p> + “One.” + </p> + <p> + Jem sighed. + </p> + <p> + “I doubt it is a bad job, Jacky,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Follow—not too close,” was the low reply. + </p> + <p> + And the panther became a serpent, so smooth and undulating were the + motions with which he glided upon the track he had now discovered. + </p> + <p> + Jem, well aware that he could not move noiselessly like the savage, obeyed + him and crept after at some distance. + </p> + <p> + The savage had followed the man's footsteps about half a mile, and the + white man the savage, when suddenly both were diverted from their purpose. + Kalingalunga stood still and beckoned Jem. Jem ran to him, and found him + standing snuffing the air with his great broad nostrils, like a stag. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “White fellow burn wambiloa wood.” + </p> + <p> + “How d'ye know? how d'ye know?” + </p> + <p> + “Wambiloa wood smell a good way off when him burn.” + </p> + <p> + “And how do you know it is a white man?” + </p> + <p> + “Black fellow never burn wambiloa wood; not good to burn that. Keep it for + milmeridien.” + </p> + <p> + The chief now cut off a few of his long hairs and held them up to + ascertain the exact direction of the wind. This done, he barked a tree to + mark the spot to which he had followed the trail, and striking out into + quite a different direction he hunted by scent. + </p> + <p> + Jem expected to come on the burning wambiloa very soon, but he underrated + either the savage's keen scent or the acrid odor of the sacred wood—perhaps + both. They had gone half a mile at least before his companion thought it + necessary to show any caution. At last he stopped short, and then Jem + smelled a smell as if “cinnamon and ginger, nutmegs and cloves,” were all + blazing in one bonfire. With some difficulty he was prevailed on to stand + still and let the subtle native creep on, nor would he consent to be + inactive until the other solemnly vowed to come back for him and give him + his full share of the fighting. Then Kalingalunga went gliding like a + shadow and flitted from tree to tree. + </p> + <p> + Woe be to the enemy the subtle, noiseless, pitiless, remorseless savage + surprises; he has not put on his war-paint in sport or for barren show. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0069" id="link2HCH0069"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXIX. + </h2> + <p> + A MAN was hunting Robinson and George Fielding, and they were hunting him. + Both parties inflamed with rage and bitterness; both master of the other's + fate, they thought. + </p> + <p> + A change of wind brought a fall of snow, and the fall of snow baffled both + parties in five minutes. Down came the Australian flakes large as a + woman's hand (I am not romancing), and effaced the tracks of the pursuing + and pursued and pursuers. So tremendous was the fall that the two friends + thought of nothing but shelter. They drew their blankets over their heads + and ran hither and thither looking for a friendly tree. At last they found + an old tree with a prodigious stem that parted about ten feet up into two + forks. With some effort they got up into this cleft, and then they were on + a natural platform. Robinson always carried nails in his pocket, and he + contrived to nail the two blankets to the forks so as to make a screen. + Then they took out their provisions and fortified themselves with a hearty + supper. + </p> + <p> + As they were eating it they were suddenly startled by an explosion so + tremendous that their tree seemed to have been struck by lightning. Out + went Robinson, with his mouth full, on to a snowdrift four feet high. He + looked up and saw the cause of the fracas. A large bough of a neighboring + tree had parted from the trunk with the enormous weight of the snow. + Robinson climbed back to George and told him. Supper recommenced, but all + over the wood at intervals they now heard huge forks and boughs parting + from their parent stems with a report like a thirty-two-pounder ringing + and echoing through the wood. Others so distant that they were like + crackers. + </p> + <p> + These sounds were very appalling in the ghostly wood. The men + instinctively drew closer to each other; but they were no chickens; use + soon hardened them even to this. They settled it that the forks they were + sitting on would not give way, because there were no leaves on them to + hold a great burden of snow; and soon they yielded to nature and fell fast + asleep in spite of all the dangers that hemmed them. + </p> + <p> + At his regular hour, just before sunrise, Robinson awoke and peeped from + below the blanket. He shook George. + </p> + <p> + “Getup directly, George. We are wasting time when time is gold.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “'What is it?' There is a pilot in the sky that will take us out of this + cursed trap, if the day does not come and spoil all.” + </p> + <p> + George's eye followed Robinson's finger, and in the center of the dark + vault of heaven this glittered. + </p> + <p> + [Southern Cross constellation] + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0070" id="link2HCH0070"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXX. + </h2> + <p> + “I KNOW it, Tom. When I was sailing to this country we came to a part + where the north star went down and down to the water's edge, and this was + all we got in exchange for it.” + </p> + <p> + “George,” said Tom, rather sternly, “how do you know they don't hear us, + and here we are surrounded by enemies, and would you run down our only + friend? That silver star will save our lives if they are to be saved at + all. Come on; and, George, if you were to take your revolver and blow out + my brains, it is no more than I deserve for sleeping away the precious + hours of night, when I ought to have been steering out of this cursed + timber-net by that blessed star.” + </p> + <p> + With these words Robinson dived into the wood, steering due east by the + Southern Cross. It was like going through a frozen river. The scrub was + loaded with snow, which it discharged in masses on the travelers at every + step. + </p> + <p> + “Keep your revolver dry in your hat and your lucifers, too,” cried + Robinson. “We shall have to use them both, ten to one. As to our skins, + that is hopeless.” + </p> + <p> + Then the men found how hard it is to take a line and keep it in the + Australian bush. When the Southern Cross was lost in a cloud, though but + for a minute, they were sure to go all wrong, as they found upon its + reappearance; and sometimes the scrub was impenetrable and they were + forced to go round it and walk four hundred yards, advancing eastward but + twenty or thirty. + </p> + <p> + Thus they battled on till the sun rose. + </p> + <p> + “Now we shall be all in the dark again,” said poor Robinson, “here comes a + fog.” + </p> + <p> + “Stop, Tom,” said George; “oughtn't we to make this good before we go on?” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “We have come right by the star so far, have we not?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Then let us bark fifty of these trees for a mark. I have seen that + varmint Jacky do that.” + </p> + <p> + “A capital idea, George; out with our knives—here goes.” + </p> + <p> + “No breakfast to-day, Tom.” + </p> + <p> + “No, George, nor dinner, either, till we are out of the wood.” + </p> + <p> + These two poor fellows walked and ran and crept and struggled all day, + sometimes hoping, sometimes desponding. At last, at five o'clock in the + afternoon, their bellies gnawed with hunger, their clothes torn to rags, + their skin bleeding, they came out upon some trees with the bark stripped. + They gave one another a look that words can hardly paint. They were the + trees they had barked twelve hours ago! + </p> + <p> + The men stood silent—neither cared to tell the other all he felt—for + now there crept over these two stout bosoms a terrible chill, the sense of + a danger new to them in experience, but not new in report. They had heard + of settlers and others who had been lost in the fatal labyrinth of the + Australian bush, and now they saw how easily it might be true. + </p> + <p> + “We may as well sit down here and rest; we shall do no good till night. + What, are you in pain, George?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Tom, a little.” + </p> + <p> + “Where?” + </p> + <p> + “Something gnaws my stomach like an adder.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that is the soldier's gripes,” said Tom, with a ghastly attempt at a + jest. “Poor George!” said he, kindly, “I dare say you never knew what it + was to go twenty-four hours without food before.” + </p> + <p> + “Never in my life, Tom.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I have, and I'll tell you the only thing to do—when you can't + fill the breadbasket, shut it. Go to sleep till the Southern Cross comes + out again.” + </p> + <p> + “What, sleep in our dripping clothes?” + </p> + <p> + “No, we will make a roaring fire with these strips of bark; they are dry + as tinder by now.” + </p> + <p> + A pyre four feet high was raised, the strips being laid from north to + south and east to west alternately, and they dried their blankets and + warmed their smoking bodies. + </p> + <p> + “George, I have got two cigars; they must last us two days.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I'm no great smoker—keep them for your own comfort.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson wore a sad smile. + </p> + <p> + “We can't afford to smoke them; this is to chew; it is not food, George, + but it keeps the stomach from eating itself. We must do the best for our + lives we can for Susan's sake.” + </p> + <p> + “Give it me, Tom; I'll chew it, and thank you kindly. You are a wise + companion in adversity, Tom; it is a great grief to me that I have brought + you into this trouble, looking for what I know you think is a mare's nest, + as the saying is.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't talk so, George. True pals like you and me never reproach one + another. They stand and fall together like men. The fire is warm, George—that + is one comfort.” + </p> + <p> + “The fire is well enough, but there's nothing down at it. I'd give a + hundred pounds for a mutton chop.” + </p> + <p> + The friends sat like sacrifices by the fire, and chewed their cigars in + silence, with foreboding hearts. After a while, as the heat laid hold of + him, George began to dose. Robinson felt inclined to do the same, but the + sense that perhaps a human enemy might be near caused him to fight against + sleep in this exposed locality; so, whenever his head bobbed down, he + lifted it sharply and forced his eyes open. It was on one of these + occasions that, looking up, he saw, set as it were in a frame of leaves, a + hideous countenance glaring at him; it was painted in circular lines, red, + blue and white. + </p> + <p> + “Get up, George,” roared Robinson; “they are upon us!” + </p> + <p> + And both men were on their feet, revolvers pointed. The leaves parted, and + out came this diabolical face which they had never seen before, but with + it a figure they seemed to know, and a harsh cackle they instantly + recognized, and it sounded like music to them. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, my dear Jacky,” cried George, “who'd have thought it was you! Well, + you are a godsend! Good afternoon. Oh, Jacky!—how d'ye do?” + </p> + <p> + “Jacky not Jacky now, cos um a good deal angry, and paint war. + Kalingalunga berywelltanku” (he always took these four words for one). + “Now I go fetch white fellow;” and he disappeared. + </p> + <p> + “Who is he going to fetch? is it the one that was following us?” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt. Then, Tom, it was not an enemy, after all!” + </p> + <p> + Jacky came back with Jem, who, at sight of them alive and well, burst into + extravagances. He waved his hat round his head several times and then + flung it into a tree; then danced a <i>pas seul</i> consisting of steps + not one of them known at the opera house, and chanted a song of triumph + the words of which were, Ri tol de riddy iddydol, and the ditty naught; + finally he shook hands with both. + </p> + <p> + “Never say die!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is hearty! and how thoughtful of him to come after us, and + above all to bring Jacky!” + </p> + <p> + “That it was,” replied George. “Jem,” said he, with feeling, “I don't know + but what you have saved two men's lives.” + </p> + <p> + “If I don't it shan't be my fault, farmer.” + </p> + <p> + George. “Oh, Jacky, I am so hungry! I have been twenty-four hours without + food.” + </p> + <p> + Kalingalunga. “You stupid fellow to go widout food, always a good deal + food in bush.” + </p> + <p> + George. “Is there? then for Heaven's sake go and get us some of it.” + </p> + <p> + Kalingalunga. “No need go, food here.” He stepped up to the very tree + against which George was standing, showed him an excrescence on the bark, + made two clean cuts with his tomahawk, pulled out a huge white worm and + offered it George. George turned from it in disgust; the wild chief + grinned superior and ate it himself, and smacked his lips with infinite + gusto. + </p> + <p> + Meantime his quick eye had caught sight of something else. “A good deal + dinner in dis tree,” said he, and he made the white men observe some + slight scratches on the bark. “Possum claws go up tree.” Then he showed + them that there were no marks with the claw reversed, a clear proof the + animal had not come down. “Possum in tree.” + </p> + <p> + The white men looked up into the bare tree with a mixture of wonder and + incredulity. Jacky cut steps with his tomahawk and went up the main stem, + which was short, and then up a fork, one out of about twelve; among all + these he jumped about like a monkey till he found one that was hollow at + the top. + </p> + <p> + “Throw Kalingalunga a stone, den he find possum a good deal quick.” + </p> + <p> + They could not find a stone for their lives, so, being hungry, Robinson + threw a small nugget of gold he had in his pocket. Jacky caught it, placed + it at the top of the hollow fork and let it drop. Listening keenly, his + fine ear heard the nugget go down the fork, striking the wood first one + side then another, and then at a certain part sound no more. Down he slips + to that silent part, makes a deep cut with his tomahawk just above the + spot, thrusts in his hand and pulls out a large opossum, yelling and + scratching and emitting a delicious scent in an agony of fear. The + tomahawk soon silenced him, and the carcass fell among the applauding + whites. Now it was Robinson's turn. He carved the raw animal for greater + expedition, and George helped him to wrap each limb and carcass in a thin + covering of clay. Thus prepared, it was thrust into the great pile of + burning ashes. + </p> + <p> + “Look yonder, do! look at that Jem! Why, Jem, what are you up to, + patroling like a sentinel out there?” + </p> + <p> + “Never you heed Jem,” was the dry reply; “you mind the roast, captain, and + I'll mind—my business;” and Jem continued to parade up and down with + his gun cocked and his eye piercing the wood. + </p> + <p> + To Robinson's repeated and uneasy inquiries what meant this pantomime, Jem + persisted in returning no answer but this: “You want your dinner, captain; + eat your dinner, and then I'll hoffer a hobservation; meantime, as these + woods are queer places, a little hextra caution is no sin.” + </p> + <p> + The pie dishes were now drawn out of the ashes and broken, and the meat + baked with all its juices was greedily devoured. “It tastes like a rabbit + stuffed with peppermint,” said George, “and uncommon nice it is. Now I am + another man.” + </p> + <p> + “So am I; Jacky forever!” + </p> + <p> + “Now, Jem, I have dined. Your story, if you please. Why are you here? for + you are a good fellow, but you haven't got gumption enough to say to + yourself, 'These two will get lost in the bush, I'll take Jacky and pull + them out.'” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, captain, that wasn't the way at all; and, since your belly + is full and your courage up, you will be able to enjoy my story better + than you could afore.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, so let us have it;” and Robinson leaned back luxuriously, being + filled and warmed. + </p> + <p> + “First and foremost,” commenced this artful narrator, “there is a chap + prowling in this wood at the present time with a double-barreled gun to + blow out your brains, captain.” + </p> + <p> + “The devil,” cried Robinson, starting to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “And yours, farmer.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know?” asked George, without moving. + </p> + <p> + “That is what I am going to tell you. That Mary McDogherty came crying to + my tent all through the snow. 'What is up?' says I; says she, 'Murder is + up.' Then she told me her cousin, an Irish boy, was at Bevan's store and + he heard some queer talk, and he looked through a chink in the wall and + saw two rascals putting their heads together, and he soon made out they + were driving a bargain to rob you two. One was to do it, the other was + a-egging him on. 'I must have fifty pounds first,' says this one. 'Why?' + says the other. 'Because he has been and locked my pal up that was to be + in it with me.'” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” cried Robinson. “Go on, Jem—there is a clew anyway.” + </p> + <p> + “I have got a thicker one behind. Says the other, 'Agreed! when will you + have it?' 'Why, now,' says t'other. Then this one gave him a note. Pat + couldn't see that it was a fifty, but no doubt it was, but he saw the man + take it and put it in a little tin box and shove it in his bosom.” + </p> + <p> + “That note was the price of blood,” said Robinson. “Oh, the black-hearted + villains. Tell me who they were, that is all; tell me but who they were!” + </p> + <p> + “The boy didn't know.” + </p> + <p> + “There! it is always so. The fools! they never know.” + </p> + <p> + “Stop a bit, captain, there is a clew (your own word).” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, and what is the clew?” + </p> + <p> + “As soon as ever the note was safe in his bosom he says: 'I sold you, + blind mate; I'd have given fifty sooner than not done this job. Look + here!' says he, 'I have sworn to have a life for each of these;' and, + captain,” said Jem, suddenly lowering his voice, “with that it seems he + held up his right hand.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, yes! yes! eh!” + </p> + <p> + “And there were two fingers a-missing on it!” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” + </p> + <p> + “Now those two fingers are the ones you chopped off with your cutlass the + night when the tent was attacked.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, Tom, what is this? you never told me of this,” cried George. + </p> + <p> + “And which are in my pocket.” + </p> + <p> + “In your pocket?” said George, drawing away from him. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, farmer! wrapped up in silver paper, and they shall never leave my + pocket till I have fitted them on the man, and seen him hung or shot with + them two pickers and stealers tied round his bloodthirsty, mercenairy, + aass-aassinating neck, say that I said it.” + </p> + <p> + George. “Jacky, show us the way out of this wood.” + </p> + <p> + Kalingalunga bowed assent, but he expressed a wish to take with him some + of the ashes of the wambiloa. George helped him. + </p> + <p> + Robinson drew Jem aside. “You shouldn't have mentioned that before George; + you have disgusted him properly.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, hang him! he needn't be so squeamish; why, I've had 'em salt—” + </p> + <p> + “There, there! drop it, Jem, do!” + </p> + <p> + “Captain! are you going to let them take us out of the wood before we have + hunted it for that scoundrel?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I am. Look here, Jem, we are four, and he is one, but a + double-barreled gun is an awkward enemy in a dark wood. No, Jem, we will + outwit him to the last. We will clear the wood and get back to the camp. + He doesn't know we have got a clew to him. He will come back without fear, + and we will nail him with the fifty-pound note upon him. And then—Jack + Ketch.” + </p> + <p> + The whole party was now on the move, led by Kalingalunga, bearing the + sacred ashes. + </p> + <p> + “What on earth is he going to do with them?” + </p> + <p> + The chief heard this query, and looking back said gravely, “He take them + to 'Milmeridien';” and the party followed Jacky, who twisted and zigzagged + about the bush till, at last, he brought them to a fairy spot, whose + existence in that rugged wood none of them had dreamed possible. It was a + long, open glade, meandering like a river between two deep, irregular + fringes of the drooping acacia, and another lovely tree which I only know + by its uncouth, unmelodious, scientiuncular name—the eucalyptus. + This tree, as well as the drooping acacia, leaned over the ground with + long leaves like disheveled hair. + </p> + <p> + Kalingalunga paused at the brink and said to his companions in a low, + awestruck voice, “Milmeridien.” + </p> + <p> + The glade was full of graves, some of them fresh, glittering with bright + red earth under the cool, green acacias, others richly veiled with golden + moss more or less according to their age; and in the recesses of the grove + peeped smoother traces of mortality, mossy mounds a thousand years old, + and others far more ancient still, now mere excrescences of green, known + to be graves only by the light of that immense gradation of times and + dates and epochs. + </p> + <p> + The floor of the open glade was laid out as a vast parterre—each + grave a little flower-bed, round, square, oval, or rhomboid; and all round + each bed flowed in fine and graceful curves little paths too narrow for a + human foot. Primeval tradition had placed them there that spirits might + have free passage to visit all the mighty dead. For here reposed no vulgar + corpses. Here, their heads near the surface, but their feet deep in earth, + sat the great hunters and warriors of every age of the race of + Kalingalunga, once a great nation, though now a failing tribe. They sat + there this many a day, their weapons in their hands, ready to start up + whenever the great signal should come, and hunt once more, but without + fatigue, in woods boundless as the sea, and with bodily frames no longer + mortal, to knock and be knocked on the head, <i>ad infinitum.</i> + </p> + <p> + Simple and benign creed! + </p> + <p> + A cry of delight burst from the white men, and they were going to spread + themselves over the garden of the dead. + </p> + <p> + The savage checked them with horror. + </p> + <p> + “Nobody walk there while him alive,” said he. “Now you follow me and not + speak any words at all, or Kalingalunga will leave you in the bush.—Hush!” + </p> + <p> + The savage paused, that even the echo of his remonstrance might die well + away before he traversed the garden. He then bowed his head down upon his + breast in a set manner, and so remained quiet a few seconds. In that same + attitude he started and walked slowly by the verge of the glade, keeping + carefully clear of the graves, and never raising his head. About half way + he stopped and reverently scattered the ashes of the wambiloa upon three + graves that lay near the edge, then forward—silent, downcast, + reverential. + </p> + <p> + “Mors omnibus est communis!” The white men, even down to Jem, understood + and sympathized with Kalingalunga. In this garden of the dead of all ages + they felt their common humanity, and followed their black brother silent + and awestruck. Melted, too, by the sweet and sacred sorrow of this calm + scene; for here Death seemed to relax his frown, and the dead but to rest + from trouble and toil, mourned by gentle, tender trees; and in truth it + was a beautiful thought of these savage men to have given their dead for + companions those rare and drooping acacias, that bowed themselves and + loosed their hair so like fair women abandoned to sorrow over the beloved + and dead, and night and morning swept with their dewy eyelashes the + pillows of the brave. <i>Requiescant in pace!—resurgant in pacem!</i> + For I wish them better than they wished themselves. + </p> + <p> + After Milmeridien came a thick scrub, through which Kalingalunga tracked + his way; and then a loud hurrah burst from all, for they were free—the + net was broken. There were the mountains before them and the gaunt wood + behind them at last. The native camp was visible two miles distant, and + thither the party ran and found food and fires in abundance. Black + sentinels were set at such distances as to render a surprise impossible, + and the travelers were invited to sleep and forget all their troubles. + Robinson and Jem did sleep, and George would have been glad to, and tried, + but was prevented by an unfortunate incident—<i>les enfans terribles</i> + found out his infirmity, viz., that nothing they could do would make him + hit them. So half a dozen little rascals, potter bellied than you can + conceive, climbed up and down George, sticking in their twenty claws like + squirrels, and feeling like cold, slippery slugs. Thus was sleep averted, + until a merciful gin, hearing the man's groans, came and cracked two or + three of these little black pots with a waddie or club, so then George got + leave to sleep, and just as he was dozing off, ting, tong, ti tong, tong, + tong, came a fearful drumming of parchment. A corroboree or native dance + was beginning. No more sleep till that was over—so all hands turned + out. A space was cleared in the wood, women stood on both sides with + flaming boughs and threw a bright red light upon a particular portion of + that space; the rest was dark as pitch. Time, midnight. When the white men + came up the dancing had not begun. Kalingalunga was singing a preliminary + war song. + </p> + <p> + George had picked up some of the native language, and he explained to the + other that Jacky was singing about some great battle, near the Wurra-Gurra + River. + </p> + <p> + “The Wurra-Gurra! why, that is where we first found gold.” + </p> + <p> + “Why of course it is! and—yes! I thought so.” + </p> + <p> + “Thought what?” + </p> + <p> + “It is our battle he is describing.” + </p> + <p> + “Which of 'em?—we live in hot water.” + </p> + <p> + “The one before Jem was our friend. What is he singing? Oh, come! that is + overdoing it, Jacky! Why, Jem! he is telling them he killed you on the + spot.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll punch his head!” + </p> + <p> + “No! take it easy,” said Robinson; “he is a poet; this is what they call + poetical license.” + </p> + <p> + “Lie without sense, I call it—when here is the man.” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Ting tong! ting tong tong!— + I slew him—he fell—by the Wurra-Gurra River. + I slew him!—ting tong! he fell—ting tong! + By the Wurra-Gurra River—ting ting tong!” + </pre> + <p> + This line Jacky repeated at least forty times; but he evaded monotony by + the following simple contrivance: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “I <i>slew</i> him; he <i>fell</i> by the Wurra-Gurra River—ting tong! + <i>I</i> slew him; <i>he</i> fell, by the Wurra-Gurra River, + I slew him; he fell, by the <i>Wurra-Gurra River,”</i> +</pre> + <p> + with similar changes, and then back again. + </p> + <p> + One of our own savages saved a great poet from monotony by similar means;* + very good of him. