| - | - - - - - - - - | - - - - - - - - - - - . | - | |- --- / /... / 2. /, // / / / / / . . . . - ^ - -* f: & * *> - ed - - {-Af- - *- ds :* - ff - -** * f- . -t *** ** | | - f f'rofessor ( \". Yerington $ intp, IP $ int II it BY . #rufesaur (J.iii.t!eringtun * * - -: 1[IIuøttatc.) #ruahulag #uhlighing Quiltpang, Neul inrk Professor C. W. Yerington *------- l ~ - -- ..- -- : - *.-- |J *C- -t :ta- - 1. >**-- *il- 1.# £ - - - |-- | | i- * - * - - - - - - - * \ . . . . . to: $int ple $ int II it BY #rufesaur Q. in. 1jeriitutuit * -" " 1IIIuøttatc.) #ruahulag #uhlighing (Nuntparty, Neul țurk Copyright, 1905, by PROFESSOR. C. W. YERINGTON. All Rights Reserved. TO MY WIFE. List of ILLUSTRATIONs. The Author, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Prontispiece. PAGE “I will tell my father, to-day, of my love for Donal- bain Bennington.” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I2 “On the desk lay an open letter, through which was driven a dagger, nearly to the hilt.”. . . . . . . . . . . . 45 “She found her husband lying upon the floor, with features set in death,” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . II5 “Young man, you are my prisoner,” . . . . . . . . . ...... I99 SIMPLE SIMON, the TRAMP. THE large black butler, with skin like polished ebony, opened the massive front door as Donal- bain Bennington stepped out into the open air and hailed a passing cab. “To the Central, as fast as you can,” he said to the driver, as he tossed him a coin. “I must catch the west-bound train, or 22 He did not finish the sentence aloud, as it was addressed to himself, and was meant for no ears but his own. A young man of twenty-two, tall and dark, with black hair and eyes, handsome, and with a distin- 2 Simple Simon, the Tramp. guished mien, and to crown all, of rich and aris- tocratic family, was Donalbain Bennington. The train was just moving out as he sprang upon the platform, and he was soon comfortably ensconced in one of Pullman’s best parlor cars. . When only a few hours out of Chicago an inci- dent happened which marked an epoch in the young man's life, and which introduced a chain of such unusual happenings, that, had not the writer been personally acquainted with the hero, he would not dare to publish them as facts. Donalbain Bennington sat quietly perusing the Morning News, when a shrill whistle, combined with the sound of escaping steam, greeted his ear, and the next instant he was hurled violently from his easy chair. *k sk * sk * sk sk “Now, you stop !” whined a voice, as a number of street Arabs in a small western village per- sisted in throwing sticks and stones at a rather well-dressed simpleton. “I say, Simple Simon, when did you come to town?” jeered one. “Come down with a load of punkins, eh, Simp?” “Does your mother know you’re out?” “How much does old Squire Brown give you a bushel for husking punkins’; and say, how is Matilda Jane?” chimed in the others. To these interrogations, Simple Simon only grinned in reply and tried to escape from his tor- mentors. Finally he was permitted to break away as if by accident, the boys all making frantic ef- forts to seize him, and starting after him in mock > Simple Simon, the Tramp. 3 * pursuit. He was allowed to distance them, how- ever, after a chase of a few rods, but did not stop running until he reached the post-office, where he had been sent to inquire for mail. Receiving several packages, he turned his steps in the di- rection of Squire Brown's residence, nearly a mile away. *k # * * *k sk * Squire Brown, as he was familiarly called, owned nearly the whole of Brownville. He had come to that country many years before, and by hard work and good luck had succeeded in accu- mulating a fortune. With this he erected several manufacturing establishments on a large stream which afforded excellent water-power. He then bought large tracts of land in that vicinity, platted a city, induced a railroad to come that way, and was soon one of the wealthiest men in the State. With great wealth came great responsibilities, and with responsibilities came corresponding trou- bles, until he looked back upon the days of his early efforts as the happiest of his whole life. Still, instead of donating vast sums to benevolent institutions and retiring on a small fortune, he did as all other rich people do who sigh for the blessed days when they were “poor but happy”—he kept right on accumulating and saving and worrying. Well he might worry, for his ten large factories gave employment to hundreds of people, many of whom continually indulged in faultfinding. Al- though they were conscious that it was his genius which afforded them life employment, at the same time, they were slow to appreciate their many ad- vantages. 