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * The elder Sheridan, who used to teach his pupils to tresh + dead Dryden out thus: <i>None</i> but the brave,/None but the + <i>brave,</i>/None <i>but</i> the brave, deserve the fair. +</pre> + <p> + And now the gins took up the tune without the words and the dance began to + it. First, two figures ghastly with white paint came bounding like + Jacks-in-the-box out of the gloom into the red light, and danced + gracefully—then one more popped out—then another, at set + intervals of time—then another, all painted differently—and + swelled the dance by degrees; and still, as the dance grew in numbers, the + musicians sang and drummed louder and faster by well-planned gradations, + and the motion rose in intensity, till they all warmed into the terrible + savage corroboree jump, legs striding wide, head turned over one shoulder, + the eyes glaring with fiendish intensity in one direction, the arms both + raised and grasping waddies and boomerangs—till at last they worked + up to such a gallop of fierce, buck-like leaps that there was a jump for + each beat of the music. Now they were in four lines, and as the figures in + the front line jumped to the right, each keeping his distance to a hair, + the second line jumped to the left, the third to the right, and the fourth + to the left. + </p> + <p> + The twinkle and beauty and symmetry of this was admirable, and, strange as + it may appear, not only were the savages now wrought up to frenzy at this + climax of the dance, but the wonderful magnetic influence these children + of Nature have learned to create and launch in the corroboree so stirred + the white men's blood, that they went half mad too, and laughed and + shouted and danced, and could hardly help flinging themselves among the + mad fiends and jumping and yelling with them; and when the jump was at its + fiercest and quickest, and the great frenzy boiling over, these cunning + artists brought it to a dead stop sharp upon the climax—and all was + still. + </p> + <p> + In another minute they were all snoring; but George and Robinson often + started in their slumbers, dreaming they saw the horrid figures—the + skeletons, lizards, snakes, tartan shawls, and whitened fiends, the whole + lot blazing at the eyes and mouth like white budelights, come bounding one + after another out of the black night into the red torchlight, and then go + striding and jumping and glaring and raging and bucking and prancing, and + scattering battle and song and joy and rage and inspiration and + stark-staring frenzy all around. + </p> + <p> + They awoke at daylight rather cold, and found piles of snow upon their + blankets, and the lizards and skeletons and imps and tartan shawls + deteriorated. The snow had melted on their bodies, and the colors had all + run—some of them away. <i>Quid multa?</i> we all know how beauties + look when the sun breaks on them after a ball. + </p> + <p> + They asked for Jacky. To their great chagrin he was not to be found. They + waited, getting crosser and crosser, till nine o'clock, and then out comes + my lord from the wood, walking toward them with his head down on his + bosom, the picture of woe—the milmeridien movement over again. + </p> + <p> + “There! don't let us scold him,” said George, “I am sure he has lost a + relation, or maybe a dear friend; anyway I hope it is not his sweetheart—poor + Jacky. Well, Jacky! I am glad you have washed your face, now I know you + again. You can't think how much better you look in your own face than + painted up in that unreasonable way, like-like-like-I dono-what-all.” + </p> + <p> + “Like something between a devil and a rainbow,” suggested Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “But what is wrong?” asked George, kindly. “I am almost afraid to ask, + though!” + </p> + <p> + Encouraged by the tone of sympathy, the afflicted chief pointed to his + face, sighed, and said: + </p> + <p> + “Kalingalunga paint war, and now Kalingalunga wash um face and not kill + anybody first. Kalingalunga Jacky again, and show your white place in um + hill a good deal soon.” + </p> + <p> + And the amiable heathen cleared up a little at the prospect of serving + George, whom he loved—aboriginally. + </p> + <p> + Jem remained with the natives upon some frivolous pretense. His real hope + was to catch the ruffian whom he secretly believed to be still in the + wood. “He is like enough to creep out this way,” thought Jem, “and then—won't + I nail him!” + </p> + <p> + In half an hour they were standing under the spot whose existence Robinson + had so often doubted. + </p> + <p> + “Well, George, you painted it true. It really is a river of quartz running + between those two black rocks. And that you think is the home of the gold, + eh?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I do. Look here, Tom! look at this great large heap of quartz + bowlders, all of different sizes; they have all rolled down here out of + that river of quartz.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, of course they have! who doubts that?” + </p> + <p> + “Many is the time I have sat on that green mound where Jacky is sitting + now, and eaten my bread and cheese.” + </p> + <p> + “I dare say! but what has that to do with it? what are we to do? Are we to + go up the rock and peck into that mass of quartz?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I think it is worth while.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, it would be like biting a piece out of the world! Look here, Master + George, we can put your notion about the home of the gold to the test + without all that trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “As how?” + </p> + <p> + “You own all these quartz stones rolled out of yon river; if so, they are + samples of it. Ten thousand quartz stones is quite sample enough, so begin + and turn them all over, examine them—break them if you like. If we + find but a speck of gold in one of them I'll believe that quartz river is + gold's home—if not, it is all humbug!” + </p> + <p> + George pulled a wry face; he found himself pinned to his own theory. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said he, “I own the sample tells us what is in the barn; so now I + am vexed for bringing you here.” + </p> + <p> + “Now we <i>are</i> here, give it a fair trial; let us set to and break + every bowlder in the thundering heap.” + </p> + <p> + They went to work and picked the quartz bowlders; full two hours they + worked, and by this time they had made a considerable heap of broken + quartz; it glittered in the sun, but it glittered white, not a speck of + yellow came to light. + </p> + <p> + George was vexed. Robinson grinned; expecting nothing, he was not + disappointed. Besides, he was winning an argument, and we all like to turn + out prophets. Presently a little cackle from Jacky. + </p> + <p> + “I find um!” + </p> + <p> + “Find what?” asked Robinson, without looking up. + </p> + <p> + “A good deal yellow stone,” replied Jacky, with at least equal composure. + </p> + <p> + “Let me see that,” said George, with considerable curiosity; and they both + went to Jacky. + </p> + <p> + Now the fact is that this heap of quartz stones was in reality much larger + than they thought, only the greater part of it had been overgrown with + moss and patches of grass a few centuries of centuries ago. + </p> + <p> + Jacky, seated on what seemed a grassy mound, was in reality perched upon a + part of the antique heap; his keen eye saw a little bit of yellow + protruding through the moss, and he was amusing himself clipping it with + his tomahawk, cutting away the moss and chipping the stone, which made the + latter glitter more and yellower. + </p> + <p> + “Hallo!” cried George, “this looks better.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson went on his knees without a word. + </p> + <p> + “It is all right,” said he, in a great flutter, “it is a nugget—and + a good-sized one—a pound weight, I think. Now then, my lad, out you + come;” and he dug his fingers under it to jerk it out. + </p> + <p> + But the next moment he gave a screech and looked up amazed. + </p> + <p> + “Why, this is the point of the nugget; it lies the other way, not flat. + George! I can't move it! The pick! Oh, Lord! oh, Lord! The pick! the + pick!” + </p> + <p> + “Stand clear,” shouted George, and he drove the point of the pick down + close by the prize, then he pressed on the handle. “Why, Tom, it is jammed + somehow.” + </p> + <p> + “No, it is not jammed—it is its own weight. Why, George!” + </p> + <p> + “Then, Tom! it is a hundred-weight if it is an ounce!” + </p> + <p> + “Don't be a fool,” cried the other, trembling all over; “there is no such + thing in nature.” + </p> + <p> + The nugget now yielded slowly to the pressure and began to come up into + the world again inch by inch after so many thousand years. Of course, + before it could come all out, the soil must open first, and when Robinson, + glaring down, saw a square foot of earth part and gape as the nugget came + majestically up, he gave another cry, and with trembling hands laid hold + of the prize, and pulled and tugged and rolled it on the clean moss—to + lift it was not so easy. They fell down on their knees by the side of it + like men in a dream. Such a thing had never been seen or heard of—a + hundred-weight of quartz and gold, and beautiful as it was great. It was + like honeycomb, the cells of which had been sliced by a knife; the shining + metal brimmed over in the delicate quartz cells. + </p> + <p> + They lifted it. Yes, full a hundredweight; half the mass was quartz, but + four-fifths of the weight they knew must be gold. Then they jumped up and + each put a foot on it, and shook hands over it. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you beauty!” cried George, and he went on his knees and kissed it; + “that is not because you are gold, but because you take me to Susan. Now, + Tom, let us thank Heaven for its goodness to us, and back to camp this + very day.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! but stop, we must wrap it in our wipes or we shall never get back + alive. The very honest ones would turn villains at sight of it. It is the + wonder of the world.” + </p> + <p> + “I see my Susan's eyes in it,” cried George, in rapture. “Oh, Tom, good, + kind, honest Tom, shake hands over it once more!” + </p> + <p> + In the midst of all this rapture a horrible thought occurred. + </p> + <p> + “Why, it's Jacky's,” said George, faintly, “he found it.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense! nonsense!” cried Tom, uneasily; he added, however, “but I am + afraid one third of it is—pals share, white or black.” + </p> + <p> + All their eyes now turned uneasily to the Aboriginal, who lay yawning on + the grass. + </p> + <p> + “Jacky give him you, George,” said this worthy savage, with superb + indifference. He added with a yawn: “What for you dance corroboree when um + not dark?—den you bite yellow stone,” continued this original, “den + you red, den you white, den you red again, all because we pull up yellow + stone-all dis a good deal dam ridiculous.” + </p> + <p> + “So 'tis, Jacky,” replied Robinson, hastily; “don't you have anything to + do with yellow stone, it would make you as great a fool as we are. Now + show us the shortest cut back home through the bush.” + </p> + <p> + At the native camp they fell in with Jem. The monstrous nugget was too + heavy to conceal from his shrewd eye, so they showed it him. The sight of + it almost knocked him down. Robinson told him where they found it, and + advised Jem to go and look for another. Alas! the great nugget already + made him wish one friend away. But Jem said: + </p> + <p> + “No, I will see you safe through the bush first.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0071" id="link2HCH0071"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXI. + </h2> + <p> + ALL this time two persons in the gold mine were upon thorns of expectation + and doubt—brutus and Peter Crawley. George and Robinson did not + return, but no more did Black Will. What had happened? Had the parties + come into collision? and, if so, with what result? If the friends had + escaped, why had they never been heard of since? If, on the other hand, + Will had come off conqueror, why had he never reappeared? At last brutus + arrived at a positive conviction that Black Will had robbed and probably + murdered the men, and was skulking somewhere with their gold, thereby + defrauding him, his pal; however, he kept this to himself, and told + Crawley that he feared Will had come to grief, so he would go well armed, + and see what was the matter, and whether he could help him. So he started + for the bush, well armed. Now his real object, I blush to say, was to + murder Black Will, and rob him of the spoils of George and Robinson. + </p> + <p> + Wicked as these men of violence had been six months ago, gold and Crawley + had made them worse, ay, much worse. Crawley, indeed, had never openly + urged any of them to so deep a crime as murder, and it is worthy of note, + as a psychological fact, that this reptile contrived to deceive itself + into thinking that it had stopped short of crime's utmost limits; to be + sure it had tempted and bribed and urged men to robbery under + circumstances that were almost sure to lead to murder, but still murder + might not occur; meantime it had openly discountenanced that crime, and + checked the natural proclivity of brutus and Black Will toward deeds of + blood. + </p> + <p> + Self-deception will probably cease at the first blast of the archangel's + trumpet. But what human heart will part with it till then? The + circumstances under which a human being could not excuse or delude or + justify himself have never yet occurred in the huge annals of crime. + Prejudice apart, Crawley's moral position behind brutus and Black Will + seems to bear a strong family likeness to that which Holy Writ assigns to + the great enemy of man. That personage knocks out nobody's brains, cuts + nobody's throat, never was guilty of such brutality since the world was, + but he finds some thorough egotist, and whispers how the egotism of his + passions or his interest may be gratified by the death of a + fellow-creature. The egotist listens, and blood flows. + </p> + <p> + brutus and Black Will had both suffered for their crimes. brutus had been + nailed by Carlo, twice gibbeted, and the bridge of his nose broken once. + Black Will had been mutilated, and Walker nearly drowned, but “the close + contriver of all harms” had kept out of harm's way. Violence had never + recoiled on him who set it moving. For all that, Crawley, I must inform + the reader, was not entirely prosperous. He had his little troubles, too, + whether warnings that he was on the wrong path, or punishments of his + vices, or both, I can't say. + </p> + <p> + Thus it was. Mr. Crawley had a natural love of spirits, without a stomach + strong enough to deal with them. When he got away from Mr. Meadows he + indulged more and more, and for some months past he had been subject to an + unpleasant phenomenon that arises now and then out of the fumes of liquor. + At the festive board, even as he raised the glass to his lips, the face of + Crawley would often be seen to writhe with a sort of horror, and his eyes + to become fixed on unseen objects, and perspiration to gather on his brow. + Then such as were not in the secret would jump up and say, “What on earth + is the matter?” and look fearfully round, expecting to see some horrid + sight to justify that look of horror and anguish; but Crawley, his glassy + eyes still fixed, would whimper out, his teeth chattering, and clipping + the words: “Oh, ne-ne-never mind, it's o-o-only a trifling ap-parition!” + He had got to try and make light of it, because at first he used to cry + out and point, and then the miners ran out and left him alone with his + phantoms, and this was terrible. He dreaded solitude; he schemed against + it, and provided against it, and paid fellows to bear him company night + and day, and at the festive board it was one thing to drink his phantoms + neat and another to dilute them with figures of flesh and blood. He much + preferred the latter. + </p> + <p> + At first, his supernatural visitors were of a unfavorable but not a + ghastly character. + </p> + <p> + No. 1 was a judge who used to rise through the floor, and sit half in and + half out of the wall, with a tremendous flow of horse-hair, a furrowed + face, a vertical chasm between the temples, and a strike-me-off-the-rolls + eye gleaming with diabolical fire from under a gray, shaggy eyebrow. + </p> + <p> + No. 2 was a policeman, who came in through the window, and stood + imperturbable, all in blue, with a pair of handcuffs, and a calm eye, and + a disagreeable absence of effort or emotion—an inevitable-looking + policeman. + </p> + <p> + But as Crawley went deeper in crime and brandy, blood-boltered figures, + erect corpses, with the sickening signs of violence in every conceivable + form, used to come and blast his sight and arrest the glass on its way to + his lips, and make his songs and the boisterous attempts at mirth of his + withered heart die in a quaver and a shiver of fear and despair. And at + this period of our tale these horrors had made room for a phantom more + horrible still to such a creature as Crawley. The air would seem to + thicken into sulfurous smoke, and then to clear, and then would come out + clearer and clearer, more and more awful, a black figure with hoof and + horns and tail, eyes like red-hot carbuncles, teeth a <i>chevaux-de-frise</i> + of white-hot iron, and an appalling grin.* + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * The god Pan colored black by the early Christians. +</pre> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0072" id="link2HCH0072"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXII. + </h2> + <p> + THE party, consisting of Jacky, Jem, Robinson and George, had traversed + about one half the bush, when a great heavy crow came wheeling and + cackling over their heads, and then joined a number more who were now seen + circling over a gum-tree some hundred yards distant. + </p> + <p> + “Let us go and see what that is,” said Jem. + </p> + <p> + Jacky grinned, and led the way. They had not gone very far when another + great black bird rose so near their feet as to make them jump, and peering + through the bushes they saw a man lying on his back. His arm was thrown in + an easy, natural way round his gun, but at a second glance it was plain + the man was dead. The crows had ripped his clothes to ribbons with their + tremendous beaks, and lacerated the flesh and picked out the eyes. + </p> + <p> + They stepped a few paces from this sight. There was no sign of violence on + the body. + </p> + <p> + “Poor fellow!” said Jem. “How did he come by his end, I wonder?” And he + stretched forward and peered with pity and curiosity mingled. + </p> + <p> + “Lost in the bush!” said Robinson, very solemnly. And he and George + exchanged a meaning look. + </p> + <p> + “What is that for?” said George, angrily, to Jacky—“grinning in + sight of a dead body?” + </p> + <p> + “White fellow stupid fellow,” was all Jacky's reply. + </p> + <p> + The men now stepped up to the body to examine it; not that they had much + hope of discovering who it was, but still they knew it was their duty for + the sake of his kindred to try and find out. + </p> + <p> + George, overcoming a natural repugnance, examined the pockets. He found no + papers. He found a knife, but no name was cut in the handle. In the man's + bosom he found a small metal box, but just as he was taking it out Jem + gave a halo! + </p> + <p> + “I think I know him,” cried Jem. “There is no mistaking that crop of black + hair; it is my old captain, Black Will.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't say so! What could he be doing here without his party?” + </p> + <p> + “Anything in the box, George?” asked Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing but a little money. Here is a sovereign—look. And here is a + bank-note.” + </p> + <p> + “A five-pound note?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes—no; it is more than that a good deal. It is for fifty pounds, + Tom.” + </p> + <p> + “What?” + </p> + <p> + “A fifty-pound note, I tell you.” + </p> + <p> + “Jem!” + </p> + <p> + “Captain!” + </p> + <p> + A most expressive look was exchanged between these two, and by one impulse + they both seized the stock of the gun that was in the dead man's hand. + They lifted it, and yes—two fingers were wanting on the right hand. + </p> + <p> + “Come away from that fellow,” cried Robinson to George. “Let him lie.” + </p> + <p> + George looked up in some wonder. Robinson pointed sternly to the dead hand + in silence. George, by the light of the other men's faces, saw it all, and + recoiled with a natural movement of repugnance as from a dead snake. There + was a breathless silence—and every eye bent upon this terrible enemy + lying terrible no longer at their feet. + </p> + <p> + “How did he die?” asked Robinson, in a whisper. + </p> + <p> + “In the great snow-storm,” replied George, in a whisper. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Jem, in the same tone, “he was alive yesterday. I saw his + footprint after the snow was melted.” + </p> + <p> + “There was snow again last night, Tom. Perhaps he went to sleep in that + with his belly empty.” + </p> + <p> + “Starvation and fatigue would do it without the snow, George. We brought a + day's provisions out with us, George. He never thought of that, I will be + bound.” + </p> + <p> + “Not he,” said Jem. “I'll answer for him he only thought of robbing and + killing—never thought about dying himself.” + </p> + <p> + “I can't believe he is dead so easy as this,” said Robinson. + </p> + <p> + The feeling was natural. This man had come into the wood and had followed + them burning to work them ill, and they to work him ill. Both were utterly + baffled. He had never prevailed to hurt them, nor they him. He was dead, + but by no mortal hand. The immediate cause of his death was unknown, and + will never be known for certain while the world lasts. + </p> + <p> + <i>L'homme propose, mais Dieu dispose!</i> + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0073" id="link2HCH0073"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXIII. + </h2> + <p> + “DON'T keep staring at it so, farmer, it is an ugly sight. You will see + him in your sleep if you do that. Here is something better to look at—a + letter. And there I carried it and never once thought of it till the sight + of his hand made me feel in my pocket, and then my hand ran against it. + 'Tis from Mr. Levi.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Jem. Tom, will you be so kind as read it me while I work?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, give it me. Work? Why, what are we going to work at in the bush?” + </p> + <p> + “I should think you might guess,” replied George quietly, while putting + down his pickax and taking off his coat. “Well, I am astonished at both of + you. You ought to know what I am going to do. Humph! Under this tree will + be as good a place as any.” + </p> + <p> + “Jem, as I am a sinner, he is going to bury him.” + </p> + <p> + “Bury what? The nugget?” + </p> + <p> + “No, Jem, the Christian.” * + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * In Berkshire, among a certain class, this word means “a + human being.” + </pre> + <p> + “A pretty Christian,” sneered Robinson. + </p> + <p> + “You know what I mean, Tom?” + </p> + <p> + “I know it is very kind of you to take all this trouble to bury my enemy,” + said Robinson, hurt. + </p> + <p> + “Don't ye say that,” replied George, hurt in his turn. “He was as much my + enemy as yours.” + </p> + <p> + “No such thing. He was here after me, and has been tormenting me this + twelve months. You have no enemy, a great soft spoon like you.” + </p> + <p> + “Keep your temper, Tom,” answered George, in a mollifying tone. “Let each + man act according to his lights. I <i>couldn't</i> leave a corpse to the + fowls of the air. + </p> + <p> + “Gibbet a murderer, I say—don't bury him; especially when he has + just been hunting our very lives.” + </p> + <p> + “Tom,” replied George doggedly, “death settles all accounts. I liked the + man as little as you could; and it is not to say I am in love with a man + because I sprinkle a little earth over his dead bones. Ugh! This is the + unkindest soil to work. It is full of roots, enough to break a fellow's + heart.” + </p> + <p> + While George was picking and grubbing out roots, and fighting with the + difficult soil, Robinson opened Levi's letter viciously and read out: + </p> + <p> + “George Fielding, you have an enemy in the mine—a secret, cowardly, + unscrupulous enemy, who lies in wait for your return. I have seen his + face, and tremble for you. Therefore listen to my words. The old Jew, whom + twice you have saved from harm and insult, is rich, his children are dead, + the wife of his bosom is dead. He loves no creature now but you and + Susannah; therefore run no more risks for gold, since much gold awaits you + without risk. Come home. Respect the words of age and experience—come + home. Delay not an hour. Oh, say not, 'I will sleep yet one more night in + my tent, and then I will depart,' but ride speedily after me on the very + instant. Two horses have I purchased for you and the young man your friend—two + swift horses with their saddles. The voucher is inclosed. Ride speedily + after me this very hour, lest evil befall you and yet more sorrow fall + upon Susannah and upon—Isaac Levi.” + </p> + <p> + The reading of this letter was followed by a thoughtful silence broken + only by the sound of George's pickax and the bursting roots. + </p> + <p> + “This is a very extraordinary letter. Mr. Levi knows more than he tells + you, George.” + </p> + <p> + “I am of your opinion.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, captain,” said Jem, “to go by that letter, Fielding is the marked + man, and not you after all. So it is his own enemy he is digging that + grave for.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think you will stop him by saying that?” asked Robinson, with a + shrug. + </p> + <p> + “He was my enemy, Tom, and yours too; but now he is nobody's enemy; he is + dead. Will you help me lay him in the earth, or shall I do it by myself?” + </p> + <p> + “We will help,” said the others, a little sullenly. + </p> + <p> + They brought the body to its grave under the tall gum-tree. + </p> + <p> + “Not quite so rough, Tom, if <i>you</i> please.” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't mean to be rough that I know of—there.” + </p> + <p> + They laid the dead villain gently and reverently in his grave. George took + a handful of soil and scattered it over him. + </p> + <p> + “Ashes to ashes, dust to dust,” said he, solemnly. + </p> + <p> + The other two looked down and sprinkled soil, too, and their anger and + bitterness began to soften by the side of George and over the grave. + </p> + <p> + Then Jem felt in his pocket and produced something wrapped in silver + paper. + </p> + <p> + “This belongs!” said he, with a horrible simplicity. “The farmer is too + good for this world, but it is a good fault. There, farmer,” said he, + looking to George for approbation as he dropped the little parcel into the + grave. “After all,” continued Jem, good-naturedly, “it would have been + very hard upon a poor fellow to wake up in the next world and not have + what does belong to him to make an honest living with.” + </p> + <p> + The grave was filled in, and a little mound made at the foot of the tree. + Then George took out his knife and began to cut the smooth bark. + </p> + <p> + “What now? Oh, I see. That is a good idea, George. Read them a lesson. Say + in a few words how he came here to do a deed of violence and died himself—by + the hand of Heaven.” + </p> + <p> + “Tom,” replied George, cutting away at the bark, “he is gone where he is + sure to be judged; so we have no call to judge him. God Almighty can do + that, I do suppose, without us putting in our word.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, have it your own way. I never saw the toad so obstinate before, + Jem. What is he cutting, I wonder?” + </p> + <p> + The inscription, when finished, ran thus: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “PLEASE DON'T CUT DOWN THIS TREE. + + “IT IS A TOMBSTONE. + + “A WHITE MAN LIES BELOW.” + </pre> + <p> + “Now, Tom, for England!” + </p> + <p> + They set out again with alacrity, and battled with the bush about two + hours more. George and Robinson carried the great nugget on a handkerchief + stretched double across two sticks, Jem carried the picks. They were all + in high spirits, and made light of scratches and difficulties. At last, + somewhat suddenly, they burst out of the thick part into the mere + outskirts frequented by the miners, and there they came plump upon brutus, + with a gun in his hand and pistols peeping out of his pockets, come to + murder Black Will and rob him of his spoils. + </p> + <p> + They were startled, and brutus astounded, for he was fully persuaded + George and Robinson had ceased to exist. He was so dumfounded that + Robinson walked up to him and took the gun out of his hands without any + resistance on his part. The others came round him, and Robinson demanded + his pistols. + </p> + <p> + “What for?” said he. + </p> + <p> + Now at this very moment his eye fell upon that fabulous mass of gold they + carried, and both his eyes opened, and a sort of shiver passed over him. + With ready cunning he looked another way, but it was too late. Robinson + had caught that furtive glance, and a chill came over him that this + villain should have seen the prize, a thing to excite cupidity to frenzy. + Nothing now would have induced Robinson to leave him armed. + </p> + <p> + He replied, sternly: “Because we are four to one, and we will hang you on + the nearest tree if you don't give them up. And, now, what are you doing + here?” + </p> + <p> + “I was only looking for my pal,” said brutus. + </p> + <p> + “Well, you won't want a gun and pistols to look for your pal. Which way + are you going?” + </p> + <p> + “Into the bush.” + </p> + <p> + “Then mizzle! That is the road.” + </p> + <p> + brutus moved gloomily away into the bush. + </p> + <p> + “There,” said Robinson, “he has turned bushranger. I've disarmed him, and + saved some poor fellow's life and property. Cover up the nugget, George.” + </p> + <p> + They went on, but presently Robinson had a thought. + </p> + <p> + “Jacky,” said he, “you saw that man; should you know him again?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Jacky, that man is our enemy. Could you track him by his footsteps + without ever letting him see you?” + </p> + <p> + Jacky smiled superior. + </p> + <p> + “Then follow him and see where he goes, and whom he joins—and come + to the mine directly and tell me.” + </p> + <p> + Jacky's eyes gleamed at this intelligence. He sat down, and in a few turns + of the hand painted his face war, and glided like a serpent on brutus's + trail. + </p> + <p> + The rest cleared the wood, and brought the nugget, safe hidden in their + pocket-handkerchief, to camp. They begged Jem to accept the fifty pounds, + if he did not mind handling the price of blood. + </p> + <p> + Jem assured them he had no such scruples, and took it with a burst of + thanks. + </p> + <p> + Then they made him promise faithfully not to mention to a soul about the + monster nugget. No more he did while he was sober, but, alas! some hours + later, having a drop in his head, he betrayed the secret to one or two—say + forty. + </p> + <p> + Robinson pitched their tent and mounted guard over the nugget. George was + observed to be in a strange flutter. He ran hither and thither. Ran to the + post-office—ran to the stationer—got paper—drew up a + paper—found McLaughlan—made him sign it—went to Mr. + Moore—showed him Isaac's voucher; on which Moore produced the + horses, a large black horse with both bone and blood, and a good cob. + </p> + <p> + George was very much pleased with them, and asked what Levi had given for + them. + </p> + <p> + “Two hundred and fifty pounds for the pair.” + </p> + <p> + “Good Heavens,” cried George, “what a price! Mr. Levi was in earnest.” + Then he ran out and went to the tent and gave Robinson his letters. “But + there were none for me, Tom,” sighed George. “Never mind, I shall soon—” + </p> + <p> + Now these letters brought joy and triumph to Robinson; one contained a + free pardon, the other was a polite missive from the Colonial Government, + in answer to the miners' petition he had sent up. + </p> + <p> + “Secretary had the honor to inform Mr. Robinson that police were on the + road to the mine, and that soldiers would arrive by to-morrow to form an + escort, so that the miners' gold might travel in safety down to Sydney.” + </p> + <p> + “Hurrah! this is good news,” cried Robinson, “and what a compliment to me. + Do you hear, George? an escort of soldiers coming to the camp to-morrow; + they will take the nugget safe to Sydney.” + </p> + <p> + “Not if we are robbed of it to-night,” replied George. + </p> + <p> + At this moment in came Jacky with news of brutus. That wily man had gone + but a little way in the bush when he had made a circuit, and had slipped + back into another part of the mine, and Jacky had followed him first by + trail, afterward by sight, and had marked him down into a certain tent, on + which he had straightway put a little red mark. + </p> + <p> + “Come back after our nugget, George. Fools we were to carry it blazing in + folks' eyes.” + </p> + <p> + “I dare say we can beat him.” + </p> + <p> + “I am game to try. Jacky, I want to put a question to you.” + </p> + <p> + While Jacky and Tom were conferring in animated whispers, George was + fixing an old spur he had picked up into the heel of his boot. + </p> + <p> + “That is capital, Jacky. Well, George, we have hit upon a plan.” + </p> + <p> + “And so have I.” + </p> + <p> + “You?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! me! but tell me yours first, Tom.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson detailed him his scheme with all its ramifications, and a very + ingenious stratagem it was. + </p> + <p> + For all that, when George propounded his plan in less than six words, + Robinson stared with surprise and then gave way to ludicrous admiration. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” cried he, “simplicity before cunning; look at that now. Where was + my head?—George, this is your day—carried <i>nem. con.”</i> + </p> + <p> + “And, Tom, you can do yours all the same.” + </p> + <p> + “Can I? Why, yes, to be sure I can. There, he saw that, too, before. Why, + George, if you don't mind, you will be No. 1 and I No. 2. What makes you + so sharp all of a sudden?” + </p> + <p> + “I have to think for Susan as well as us,” said the poor fellow, tenderly, + “that is why I am sharp—for once in a way. And now, Jacky—you + are a great anxiety to me, and the time is so short—come sit by me, + dear Jacky, and let me try and make you understand what I have been doing + for you, that you may be good and happy, and comfortable in your old age, + when your poor old limbs turn stiff, and you can hunt no longer. In + grateful return for the nugget, and more than that for all your goodness + and kindness to me in times of bitter trouble.” + </p> + <p> + Then George showed Jacky how he had given Abner one-third of all his sheep + and cattle, and Jacky two-thirds, and how McLaughlan, a just man, would + see the division made. “And do leave the woods, except for a hunt now and + then, Jacky; you are too good for them.” + </p> + <p> + Above all, George explained with homely earnestness the nature of the + sheep, her time of lambing, etc., and showed Jacky how the sheep and + cattle would always keep him fed and clothed, if he would but use them + reasonably, and not kill the breeders for dinner. + </p> + <p> + And Jacky listened with glistening eyes, for George's glistened, and the + sweet tones of affection and gratitude pierced through this family talk, + and it is sad that we must drop the curtain on this green spot in the + great camp and go among our villains. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0074" id="link2HCH0074"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXIV. + </h2> + <p> + ROBINSON did not overrate the fatal power of the fabulous mass of gold, a + glimpse of which he had incautiously given to greedy eyes. It drew brutus + like a magnet after it. He came all in a flutter to mephistopheles, and + told him he had met the two men carrying a lump of solid gold between them + so heavy that the sticks bent under it. “The sweat ran down me at the + sight of it, but I managed to look another way directly.” + </p> + <p> + What with the blows and kicks and bruises and defeats he had received, and + with the gold mass his lawless eye had rested on, brutus was now in a + state of mind terrible to think of. + </p> + <p> + Lust and hate, terrible twins, stung that dark heart to frenzy. Could he + have had his will he would have dispensed with cunning, would have gone + out and fired bullets from his gun into the tent, and, if his enemies came + out alive, have met them hand to hand to slay or be slain. But the + watchful foe had disarmed him, and he was compelled to listen to the more + reynard-like ferocity of his accomplice. + </p> + <p> + “Bill,” said the assassin of Carlo, “keep cool, and you shall have the + swag; and yet not lose your revenge neither.” + </p> + <p> + “—— you, tell me how.” + </p> + <p> + “Let the bottle alone, then; you are hot enough without that. Come nearer + me. What I have got to say is not the sort of thing for me to bawl about. + We should not be alive half an hour if it was heard to come from our + lips.” + </p> + <p> + The two heads came close together, and Crawley leaned over the other side + of the table and listened with senses keen as a razor. + </p> + <p> + “Suppose I show you how to make those two run out of their tent like two + frightened women, and never once think about their swag?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” + </p> + <p> + “And fall blinded for life or dead or dying while we walk off with the + swag.” + </p> + <p> + “Blind, dead, dying! give me your hand. How? how? how?” + </p> + <p> + “Hush! don't shout like that; come closer, and you, Smith.” + </p> + <p> + Then a diabolical scheme hissed into the listeners' ears—a scheme at + once cowardly and savage—a scheme of that terrible kind that robs + courage, strength and even skill of their natural advantages, and reduces + their owners to the level of the weak and the timid—a scheme worthy + of the assassin of Carlo, and the name I have given this wretch, whose + brain was so fertile and his heart so fiendish. Its effect on the hearers + was great, but very different. Crawley recoiled, not violently, but like a + serpent on which water had been poured; but brutus broke into a rapture of + admiration, exultation, gratified hate. + </p> + <p> + “Bless you, bless you!” cried he, with a violence more horrible than his + curses, “you warm my heart, you <i>are</i> a pal. What a head-piece you + have got! —— you, Smith, have you nothing to say? Isn't this a + dodge out of the common?” + </p> + <p> + Now for the last minute or two Crawley's eyes had been fixed with a + haggard expression on a distant corner of the room. He did not move them; + he appeared hardly to have the power, but he answered, dropping the words + down on the table anywhere. + </p> + <p> + “Ye-yes! it is very inge-nious, ah!” + </p> + <p> + mephisto. “We must buy the turpentine directly; there is only one store + sells it, and that shuts at nine.” + </p> + <p> + brutus. “Do you hear, Smith? hand us out the blunt.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley. “Oh, ugh!” and his eyes seemed fascinated to that spot. + </p> + <p> + brutus (following Crawley's eye uneasily). “What is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + Crawley. “Lo-o-o-k th-e-r-e! No! on your right. Oh, his tail is in the + fire!” + </p> + <p> + brutus. “Whose tail? don't be a fool!” + </p> + <p> + Crawley. “And it doesn't burn!! Oh, it burns blacker in the fire!—Ah, + ah! now the eyes have caught fire—diamonds full of hell. They blast! + Ah, now the teeth have caught light—red-hot nails. The mouth is as + big as the table, gaping wider, wider, wider. Ah! ah! ah!” + </p> + <p> + brutus. “—— him; I won't stay in the room with such a fellow, + he makes my blood run cold. Has he cut his father's throat in a church, or + what?” + </p> + <p> + Crawley (shrieking). “Oh, don't go; oh, my dear friends, don't leave me + alone with IT. My dear friends, you sit down right upon it—that + sends it away.” And Crawley hid his face, and pointed wildly to + whereabouts they were to sit upon the phantom. + </p> + <p> + brutus. “Come, it is gone now; was forced nearly to squash it first, + though, haw! haw! haw!” + </p> + <p> + Crawley. “Yes, it is gone. Thank Heaven—I'll give up drinking.” + </p> + <p> + brutus. “So now fork out the blunt for the turps.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley. “No! I will give no money toward murder—robbery is bad + enough. Where shall we go to?” And he rose and went out, muttering + something about “a little brandy.” + </p> + <p> + brutus. “The sneak—to fail us at the pinch. I'll wring his neck + round. What is this? five pounds.” + </p> + <p> + mephisto. “Don't you see the move? he won't give it us, conscience + forbids; but, if we are such rogues as take it, no questions asked.” + </p> + <p> + “The tarnation hypocrite,” roared brutus, with disgust—hypocrisy was + the one vice he was innocent of—out of jail, mephistopheles stole + Crawley's money, left for that purpose, and went and bought a four-gallon + cask of turpentine. + </p> + <p> + brutus remained and sharpened an old cutlass, the only weapon he had got + left. Crawley and mephistopheles returned almost together. Crawley + produced a bottle of brandy. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said he to mephistopheles, “I don't dispute your ingenuity, my + friend, but suppose while we have been talking the men have struck their + tent and gone away, nugget and all?” + </p> + <p> + The pair looked terribly blank—what fools we were not to think of + that. + </p> + <p> + Crawley kept them in pain a moment or two. + </p> + <p> + “Well, they have not,” said he, “I have been to look.” + </p> + <p> + “Well done,” cried mephistopheles. + </p> + <p> + “Well done,” cried brutus, gasping for breath. + </p> + <p> + “There is their tent all right.” + </p> + <p> + “How near did you go to it?” + </p> + <p> + “Near enough to hear their voices muttering.” + </p> + <p> + “When does the moon rise, to-night?” + </p> + <p> + “She is rising now.” + </p> + <p> + “When does she go down?” + </p> + <p> + “Soon after two o'clock.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you take a share of the work, Smith?” + </p> + <p> + “Heaven forbid!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0075" id="link2HCH0075"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXV. + </h2> + <p> + IT was a gusty night. The moon had gone down. The tents gleamed indistinct + in form, but white as snow. Robinson's tent stood a little apart, among a + number of deserted claims, some of them dry, but most of them with three + or four feet of water in them. + </p> + <p> + There was, however, one large tent about twenty yards from Robinson's. + </p> + <p> + A man crept on his stomach up to this tent and listened. He then joined + another man who stood at some distance, and whose form seemed gigantic in + the dim starlight. “All right,” said the spy, “they are all fast as + dormice, snoring like hogs; no fear from them.” + </p> + <p> + “Go to work, then,” whispered brutus. “Do your part.” + </p> + <p> + mephistopheles laid a deep iron dish upon the ground, and removed the bung + from the turpentine cask, and poured. “Confound the wind, how it wastes + the stuff,” cried he. + </p> + <p> + He now walked on tiptoe past Robinson's tent and scattered the turpentine + with a bold sweep, so that it fell light as rain over a considerable + surface. A moment of anxiety succeeded; would their keen antagonists hear + even that slight noise? No! no one stirred in the tent. + </p> + <p> + mephistopheles returned to the cask, and, emboldened by success, brought + it nearer the doomed tent. Six times he walked past the windward side of + the tent, and scattered the turpentine over it. It was at the other side + his difficulties began. + </p> + <p> + The first time he launched the liquid, the wind took it and returned it + nearly all in his face, and over his clothes. Scarce a drop reached the + tent. + </p> + <p> + The next time he went up closer with a beating heart, and flung it + sharper. This time full two-thirds went upon the tent, and only a small + quantity came back like spray. + </p> + <p> + By the time the cask was emptied, the tent was saturated. Then this wretch + passed the tent yet once more, and scattered a small quantity of oil to + make the flame more durable and deadly. + </p> + <p> + “Now it is my turn,” whispered brutus. “I thought it would never come.” + </p> + <p> + What is that figure crouching and crawling about a hundred yards to + windward? It is the caitiff, Crawley, who, after peremptorily declining to + have anything to do with this hellish act, has crept furtively after them, + partly to play the spy on them, for he suspects they will lie to him about + the gold, partly urged by curiosity. He could see nothing at that distance + but the dark body of mephistopheles passing at intervals between him and + the white tent. + </p> + <p> + He shivered with cold and terror at the crime about to be done, and + quivered with impatience that it was so long a-doing. + </p> + <p> + The assassins now divided their force. mephistopheles took his station to + leeward of the tent; brutus to windward. + </p> + <p> + Crawley saw a sudden spark upon the ground; it was brutus striking a + lucifer match against his heel. With this he lighted a piece of tow, and + running along the tent he left a line of fire behind him, and awaited the + result, his cutlass griped in his hand and his teeth clinched. + </p> + <p> + Crawley saw that line of fire come and then creep and then rise and then + roar, and shoot up into a great column of fire thirty feet high, roaring + and blazing, and turning night into day all round. Simultaneously with + this tremendous burst of fire and light, which startled Crawley by + bringing him in a moment into broad daylight, he saw rise from the earth a + black figure with a fiendish face. + </p> + <p> + At this awful sight the conscience-stricken wretch fell flat and tried to + work into the soil like a worm. Nor did he recover any portion of his + presence of mind till he heard a shrill whoop, savage and soul-chilling, + but mortal, and, looking up, saw Kalingalunga go bounding down upon brutus + with gigantic leaps, his tomahawk whirling. + </p> + <p> + Crawley cowered like a hare and watched. brutus, surprised but not + dismayed, wheeled round and faced the savage, cutlass in hand. He parried + a fierce blow of the tomahawk, and with his left fist struck Kalingalunga + on the temple, and knocked him backward half a dozen yards. The elastic + savage recovered himself and danced like a fiend round brutus in the red + light of the blazing tent. + </p> + <p> + Warned by that strange blow, straight from the armpit, a blow entirely new + to him, he came on with more deadly caution, eyes and teeth budelights, + and brutus felt a chill for a moment, but it speedily turned to rage. Now + as the combatants each prepared to strike again, screams suddenly issued + from the other side the tent, so wild, despairing, and unnatural as to + suspend their arms for a moment. They heard but saw nothing, only the + savage heart of brutus found time to exult—his enemies were + perishing. But Crawley saw as well as heard. A pillar of flame eight feet + high burst out from behind the tent and ran along the ground. From that + conical flame issued those appalling shrieks—it was a man on fire. + The living flame ran but a few steps, then disappeared from the earth, and + the screams ceased. Apparently the fire had not only killed, but + annihilated its prey and so itself. Crawley sickened with horror, and for + a moment with remorse. + </p> + <p> + But already brutus and Kalingalunga were fighting again by the light of + the burning tent. They closed, and this time blood flowed on both sides. + The savage, by a skillful feint, cut brutus on the flesh of the left + shoulder, but not deep, and brutus once more surprised the savage by + delivering point with his cutlass, and inflicted a severe graze on the + ribs. + </p> + <p> + At the sight of his enemy's blood, brutus followed up and aimed a fierce + blow at Kalingalunga's head; he could not have made a more useless attack. + The savage bore on his left arm a shield, so called; it was but three + inches broad and two feet long, but skill and practice had made it an + impenetrable defense. He received the cutlass on this shield as a matter + of course, and simultaneously delivered his tomahawk on brutus's unguarded + head. brutus went down under the blow and rolled over on his face. + </p> + <p> + The crouching spectator of this terrible combat by the decaying light of + the tent heard the hard blow and saw the white man roll upon the ground. + Then he saw the tomahawk twice lifted and twice descend upon the man's + back as he lay. The next moment the savage came running from the tent at + his utmost speed. + </p> + <p> + Crawley's first thought was that assistance had come to brutus; his next + was a terrible one. The savage had first risen from the earth at a spot + between the tent and him. Perhaps he had been watching both him and the + tent. A moment of horrible uncertainty, and then Crawley yielded to his + instinct and ran. A terrible whoop behind told him he was indeed to be the + next victim. He ran for the dear life; no one would have believed he could + shamble along at the rate he did. His tent was half a mile off; he would + be a dead man long ere he could reach it. He turned his yelling head as he + ran, to see. The fleet savage had already diminished the distance between + them by half. Crawley now filled the air with despairing cries for help. A + large tent was before him; he knew not whose, but certain death was behind + him. He made for the tent. If he could but reach it before the + death-stroke was given him! Yes, it is near! No, it is white and looks + closer than it is. A whoop sounded in his ears; it seemed to ring inside + his head it was so near. He flung himself yelling with terror at the wall + of the tent. An aperture gave way. A sharp cut as with a whip seemed to + sting him, and he was on his knees in the middle of the tent howling for + mercy, first to the savage, who he made sure was standing over him with + his tomahawk; then to a man who got him by the throat and pressed a pistol + barrel cold as an icicle to his cheek. + </p> + <p> + “Mercy! mercy! the savage! he is killing me! murder! murder! help!” + </p> + <p> + “Who are you?” roared the man, shaking him. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, stop him! he will kill me! Shoot him! Don't shoot me! I am a + respectable man. It is the savage! kill him! He is at the door—please + kill him! I'll give you a hundred pounds!” + </p> + <p> + “What is to do? The critter is mad!” + </p> + <p> + “There! there! you will see a savage! Shoot him! kill him! For pity's sake + kill him, and I'll tell you all! I am respectable. I'll give you a hundred + pounds to kill him!” + </p> + <p> + “Why, it is Smith, that gives us all a treat at times.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't I! Oh, my dear, good friend, he has killed me! He came after me + with his tomahawk. Have pity on a respectable man—and kill him!” + </p> + <p> + The man went to the door of the tent and sure enough there was Jacky, who + had retired to some distance. The man fired at him with as little ceremony + as he would at a glass bottle, and, as was to be expected, missed him; but + Jacky, who had a wholesome horror of the make-thunders, ran off directly, + and went to hack the last vestiges of life out of brutus. + </p> + <p> + Crawley remained on his knees, howling and whimpering so piteously that + the man took pity on this abject personage. + </p> + <p> + “Have a drop, Mr. Smith; you have often given me one—there. I'll + strike a light.” + </p> + <p> + The man struck a light and fixed a candle in a socket. He fumbled in a + corner for the bottle, and was about to offer it to Crawley, when he was + arrested by a look of silent horror on his visitor's face. + </p> + <p> + “Why, what is wrong now?” + </p> + <p> + “Look! look! look!” cried Crawley, trembling from head to foot. “Here it + comes! there is its tail! Soon its eyes and teeth will catch light! It + knows the work we have been at. Ah! ah! ah!” + </p> + <p> + The man looked round very uneasily. Crawley's way of pointing and glaring + over one's head at some object behind one was anything but encouraging. + </p> + <p> + “What? where?” + </p> + <p> + “There! there! coming through the side of the tent. It can come through a + wall!” and Crawley shook from head to foot. + </p> + <p> + “Why, that is your own shadow,” said the man. “Why, what a faint-hearted + one to shake at your own shadow.” + </p> + <p> + “My shadow!” cried Crawley; “Heaven forbid! Have I got a tail?” screeched + Crawley, reproachfully. + </p> + <p> + “That you have,” said the man, “now I look at you full.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley clapped his hand behind him, and to his horror he had a tail + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0076" id="link2HCH0076"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXVI. + </h2> + <p> + CRAWLEY, who, what with the habit of cerebral hallucination due to brandy + and the present flutter of his spirits and his conscience, had for a + moment or two lost all the landmarks of probability, no sooner felt his + hand encounter a tail—slight in size, but stiff as a pug's, and + straight as a pointer's—than he uttered a dismal howl, and it is + said that for a single moment he really suspected premature caudation had + been inflicted on him for his crimes. But such delusions are short-lived. + He slewed himself round after this tail in his efforts to see it, and + squinting over his shoulder he did see it; and a warm liquid which he now + felt stealing down his legs and turning cold as it went, opened his eyes + still farther. It was a red spear sticking in his person—sticking + tight. Jacky, who had never got so near him as he fancied, saw him about + to get into a tent, and, unable to tomahawk him, did the best he could—flung + a light javelin with such force and address that it pierced his coat and + trousers and buried half its head in his flesh. + </p> + <p> + This spear-head, made of jagged fishbones, had to be cut out by the simple + and agreeable process of making all round it a hole larger than itself. + The operation served to occupy Crawley for the remaining part of the + night, and exercised his vocal powers. This was the first time he had + smarted in his penetrable part—the skin—and it made him very + spiteful. Away went his compunction, and at peep of day he shambled out + very stiff, no longer dreading, but longing to hear which of his enemies + it was he had seen wrapped in flame, shrieking, and annihilated like the + snuff of a candle. He came to the scene of action just as the sun rose. + </p> + <p> + But others were there before him. A knot of men stood round a black patch + of scorched soil, round which were scattered little fragments of canvas + burned to tinder, talking over a most mysterious affair of the night past. + </p> + <p> + It came out that the patrol, some of whom were present, had been ordered + by Captain Robinson not to go their rounds as usual, but to watch in a + tent near his own, since he expected an attack. Accustomed to keep awake + on the move, but not in a recumbent posture, they had slept the sleep of + infancy, till suddenly awakened by the sound of a pistol. Then they had + run out, and had found the captain's tent in ashes, and a man lying near + it sore hacked and insensible, but still breathing. They had taken him to + their tent, but he had never spoken, and the affair was incomprehensible. + While each was giving some wild opinion or another, a faint voice issued + from the bowels of the earth, invoking aid. + </p> + <p> + Several ran to the spot, and at the bottom of an old claim full thirty + feet deep they discovered on looking intently down the face of a man + rising out of the clayey water. They lowered ropes and hauled him up. + </p> + <p> + “How did you come there, mate?” + </p> + <p> + “He had come into the camp in the dark, and, not knowing the ground, and + having (to tell the truth) had a drop, he had fallen into the claim.” + </p> + <p> + He was asked with an air of suspicion how long ago this had happened. + </p> + <p> + “More than an hour,” replied the wily one. + </p> + <p> + Crawley looked at him, and being, unlike the others, acquainted with the + man's features, saw, spite of the clay-cake he was enveloped in, that his + whiskers were frizzled to nothing and his fiendish eyebrows gone. Then a + sickening suspicion crept over him; he communicated it by a look to + mephistopheles. + </p> + <p> + Acting on it he asked, with an artful appearance of friendly interest: + </p> + <p> + “But the men? the poor men that were in the tent?” + </p> + <p> + “What! the captain and his mate?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” + </p> + <p> + “Why, ye fool! they are half way to Sydney by now.” + </p> + <p> + “Half way to Sydney?” and a ghastly look passed between the speaker and + mephistopheles. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, lad! they rode off on Moore's two best nags at midnight.” + </p> + <p> + “The captain had a belt round his waist crammed with dust and bank-notes,” + cried another, “and the farmer a nugget as big as a pumpkin on the pommel + of his saddle.” + </p> + <p> + Four hours had not elapsed ere Crawley and mephistopheles were on the road + to Sydney, but not on horseback. Crawley had no longer funds to buy two + horses, and, even if he had, he could not have borne the saddle after the + barbarous surgery of last night—-the lance-head was cut out with a + cheese-knife. But he and mephistopheles joined a company of successful + diggers going down with their swag. On the road they constantly passed + smaller parties of unfortunate diggers, who had left the mine in despair + when the weather broke and the claims filled with water; and the farther + they went the more wretched was the condition of those they overtook. + Ragged, shoeless, hungry, foot-sore, heart-sore, poor, broken pilgrims + from the shrine of Mammon. + </p> + <p> + Now it befell that, forty miles on this side Sydney, they fell in with + seven such ragged specters; and, while they were giving these a little + food, up came from the city a large, joyful party—the eagerness of + hope and cupidity on their faces. + </p> + <p> + “Hallo! are they mad, going up to the diggings in the wet weather!” + </p> + <p> + They were questioned. + </p> + <p> + A hundred-weight of gold had been found at the diggings, and all the town + was turning out to find some more such prizes; and, in fact, every mile + after this they met a party, great or small, ardent, sanguine, on an + almost hopeless errand. + </p> + <p> + Such is the strange and fatal no-logic of speculation. For us the rare is + to turn common, and, when we have got it, be rare as ever. + </p> + <p> + mephistopheles and Crawley parted at the suburb; the former was to go to + certain haunts and form a gang to seize the rich prize. Meantime Crawley + would enter the town and discover where the men were lodging. If in an + inn, one of the gang must go there as a well-dressed traveler, and watch + his opportunity. If in a lodging, other means. + </p> + <p> + Crawley found the whole city ringing with the great nugget. Crawley put + eager questions, and received ready answers. He was shown the bank up to + which the men had ridden in broad daylight; the one on the big horse had + the nugget on his saddle; they had taken it, and broken it, and weighed + it, and sold it in the bank parlor for three thousand eight hundred + pounds. Crawley did not like this, he had rather they had not converted it + into paper. His next question was, whether it was known where the men + lodged. + </p> + <p> + “Known! I believe you; why, they are more thought of than the governor. + Everybody runs to get a word with them, gentle or simple. You will find + them at the 'Ship' inn.” + </p> + <p> + To the “Ship” went Crawley. He dared not be too direct in his queries, so + he put them in form of a statement. + </p> + <p> + “You have got some lucky ones here, that found the great nugget?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we had! But they are gone—been gone this two hours. Do you + know them?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Crawley, without fear, as they were gone. “Where are they + gone, do you know?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, home, I suppose; you chaps make your money out of us, but you all + run home to spend it.” + </p> + <p> + “What, gone to England!” gasped Crawley. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, look! there is the ship just being towed out of the harbor.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley shambled, and tore, and ran, and was just in time to see the two + friends standing with beaming faces on the vessel's deck as she glided out + on her voyage home. + </p> + <p> + He sat down half stupid; mephistopheles went on collecting his gang in the + suburbs. + </p> + <p> + The steamer cast off and came wheeling back; the ship spread her huge + white plumage, and went proudly off to sea, the blue waves breaking white + under her bows. + </p> + <p> + Crawley sat glaring at all this in a state of mental collapse. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0077" id="link2HCH0077"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXVII. + </h2> + <p> + THUS have I told in long and tedious strains how George Fielding went to + Australia to make a thousand pounds, and how by industry, sobriety, and + cattle, he did not make a thousand pounds, and how, aided with the help of + a converted thief, this honest fellow did by gold digging, industry and + sobriety, make several thousand pounds, and take them safe away home, + spite of many wicked devices and wicked men. + </p> + <p> + Thus have I told how Mr. Meadows flung out his left hand into Australia to + keep George from coming back to Susan with a thousand pounds, and how, + spite of one stroke of success, his left hand eventually failed, and + failed completely. + </p> + <p> + But his right? + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0078" id="link2HCH0078"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXVIII. + </h2> + <p> + Joyous as the first burst of summer were the months Susan passed after the + receipt of George's happy letter. Many warm feelings combined in one + stream of happiness in Susan's heart. Perhaps the keenest of all was pride + at George's success. Nobody could laugh at George now, and insult her + again there where she was most sensitive, by telling her that George was + not good enough for her or any woman; and even those who set such store + upon money-making would have to confess that George could do even that for + love of her, as well as they could do it for love of themselves. Next to + this her joy was greatest at the prospect of his speedy return. + </p> + <p> + And now she became joyfully impatient for further news, but not + disappointed at his silence till two months had passed without another + letter. Then, indeed, anxiety mingled now and then with her happiness. + Then it was that Meadows, slowly and hesitatingly to the last, raised his + hand and struck the first direct blow at her heart. He struck in the dark. + He winced for her both before and after. Yet he struck. + </p> + <p> + One market-day a whisper passed through Farnborough that George Fielding + had met with wonderful luck. That he had made his fortune by gold, and was + going to marry a young lady out in Australia. Farmer Merton brought the + whisper home. Meadows was sure he would. + </p> + <p> + Meadows did not come to the house for some days. He half feared to look + upon his work; to see Susan's face agonized under his blow. At last he + came. He watched her by stealth. He found he might have spared his qualms. + She chatted as usual in very good spirits, and just before he went she + told him the report with a smile of ineffable scorn. + </p> + <p> + She was simple, unsuspicious, and every way without a shield against a + Meadows, but the loyal heart by its own virtue had turned the dagger's + edge. + </p> + <p> + A week after this Jefferies brought Meadows a letter; it was from Susan to + George. Meadows read it writhing. It breathed kind affection, with one or + two demi-maternal cautions about his health, and to be very prudent for + her sake. Not a word of doubt; there was, however, a postscript of which + the following is the exact wording: + </p> + <p> + “P. S. It is all over Farnborough that you are going to be married to some + one in Australia.” + </p> + <p> + Two months more passed, and no letter from George. These two months told + upon Susan; she fretted and became restless and irritable, and cold + misgivings crept over her, and the anguish of suspense! + </p> + <p> + At last one day she unbosomed herself, though with hesitation, to a warm + and disinterested friend; blushing all over with tearful eyes she + confessed her grief to Mr. Meadows. “Don't tell father, sir; I hide my + trouble from him as well as I can, but what does it mean George not + writing to me these four months and three days? Do pray tell me what does + it mean!” and Susan cried so piteously that Meadows winced at his success. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mr. Meadows! don't flatter me; tell me the truth.” While he was + exulting in her firmness, who demanded the truth, bitter or not, she + continued: “Only don't tell me that I am forgotten!” And she looked so + piteously in the oracle's face that he forgot everything in the desire to + say something she would like him the better for saying; he muttered, + “Perhaps he has sailed for home.” He expected her to say, “And if he has + he would have written to me before sailing.” But instead of this Susan + gave a little cry of joy. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! how foolish I have been. Mr. Meadows, you are a friend out of a + thousand; you are as wise as I am foolish. Poor George! you will never let + him know I was so wicked as to doubt him.” And Susan brightened with joy + and hope. The heart believes so readily the thing it longs should be true. + She was happy all the rest of the evening. + </p> + <p> + Meadows went away mad with her for her folly, and with himself for his + feebleness of purpose, and next market-day again the whisper went round + the market that George Fielding was going to marry out there. This time a + detail was sketched in: “It was a lady in the town of Bathurst.” Old + Merton brought this home and twitted his daughter. She answered haughtily + that it was a falsehood. She would stake her life on George's fidelity. + </p> + <p> + “See, Mr. Meadows, they are all against poor George, all except you. But + what does it mean? if he does not write or come soon I think I shall go + mad.” + </p> + <p> + “Report is a common liar; I would not believe anything till I saw it in + black and white,” said Meadows, doggedly. + </p> + <p> + “No more I will.” + </p> + <p> + Soon after this William Fielding had a talk with Susan. + </p> + <p> + “Have you heard a report about George?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! I have heard a rumor.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't believe it, I hope.” + </p> + <p> + “Why should I believe it?” + </p> + <p> + “I'm going to trace it up to the liar that forged it, if I can.” + </p> + <p> + Susan suppressed her satisfaction at this resolution of Will Fielding's. + </p> + <p> + “Is it worth while?” asked she coldly. + </p> + <p> + “If I didn't think so, I shouldn't take that much trouble, not expecting + any thanks.” + </p> + <p> + “Have I said anything to offend you?” asked Susan, with a still more + frigid tone. + </p> + <p> + The other did not trust himself to answer. But two days after he came + again, and told her he had written a letter to George, telling him what + reports were about, and begging for an answer whether or not there was any + truth in them. + </p> + <p> + A gleam of satisfaction from Susan's eyes, but not a word. This man, who + had once been George's rival at heart, was the last to whom she would + openly acknowledge her doubts. Then Will went on to tell her that he had + traced the rumor from one to another up to a stranger whose name nobody + knew; “but I dare say Mr. Meadows has a notion.” + </p> + <p> + “No!” + </p> + <p> + “Are you sure?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! he would have told me if he had.” + </p> + <p> + William gave a snort of incredulity, and hinted that probably Mr. Meadows + himself was at the bottom of the scandal. + </p> + <p> + Now Meadows' artful conduct had fortified Susan against such a suspicion, + and, being by nature a warm-hearted friend, she fired up for him, as she + would have for Mr. Eden, or even for poor Will in his absence. She did it, + too, in the most womanish way. She did not tell the young man that she had + consulted Mr. Meadows, and that he had constantly discredited the report, + and set her against believing it. Had she done this, she would have + staggered the simple-minded Will; but no; she said to herself, “He has + attacked a good friend of mine, I won't satisfy him so far as to give him + reasons;” so she merely snubbed him. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I know you are set against poor Mr. Meadows; he is a good friend of + ours, of my father, and me, and of George, too.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you may not have to alter your mind,” sneered Will. + </p> + <p> + “I will not without a reason.” + </p> + <p> + “I will give you a reason; do you remember that day—” + </p> + <p> + “When you insulted him in his own house, and me into the bargain, Will?” + </p> + <p> + “Not you, Susan, leastways I hope not, but him I did, and am just as like + to do it again; well, when you were gone, I took a thought, and I said, + appearances deceive the wisest; I may be mistaken—” + </p> + <p> + “He! he!” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know what you are laughing at; and then, says I, it is his own + house, after all, so I said, 'If I am wrong, and you don't mean to + undermine my brother, take my hand;' and I gave it him.” + </p> + <p> + “And he refused it?” + </p> + <p> + “No, Susan!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then—” + </p> + <p> + “But, Susan,” said William, solemnly, “his hand lay in mine like a stone.” + </p> + <p> + “Really, now!” + </p> + <p> + “A lump of ice would be as near the mark.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! is that the reason you promised me?” William nodded. + </p> + <p> + “William, you are a fool.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh I am a fool now?” + </p> + <p> + “You go and insult a man, your superior in every respect, and the very + next moment he is to give you his hand as warmly as to a friend, and an + equal; you really are too foolish to go without a keeper, and if it was in + any man's power to set me against poor George altogether you have gone the + way to do it this twelve months past;” and Susan closed the conference + abruptly. + </p> + <p> + It was William's fate to rivet Meadows' influence by every blow he aimed + at it. For all that the prudent Meadows thought it worth his while to rid + himself of this honest and determined foe, and he had already taken steps. + He had discovered that this last month William Fielding, returning from + market, had been seen more than once to stop and chat at one Mrs. + Holiday's, a retired small tradeswoman in Farnborough. Now Mrs. Holiday + was an old acquaintance of Meadows' and had given him sugar-plums thirty + years ago. It suited his purpose to remember all of a sudden these old + sugar-plums, and that Mrs. Holiday had lately told him she wanted to get + out of the town and end her days upon turf. + </p> + <p> + There was a cottage, paddock and garden for sale within a hundred yards of + “The Grove.” Meadows bought them a good bargain, and offered them to the + widow at a very moderate rent. + </p> + <p> + The widow was charmed. “Why, we can keep a cow, Mr. Meadows.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, there is grass enough.” + </p> + <p> + The widow took the cottage with enthusiasm. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Holiday had a daughter, a handsome—a downright handsome girl, + and a good girl into the bargain. + </p> + <p> + Meadows had said to himself: “It is not the old woman Will Fielding goes + there for. Well, she will want some one to teach her how to farm that half + acre of grass, and buy the cow and milk her. Friendly offices—chat + coming and going—come in, Mr. Fielding, and taste your cow's cream!—and, + when he has got a lass of his own, his eye won't be forever on mine.” + </p> + <p> + William's letter to George went to the post-office, and from the + post-office to a little pile of intercepted letters in Meadows' desk. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0079" id="link2HCH0079"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXIX. + </h2> + <p> + NEARLY eight months had now elapsed without a letter from George. Susan + could no longer deceive herself with hopes. George was either false to her + or dead. She said as much to her false friend. This inspired him with an + artifice as subtle as unscrupulous. A letter had been brought to him by + Jefferies, which he at once recognized as the planned letter from Crawley + to another tool of his in Farnborough. This very day he set about a report + that George was dead. It did not reach Susan so soon as he thought it + would, for old Merton hesitated to tell her; but on the Sunday evening, + with considerable reluctance and misgivings, he tried in a very clumsy way + to prepare her for sad news. + </p> + <p> + But her mind had long been prepared for bitter tidings. Fancy eight weary + months spent in passing every possible calamity before her imagination, + death as often as any. + </p> + <p> + She fixed her eyes on the old man. “Father, George is dead!” + </p> + <p> + Old Merton hung his head, and made no reply. + </p> + <p> + That was enough. Susan crept from the room pale as ashes. She tottered, + but she did not fall. She reached her room and locked herself in. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0080" id="link2HCH0080"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXX. + </h2> + <p> + MR. MEADOWS did not visit Grassmere for some days; the cruel one + distrusted his own firmness. When he did come he came with a distinct + purpose. He found Merton alone. + </p> + <p> + “Susan sees no one. You have heard?” + </p> + <p> + “What?” + </p> + <p> + “Her sweetheart. He is dead.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, how can that be? And who says so?” + </p> + <p> + “That is the news.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it is a falsehood!” said Mr. Meadows, coolly. + </p> + <p> + “I wish to Heaven it might,” whispered old Merton, “for she won't live + long after him.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Meadows then told Merton that he had spoken with a man who had got + news of George Fielding not four months old, and he was in very good + health. + </p> + <p> + “Will you tell Susan this?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly.” + </p> + <p> + Susan was called down. Meadows started at the sight of her. She was pale + and hollow-eyed, and in these few days seemed ten years older. She was + dressed all in black. “I am a murderer!” thought he. And remorse without + one grain of honest repentance pierced his heart. + </p> + <p> + “Speak out, John,” said the father, “the girl is not a fool. She has borne + ill news, she can bear good. Can't you, Susan?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, dear father, if it is God's will any good news should come to me.” + And she never took her eyes off Mr. Meadows, but belied her assumed + firmness by quivering like an aspen leaf. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know Mr. Griffin?” asked Meadows. + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” replied Susan, still trembling gently, but all over. + </p> + <p> + “He has got a letter from Sydney from a little roguish attorney called + Crawley. I heard him say with my own ears that Crawley tells him he had + just seen George Fielding in the streets of Sydney, well and hearty.” + </p> + <p> + “You are deceiving me out of kindness.” (Her eyes fixed on his.) + </p> + <p> + “I am not. I wish I may die if the man is not as well as I am!” + </p> + <p> + Her eyes were never off his face, and at this moment she read for certain + that it was true. + </p> + <p> + She uttered a cry of joy so keen it was painful to hear, and then she + laughed and cried and sank into a chair laughing and crying in strong + hysterics, that lasted till the poor girl almost fainted from exhaustion. + Her joy was more violent and even terrible than her grief had been. + </p> + <p> + The female servants were called to assist her, and old Merton and Meadows + left her in their hands, feeble, but calm and thankful. She even smiled + her adieu to Meadows. + </p> + <p> + The next day Meadows called upon Griffin. “Let me look at that letter?” + said he. “I want to copy a part of it.” + </p> + <p> + “There has been one here before you,” said Griffin. + </p> + <p> + “Who?” + </p> + <p> + “She did not give her name, but I think it must have been Miss Merton. She + begged me hard to let her see the letter. I told her she might take it + home with her. Poor thing! she gave me a look as if she could have eaten + me.” + </p> + <p> + “What else?” asked Meadows anxiously—his success had run ahead of + his plot. + </p> + <p> + “She put it in her bosom.” + </p> + <p> + “In her bosom?” + </p> + <p> + “Ay! and pressed her little white hands upon it as if she had got a + treasure. I doubt it will be more like the asp in the Bible story, eh! + sir?” + </p> + <p> + “There! I don't want your reflections,” said Meadows, fiercely, but his + voice quavered. The myrmidon was silenced. + </p> + <p> + Susan made her escape into a field called the Kynecroft, belonging to the + citizens, and there she read the letter. It was a long, tiresome one, all + about matters of business which she did not understand; it was only at the + last page that she caught sight of the name she longed to see. She hurried + down to it, and when she got to it with beating heart it was the fate of + this innocent, loving woman to read these words: + </p> + <p> + “What luck some have. There is George Fielding, of the 'Grove Farm,' has + made his fortune at the gold, and married yesterday to one of the + prettiest girls in Sydney. I met them walking in the street to-day. She + would not have looked at him but for the gold.” + </p> + <p> + Susan uttered a faint moan, and sank down slowly on her knees, like some + tender tree felled by a rude stroke; her eyes seemed to swim in a mist, + she tried to read the cruel words again but could not; she put her hands + before her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “He is alive,” she said, “thank God, he is alive.” And at last tears + forced their way through her fingers. She took her handkerchief and dried + her eyes. “Why do I cry for another woman's husband?” and the hot color of + shame and of wounded pride burst even through her tears. + </p> + <p> + “I will not cry,” said she, proudly, “he is alive—I will not cry—he + has forgotten me; from this moment I will never shed another tear for one + that is alive and unworthy of a tear. I will go home.” + </p> + <p> + She went home, crying all the way. And now a partial success attended the + deep Meadows' policy. It was no common stroke of unscrupulous cunning to + plunge her into the very depths of woe in order to take her out of them. + The effects were manifold, and all tended his way. + </p> + <p> + First she was less sorrowful than she had been before that deadly blow, + for now the heart had realized a greater woe, and had the miserable + comfort of the comparison; but, above all, new and strong passions had + risen and battled fiercely with grief—anger and wounded pride. + </p> + <p> + Susan had self-respect and pride, too, perhaps a shade too much though + less small vanity than have most persons of her moderate caliber. + </p> + <p> + What! had she wept and sighed all these months for a man who did not care + for her? + </p> + <p> + What! had she defied sneers, and despised affectionate hints, and gloried + openly in her love, to be openly insulted and betrayed! + </p> + <p> + What! had she shut herself from the world, and put on mourning and been + seen in mourning for one who was not dead, but well and happy and married + to another! + </p> + <p> + An agony of shame rushed over the wronged, insulted, humiliated beauty. + She longed to fly from the world. She asked her father to leave Grassmere + and go to some other farm a hundred miles away. She asked him suddenly, + nervously, and so impetuously that the old man looked up in dismay. + </p> + <p> + “What! leave the farm where your mother lived with me, and where you were + born. I should feel strange, girl; but”—and he gave a strange sigh—“mayhap + I shall have to leave it whether I will or no.” + </p> + <p> + Susan misunderstood him and colored with self-reproach. She said hastily: + “No! no! Father, you shan't leave it for me. Forgive me, I am a wayward + girl!” + </p> + <p> + And the strung nerves gave way, and tears gushed over the hot cheeks, as + she clung to her father, and tried to turn the current of her despised + love and bestow it all on that selfish old noodle. A great treasure went + a-begging in Grassmere farmhouse. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Meadows called, but much to his chagrin Susan was never visible. + “Would he excuse her? she was indisposed.” + </p> + <p> + The next evening he came he found her entertaining four or five other + farmers' daughters and a couple of young men. She was playing the piano to + them and talking and laughing louder and faster than ever he had heard her + in his life. He sat moody a little while and watched her uneasily, but + soon took his line, and exerting his excellent social powers became the + life of the party. But as he warmed Susan froze, as much as to say, + “Somebody must play the fool to amuse these triflers—if you + undertake it I need not.” For all that the very attempt at society + indicated what was passing in Susan's mind, and the deep Meadows invited + all present to meet at his house in two days' time. + </p> + <p> + Meadows was now living in Isaac Levi's old house. He had examined it, + found it a much nicer house for him than his new one—it was like + himself, full of ins and outs, and it was more in the heart of business + and yet quiet; for, though it stood in a row, yet it was as good as + detached, because the houses on each side were unoccupied. They belonged + to Jews, probably dependents on Isaac, for they had left the town about a + twelvemonth after his departure and had never returned, though a large + quantity of goods had been deposited in one of the houses. + </p> + <p> + Meadows contrived that this little party should lead to another. His game + was to draw Susan into the world, and moreover have her seen in his + company. She made no resistance, for her wounded pride said, “Don't let + people know you are breaking your heart for one who does not care for + you.” She used to come to these parties radiant and playing her part with + consummate resolution and success, and go home and spend the night in + tears. + </p> + <p> + Meadows did not see the tears that followed these unusual efforts—perhaps + he suspected them. Enough for him that Susan's pride and shame and + indignation were set against her love, and, above all, against her grief, + and that she was forming habits whose tendency at least was favorable to + his views. + </p> + <p> + Another four months, and Susan, exhausted by conflicting passions, had + settled down into a pensive languor, broken by gusts of bitter grief, + which became rarer and rarer. Her health recovered itself, all but its + elasticity. Her pride would not let her pine away. But her heart scarcely + beat at all, and perhaps it was a good thing for her that a trouble of + another kind came to gently stir it. Her father, who had for some months + been moody and depressed, confessed to her that he had been speculating + and was on the verge of ruin. This dreadful disclosure gave little more + pain to Susan than if he had told her his head ached; but she put down her + work and came and kissed him, and tried to console him. + </p> + <p> + “I must work harder, that is all, father. I am often asked to give a + lesson on the piano-forte; I will do that for your sake, and don't you + fret for me. What with the trifle my mother settled on me and my industry, + I am above poverty, and you shall never see me repine.” + </p> + <p> + In short, poor Susan took her father for a woman—adopted a line of + consolation addressed to his affection, instead of his selfishness. It was + not for her he was afflicted, it was for himself. + </p> + <p> + It was at this conjuncture that Meadows spoke out. There was no longer + anything to be gained by delay. In fact, he could not but observe that + since the fatal letter he appeared to be rather losing ground in his old + character. There was nothing left him but to attack her in a new one. He + removed the barrier from his patient impatience. + </p> + <p> + He found her alone one evening. He begged her to walk in the garden. She + complied with an unsuspecting smile. Then he told her all he had suffered + for her sake; how he had loved her this three years with all his soul—how + he never thought to tell her this—how hard he had struggled against + it—how he had run away from it, and after that how he had subdued + it, or thought he had subdued it, to esteem—and how he had been + rewarded by seeing that his visits and his talk had done her some good. + “But now,” said he, “that you are free, I have no longer the force to hide + my love; now that the man I dared not interfere with has thrown away the + jewel, it is not in nature that I should not beg to be allowed to take it + up and wear it in my heart.” + </p> + <p> + Susan listened; first with surprise, then with confusion and pain, then + with terror at the violence of the man's passion; for, the long restraint + removed, it overwhelmed him like a flood. Her bosom heaved with modest + agitation, and soon the tears streamed down her cheeks at his picture of + what he had gone through for her sake. She made shift to gasp out, “My + poor friend!” But she ended almost fiercely: “Let no man ever hope for + affection from me, for my heart is in the grave. Oh, that I was there, + too!” And she ran sobbing away from him in spite of his entreaties. + </p> + <p> + Another man and not George had made a confession of love to her. His voice + had trembled, his heart quivered, with love for her, and it was not + George. So then another link was snapped. Others saw they had a right to + love her now, and acted on