4. Simple Simon, the Tramp. From time to time there had been strikes among his men, and Mr. Brown had conceded on every occasion, until he was paying higher wages than any other manufacturer along the same lines. When the last strike was closed satisfactorily to the employes, they had agreed in writing never to strike again, and he had promised in return that if they did he would close his factories rather than make any more concessions. It was only a mat- ter of time, however, when the men were again excited to revolt. Word had come from the Chicago factories that they had introduced the Eight-Hour System, with- out a reduction in wages, which brought their earnings per hour up to those paid by Squire Brown. This was enough. Private meetings were called; resolutions drawn and signed by all the working-men, and presented to the proud capi- talist, which he promptly tore into shreds and threw into the waste-basket, not deigning a reply. The next day the great mills were silent, and ex- citement ran high in Brownville. A committee waited on the proprietor, but he remained obdu- rate. That night there were several street rows among the strikers, for “Satan finds some mis- chief still for idle hands to do.” The next day matters assumed a desperate turn, and in the evening it was dangerous for any one to be on the streets. All communication with Fort Arthur, ten miles away, had been cut off, and the little village was apparently at the mercy of the strikers. - Squire Brown trembled with excitement, for with the village in darkness and without fire pro- Simple Simon, the Tramp. 5 tection, and his property at the mercy of more than a thousand desperate men, he was almost overwhelmed with fear for the consequences. * * * sk * sk sk Squire Brown had one treasure he worshipped as devoutly as ever a heathen worshipped his god. His closest friends might importune him for financial aid, and perhaps be refused; but when his beautiful daughter, Lillian, intimated that she had the slightest desire for anything procura- ble, no amount of money within his means was thought too great if it brought her the slightest happiness. Lillian was beautiful; all who saw her con- ceded that fact. Any one who was fortunate enough to make her acquaintance, was immediately captivated by her charming personality, and in- stantly became her devoted slave. She was be- loved by all who knew her. How could they help being fascinated by a beautiful fairy with the daintiest of aristocratic features, a complexion so strikingly white and pink that she veiled heavily when traveling, to avoid the coarse stare of the common people! Ruby lips, large, lustrous eyes, and hair which, when unbound, hung in golden ringlets to her waist, combined with her queenly form to make her a vision of beauty. With great natural endowments, intellectually, she had #: trained in the best schools of this country, until she had reigned a queen for the past season in the best Chicago society. 6 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER II. DUNCAN SLY was a lawyer, real estate broker, ostmaster, and political boss of Brownville, and e loved Lillian Brown with his whole heart,— so he said. He did drink beer occasionally, but he simply did that to be sociable, and one might ex- pect such things in a person of his standing. He understood human nature very well, and he had ingratiated himself into Squire Brown's good graces until the said Brown looked upon him as his warmest friend and most congenial com- panion. Many were the pleasant hours these “old cronies,” as Lillian called them, spent together. Duncan Sly, with a light pocketbook, but with an eye to business, had first been attracted by Squire Brown's great wealth, and soon after- wards by his daughter when he paid his first visit to the Brown mansion. It was on a beautiful autumn afternoon, and Lillian was reclining in a rustic chair, in the shade of overhanging vines, when her father and Duncan Sly entered the front gate. The lawyer had been in the city but a few weeks, at this time, and was paying his first visit to the Squire's charming home. Before Lillian had observed them, the two men were by her side, and her father said: “Lillian, my Simple Simon, the Tramp. 7 daughter, this is Mr. Duncan Sly, late of New York City, who has come to Brownville for the purpose of practicing law.” “I hope we shall be able to make it pleasant enough for you in our little city so that you will decide to remain with us permanently,” said Lil- lian, rising and curtsying gracefully. “Oh, I am quite thoroughly established now, and see no reason why I should not remain.” “I was just telling Mr. Sly,” remarked Squire Brown to Lillian, “that it seemed quite refreshing to have a city-bred man in our midst, capable of appreciating the best there is in our little city.” When Duncan Sly returned to his office that evening, he paced back and forth, rubbing his hands avariciously, and then and there laid de- liberate plans for the future. “I’ll get the old man's confidence first, and then I’ll make love to the daughter. Three millions, and not a living heir besides Lillian | Of course, she is too fine for me. I can’t appreciate her great musical and artistic ability, but we are prone to love our opposites, and I surely come as near to being her opposite as any one she could find. Too old? Well, I don’t know ! Get around here, Sly, and take a look at yourself.” And he stepped be- fore a large mirror and surveyed himself from head to foot. “Not so bad-looking for a man of thirty-five; but Lillian is only seventeen. I don’t know, perhaps I may get left, but the prize is worth working for. How I wish she were ten years older and as ugly as sin! Then I would be sure of her and old Brown’s