it. + </p> + <p> + Meadows was at a loss, but he stayed away a week in silence, and thought + and thought, and then he wrote a line begging permission to visit her as + usual. “I have been so long used to hide my feelings, because they were + unlawful, that I can surely hide them if I see they make you more unhappy + than you would be without.” + </p> + <p> + Susan replied that her advice to him was to avoid her as he would a + pestilence. He came as usual, and told her he would take her commands, but + could not take her advice. He would run all risks to his own heart. He was + cheerful, chatty and never said a word of love; and this relieved Susan, + so that the evening passed pleasantly. Susan, listless and indifferent to + present events, and never accustomed, like Meadows, to act upon a + preconceived plan, did not even observe what Meadows had gained by this + sacrifice of his topic for a single night, viz., that after declaring + himself her lover he was still admitted to the house. The next visit he + was not quite so forbearing, yet still forbearing; and so on by sly + gradations. It was every way an unequal contest. A great man against an + average woman—a man of forty against a woman of twenty-two—a + man all love and selfishness against a woman all affection and + unselfishness. But I think his chief ally was a firm belief on Susan's + part that he was the best of men; that from first to last of this affair + his conduct had been perfection; that while George was true all his + thought had been to console her grief at his absence; that he never would + have spoken but for the unexpected treason of George, and then seeing her + insulted and despised he had taken that moment to show her she was loved + and honored. Oh, what an ungrateful girl she was that she could not love + such a man! + </p> + <p> + Then her father was on the same side. “John Meadows seems down like, + Susan. Do try and cheer him up a bit, I am sure he has often cheered + thee.” + </p> + <p> + “That he has, father.” + </p> + <p> + Susan pitied Meadows. Pitying him, she forced herself at times to be + gracious, and when she did he was so happy that she was alarmed at her + power and drew in. + </p> + <p> + Old Merton saw now how the land lay, and he clung to a marriage between + these two as his only hope. “John Meadows will pull me through, if he + marries my Susan.” + </p> + <p> + And so the two selfish ones had got the unselfish one between them, one + pulling gently, the other pushing quietly, but both without intermission. + Thus days and days rolled on. + </p> + <p> + Meadows now came four times a week instead of two, and courted her openly, + and beamed so with happiness that she had not always the heart to rob him + of this satisfaction, and he overwhelmed her with kindness and attention + of every sort, and, if any one else was present, she was sure to see how + much he was respected; and this man whom others courted was her slave. + This soothed the pride another had wounded. + </p> + <p> + One day he poured out his love to her with such passion that he terrified + her, and the next time he came she avoided him. + </p> + <p> + Her father remonstrated. “Girl, you will break that man's heart if you are + so unkind to him; he could not say a word because you shunned him like. + Why, your heart must be made of stone.” A burst of tears was all the + reply. + </p> + <p> + At last two things presented themselves to this poor girl's understanding; + that for her there was no chance of earthly happiness, do what she would, + and that, strangely enough, she the wretched one had it in her power to + make two other beings happy, her father and good Mr. Meadows. + </p> + <p> + Now, a true woman lives to make others happy. She rarely takes the + self-contained views of life men are apt to do. + </p> + <p> + It passed through Susan's mind: “If I refuse to make these happy, why do I + live, what am I on the earth for at all?” + </p> + <p> + It seemed cruel to her to refuse happiness when she could bestow it + without making herself two shades more miserable than she was. + </p> + <p> + Despair and unselfishness are evil counselors in a scheming, selfish + world. The life-blood had been drained out of her heart by so many cruel + blows, by the long waiting, the misgivings, the deep woe when she believed + George dead, the bitter grief and mortification and sense of wrong when + she found he was married to another. + </p> + <p> + Many of us, male and female, treated as Susan imagined herself treated, + have taken another lover out of pique. Susan did not so. She was bitterly + piqued, but she did not make that use of her pique. + </p> + <p> + Despair of happiness, pity, and pure unselfishness, these stood John + Meadows' friends with this unhappy dupe, and perhaps my male readers will + be incredulous as well as shocked when I relate the manner in which at + last this young creature, lovely as an angel, in the spring of life, + loving another still, and deluding herself to think she hated and despised + him, was one afternoon surprised into giving her hand to a man for whom + she did not really care a button. + </p> + <p> + It was as if she had said: “Is it really true your happiness depends on + me? then take me—quick—before my courage fails—are you + happy now, my poor soul?” On the other side there were the passionate + pleadings of a lover; the deep, manly voice broken with supplication, the + male eyes glistening, the diabolical mixture of fraud and cunning with + sincerity. + </p> + <p> + At the first symptom of yielding the man seized her as the hawk the dove. + He did not wait for a second hint. He poured out gratitude and + protestations. He thanked her, and blessed her, and in his manly ardor + caught her to his bosom. + </p> + <p> + She shut her eyes, and submitted to the caress as to an executioner. + </p> + <p> + “Pray let me go to my father,” she whispered. + </p> + <p> + She came to her father and told him what she had done, and kissed him, and + when he kissed her in return, that rare embrace seemed to her her reward. + </p> + <p> + Meadows went home on wings—he was in a whirlwind of joy and triumph. + </p> + <p> + “Aha! what will not a strong will do?” He had no fears, no misgivings. He + saw she did not really like him even, but he would make her love him! Let + him once get her into his house and into his arms, by degrees she should + love him; ay, she should adore him! He held that a young and virtuous + woman cannot resist the husband who remains a lover, unless he is a fool + as well as a lover. She could resist a man, but hardly the hearth, the + marriage-bed, the sacred domestic ties, and a man whose love should be + always present, always ardent, yet his temper always cool, and his + determination to be loved unflinching. + </p> + <p> + With this conviction, Meadows had committed crimes of the deepest dye to + possess Susan. Villain as he was, it may be doubted whether he would have + committed these felonies had he doubted for an instant her ultimate + happiness. The unconquerable dog said to himself: “The day will come that + I will tell her how I have risked my soul for her; how I have played the + villain for her; and she shall throw her arms round my neck, and bless me + for committing all those crimes to make her so happy against her will.” + </p> + <p> + It remained to clinch the nail. + </p> + <p> + He came to Grassmere every day; and one night that the old man was telling + Susan and him how badly things were going with him, he said, with a + cheerful laugh: “I wonder at you, father-in-law, taking on that way. Do + you think Susan will let you be uncomfortable for want of a thousand + pounds or two?” + </p> + <p> + Now this remark was slyly made while Susan was at the other end of the + room, so that she could hear it, but was not supposed to. He did not look + at her for some time, and then her face was scarlet. + </p> + <p> + The next day he said privately to old Merton: “The day Susan and I go to + church together, you must let me take your engagements and do the best I + can with them.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, John, you are a friend! but it will take a pretty deal to set me + straight again.” + </p> + <p> + “How much? Two thousand?” + </p> + <p> + “More, I am afraid, and too much—” + </p> + <p> + “Too much for me to take out of my pocket for a stranger; but not for my + wife's father—not if it was ten times that.” + </p> + <p> + From that hour Meadows had an ally at Grassmere, working heart and soul to + hasten the wedding-day. + </p> + <p> + Meadows longed for this day; for he could not hide from himself that as a + lover he made no advances. Susan's heart was like a globe of ice; he could + get no hold of it anywhere. He burned with rage when the bitter truth was + forced on him, that, with the topic of George Fielding, he had lost those + bright, animated looks of affection she used to bestow on him, and now + could only command her polite attention, not always that. Once he ventured + on a remonstrance—only once. + </p> + <p> + She answered coldly that she could not feign; indifferent she was to + everything on earth, indifferent she always should be. But for that + indifference she should never have consented to marry him. Let him pause + then, and think what he was doing, or, better still, give up this folly, + and not tie an icicle like her to an honest and warm heart like his. + </p> + <p> + The deep Meadows never ventured on that ground again. He feared she wanted + to be off the marriage, and he determined to hurry it on. He pressed her + to name the day. She would not. + </p> + <p> + “Would she let him name it?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + Her father came to Meadows' assistance. “I'll name it,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Father! no! no!” + </p> + <p> + Old Merton then made a pretense of selecting a day. Rejected one day for + one reason, another for another, and pitched on a day only six weeks + distant. + </p> + <p> + The next day Meadows bought the license. “I thought you would like that + better than being cried in church, Susan.” Susan thanked him and said, + “Oh, yes.” + </p> + <p> + That evening he had a note from her in which “she humbly asked his pardon, + but she could not marry him; he must excuse her. She trusted to his + generosity to let the matter drop, and forgive a poor brokenhearted girl + who had behaved ill from weakness of judgment, not lightness of heart.” + </p> + <p> + Two days after this, which remained unanswered, her father came to her in + great agitation and said to her: “Have you a mind to have a man's death + upon your conscience?” + </p> + <p> + “Father!” + </p> + <p> + “I have seen John Meadows, and he is going to kill himself. What sort of a + letter was that to write to the poor man? Says he, 'It has come on me like + a thunder-clap.' I saw a pistol on his table, and he told me he wouldn't + give a button to live. You ought to be ashamed of yourself trifling with + folks' hearts so.” + </p> + <p> + “I trifle with folks' hearts! Oh! what shall I do!” cried Susan. + </p> + <p> + “Think of others as well as yourself,” replied the old man in a rage. + “Think of me.” + </p> + <p> + “Of you, dear father? Does not your Susan think of you?” + </p> + <p> + “No! what will become of me if the man kills himself? He is all I have to + look to, to save me from ruin.” + </p> + <p> + “What, then?” cried Susan, coloring scarlet, “it is not his life you care + for, it is his means of being useful to us! Poor Mr. Meadows! He has no + friend but me. I will give you a line to him.” The line contained these + words: “Forgive me.” + </p> + <p> + Half an hour after receipt of it Meadows was at the farm. Susan was going + to make some faint apology. He stopped her and said: “I know you like to + make folk happy. I have got a job for you. A gentleman, a friend of mine + in Cheshire, wants a bailiff. He has written to me. A word from me will do + the business. Now is there any one you would like to oblige? The place is + worth five hundred a year.” Susan was grateful to him for waiving + disagreeable topics. She reflected and said: “Ah! but he is no friend of + yours.” + </p> + <p> + “What does that matter if he is yours?” + </p> + <p> + “Will Fielding.” + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart. Only my name must not be mentioned. You are right. He + can marry on this. They would both have starved in 'The Grove.'” + </p> + <p> + Thus he made the benevolent girl taste the sweets of power. “You will be + asked to do many a kind action like this when you are Mrs. Meadows.” So he + bribed father and daughter each after their kind. + </p> + <p> + The offer came in form from the gentleman to Will Fielding. He and Miss + Holiday had already been cried in church. They were married, and went off + to Cheshire. + </p> + <p> + So Meadows got rid of Will Fielding at a crisis. When it suited his + strategy he made his enemy's fortune with as little compunction as he + would have ruined him. A man of iron! Cold iron, hot iron, whatever iron + was wanted. + </p> + <p> + Mr. and Mrs. Fielding gone off to Cheshire, and Mrs. Holiday after them on + a visit of domestic instruction, Meadows publicly announced his + approaching marriage with Miss Merton. The coast being clear, he clinched + the last nail. From this day there were gusts of repugnance, but not a + shadow of resistance on Susan's side. It was to be. + </p> + <p> + The weather was fine, and every evening this man and woman walked + together. The woman envied by all the women; the man by all the men. Yet + they walked side by side like the ghosts of lovers. And, since he was her + betrothed, one or two iron-gray hairs in the man's head had turned white, + and lines deepened in his face. The victim had unwittingly revenged + herself. + </p> + <p> + He had stabbed her heart again and again, and drained it. He had battered + this poor heart till it had become more like leather than flesh and blood, + and now he wanted to nestle in it and be warmed by it. To kill the + affections and revive them at will. No!!!! + </p> + <p> + She tried to give happiness and to avoid giving pain, but her heart of + hearts was inaccessible. The town had capitulated, but the citadel was + empty yet impregnable. And there were moments when flashes of hate mingled + with the steady flame of this unhappy man's love, and he was tempted to + kill her and himself. + </p> + <p> + But these weaknesses passed like air, the iron purpose stood firm. This + day week they were to be married. Meadows counted the days and exulted; he + had faith in the magic ring. It was on this Monday evening then they + walked arm in arm in the field, and it so happened that Meadows was not + speaking of love, but of a scheme for making all the poor people in + Grassmere comfortable, especially of keeping the rain out of their roofs + and the wind out of what they vulgarly, but not unreasonably, called their + windys, and Susan's color was rising and her eyes brightening at this the + one interesting side marriage offered—to make people happy near her + and round about her, and she cast a look of gratitude upon her companion—a + look that, coming from so lovely a face, might very well pass for love. + While thus pleasantly employed the pair suddenly encountered a form in a + long bristling beard, who peered into their faces with a singular + expression of strange and wild curiosity and anxiety, but did not stop; he + was making toward Farnborough. + </p> + <p> + Susan was a little startled. “Who is that?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know.” + </p> + <p> + “He looked as if he knew us.” + </p> + <p> + “A traveler, I think, dearest. The folk hereabouts have not got to wear + those long beards yet.” + </p> + <p> + “Why did you start when he passed us?” + </p> + <p> + “Did I start, Susan?” + </p> + <p> + “Your arm twitched me.” + </p> + <p> + “You must have fancied it,” replied Meadows, with a sickly smile; “but, + come, Susan, the dew is falling, you had better make toward home.” + </p> + <p> + He saw her safe home, then, instead of waiting to supper as usual, got his + horse out and rode to the town full gallop. + </p> + <p> + “Any one been here for me?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! a stranger.” + </p> + <p> + “With a long beard?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, yes, he had.” + </p> + <p> + “He will come again?” + </p> + <p> + “In half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + “Show him into my room when he comes, and admit no one else.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows was hardly seated in his study and his candles lighted when the + servant ushered in his visitor. + </p> + <p> + “Shut both the doors, and you can go to bed. I will let Mr. Richards out.” + </p> + <p> + “Well?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we have done the trick between us, eh?” + </p> + <p> + “What made you come home without orders?” asked Meadows, somewhat sternly. + </p> + <p> + “Why, you know as well as me, sir; you have seen them?” + </p> + <p> + “Who?” + </p> + <p> + “George Fielding and his mate.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows started. “How should I see them?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir! Why, they are come home. They gave me the slip, and got away before + me. I followed them. They are here. They must be here.” Crawley, not + noticing Meadows' face, went on. “Sir, when I found they had slipped out + of the camp on horseback, and down to Sydney, and saw them with my own + eyes go out of the harbor for England, I thought I should have died on the + spot. I thought I should never have the courage to face you, but when I + met you arm in arm, her eye smiling on you, I knew it was all right then. + When did the event come off?” + </p> + <p> + “What event?” + </p> + <p> + “The marriage, sir—you and the lady. She is worth all the trouble + she has given us.” + </p> + <p> + “You fool,” roared Meadows, “we are not married. The wedding is to be this + day week!” Crawley started and gasped, “We are ruined, we are undone!” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your bawling,” cried Meadows, fiercely, “and let me think.” He + buried his face in his hands; when he removed them, he was gloomy but + self-possessed. “They are not in England, Crawley, or we should have seen + them. They are on the road. You sailed faster than they; passed them at + night, perhaps. They will soon be here. My own heart tells me they will be + here before Monday. Well, I will beat them still. I will be married + Thursday next.” The iron man then turned to Crawley, and sternly demanded + how he had let the man slip. + </p> + <p> + Crawley related all, and as he told his tale the tone of Meadows altered. + He no longer doubted the zeal of his hireling. He laid his hand on his + brow and more than once he groaned and muttered half-articulate + expressions of repugnance. At the conclusion he said moodily: “Crawley, + you have served me well—too well! All the women upon earth were not + worth a murder, and we have been on the brink of several. You went beyond + your instructions.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I did not,” replied Crawley; “I have got them in my pocket. I will + read them to you. See! there is no discretion allowed me. I was to bribe + them to rob.” + </p> + <p> + “Where do I countenance the use of deadly weapons?” + </p> + <p> + “Where is there a word against deadly weapons?” asked Crawley, sharply. + “Be just to me, sir,” he added in a more whining tone. “You know you are a + man that must and will be obeyed. You sent me to Australia to do a certain + thing, and you would have flung me to perdition if I had stuck at anything + to do it. Well, sir, I tried skill without force—look here,” and he + placed a small substance like white sugar on the table. + </p> + <p> + “What is that?” + </p> + <p> + “Put that in a man's glass he will never taste it, and in half an hour he + will sleep you might take the clothes off his back. Three of us watched + months and months for a chance, but it was no go; those two were teetotal + or next door it.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish I had never sent you out.” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” replied Crawley, “there is no harm done, no blood has been spilled + except on our own side. George Fielding is coming home all right. Give him + up the lady, and he will never know you were his enemy.” + </p> + <p> + “What!” cried Meadows, “wade through all these crimes for nothing? Lie and + feign, and intercept letters, and rob and all but assassinate—-and + fail? Wade in crime up to my middle, and then wade back again without the + prize! Do you see this pistol? it has two barrels; if she and I are ever + parted it shall be this way—I'll send her to heaven with one barrel, + and myself to hell with the other.” + </p> + <p> + There was a dead silence! Crawley returned to their old relation, and was + cowed by the natural ascendency of the greater spirit. + </p> + <p> + “You need not look like a girl at me,” said Meadows, “most likely it won't + come to that. It is not easy to beat me, and I shall try every move man's + wit can devise—this last,” said he, in a voice of iron, touching the + pistol as it lay on the table. + </p> + <p> + There was another pause. Then Meadows rose and said calmly: “You look + tired, you shall have a bottle of my old port; and my own heart is + staggered, but it is only for a moment.” He struck his hand upon his + breast, and walked slowly from the room. And Crawley heard his step + descend to the hall, and then to the cellar; and the indomitable character + of the man rang in his solid tread. + </p> + <p> + Crawley was uneasy. “Mr. Meadows is getting wildish; it frightens me to + see such a man as him burst out like that. He is not to be trusted with a + loaded pistol. Ah! and I am in his secrets, deep in his secrets; great men + sweep away little folk that know too much. I never saw him with a pistol + before.” All this passing rapidly through his head, Crawley pounced on the + pistol, took off the caps, whipped out a little bottle, and poured some + strong stuff into the caps that loosened the detonating powder directly; + then with a steel pen he picked it all out and replaced the caps, their + virtue gone, before Mr. Meadows returned with two bottles; and the + confederates sat in close conclave till the gray of morning broke into the + room. + </p> + <p> + The great man gave but few orders to his subordinate, for this simple + reason, that the game had fallen into his own hands. + </p> + <p> + Still there was something for Crawley to do. He was to have an officer + watching to arrest Will Fielding on the old judgment should he, which was + hardly to be expected, come to kick up a row and interrupt the wedding. + And to-morrow he was to take out a writ against his “father-in-law.” Mr. + Meadows played a close game. He knew that things are not to be got when + they are wanted. His plan was to have everything ready that might be + wanted long before it was wanted. + </p> + <p> + But most of the night passed in relation of what had already taken place, + and Crawley was the chief speaker, and magnified his services. He related + from his own point of view all that I have told, and Meadows listened with + all his soul and intelligence. + </p> + <p> + At the attack on Mr. Levi, Meadows chuckled. “The old heathen,” said he, + contemptuously, “I have beat him anyway.” + </p> + <p> + “By the way, sir, have you seen anything of him?” asked Crawley. + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “He is not come home, then.” + </p> + <p> + “Not that I know of; have you any reason to think he has?” + </p> + <p> + “No, only he left the mine directly after they pelted him; but he would + not leave the country any the more for that, and money to be made in it by + handfuls.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, Crawley, go and get some sleep. A cold bath for me and then on + horseback. I must breakfast at Grassmere.” + </p> + <p> + “Great man, sir! great man! You will beat them yet, sir. You have beat Mr. + Levi. Here we are in his house; and he driven away to lay his sly old + bones at the Antipodes. Ha! ha! ha!” + </p> + <p> + The sun came in at the window, and the long conference broke up, and, + strange to say, it broke into three. Crawley home to sleep. Meadows to + Grassmere. Isaac Levi to smoke an Eastern pipe, and so meditate with more + tranquil pulse how to strike with deadliest effect these two, his insolent + enemies. + </p> + <p> + <i>Siste viator</i>—and guess that riddle. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0081" id="link2HCH0081"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXI. + </h2> + <p> + ISAAC LEVI, rescued by George Fielding, reached his tent smarting with + pain and bitter insult; he sat on the floor pale and dusty, and + anathematized his adversaries in the Hebrew tongue. Wrath still boiling in + his heart, he drew out his letters and read them. Then grief mingled with + his anger. Old Cohen, his friend and agent and coeval, was dead. Another + self dead. + </p> + <p> + Besides the hint that this gave him to set his house in order, a distinct + consideration drew Isaac now to England. He had trusted much larger + interests to old Cohen than he was at all disposed to leave in the hands + of Cohen's successors, men of another generation, “progeniem vitiosiorem,” + he sincerely believed. + </p> + <p> + Another letter gave him some information about Meadows that added another + uneasiness to those he already felt on George's account. Hence his bitter + disappointment when he found George gone from the mine, the date of his + return uncertain. Hence, too, the purchase of Moore's horses, and the + imploring letter to George—measures that proved invaluable to that + young man, whose primitive simplicity and wise humility led him not to + question the advice of his elder, but obey it. + </p> + <p> + And so it was that, although the old Jew sailed home upon his own + interests, yet during the voyage George Fielding's assumed a great + importance, direct and incidental. Direct, because the old man was warm + with gratitude to him; indirect, because he boiled over with hate of + George's most dangerous enemy. And, as he neared the English coast, the + thought that though he was coming to Farnborough he could not come home, + grew bitterer and bitterer, and then that he should find his enemy and his + insulter in the very house sacred by the shadows of the beloved and dead!! + </p> + <p> + Finding in Nathan a youth of no common fidelity and shrewdness, Isaac + confided in him; and Nathan, proud beyond description of the confidence + bestowed on him by one so honored in his tribe, enlisted in his cause with + all the ardor of youth tempered by Jewish address. + </p> + <p> + Often they sat together on the deck, and the young Jewish brain and the + old Jewish brain mingled and digested a course of conduct to meet every + imaginable contingency; for the facts they at present possessed were only + general and vague. + </p> + <p> + The first result of all this was that these two crept into the town of + Farnborough at three o'clock one morning; that Isaac took out a key and + unlocked the house that stood next to Meadows' on the left hand; that + Isaac took secret possession of the first floor, and Nathan open but not + ostentatious possession of the ground-floor, with a tale skillfully + concocted to excite no suspicion whatever that Isaac was in any way + connected with his presence in the town. Nathan, it is to be observed, had + never been in Farnborough before. + </p> + <p> + The next morning they worked. Nathan went out, locking the door after him, + to execute two commissions. He was to find out what the young Cohens were + doing, and how far they were likely to prove worthy of the trust reposed + in their father; and what Susan Merton was doing, and whether Meadows was + courting her or not. The latter part of Nathan's task was terribly easy. + </p> + <p> + The young man came home late at night, locked the door, made a concerted + signal, and was admitted to the senior presence. He found him smoking his + Eastern pipe. Nathan with dejected air told him that he had good news; + that the Cohens not only thought themselves wiser than their father, which + was permissible, but openly declared it, which he, though young, had + observed to be a trait confined to very great fools. + </p> + <p> + “It is well said, my son,” quoth Isaac, smoking calmly, “and the other + business?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, master!” said Nathan, “I bring still worse tidings of her. She is a + true Nazarite, a creature without faith. She is betrothed to the man you + hate, and whom I, for your sake, hate even to death.” + </p> + <p> + They spoke in an Eastern dialect, which I am paraphrasing here and + translating there, according to the measure of my humble abilities. Isaac + sucked his pipe very fast; this news was a double blow to his feelings. + “If she be indeed a Nazarite without faith, let her go; but judge not the + simple hastily. First, let me know how far woman's frailty is to blame; + how far man's guile—for not for nothing was Crawley sent out to the + mine by Meadows. Let me consider;” and he smoked calmly again. + </p> + <p> + After a long silence, which Nathan was too respectful to break, the old + man gave him his commission for to-morrow. He was to try and discover why + Susan Merton had written no letters for many months to George; and why she + had betrothed herself to the foe. “But reveal nothing in return,” said + Isaac, “neither ask more than three questions of any one person, lest they + say, 'Who is this that being a Jew asks many questions about a Nazarite + maiden, and why asks he them?'” + </p> + <p> + At night Nathan returned full of intelligence. She loved the young man + Fielding. She wrote letters to him and received letters from him, until + gold was found in Australia. But after this he wrote to her no more + letters, wherefore her heart was troubled. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! and did she write to him?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! but received no answer, nor any letter for many months.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” (puff!) (puff!) + </p> + <p> + “Then came a rumor that he was dead, and she mourned for him after the + manner of her people many days. Verily, master, I am vexed for the + Nazarite maiden, for her tale is sad. Then came a letter from Australia, + that said he is not dead, but married to a stranger. Then the maiden said: + 'Behold now this twelve months he writes not to me, this then is true'; + and she bowed her head, and the color left her cheek. Then this Meadows + visited her, and consoled her day by day. And there are those who + confidently affirm that her father said often to her, 'Behold now I am a + man stricken in years, and the man Meadows is rich'; so the maiden gave + her hand to the man, but whether to please the old man her father, or out + of the folly and weakness of females, thou, O Isaac, son of Shadrach, + shalt determine; seeing that I am young, and little versed in the ways of + women, knowing this only by universal report, that they are fair to the + eye but often bitter to the taste.” + </p> + <p> + “Aha!” cried Isaac, “but I am old, O Nathan, son of Eli, and with the + thorns of old age comes one good fruit, 'experience.' No letters came to + him, yet she wrote many. None came to her, yet he wrote many. All this is + transparent as glass—here has been fraud as well as guile.” + </p> + <p> + Nathan's eye sparkled. “What is the fraud, master?” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, that I know not, but I will know!” + </p> + <p> + “But how, master?” + </p> + <p> + “By help of thine ears, or my own!” + </p> + <p> + Nathan looked puzzled. So long as Mr. Levi shut himself up a close + prisoner on the first floor what could he hear for himself? + </p> + <p> + Isaac read the look and smiled. He then rose, and, putting his finger to + his lips, led the way to his own apartments. At the staircase-door, which + even Nathan had not yet passed, he bade the young man take off his shoes; + he himself was in slippers. He took Nathan into a room, the floor of which + was entirely covered with mattresses. A staircase, the steps of which were + covered with horsehair, went by a tolerably easy slope and spiral movement + nearly up to the cornice. Of this cornice a portion about a foot square + swung back on a well-oiled hinge, and Isaac drew out from the wall with + the utmost caution a piece of gutta-percha piping, to this he screwed on + another piece open at the end, and applied it to his ear. + </p> + <p> + Nathan comprehended it all in a moment. His master could overhear every + word uttered in Meadows' study. Levi explained to him that ere he left his + old house he had put a new cornice in the room he thought Meadows would + sit in, a cornice so deeply ornamented that no one could see the ear he + left in it, and had taken out bricks in the wall of the adjoining house + and made the other arrangements they were inspecting together. Mr. Levi + further explained that his object was simply to overhear and counteract + every scheme Meadows should form. He added that he never intended to leave + Farnborough for long. His intention had been to establish certain + relations in that country, buy some land, and return immediately; but the + gold discovery had detained him. + </p> + <p> + “But, master,” said Nathan, “suppose the man had taken his business to the + other side of his house?” + </p> + <p> + “Foolish youth,” replied Isaac, “am I not on both sides of him!!” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! What, is there another on the other?” Isaac nodded. + </p> + <p> + Thus, while Nathan was collecting facts, Isaac had been watching, “patient + as a cat, keen as a lynx,” at his ear-hole, and heard—nothing. + </p> + <p> + Now the next day Nathan came in hastily long before the usual hour. + “Master, another enemy is come—the man Crawley! I saw him from the + window; he saw not me. What shall I do?” + </p> + <p> + “Keep the house all day. I would not have him see you. He would say, 'Aha! + the old Jew is here, too.'” Nathan's countenance fell. He was a prisoner + now as well as his master. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, rising early to prepare their food, he was surprised to + find the old man smoking his pipe down below. + </p> + <p> + “All is well, my son. My turn has come. I have had great patience, and + great is the reward.” He then told him with natural exultation the long + conference he had been secretly present at between Crawley and Meadows—a + conference in which the enemy had laid bare, not his guilt only, but the + secret crevice in his coat of mail. “She loves him not!” cried Levi, with + exultation. “She is his dupe! With a word I can separate them and confound + him utterly.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, master!” cried the youth eagerly, “speak that word to-day, and let me + be there and hear it spoken if I have favor in your eyes.” + </p> + <p> + “Speak it to-day!” cried Levi, with a look of intense surprise at Nathan's + simplicity. “Go to, foolish youth!” said he; “what, after I have waited + months and months for vengeance, would you have me fritter it away for + want of waiting a day or two longer? No, I will strike, not the empty cup + from his hand, but the full cup from his lips. Aha! you have seen the Jew + insulted and despised in many lands; have patience now and you shall see + how he can give blow for blow; ay! old, and feeble, and without a weapon, + can strike his adversary to the heart.” + </p> + <p> + Nathan's black eye flashed. “You are the master, I the scholar,” said he. + “All I ask is to be permitted to share the watching for your enemy's + words, since I may not go abroad while it is day.” + </p> + <p> + Thus the old and young lynx lay in ambush all day. And at night the young + lynx prowled, but warily, lest Crawley should see him; and every night + brought home some scrap of intelligence. + </p> + <p> + To change the metaphor, it was as though while the Western spider wove his + artful web round the innocent fly, the Oriental spider wove another web + round him, the threads of which were so subtle as to be altogether + invisible. Both East and West leaned with sublime faith on their + respective gossamers, nor remembered that “Dieu dispose.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0082" id="link2HCH0082"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXII. + </h2> + <p> + MEADOWS rode to Grassmere, to try and prevail with Susan to be married on + Thursday next, instead of Monday. As he rode he revolved every argument he + could think of to gain her compliance. He felt sure she was more inclined + to postpone the day than to advance it, but something told him his fate + hung on this: “These two men will come home on Monday. I am sure of it. + Ay, Monday morning, before we can wed. I will not throw a chance away; the + game is too close.” Then he remembered with dismay that Susan had been + irritable and snappish just before parting yester eve—a trait she + had never exhibited to him before. When he arrived, his heart almost + failed him, but after some little circumlocution and excuse he revealed + the favor, the great favor, he was come to ask. He asked it. She granted + it without the shade of a demur. He was no less surprised than delighted, + but the truth is that very irritation and snappishness of yesterday was + the cause of her consenting; her conscience told her she had been unkind, + and he had been too wise to snap in return. So now he benefited by the + reaction and little bit of self-reproach. For do but abstain from + reproaching a good girl who has been unjust or unkind to you, and ten to + one if she does not make you the <i>amemde</i> by word or deed—most + likely the latter, for so she can soothe her tender conscience without + grazing her equally sensitive pride. Poor Susan little knew the importance + of the concession she made so easily. + </p> + <p> + Meadows galloped home triumphant. But two whole days now between him and + his bliss! And that day passed and Tuesday passed. The man lived three + days and nights in a state of tension that would have killed some of us or + driven us mad; but his intrepid spirit rode the billows of hope and fear + like a petrel. And the day before the wedding it did seem as if his + adverse fate got suddenly alarmed and made a desperate effort and hurled + against him every assailant that could be found. In the morning came his + mother, and implored him ere it was too late to give up this marriage. “I + have kept silence, yea even from good words,” said the aged woman; “but at + last I must speak. John, she does not love you. I am a woman and can read + a woman's heart; and you fancied her long before George Fielding was false + to her, if false he ever was, John.” + </p> + <p> + The old woman said the whole of this last sentence with so much meaning + that her son was stung to rage, and interrupted her fiercely: “I looked to + find all the world against me, but not my own mother. No matter, so be it; + the whole world shan't turn me, and those I don't care to fight I'll fly.” + </p> + <p> + And he turned savagely on his heel and left the old woman there shocked + and terrified by his vehemence. She did not stay there long. Soon the + scarlet cloak and black bonnet might have been seen wending their way + slowly back to the little cottage, the poor old tidy bonnet drooping lower + than it was wont. Meadows came back to dinner; he had a mutton-chop in his + study, for it was a busy day. While thus employed there came almost + bursting into the room a man struck with remorse—Jefferies, the + recreant postmaster. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Meadows, I can carry on this game no longer, and I won't for any man + living!” He then in a wild, loud, and excited way went on to say how the + poor girl had come a hundred times for a letter, and looked in his face so + wistfully, and once she had said: “Oh, Mr. Jefferies, do have a letter for + me!” and how he saw her pale face in his dreams, and little he thought + when he became Meadows' tool the length the game was to be carried. + </p> + <p> + Meadows heard him out; then simply reminded him of his theft, and assured + him with an oath that if he dared to confess his villainy— + </p> + <p> + “My villainy?” shrieked the astonished postmaster. + </p> + <p> + “Whose else? You have intercepted letters—not I. You have abused the + public confidence—not I. So if you are such a fool and sneak as to + cut your throat by peaching on yourself, I'll cry louder than you, and + I'll show you have emptied letters as well as stopped them. Go home to + your wife, and keep quiet, or I'll smash both you and her.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I know you are without mercy, and I dare not open my heart while I + live; but I will beat you yet, you cruel monster. I will leave a note for + Miss Merton, confessing all, and blow out my brains to-night in the + office.” + </p> + <p> + The man's manner was wild and despairing. Meadows eyed him sternly. He + said with affected coolness: “Jefferies, you are not game to take your own + life.” + </p> + <p> + “Ain't I?” was the reply. + </p> + <p> + “At least I think not.” + </p> + <p> + “To-night will show.” + </p> + <p> + “I must know that before night,” cried Meadows, and with the word he + sprang on Jefferies and seized him in a grasp of iron, and put a pistol to + his head. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! no! Mr. Meadows. Mercy! mercy!” shrieked the man, in an agony of + fear. + </p> + <p> + “All right,” said Meadows, coolly putting up the pistol. “You half imposed + on me, and that is something for you to brag of. You won't kill yourself, + Jefferies; you are not the stuff. Give over shaking like an aspen, and + look and listen. You are in debt. I've bought up two drafts of yours—here + they are. Come to me to-morrow, after the wedding, and I will give you + them to light your pipe with.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mr. Meadows, that would be one load off my mind.” + </p> + <p> + “You are short of cash, too; come to me—after the wedding, and I'll + give you fifty pounds cash.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very liberal, sir. I wish it was in a better cause.” + </p> + <p> + “Now go home, and don't be a sneak and a fool—till after the + wedding, or I will sell the bed from under your wife's back, and send you + to the stone-jug. Be off.” + </p> + <p> + Jefferies crept away, paralyzed in heart, and Meadows, standing up, called + out in a rage: “Are there any more of you that hope to turn John Meadows? + then come on, come a thousand strong, with the devil at your back—and + then I'll beat you!” And for a moment the respectable man was almost + grand; a man-rock standing braving earth and heaven. + </p> + <p> + “Hist! Mr. Meadows.” He turned, and there was Crawley. “A word, sir. Will + Fielding is in the town, in such a passion.” + </p> + <p> + “Come to stop the wedding?” + </p> + <p> + “He was taking a glass of ale at the 'Toad and Pickax,' and you might hear + him all over the yard.” + </p> + <p> + “What is he going to do?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir, he has bought an uncommon heavy whip; he was showing it in the yard. + 'This is for John Meadows' back,' said he, 'and I will give it him before + the girl he has stolen from my brother. If she takes a dog instead of a + man, it shall be a beaten dog,' says he.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows rang the bell. “Harness the mare to the four-wheeled chaise. You + know what to do, Crawley.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I can guess.” + </p> + <p> + “But first get him told that I am always at Grassmere at six o'clock.” + </p> + <p> + “But you won't go there this evening, of course.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “Aren't you afraid he—” + </p> + <p> + “Afraid of Will Fielding? Why, you have never looked at me. I do notice + your eyes are always on the ground. Crawley, when I was eighteen, one + evening (it was harvest home, and all the folk had drunk their wit and + manners out) I found a farmer's wife in a lane, hemmed in by three great + ignorant brutes that were for kissing her, or some nonsense, and she + crying help and murder and ready to faint with fright. It was a decent + woman, and a neighbor, so I interfered as thus: I knocked the first fellow + senseless on his back with a blow before they knew of me, and then the + three were two. I fought the two, giving and taking for full ten minutes, + and then I got a chance and one went down. I put my foot on his neck and + kept him down for all he could do, and over his body I fought the best man + of the lot, and thrashed him so that his whole mug was like a ball of + beetroot. When he was quite sick he ran one way, and t'other got up + roaring and ran another, and they had to send a hurdle for No. 1. Dame + Fielding gave me of her own accord what all the row was about, and more + than one, and hearty ones, too, I assure you, and had me in to supper, and + told her man, and he shook my hand a good one.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, sir, you don't mean to say the woman you fought for was Mrs. + Fielding.” + </p> + <p> + “But I tell you it was, and I had those two boys on my knee, two chubby + toads, pulling at my curly hair—! why do I talk of these things? Oh, + I remember, it was to show you I am not a man that can be bullied. I am a + much better man than I was at eighteen. I won't be married in a black eye + if I can help it. But, when I am once married, here I stand against all + comers, and if you hear them grumble or threaten you, tell them that any + Sunday afternoon, when there is nothing better to be done, I'll throw my + cap into the ring and fight all the Fieldings that ever were pupped, one + down another come on.” Then turning quite cool and contemptuous all in a + moment, he said, “These are words, and we have work on hand;” and, even as + he spoke, he strode from the room pattered after by Crawley. + </p> + <p> + At six o'clock Meadows and Susan were walking arm in arm in the garden. + Presently they saw a man advancing toward them, with his right hand behind + him. “Why, it is Will Fielding,” cried Susan, “come to thank you.” + </p> + <p> + “I think not, by the look of him,” replied Meadows, coolly. + </p> + <p> + “Susan, will you be so good as to take your hand from that man's arm. I + have got a word to say to him.” + </p> + <p> + Susan did more than requested, seeing at once that mischief was coming. + She clung to William's right arm, and while he ground his teeth with + ineffectual rage, for she was strong, as her sex are strong, for half a + minute, and to throw her off he must have been much rougher with her than + he chose to be, three men came behind unobserved by all but Meadows, and + captured him on the old judgment. And, Crawley having represented him as a + violent man, they literally laid the grasp of the law on him. + </p> + <p> + “But I have got the money to pay it,” remonstrated William. + </p> + <p> + “Pay it, then.” + </p> + <p> + “But my money is at home, give me two days. I'll write to my wife and she + will send it me.” The officers, with a coarse laugh, told him he must come + with them meantime. + </p> + <p> + Meadows whispered Susan: “I'll pay it for him to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + They took off William Fielding in Meadows' four-wheeled chaise. + </p> + <p> + “Where are they taking him, John?” + </p> + <p> + “To the county jail.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, don't let them take him there. Can you not trust him?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why not pay for him?” + </p> + <p> + “But I don't carry money in my pocket, and the bank is closed.” + </p> + <p> + “How unfortunate!” + </p> + <p> + “Very! but I'll send it over to-morrow early, and we will have him out.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes, poor fellow! the very first thing in the morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! the first thing—after we are married.” + </p> + <p> + Soon after this Meadows bade Susan affectionately farewell, and rode off + to Newborough to buy his gloves and some presents for his bride. On the + road he overtook William Fielding going to jail, leaned over his saddle as + he cantered by, and said, “Mrs. Meadows will send the money in to free you + in the morning,” then on again as cool as a cucumber and cantered into the + town before sunset, put up black Rachel at the King's Head, made his + purchases, and back to the inn. As he sat in the bar-parlor drinking a + glass of ale and chatting with the landlady, two travelers came into the + passage. They did not stop in it long, for one of them knew the house and + led his companion into the coffee-room. But in that moment, by a flash of + recognition, spite of their bronzed color and long beards, Meadows had + seen who they were—George Fielding and Thomas Robinson. + </p> + <p> + Words could not paint in many pages what Meadows passed through in a few + seconds. His very body was one moment cold as ice, the next burning. + </p> + <p> + The coffee-room door was open—he dragged himself into the passage, + though each foot in turn seemed glued to the ground, and listened. He came + back and sat down in the bar. + </p> + <p> + “Are they going to stay?” said the mistress to the waiter. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, to be called at five o'clock.” + </p> + <p> + The bell rang. The waiter went and immediately returned. “Hot with,” + demanded the waiter, in a sharp, mechanical tone. + </p> + <p> + “Here, take my keys for the lump sugar,” said the landlady, and she poured + first the brandy and then the hot water into a tumbler, then went upstairs + to see about the travelers' beds. + </p> + <p> + Meadows was left alone a few moments with the liquor. A sudden flash came + to Meadows' eye, he put his hand hastily to his waistcoat-pocket, and then + his eye brightened still more. Yes, it was there, he thought he had had + the curiosity to keep it by him. He drew out the white lump Crawley had + left on his table that night, and flung it into the glass just as the + waiter returned with the sugar. + </p> + <p> + The waiter took the brandy and water into the coffee-room. Meadows sat + still as a mouse, his brain boiling and bubbling—awestruck at what + he had done, yet meditating worse. + </p> + <p> + The next time the waiter came in, “Waiter,” said he, “one glass among two, + that is short allowance.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! the big one is teetotal,” replied the waiter. + </p> + <p> + “Mrs. White,” said Meadows, “if you have got a bed for me I'll sleep here, + for my nag is tired and the night is darkish.” + </p> + <p> + “Always a bed for you, Mr. Meadows,” was the gracious reply. + </p> + <p> + Soon the two friends rang for bed-candles. Robinson staggered with + drowsiness. Meadows eyed them from behind a newspaper. + </p> + <p> + Half an hour later Mr. Meadows went to bed, too—but not to sleep. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0083" id="link2HCH0083"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXIII. + </h2> + <p> + AT seven o'clock in the morning Crawley was at Meadows' house by + appointment. To his great surprise the servant told him master had not + slept at home. While he was talking to her Meadows galloped up to the + door, jumped off, and almost pulled Crawley upstairs with him. “Lock the + door, Crawley.” Crawley obeyed, but with some reluctance, for Meadows, the + iron Meadows, was ghastly and shaken as he had never been shaken before. + He sank into a chair. “Perdition seize the hour I first saw her!” As for + Crawley, he was paralyzed by the terrible agitation of a spirit so much + greater than his own. + </p> + <p> + “Crawley,” said Meadows, with a sudden unnatural calm, “when the devil + buys a soul for money how much does he give? a good lump, I hear. He + values our souls high—we don't, some of us.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Meadows, sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Now count those,” yelled Meadows, bursting out again, and he flung a roll + of notes furiously on the ground at Crawley's feet, “count and tell me + what my soul has gone for. Oh! oh!” + </p> + <p> + Crawley seized them and counted them as fast as his trembling fingers + would let him. So now an eye all remorse, and another eye all greed, were + bent upon the same thing. + </p> + <p> + “Why, they are all hundred-pound notes, bright as silver from the Bank of + England. Oh, dear! how new and crimp they are—where do they come + from, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “From Australia.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Oh, impossible! No! nothing is impossible to such a man as you. + Twenty.” + </p> + <p> + “They are at Newborough—slept at 'King's Head,'” whispered Meadows. + </p> + <p> + “Good Heavens! think of that. Thirty—” + </p> + <p> + “So did I.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! forty—four thousand pounds.” + </p> + <p> + “The lump of stuff you left here hocussed one—it was a toss-up—luck + was on my side—that one carried them—slept like death—long + while hunting—found them under his pillow at last.” + </p> + <p> + “Well done! and we fools were always beat at it. Sixty—one—two—five—seven. + Seven thousand pounds.” + </p> + <p> + “Seven thousand pounds! Who would have thought it? This is a dear job to + me.” + </p> + <p> + “Say a dear job to them and a glorious haul to you; but you deserve it + all, ah!” + </p> + <p> + “Why, you fool,” cried Meadows, “do you think I am going to keep the men's + money?” + </p> + <p> + “Keep it? why, of course!” + </p> + <p> + “What! am I a thief? I, John Meadows, that never wronged a man of a penny? + I take his sweetheart, I can't live without her; but I can live without + his money. I have crimes enough on my head, but not theft, there I say + halt.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why in the name of Heaven did you take them at such a risk?” Crawley + put this question roughly, for he was losing his respect for his idol. + </p> + <p> + “You are as blind as a mole, Crawley,” was the disdainful answer. “Don't + you see that I have made George Fielding penniless, and that now old + Merton won't let him have his daughter? Why should he? He said, 'If you + come back with one thousand pounds.' And don't you see that, when the writ + is served on old Merton, he will be as strong as fire for me and against + him. He can't marry her at all now. I shall soon or late, and the day I + marry Susan that same afternoon seven thousand pounds will be put in + George Fielding's hand, he won't know by whom, but you and I shall know. I + am a sinner, but not a villain.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley gave a dissatisfied grunt. Meadows struck a lucifer match and + lighted a candle. He placed the candle in the grate—it was warm + weather. “Come, now,” said he coolly, “burn them; then they will tell no + tales.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley gave a shriek like a mother whose child is falling out of window, + and threw himself on his knees, with the notes in his hand behind his + back. “No! no! sir! Oh, don't think of it. Talk of crime, what are all the + sins we have done together compared with this? You would not burn a + wheat-rick, no, not your greatest enemy's; I know you would not, you, are + too good a man. This is as bad; the good money that the bountiful Heaven + has given us for—for the good of man.” + </p> + <p> + “Come,” said Meadows sternly, “no more of this folly,” and he laid his + iron grasp on Crawley. + </p> + <p> + “Mercy! mercy! think of me—of your faithful servant, who has risked + his life and stuck at nothing for you. How ungrateful great men are!” + </p> + <p> + “Ungrateful! Crawley! Can you look me in the face and say that?” + </p> + <p> + “Never till now, but now I can;” and Crawley rose to his feet and faced + the great man. The prize he was fighting for gave him supernatural + courage. “To whom do you owe them? To me. You could never have had them + but for my drug. And yet you would burn them before my eyes. A fortune to + poor me.” + </p> + <p> + “To you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! What does it matter to you what becomes of them so that <i>he</i> + never sees them again? but it matters all to me. Give them to me and in + twelve hours I will be in France with them. You won't miss me, sir. I have + done my work. And it will be more prudent, for since I have left you I + can't help drinking, and I might talk, you know, sir, I might, and let out + what we should both be sorry for. Send me away to foreign countries where + I can keep traveling, and make it always summer. I hate the long nights + when it is dark. I see such cu-u-rious things. Pray! pray let me go and + take these with me, and never trouble you again.” + </p> + <p> + The words, though half nonsense, were the other half cunning, and the + tones and looks were piteous. Meadows hesitated. Crawley knew too much; to + get rid of him was a bait; and after all to annihilate the thing he had + been all his life accumulating went against his heart. He rang the bell. + “Hide the notes, Crawley. Bring me two shirts, a razor, and a comb. + Crawley, these are the terms. That you don't go near that woman—” + Crawley, with a brutal phrase, expressed his delight at the idea of + getting rid of her forever. “That you go at once to the railway. Station + opens to-day. First train starts in an hour. Up to London, over to France + this evening.” + </p> + <p> + “I will, sir. Hurrah! hurrah!” Then Crawley burst into protestations of + gratitude which Meadows cut short. He rang for breakfast, fed his + accomplice, gave him a great-coat for his journey, and took the precaution + of going with him to the station. There he shook hands with him and + returned to the principal street and entered the bank. + </p> + <p> + Crawley kept faith, he hugged his treasure to his bosom and sat down + waiting for the train. “Luck is on our side,” thought he; “if this had + been open yesterday those two would have come on from Newborough.” + </p> + <p> + He watched the preparations, they were decorating the locomotive with + bouquets and branches. They did not start punctually, some <i>soi-disant</i> + great people had not arrived. “I will have a dram,” thought Crawley; he + went and had three. Then he came back and as he was standing inspecting + the carriages a hand was laid on his shoulder. He looked round, it was Mr. + Wood, a functionary with whom he had often done business. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, Wood! how d'ye do? Going to make the first trip?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir! I have business detains me in town.” + </p> + <p> + “What! a capias, eh?” chuckled Crawley. + </p> + <p> + “Something of the sort. There is a friend of yours hard by wants to speak + a word to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Come along, then. Where is he?” + </p> + <p> + “This way, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley followed Wood to the waiting-room, and there on a bench sat Isaac + Levi. Crawley stopped dead short and would have drawn back, but Levi + beckoned to a seat near him. Crawley came walking like an automaton from + whose joints the oil had suddenly dried. With infinite repugnance he took + the seat, not liking to refuse before several persons who saw the + invitation. Mr. Wood sat on the other side of him. “What does it all + mean?” thought Crawley, but his cue was to seem indifferent or flattered. + </p> + <p> + “You have shaved your beard, Mr. Crawley,” said Isaac, in a low tone. + </p> + <p> + “My beard! I never had one,” replied Crawley, in the same key. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you had when last I saw you—in the gold mine; you set ruffians + to abuse me, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you believe that, Mr. Levi.” + </p> + <p> + “I saw it and felt it.” + </p> + <p> + The peculiarity of this situation was, that, the room being full of + people, both parties wished, each for his own reason, not to excite + general attention, and therefore delivered scarce above a whisper the sort + of matter that is generally uttered very loud and excitedly. + </p> + <p> + “It is my turn now,” whispered Levi; “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a + tooth.” + </p> + <p> + “You must look sharp then,” whispered Crawley; “to-morrow perhaps you may + not have the chance.” + </p> + <p> + “I never postpone vengeance—when it is ripe.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you, sir? dear me.” + </p> + <p> + “You have seven thousand pounds about you, Mr. Crawley.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley started and trembled. “Stolen!” whispered Isaac in his very ear. + “Give it up to the officer.” + </p> + <p> + Crawley rose instinctively. A firm hand was laid on each of his arms; he + sat down again. “What—what—-ever money I have is trusted to me + by the wealthiest and most respectable man in the cou—nty, and—” + </p> + <p> + “Stolen by him, received by you! Give it to Wood, unless you prefer a + public search.” + </p> + <p> + “You can't search me without a warrant.” + </p> + <p> + “Here is a warrant from the mayor. Take the notes out of your left breast + and give them to the officer, or we must do it by force and publicity.” + </p> + <p> + “I won't without Mr. Meadows' authority. Send for Mr. Meadows if you + dare.” Isaac reflected. “Well! we will take you to Mr. Meadows. Keep the + money till you see him, but we must secure you. Put his coat over his + hands first.” The great-coat was put over his hands, and the next moment + under the coat was heard a little sharp click. + </p> + <p> + “Let us go to the carriage,” said Levi, in a brisk, cheerful tone. + </p> + <p> + Those present heard the friendly invitation and saw a little string of + acquaintances, three in number, break up a conversation and go and get + into a fly; one carried a great-coat and bundle before him with both + hands. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0084" id="link2HCH0084"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXIV. + </h2> + <p> + MR. MEADOWS went to the bank—into the parlor—and said he must + draw seven thousand pounds of cash and securities. The partners look + blank. + </p> + <p> + “I know,” said Meadows, “I should cripple you. Well, I am not going to, + nor let any one else—it would not suit my book. Just hand me the + securities and let me make over that sum to George Fielding and Thomas + Robinson. There! now for some months to come those two men are not to know + how rich they are, in fact not till I tell them.” A very ready consent to + this was given by both partners; I am afraid I might say an eager consent. + </p> + <p> + “There! now I feel another man, that is off me anyway,” and Meadows strode + home double the man. Soon his new top-boots were on, and his new dark blue + coat with flat double-gilt buttons, and his hat broadish in the brim, and + he looked the model of a British yeoman; he reached Grassmere before + eleven o'clock. It was to be a very quiet wedding, but the bridesmaids, + etc., were there, and Susan all in white, pale but very lovely. + Father-in-law cracking jokes, Susan writhing under them. + </p> + <p> + “Now, then, is it to be a wedding without bells, for I hear none?” + </p> + <p> + “That it shall not,” cried one of the young men; and off they ran to the + church. + </p> + <p> + Meantime Meadows was the life and soul of the mirthful scene. He was in a + violent excitement that passed with the rustics for gayety natural to the + occasion. They did not notice his anxious glances up the hill that led to + Newborough; his eager and repeated looks at his watch, the sigh of relief + when the church-bells pealed out, the tremors of impatience, the struggle + to appear cool as he sent one to hurry the clerk, another to tell the + clergyman the bride was ready; the stamp of the foot when one of the + bridesmaids took ten minutes to tie on a bonnet. He walked arm in arm, + with Susan waiting for this girl; at last she was ready. Then came one + running to say that the parson was not come home yet. What it cost him not + to swear at the parson with Susan on his arm and the church in sight! + </p> + <p> + While he was thus fuming inwardly, a handsome, dark-eyed youth came up and + inquired which was the bride. She was pointed out to him. “A letter for + you, Miss Merton.” + </p> + <p> + “For me? Who from?” + </p> + <p> + She glanced at the handwriting, and Meadows looked keenly in the boy's + face. “A Jew,” said he to himself. “Susan, you have got your gloves on.” + And in a moment he took the letter from her, but quietly, and opened it as + if to return it to her to read. He glanced down it, saw “Jefferies, + postmaster,” and at the bottom “Isaac Levi.” With wonderful presence of + mind he tore it in pieces. “An insult, Susan,” he cried. “A mean, + malignant insult to set you against me—a wife against her husband.” + </p> + <p> + Ere the words were out of his mouth he seized the young Jew and whirled + him like a feather into the hands of his friends. “Duck him!” cried he. + And in a moment, spite of his remonstrances and attempts at explanation, + Nathan was flung into the horse-pond. He struggled out on the other side, + and stood on the bank in a stupor of rage and terror, while the bridegroom + menaced him with another dose, should he venture to return. “I will tell + you all about it to-morrow, Susan.” + </p> + <p> + “Calm yourself,” replied Susan. “I know you have enemies, but why punish a + messenger for the letter he only carries?” + </p> + <p> + “You are an angel, Susan. Boys, let him alone, do you hear?” N. B. He had + been ducked. + </p> + <p> + And now a loud hurrah was heard from behind the church. “The parson, at + last,” cried Meadows, exultingly. Susan lowered her eyes, and hated + herself for the shiver that passed through her. To her the parson was the + executioner. + </p> + <p> + It was not the parson. The next moment two figures came round in sight. + Meadows turned away with a groan. “George Fielding!” said he. The words + dropped, as it were, out of his mouth. + </p> + <p> + Susan misunderstood this. She thought he read her heart, and ascribed her + repugnance to her lingering attachment to George. She was angry with + herself for letting this worthy man see her want of pride. “Why do you + mention that name to me? What do I care for him who has deceived me? I + wish he stood at the church door, that he might see how I would look at + him and pass him leaning on your faithful arm.” + </p> + <p> + “Susan!” cried a well-known voice behind her. She trembled and almost + crouched ere she turned; but the moment she turned round she gave a scream + that brought all the company running, and the bride forgot everything at + the sight of George's handsome, honest face beaming truth and love, and + threw herself into his arms. George kissed the bride. + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” cried the bridesmaids, awaking from their stupor, and remembering + this was her old lover. “Oh!” “Oh!!” “Oh!!!” on an ascending scale. + </p> + <p> + These exclamations brought Susan to her senses. She sprang from George as + though an adder had stung her; and, red as fire, her eyes like basilisks', + she turned on him at a safe distance. “How dare you embrace me? How dare + you come where I am? Father, ask this man why he comes here now to make me + expose myself, and insult the honest man who honors me with his respect. + Oh, father, come to me, and take me away from here.” + </p> + <p> + “Susan, what on earth is this? what have I done?” + </p> + <p> + “What have you done? You are false to me! you never wrote me a letter for + twelve months, and you are married to a lady in Bathurst! Oh, George!” + </p> + <p> + “If he is,” cried Robinson, “he must be slyer than I give him credit for, + for I have never left his side night nor day, and I never saw him say + three civil words to a woman.” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Robinson!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Mr. Robinson. Somebody has been making a fool of you, Miss Merton. + Why, all his cry night and day has been, 'Susan! Susan!' When we found the + great nugget he kisses it, and says he, 'There, that is not because you + are gold, but because you take me to Susan.'” + </p> + <p> + “Hold your tongue, Tom,” said George, sternly. “Who puts me on my defense? + Is there any man here who has been telling her I have ever had a thought + of any girl but her? If there is, let him stand out now and say it to my + face if he dares.” There was a dead silence. “There is a lie without a + backer, it seems;” and he looked round on all the company with his calm + superior eye. “And now, Susan, what were you doing on that man's arm?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Merton and I are to be married to-day,” said Meadows, “that is why I + gave her my arm.” + </p> + <p> + George gasped for breath, but he controlled himself by a mighty effort. + “She thought me false, and now she knows I am true. Susan,” faltered he, + “I say nothing about the promises that have passed between us two, and the + ring you gave. Here it is.” + </p> + <p> + “He has kept my ring!” + </p> + <p> + “I was there before you, Mr. Meadows—but I won't stand upon that; I + don't believe there is a man in the world loves a woman in the world + better than I love Susan; but still I would not give a snap of the finger + to have her if her will was toward another. So please yourself, my lass, + and don't cry like that; only this must end. I won't live in doubt a + moment, no, nor half a moment. Speak your pleasure and nothing else; + choose between John Meadows and George Fielding.” + </p> + <p> + “That is fair,” cried one of the bridegrooms. The women secretly admired + George. This is a man, thought they—won't stand our nonsense. + </p> + <p> + Susan looked up in mute astonishment. “What choice can there be? The + moment I saw your face, and truth still shining in it, I forgot there was + a John Meadows in the world!” + </p> + <p> + With these words Susan cast a terrified look all round, and, losing every + other feeling in a paroxysm of shame, hid her burning face in her hands, + and made a sudden bolt into the house and upstairs to her room, where she + was followed and discovered by one of her bridesmaids tearing off her + wedding-clothes, and laughing and crying all in a breath. + </p> + <p> + 1st Bridegroom. “Well, Josh, what d'ye think?” + </p> + <p> + 2d Bridegroom. “Why, I think there won't be a wedding to-day.” + </p> + <p> + 1st Bridegroom. “No, nor to-morrow neither. Sal, put on your bonnet and + let's you and I go home. I came to Meadows' wedding; mustn't stay to + anybody's else's.” + </p> + <p> + These remarks were delivered openly, <i>pro bono,</i> and dissolved the + wedding party. Four principal parties remained—Meadows, old Merton, + and the two friends. + </p> + <p> + “Well, uncle, Susan has spoken her mind, now you speak yours.” + </p> + <p> + “George, I have been an imprudent fool, I am on the brink of ruin. I owe + more than two thousand pounds. We heard you had changed your mind, and + Meadows came forward like a man, and said he would—” + </p> + <p> + “Your word, uncle, your promise. I crossed the seas on the faith of it.” + An upper window was gently opened, and a blushing face listened, and the + hand that they were all discussing and disposing of drew back a little + curtain, and clutched it convulsively. + </p> + <p> + “You did, George,” said the old farmer. + </p> + <p> + “Says you, 'Bring back a thousand pounds to show me you are not a fool, + and you shall have my daughter,' and she was to have your blessing. Am I + right, Mr. Meadows? you were present.” + </p> + <p> + “Those were the words,” replied Meadows. + </p> + <p> + “Well! and have you brought back the thousand pounds?” + </p> + <p> + “I have.” + </p> + <p> + “John, I must stand to my word; and I will—it is justice. Take the + girl, and be as happy as you can with her, and her father in the + work-house.” + </p> + <p> + “I take her, and that is as much as to say that neither her father nor any + one she respects shall go to the workhouse. How much is my share, Tom?” + </p> + <p> + “Four thousand pounds.” + </p> + <p> + “No, not so much.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is. Jacky gave you his share of the great nugget, and you gave + him sheep in return. Here they are, lads and lasses, seventy of them + varying from one five six naught to one six two nine, and all as crimp as + a muslin gown new starched. Why? I never put this,” and he took pieces of + newspaper out of his pocketbook, and looked stupidly at each as it came + out. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Tom?” + </p> + <p> + “Robbed!” + </p> + <p> + “Robbed, Tom?” + </p> + <p> + “Robbed! oh! I put the book under my pillow, and there I found it this + morning. Robbed! robbed! Kill me, George, I have ruined you.” + </p> + <p> + “I can't speak,” gasped George. “Oh, what is the meaning of this?” + </p> + <p> + “But I can speak! Don't tell me of a London thief being robbed!!! George + Fielding, if you are a man at all, go and leave me and my daughter in + peace. If you had come home with money to keep her, I was ready to give + you Susan to my own ruin. Now it is your turn to show yourself the right + stuff. My daughter has given her hand to a man who can make a lady of her, + and set me on my legs again. You can only beggar us. Don't stand in the + poor girl's light; for pity's sake, George, leave us in peace.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, old man; my head is confused;” and George put his hand + feebly to his brow. “But I seem to see it is my duty to go, and I'll go.” + George staggered. Robinson made toward him to support him. “There, don't + make a fuss with me. There is nothing the matter with me—only my + heart is dead. Let me sit on this bench and draw my breath a minute—and + then—I'll go. Give me your hand, Tom. Never heed their jibes. I'd + trust you with more gold than the best of them was ever worth.” + </p> + <p> + Robinson began to blubber the moment George took his hand, spite of the + money lost. “We worked hard for it, too, good folks, and risked our lives + as well as our toil;” and George and Robinson sat hand in hand upon the + bench, and turned their heads away—that it was pitiful to see. + </p> + <p> + But still the pair held one another by the hand, and George said, + faltering: “I have got this left me still. Ay, I have heard say that + friendship was better than love, and I dare say so it is.” + </p> + <p> + As if to plead against this verdict, Susan came timidly to her lover in + his sorrow, and sat on his other side, and laid her head gently on his + shoulder. “What signifies money to us two?” she murmured. “Oh, I have been + robbed of what was dearer than life this bitter year, and now you are + down-hearted at loss of money. How foolish to grieve for such nonsense + when I am so hap—hap—happy!” and again the lovely face rested + light as down on George's shoulder, weeping deliciously. + </p> + <p> + “It is hard, Tom,” gasped George; “it is bitter hard; but I shall find a + little bit of manhood by and by to do my duty. Give me breath! only give + me breath! We will go back again where we came from, Tom; only I shall + have nothing to work for now. Where is William, if you please? Has he + forgotten me, too?” + </p> + <p> + “William is in prison for debt,” said old Merton, gravely. + </p> + <p> + “No, he is not,” put in Meadows, “for I sent the money to let him out an + hour ago.” + </p> + <p> + “You sent the money to let my brother out of jail? That sounds queer to + me. I suppose I ought to thank you, but I can't.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't ask your thanks, young man.” + </p> + <p> + “You see, George,” said old Merton, “ours is a poor family, and it will be + a great thing for us all to have such a man as Mr. Meadows in it, if you + will only let us.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, father, you make me blush,” cried Susan, beginning to get her first + glimpse of his character. + </p> + <p> + “He doesn't make me blush,” cried George; “but he makes me sick. This old + man would make me walk out of heaven if he was in it. Come, let us go back + to Australia.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, that is the best thing you can do,” cried old Merton. + </p> + <p> + “If he does, I shall go with him,” said Susan, with sudden calmness. She + added, dropping her voice, “If he thinks me worthy to go anywhere with + him.” + </p> + <p> + “You are worthy of better than that, and better shall be your luck;” and + George sat down on the bench with one bitter sob that seemed to tear his + manly heart in two. + </p> + <p> + There was a time Meadows would have melted at this sad sight, but now it + enraged him. He whispered fiercely to old Merton: “Touch him on his pride; + get rid of him, and your debts shall be all paid that hour; if not—” + He then turned to that heart-stricken trio, touched his hat, “Good-day, + all the company,” said he, and strode away with rage in his heart to set + the law in motion against old Merton, and so drive matters to a point. + </p> + <p> + But before he had taken a dozen steps he was met by two men who planted + themselves right before him. “You can't pass, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Meadows looked at them with humorous surprise. They had hooked noses. He + did not like that so well. + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” said he, quietly, but with a wicked look. + </p> + <p> + One of the men whistled, a man popped out of the churchyard and joined the + two; he had a hooked nose. Another came through the gate from the lane; + another from behind the house. The scene kept quietly filling with hooked + noses till it seemed as if the ten tribes were reassembling from the four + winds. + </p> + <p> + “Are they going to pitch into me?” thought Meadows; and he felt in his + pocket to see if his pistol was there. + </p> + <p> + Meantime, George and Susan and Tom rose to their feet in some + astonishment. + </p> + <p> + “There is a chentleman coming to put a question or two,” said the first + speaker. And, in fact, an old acquaintance of ours, Mr. Williams, came + riding up, and, hooking his horse to the gate, came in, saying, “Oh, here + you are, Mr. Meadows. There is a ridiculous charge brought against you, + but I am obliged to hear it before dismissing it. Give me a seat. Oh, here + is a bench. It is very hot. I am informed that two men belonging to this + place have been robbed of seven thousand pounds at the 'King's Head'—the + 'King's Heads in Newborough.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true, sir,” cried Robinson, “but how did you know?” + </p> + <p> + “I am here to <i>ask</i> questions,” was the sharp answer. “Who are you?” + </p> + <p> + “Thomas Robinson.” + </p> + <p> + “Which is George Fielding?” + </p> + <p> + “I am George Fielding, sir. + </p> + <p> + “Have you been robbed?” + </p> + <p> + “We have, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Of how much?” + </p> + <p> + “Seven thousand pounds.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, that tallies with the old gentleman's account. Hum! where did you + sleep last night, Mr. Meadows?” + </p> + <p> + “At the 'King's Head' in Newborough, sir,” replied Meadows, without any + visible hesitation. + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is curious, but I need not say I don't believe it is more than + coincidence. Where is the old gentleman? Oh! give way there, and let him + come here.” + </p> + <p> + Now all this was inexplicable to Meadows, but still it brought a deadly + chill of vague apprehension over him. He felt as if a huge gossamer net + was closing round him. Another moment the only spider capable of spinning + it stood in front of him. “I thought so,” dropped from his lips as Isaac + Levi and he stood once more face to face. + </p> + <p> + “I accuse that man of the theft. Nathan and I heard him tell Crawley that + he had drugged the young man's liquor and stolen the notes. Then we heard + Crawley beg for the notes, and after much entreaty he gave them him.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true!” cried Robinson, in violent agitation; “it must be true. You + know what a light sleeper I am, and how often you had to shake me this + morning. I was hocussed and no mistake!” + </p> + <p> + “Silence!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, your worship.” + </p> + <p> + “Where were you, Mr. Levi, to hear all this?” + </p> + <p> + “In the east room of my house.” + </p> + <p> + “And where was he?” + </p> + <p> + “In the west room of his house.” + </p> + <p> + “It is impossible.” + </p> + <p> + “Say not so, sir. I will show you it is true. Meantime I will explain it.” + </p> + <p> + He explained his contrivance at full. Meadows hung his head; he saw how + terribly the subtle Oriental had outwitted him; yet his presence of mind + never for a moment deserted him. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said he, “I have had the misfortune to offend Mr. Levi, and he is + my sworn enemy. If you really mean to go into this ridiculous affair, + allow me to bring witnesses, and I will prove to you he has been + threatening vengeance against me these two years—and you know a lie + is not much to a Jew. Does this appear likely? I am worth sixty thousand + pounds—why should I steal?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, indeed?” said Mr. Williams. “I stole these notes to give them away—that + is your story, is it?” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, you stole them to beggar your rival, whose letters to the maiden he + loved you had intercepted by fraud at the post-office in Farnborough.” + Susan and George uttered an exclamation at the same moment. “But, having + stole them, you gave them to Crawley.” + </p> + <p> + “How generous!” sneered Meadows. “Well, when you find Crawley with seven + thousand pounds, and he says I gave them him, Mr. Williams will take your + word against mine, and not till then, I think.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not—the most respectable man for miles round!” + </p> + <p> + “So be it,” retorted Isaac, coolly; “Nathan, bring Crawley.” At that + unexpected word, Meadows looked round for a way to escape. The + hooked-nosed ones hemmed him in. Crawley was brought out of the fly, + quaking with fear. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said Levi, “if in that man's bosom, on the left-hand side, the + missing notes are not found, let me suffer scorn; but, if they be found, + give us justice on the evil-doer.” + </p> + <p> + The constable searched Crawley amid the intense anxiety of all present. He + found a bundle of notes. There was a universal cry. + </p> + <p> + “Stop, sir!” said Robinson, “to make sure I will describe our property—seventy + notes of one hundred pounds each. Numbers one five six naught to one six + two nine.” + </p> + <p> + Mr. Williams examined the bundle, and at once handed them over to + Robinson, who shoved them hastily into George's hands and danced for joy. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Williams looked ruefully at Meadows, then he hesitated; then, turning + sharply to Crawley, he said, “Where did you get these?” + </p> + <p> + Meadows tried to catch his eye and prevail on him to say nothing; but + Crawley, who had not heard Levi's evidence, made sure of saving himself by + means of Meadows' reputation. + </p> + <p> + “I had them from Mr. Meadows,” he cried; “and what about it? it is not the + first time he has trusted me with much larger sums than that.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! you had them from Mr. Meadows?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I had!” + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Meadows, I am sorry to say I must commit you; but I still hope you + will clear yourself elsewhere.” + </p> + <p> + “I have not the least uneasiness about that, sir, thank you. You will + admit me to bail, of course?” + </p> + <p> + “Impossible! Wood, here is a warrant, I will sign it.” + </p> + <p> + While the magistrate was signing the warrant, Meadows' head fell upon his + breast; he seemed to collapse standing. + </p> + <p> + Isaac Levi eyed him scornfully. “You had no mercy on the old Jew. You took + his house from him, not for your need but for hate. So he made that house + a trap and caught you in your villainy.