fortune.” This little soliloquy took place three years be- 8 Simple Simon, the Tramp. fore our story opens. Three years had passed, and Lillian had finished her education in Chi- cago, and was now enjoying a thorough rest at her own home. Duncan Sly had proposed,—not to Lillian, but to her father—and the old gentleman had shaken him heartily by the hand and promised to do all he could for him, expressing at the same time, the most intense interest in the matter, and say- ing that he had always desired that the lawyer might become his son-in-law in preference to any one else he knew. “How do you think Lillian stands regarding this matter?” asked Sly. “She has the greatest respect for you, of that I am sure.” “Yes; but there is a vast difference between re- spect and love. A maid might respect a king and love a beggar. She would marry the beggar for love, although she might regret it for the remain- der of her life. You know, youth is the time to love, and love is blind;” after which speech Sly affected a sigh. “That's all very true, but you leave her to me. She has often told me that she would refuse me nothing within her power, and one of these days I will put her to the test.” So, on one bright June morning when all nature seemed in harmony, Squire Brown called Lillian to his library. She came into the room and stood before him. She was dressed in pure white, with a large red rose at her throat. Her father thought he had never seen her looking so beautiful, and his heart swelled with pride and affection as he Simple Simon, the Tramp. 9 extended his arms. She came forward and placed a little hand affectionately on each of his care- worn cheeks. “What is it, papa?” she asked, as he drew her down upon his knee. “Why, you look so serious one would think something terrible had hap- pened.” “Nothing serious has happened, my dear, but I want to talk with you to-day upon a very impor- tant subject, and as you know I am a man of few words, we might as well get right to the point. You must know that I am growing old, and al- though there is not the slightest danger of my leaving you for many years, it is well to begin to consider such matters.” Lillian said nothing, but her arms found their way around her father's neck, and she rested her pink cheek against his. “You know that you have often told me that there was nothing within your power that you would not do for me,” he said. “That is true, papa, and I say it again,” came faintly from Lillian, for she was beginning to realize that something of more than usual impor- tance must be at the bottom of the matter, and she could not restrain a feeling of apprehension. “I have succeeded in accumulating great wealth, and you will probably never know what it is to want; that is, if a wise hand guides the bark after I am gone. You have been highly educated, and are accomplished and beautiful, and I consider you the equal of any woman on earth.” “Yes, father, but I don’t mean ever to marry, at least, not while you live, for I am happier with IO Simple Simon, the Tramp. you here than I could possibly be with any one else.” “You are a dutiful child to say that, but I am afraid your father would not be very happy if he were obliged to pass away without first seeing his daughter well married.” “Well, papa, you will have to find a husband for me, for I don’t know of any one around these parts that would have me,” she laughingly exclaimed. Now, that was a fine opportunity for Squire Brown, although he was not expecting such good fortune. He cleared his throat, and said with perceptible nervousness, for it was impossible for him to entirely conceal him emotion: “That I will gladly do, my dear, and I must pay you the highest compliment for your excel- lent judgment in allowing me to fill so important an office. There is a rising young man in our village, and although he is not our equal in wealth, he is making a name in the world. He is the strongest man in Brownville, and is bound to make his mark.” “You mean Mr. Sly, do you not, papa?” asked Lillian. “Yes; I have been associated with Duncan for several years, and in fact, have intrusted many important matters of business to him, and I have found him a very clear-headed young man, in every respect.” “But, papa, how do you know that Duncan Sly Wishes to have me for a wife?” “He broached the subject to me some time ago, and I know that he loves you dearly.” “Oh, papa,” said Lillian, as she put forth every * Simple Simon, the Tramp. I I effort to control her emotion, for it was with great difficulty that she could refrain from bursting into tears: “I—I didn’t even think of him. I am afraid I never could love him.” “He is influential and as good as the average man, my child.” “That's all very true, papa, but please don’t say anything more about it just now, for it has come upon me so suddenly that I hardly know what to say. Please let me go to my room and think it over;” and the girl unfolded his arms from about her, pressed her lips against his hot forehead, and was about to leave, when she caught the sad ex- pression in his eyes, the disappointed look in his face, and she stammered, hastily, “Father, I- I ,” then as the magnitude of the sacrifice she was about to make, flashed upon her, she