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes! you have caught me,” cried Meadows, “but you will never cage me!” + and in a moment his pistol was at his own temple and he pulled the trigger—the + cap failed; he pulled the other trigger, the other cap failed. He gave a + yell like a wounded tiger, and stood at bay gnashing his teeth with rage + and despair. Half a dozen men threw themselves upon him, and a struggle + ensued that almost baffles description. He dragged those six men about up + and down, some clinging to his legs, some to his body. He whirled nearly + every one of them to the ground in turn; and, when by pulling at his legs + they got him down, he fought like a badger on his back, seized two by the + throat, and putting his feet under another drove him into the air doubled + up like a ball, and he fell on Levi and sent the old man into Mr. + Williams' arms, who sat down with a Jew in his lap, to the derangement of + his magisterial dignity. + </p> + <p> + At last he was mastered, and his hands tied behind him with two + handkerchiefs. + </p> + <p> + “Take the rascal to jail!” cried Williams, in a passion. Meadows groaned. + “Ay! take me,” said he, “you can't make me live there. I've lived + respected all these years, and now I shall be called a felon. Take me + where I may hide my head and die!” and the wretched man moved away with + feeble steps, his strength and spirit crushed now his hands were tied. + </p> + <p> + Then Crawley followed him, abusing and reviling him. “So this is the end + of all your maneuvering! Oh, what a fool I was to side with such a bungler + as you against Mr. Levi. Here am I, an innocent man, ruined through + knowing a thief—ah! you don't like that word, but what else are you + but a thief?” and so he followed his late idol and heaped reproaches and + insults on him, till at last Meadows turned round and cast a vague look of + mute despair, as much as to say, “How am I fallen, when this can trample + me!” + </p> + <p> + One of the company saw this look and understood it. Yielding to an impulse + he took three steps, and laid his hand on Crawley. “Ye little snake,” said + he, “let the man alone!” and he sent Crawley spinning like a teetotum; + then turned on his own heel and came away, looking a little red and + ashamed of what he had done. My reader shall guess which of the company + this was. + </p> + <p> + Half way to the county jail Meadows and Crawley met William Fielding + coming back. + </p> + <p> + It took hours and hours to realize all the happiness that had fallen on + two loving hearts. First had to pass away many a spasm of terror at the + wrongs they had suffered, the danger they had escaped, the long misery + they had grazed. They remained rooted to the narrow spot of ground where + such great and strange events had passed in a few minutes, and their + destinies had fluctuated so violently, and all ended in joy unspeakable. + And everybody put questions to everybody, and all compared notes, and the + hours fled while they unraveled their own strange story. And Susan and + George almost worshipped Isaac Levi; and Susan kissed him and called him + her father, and hung upon his neck all gratitude. And he passed his hand + over her chestnut hair, and said, “Go to, foolish child,” but his deep + rich voice trembled a little, and wonderful tenderness and benevolence + glistened in that fiery eye. + </p> + <p> + He would now have left them, but nobody there would part with him; + behooved him to stay and eat fish and pudding with them—the meat + they would excuse him if he would be good and not talk about going again. + And after dinner George and Tom must tell their whole story; and, as they + told their eventful lives, it was observed that the hearers were far more + agitated than the narrators. The latter had been in a gold mine; had + supped so full of adventures and crimes and horrors that nothing + astonished them, and they were made sensible of the tremendous scenes they + had been through by the loud ejaculations, the pallor, the excitement of + their hearers. As for Susan, again and again during the men's narratives + the tears streamed down her face, and once she was taken faint at George's + peril, and the story had to be interrupted and water sprinkled on her, and + the men in their innocence were for not going on with their part, but she + peremptorily insisted, and sneered at them for being so foolish as to take + any notice of her foolishness—she would have every word. After all + was he not there alive and well, sent back to her safe after so many + perils, never, never to leave England again! + </p> + <p> + “Oh, giorno felice!” A day to be imagined; or described by a pen a + thousand times greater and subtler than mine, but of this be sure—it + was a day such as, neither to Susan nor George, nor to you nor me, nor to + any man or woman upon earth, has ever come twice between the cradle and + the grave. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0085" id="link2HCH0085"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER LXXXV. + </h2> + <p> + A MONTH of Elysium. And then one day George asked Susan, plump, when it + would be agreeable to her to marry him. + </p> + <p> + “Marry you, George?” replied Susan, opening her eyes; “why, never! I shall + never marry any one after—you must be well aware of that.” Susan + proceeded to inform George, that, though foolishness was a part of her + character, selfishness was not; recent events had destroyed an agreeable + delusion under which she had imagined herself worthy to be Mrs. George + Fielding; she therefore, though with some reluctance, intended to resign + that situation to some wiser and better woman than she had turned out. In + this agreeable resolution she persisted, varying it occasionally with + little showers of tears unaccompanied by the slightest convulsion of the + muscles of the face. But, as I am not, like George Fielding, in love with + Susan Merton, or with self-deception (another's), I spare the reader all + the pretty things this young lady said and believed and did, to postpone + her inevitable happiness. Yes, inevitable, for this sort of thing never + yet kept lovers long apart since the world was, except in a novel worse + than common. I will but relate how that fine fellow, George, dried “these + foolish drops” on one occasion. + </p> + <p> + “Susan,” said he, “if I had found you going to be married to another man + with the roses on your cheek, I should have turned on my heel and back to + Australia. But a look in your face was enough; you were miserable, and any + old fool could see your heart was dead against it; look at you now + blooming like a rose, so what is the use of us two fighting against human + nature? we can't be happy apart—let us come together.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! George, if I thought your happiness depended on having—a + foolish wife—” + </p> + <p> + “Why, you know it does,” replied the inadvertent Agricola. + </p> + <p> + “That alters the case; sooner than <i>you</i> should be unhappy—I + think—I—” + </p> + <p> + “Name the day, then.” + </p> + <p> + In short the bells rang a merry peal, and to reconcile Susan to her + unavoidable happiness, Mr. Eden came down and gave an additional weight + (in her way of viewing things) to the marriage ceremony by officiating. It + must be owned that this favorable circumstance cost her a few tears, too. + </p> + <p> + How so, Mr. Reade? + </p> + <p> + Marry, sir, thus: Mr. Eden was what they call eccentric; among his other + deviations from usage he delivered the meaning of sentences in church + along with the words. + </p> + <p> + This was a thunder-clap to poor Susan. She had often heard a chanting + machine utter the marriage service all on one note, and heard it with a + certain smile of unintelligent complacency her sex wear out of politeness; + but when the man Eden told her at the altar with simple earnestness what a + high and deep and solemn contract she was making then and there with God + and man, she began to cry, and wept like April through the ceremony. + </p> + <p> + I have not quite done with this pair, but leave them a few minutes, for + some words are due to other characters, and to none, I think, more than to + this very Mr. Eden, whose zeal and wisdom brought our hero and unheroine + happily together through the subtle sequence of causes I have related, the + prime thread a converted thief. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden's strength broke down under the prodigious effort to defeat the + effect of separate confinement on the bodies and souls of his prisoners. + Dr. Gulson ordered him abroad. Having now since the removal of Hawes given + the separate and silent system a long and impartial trial, his last public + act was to write at the foot of his report a solemn protest against it, as + an impious and mad attempt to defy God's will as written on the face of + man's nature—to crush too those very instincts from which rise + communities, cities, laws, prisons, churches, civilization—and to + wreck souls and bodies under pretense of curing souls, not by knowledge, + wisdom, patience, Christian love, or any great moral effort, but by the + easy and physical expedient of turning one key on each prisoner instead of + on a score. + </p> + <p> + “These,” said Mr. Eden, “are the dreams of selfish, lazy, heartless dunces + and reckless bigots, dwarf Robespierres, with self-deceiving hearts that + dream philanthropy, fluent lips that cant philanthropy and hands swift to + shed blood—which is not blood to them—because they are mere + sensual brutes, so low in intelligence that, although men are murdered and + die before their eyes, they cannot see it was murder, because there was no + knocking on the head or cutting of throats.” + </p> + <p> + The reverend gentleman then formally washed his hands of the bloodshed and + reason-shed of the separate system, and resigned his office, earnestly + requesting at the same time that, as soon as the government should come + round to his opinion, they would permit him to co-operate in any + enlightened experiment where God should no longer be defied by a knot of + worms as in —— Jail. + </p> + <p> + Then he went abroad, but though professedly hunting health he visited and + inspected half the principal prisons in Europe. After many months events + justified his prediction. The government started a large prison on common + sense and humanity, and Mr. Lacy's interest procured Mr. Eden the place of + its chaplain. + </p> + <p> + This prison was what every prison in the English provinces will be in five + years' time—a well-ordered community, an epitome of the world at + large, for which a prison is to prepare men, not unfit them as frenzied + dunces would do; it was also a self-sustaining community, like the world. + The prisoners ate prisoner-grown corn and meat, wore prisoner-made clothes + and bedding, wire lighted by gas made in the prison, etc., etc., etc., + etc. The agricultural laborers had out-door work suited to their future + destiny, and mechanical trades were zealously ransacked for the city + rogues. Anti-theft reigned triumphant. No idleness, no wicked waste of + sweat. + </p> + <p> + The members of this community sleep in separate cells, as men do in other + well-ordered communities, but they do not pine and wither and die in cells + for offenses committee outside the prison walls. Here, if you see a man + caged like a wild beast all day, you may be sure he is there, not so much + for his own good as for that of the little community in which he has + proved himself unworthy to mix <i>pro tem.</i> Foul language and + contamination are checkmated here, not by the lazy, selfish, cruel + expedient of universal solitude, but by Argus-like surveillance. Officers, + sufficient in number, listen with sharp ears, and look with keen eyes. The + contaminator is sure to be seized and confined till prudence, if not + virtue, ties his tongue. Thus he is disarmed, and the better-disposed + encourage one another. Compare this legitimate and necessary use of that + most terrible of tortures, the cell, with the tigro-asinine use of it in + seven English prisons out of nine at the present date. It is just the + difference between arsenic as used by a good physician and by a poisoner. + It is the difference between a razor-bladed, needle-pointed knife in the + hands of a Christian, a philosopher, a skilled surgeon, and the same knife + in the hands of a savage, a brute, a scoundrel, or a fanatical idiot. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Eden had returned from abroad but a fortnight when he was called on to + unite George and Susan. + </p> + <p> + I have little more to add than that he was very hard worked and supremely + happy in his new situation, and that I have failed to do him justice in + these pages. But he shall have justice one day, when pitiless asses will + find themselves more foul in the eyes of the All-pure than the thieves + they crushed under four walls, and “The just shall shine forth as the sun, + and they that turn* many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever.” + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + * Not crush. +</pre> + <p> + Thomas Robinson did not stay long at Grassmere. Things were said in the + village that wounded him. Ill-repute will not stop directly ill-conduct + does. He went to see Mr. Eden, sent his name in as Mr. Sinclair, was + received with open arms, and gave the good man a glow of happiness such as + most of us, I fear, go to the grave without feeling—or earning. He + presented him a massive gold ring he had hammered out of a nugget. Mr. + Eden had never worn a ring in his life, but he wore this with an innocent + pride, and showed it people, and valued it more than he would the Pitt + diamond, which a French king bought of an English subject, and the price + was so heavy he paid for it by installments spread over many years. + </p> + <p> + Robinson very wisely went back to Australia, and, more wisely still, + married Jenny, with whom he had corresponded ever since he left her. + </p> + <p> + I have no fear he will ever break the Eighth Commandment again. His heart + was touched long ago, and ever since then his understanding had received + conviction upon conviction; for, oh, the blaze of light that enters our + souls when our fate puts us in his place—in her place—in their + place—whom we used to strike, never realizing how it hurt them! He + is respected for his intelligence and good-nature; he is sober, + industrious, pushing and punctilious in business. One trait of the + Bohemian remains. About every four months a restlessness comes over him; + then the wise Jenny of her own accord proposes a trip. Poor Tom's eyes + sparkle directly; off they go together. A foolish wife would have made him + go alone. They come back, and my lord goes to his duties with fresh zest + till the periodical fit comes again. No harm ever comes of it. + </p> + <p> + Servants are at a great premium, masters at a discount, in the colony; + hence a domestic phenomenon, which my English readers can hardly conceive, + but I am told my American friends have a faint glimpse of it in the + occasional deportment of their “helps” in out-of-the-way places. + </p> + <p> + Now Tom, and especially Jenny, had looked forward to reigning in their own + house, and it was therefore a disappointment when they found themselves + snubbed and treated with hauteur, and Jenny revolted against servant after + servant, who straightway abdicated and left her forlorn. At last their + advertisement was answered by a male candidate for menial authority, who + proved to be Mr. Miles, their late master. Tom and Jenny colored up, and + both agreed it was out of the question—they should feel too ashamed. + Mr. Miles answered by offering to bet a crown he should make them the best + servant in the street; and, strange to say, the bargain was struck and he + did turn out a model servant. He was civil and respectful, especially in + public, and never abused his situation. Comparing his conduct with his + predecessors', it really appeared that a gentleman can beat snobs in + various relations of life. As Tom's master and Jenny's, he had never + descended to servility, nor was he betrayed into arrogance now that he had + risen to be their servant. + </p> + <p> + A word about Jacky. After the meal off the scented rabbit in the bush, + Robinson said slyly to George: “I thought you promised Jacky a hiding—well, + here he is.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, Tom,” replied the other, coloring up, “is it reasonable, and he has + just saved our two lives? but if you think that I won't take him to task, + you are much mistaken.” + </p> + <p> + George then remonstrated with the chief for spoiling Abner with his + tomahawk. Jacky opened his eyes with astonishment and admiration. Here was + another instance of the white fellow's wonderful power of seeing things a + good way behind him. He half closed his eyes, and tried in humble + imitation to peer back into the past. Yes! he could just manage to see + himself very indistinctly giving Abner a crack; but stop! let him see, it + was impossible to be positive, but was not there also some small trifle of + insolence, ingratitude, and above all bungality, on the part of this + Abner? When the distance had become too great to see the whole of a + transaction, why strain the eyes looking at a part? Finally Jacky + submitted that these microscopic researches cost a good deal of trouble, + and on the whole his tribe were wiser than the white fellows in this, that + they reveled in the present, and looked on the past as a period that never + had been, and the future as one that never would be. On this George + resigned the moral culture of his friend. “Soil is not altogether bad,” + said Agricola, “but, bless your heart, it isn't a quarter of an inch + deep.” + </p> + <p> + On George's departure, Jacky, being under the temporary impression of his + words, collected together a mixed company of blacks, and marched them to + his possessions. Arrived, he harangued them on the cleverness of the white + fellows, and invited them to play at Europeans. + </p> + <p> + “Behold this ingenious structure,” said he, in Australian; “this is called + a house; its use is to protect us from the weather at night; all you have + to do is to notice which way the wind blows, and go and lie down on the + opposite side of the house and there you are. Then again, when you are + cold, you will find a number of wooden articles in the house. You go in, + you bring them out and burn them and are warm.” He then produced what he + had always considered the <i>chef d'oeuvre</i> of the white races, a box + of lucifer matches; this, too, was a present from George. “See what clever + fellows they are,” said he, “they carry about fire, which is fire or not + fire at the fortunate possessor's will;” and he let off a lucifer. These + the tribe admired, but doubted whether all those little sticks had the + same marvelous property and would become fire in the hour of need; Jacky + sneered at their incredulity, and let them all off one by one in a series + of preliminary experiments; this impaired their future usefulness. In + short, they settled there; one or two's heads had to be broken for killing + the breeders for dinner, and that practice stopped; but the pot-bellied + youngsters generally celebrated the birth of a lamb by spearing it. They + slept on the lee side of the house, warmed at night by the chairs and + tables, etc., which they lighted. They got on very nicely, only one fine + morning, without the slightest warning, whir-r-r-r they all went off to + the woods, Jacky and all, and never returned. The remaining bullocks + strayed devious, and the douce McLaughlan blandly absorbed the sheep. + </p> + <p> + Hasty and imperfect as my sketch of this Jacky is, give it a place in your + notebook of sketches, for in a few years the Australian savage will + breathe only in these pages, and the Saxon plow will erase his very grave, + his milmeridien. + </p> + <p> + brutus lived; but the form and strength he had abused were gone—he + is the shape of a note of interrogation, and by a coincidence is now an + “asker,” i.e., he begs, receives alms, and sets on a gang of burglars, + with whom he is in league, to rob the good Christians that show him pity. + </p> + <p> + mephistopheles came suddenly to grief; when gold was found in Victoria he + crossed over to that port and robbed. One day he robbed the tent of an old + man, a native of the colony, who was digging there with his son, a lad of + fifteen. Now these currency lads are very sharp and determined. The + youngster caught a glimpse of the retiring thief and followed him and saw + him enter a tent. He watched at the entrance, and when mephistopheles came + out again, he put a pistol to the man's breast and shot him dead without a + word of remonstrance, accusation or explanation. + </p> + <p> + A few diggers ran out of their claims. “If our gold is not on him,” says + the youngster, “I have made a mistake.” + </p> + <p> + The gold was found on the carcass, and the diggers went coolly back to + their work. + </p> + <p> + The youngster went directly to the commissioner and told him what he had + done. “I don't see that I am called on to interfere,” replied that + functionary; “he was taken in the act; you have buried him, of course.” + </p> + <p> + “Not I. I let him lie for whoever chose to own him.” + </p> + <p> + “You let him lie? What, when there is a printed order from the government + stuck over the whole mine that nobody is to leave carrion about! You go + off directly and bury your carrion or you will get into trouble, young + man.” And the official's manner became harsh and threatening. + </p> + <p> + If ever a man was “shot like a dog,” surely the assassin of Carlo was. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Meadows in the prison refused his food, and fell into a deep + depression; but the third day he revived, and fell to scheming again. He + sent to Mr. Levi and offered to give him a long lease of his old house if + he would but be absent from the trial. This was a sore temptation to the + old man. But meantime stronger measures were taken in his defense and + without consulting him. + </p> + <p> + One evening that Susan and George were in the garden at Grassmere, + suddenly an old woman came toward them with slow and hesitating steps. + Susan fled at the sight of her—she hated the very name this old + woman bore. George stood his ground, looking sheepish; the old woman stood + before him trembling violently and fighting against her tears. She could + not speak, but held out a letter to him. He took it, the ink was rusty, it + was written twenty years ago; it was from his mother to her neighbor, Mrs. + Meadows, then on a visit at Newborough, telling her how young John had + fought for and protected her against a band of drunken ruffians, and how + grateful she was. + </p> + <p> + “And I do hope, dame, he will be as good friends with my lads when they + are men as you and I have been this many a day.” + </p> + <p> + George did not speak for a long time. He held the letter, and it trembled + a little in his hand. He looked at the old woman, standing a piteous, + silent supplicant. “Mrs. Meadows,” said he, scarce above a whisper, “give + me this letter, if you will be so good. I have not got her handwriting, + except our names in the Bible.” + </p> + <p> + She gave him the letter half reluctantly, and looked fearfully and + inquiringly in his face. He smiled kindly, and a sort of proud curl came + for a moment to his lip, and the woman read the man. This royal rustic + would not have taken the letter if he had not granted the mother's + unspoken prayer. + </p> + <p> + “God bless you both!” said she, and went on her way. + </p> + <p> + The assizes came, and Meadows' two plaintiffs both were absent: Robinson + gone to Australia, and George forfeited his recognizances and had, to pay + a hundred pound for it. The defendants were freed. Then Isaac Levi said to + himself, “He will not keep faith with me.” But he did not know his man. + Meadows had a conscience, though an oblique one. A promise from him was + sacred in his own eyes. A man came to Grassmere and left a hundred pound + in a letter for George Fielding. Then he went on to Levi, and gave him a + parcel and a note. The parcel contained the title-deeds of the house; and + the note said: “Take the house and the furniture and pay me what you + consider they are worth. And, old man, I think you might take your curse + off me, for I have never known a heart at rest since you laid it on me, + and you see now our case is altered—you have a home now and John + Meadows has none.” + </p> + <p> + Then the old man was softened, and he wrote a line in reply, and said: + “Three just men shall value the house and furniture, and I will pay, etc., + etc. Put now adversity to profit—repent and prosper. Isaac Levi + wishes you no ill from this day, but rather good.” Thus died, as mortal + feelings are apt to die, an enmity its owners thought immortal. + </p> + <p> + A steam-vessel glided down the Thames bound for Port Phillip. On the deck + were to be seen a little girl crying bitterly—this was Hannah—a + stalwart, yeoman-like figure, who stood unmoved as the shores glided by, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Omne solum forti patria, +</pre> + <p> + and an old woman who held his arm as if she needed to feel him at the + moment of leaving her native land. This old woman had hated and denounced + his sins, and there was scarce a point of morality on which she thoroughly + agreed with him. Yet at threescore years and ten she left her native land + with two sole objects—to comfort this stout man, and win him to + repentance. + </p> + <p> + “He shall repent,” said she to herself. “Even now his eyes are opening, + his heart is softening. Three times he has said to me, 'That George + Fielding is a better man than I am.' He will repent. Again he said to me, + I have thought too little of you, and too much where it was a sin for me + even to look.' He will repent—his voice is softer—he bears no + malice—he blames none but himself. It is never too late to mend. He + will repent, and I shall see him happy and lay my old bones to rest + contented, though not where I thought to lay them, in Grassmere + churchyard.” + </p> + <p> + Ah, you do well to hold that quaint little old figure with that strong arm + closer to you than you have done this many years, ay, since you were a + curly-headed boy. It is a good sign, John; on neither side of the equator + shall you ever find a friend like her. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “All other love is mockery and deceit. + 'Tis like the mirage of the desert that appears + A cool refreshing water, and allures + The thirsty traveler, but flies anon + And leaves him disappointed, wondering + So fair a vision should so futile prove. + A mother's love is like unto a well + Sealed and kept secret, a deep-hidden fount + That flows when every other spring is dry.” * + + * Sophia Woodrooffe. +</pre> + <p> + Peter Crawley, left to his own resources, practices at the County Courts + in his old neighborhood, and drinks with all his clients, who are of the + lowest imaginable order. He complains that “he can't peck,” yet continues + the cause of his infirmity, living almost entirely upon cock-a-doodle + broth—eggs beat up in brandy and a little water. Like Scipio, he is + never less alone than when alone; with this difference, that the + companions of P. C.'s solitude do not add to the pleasure of his + existence. Unless somebody can make him see that it is never too late to + mend, this little rogue, fool and sot will “shut up like a knife some day” + (so says a medical friend), and then it will be too late. + </p> + <p> + It is nine in the evening. A little party is collected of farmers and + their wives and daughters. Mrs. George Fielding rises and says, “Now I + must go home.” Remonstrance of hostess. “George will be at home by now.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, wait till he comes for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, he won't come, for fear of shortening my pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + Susan then explains that George is so foolish that he never will go into + the house when she is not in it. “And here is a drizzle come on, and there + he will be sitting out in it, I know, if I don't go and drive him in.” + </p> + <p> + Events justify the prediction. The good wife finds her husband sitting on + the gate kicking his heels quite contented and peaceable, only he would + not pay the house the compliment of going into it when she was not there. + He told her once he looked on it as no better than a coal-hole when she + was not shining up and down it. + </p> + <p> + N. B.—They have been some years married. A calm but very tender + conjugal love sits at this innocent hearth. + </p> + <p> + George has made a great concession for an Englishman. He has solemnly + deposited before witnesses his sobriquet of “Unlucky George,” not (he was + careful to explain) because he found the great nugget, nor because the + meadow he bought in Bathurst for two hundred pounds has just been sold by + Robinson for twelve thousand pounds, but on account of his being Susan's + husband. + </p> + <p> + And Susan is very happy. Besides the pleasure of loving and being loved, + she is in her place in creation. The class of women (a very large one) to + which she belongs comes into the world to make others happy. Susan is + skillful at this and very successful. She makes everybody happy round her, + “and that is <i>so</i> pleasant.” She makes the man she loves happy, and + that is delightful. + </p> + <p> + My reader shall laugh at her; my unfriendly critic shall sneer at her. As + a heroine of a novel she deserves it; but I hope for their own sakes + neither will undervalue the original in their passage through life. These + average women are not the spice of fiction, but they are the salt of real + life. + </p> + <p> + William Fielding is godfather to Susan's little boy. + </p> + <p> + He can stand by his brother's side and look without compunction on Anne + Fielding's grave, and think without an unmanly shudder of his own. + </p> + <h3> + END OF “IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO MEND.” + </h3> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's It Is Never Too Late to Mend, by Charles Reade + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO MEND *** + +***** This file should be named 4606-h.htm or 4606-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/4/6/0/4606/ + +Produced by James Rusk and David Widger + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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