checked herself, pressed both hands to her face, and ran from the room. The Squire sat quietly for an hour or more after Lillian left; so quiet, in fact, that he scarcely seemed to breathe. He was reviewing the scenes of his life. Like a vast panorama they were pass- ing before him; his struggles in boyhood, his courtship, his marriage, the birth of his child, his success in accumulating riches, the death of his wife, the education of his child. And now what was to be the next chapter? Was it to bring hap- piness or disappointment? What had the other chapters brought? Was life worth the living? Surely not, if the last chapter should be an un- happy one. . Finally he arose, pressed a button, and in a moment Simple Simon made his appearance. I 2 Simple Simon, the Tramp. “You may bring the carriage around, Simon,” he said, pleasantly. “All right, Mr. Squire,” responded that indi- vidual, with a grin, as he shambled off in the di- rection of the stables. “You bet-chu, I’ll have 'em here quicker.” “What would I not give to be as happy as that boy seems to be! Indeed, it is not always the man of brains and influence who may be safely reck- oned among the happiest in the land. The man that is capable of producing great things is ca- pable of great suffering.” Two coal-black chargers were drawn up to the door, and soon the Squire was flying towards his office in the village. - He was just saying, “Although this Monday morning opened so beautiful, with all nature re- joicing, it has introduced an unpleasant chapter in my life,” when his office door opened, and sev- eral working-men from his factories presented themselves, and after exchanging the usual for- malities, the leader said: “Mr. Brown, we have been appointed a com- mittee, by delegates from all your factories, to wait upon you and present this petition to you for your careful consideration, praying that you will weigh the matter therein contained and decide as a gener- ous and wise benefactor should.” Mr. Brown’s cold blue eyes traced the lines to the bottom of the page, his brow knit, and when he had finished, he tore the document to shreds and motioned the committee from the room, as has been related upon a previous page. Simple Simon, the Tramp. I3 CHAPTER III. SIMPLE SIMoN had been in Squire Brown’s em- ploy for several months. One day in November when the wind was whistling a warning note to the poor, he walked up the path and rang at the door of Squire Brown's residence. Lillian opened the door, for she had seen him coming, and readily surmised that he would be driven away if one of the servants answered the bell. She knew that he was a tramp, but her warm heart would allow no one to be turned away from her door ruthlessly. He presented a queer appearance as he stood before the open door waiting for her gentle “Will you come in?” Tall, dark, and with disheveled hair, and a beard of several months’ growth; hatless and shoeless, and with clothes so tattered and torn that they would hardly hold to- gether. Lillian did not need to ask what he wanted, for she interpreted the starved look in his face, and she ordered Biddie to bring in a bountiful lunch. When he had eaten everything within his reach, and settled back in his chair in perfect content- ment, Lillian asked him what his name might be, to which he shook his head, and his features relaxed into a broad grin. “Can’t you tell me your name?” asked Lil- Simple Simon, the Tramp. I 5 “Shure, and I axed him all manner of ques- tions over and over agin, but he only grinned at me, was all. I'm thinkin’ it's Simple Simon we'll be after calling him, corresponding he don’t give us his real name. It's my pinyun he's disinclined to move on, and I may have to sind him ahead, which I can aisly do on the bidding.” “No, Mike, don’t send the poor fellow away. Give him a warm corner in the barn, and let him stay as long as he likes.” “It's for shtaling us blind, he'll be after doin’ if we allow him to tarry around these premises.” “Very well, let him have all he can carry. There will be plenty left after he is gone.” And Simple Simon (for the name given him by Mike had always clung to him) became one of Squire Brown's permanent employes. The longer he stayed, the better he was liked. It was weeks before any one could get a word from him, and then he merely answered questions in monosyl- lables. Squire Brown said it was a treat to have a man around who attended strictly to his own business, and would not talk back or gossip; and so he had a pleasant room fitted up for him in the servants’ quarters. Simple Simon had earned the name given him by Mike, and had always responded to it with perfect good nature; in fact, it seemed impossible to irritate him. He had proven himself almost invaluable to Squire Brown by filling a position such as no expert among the mills had ever been able to fill with equal satisfaction. His great value to his employer was discovered by accident, in the following manner: I6 Simple Simon, the Tramp. The Squire had found him excellent as an er- rand boy, from the fact that he was not given to talking, but attended strictly to his own business. One day he was sent with a parcel over to fore- man number six, and as he entered the large hall, with its numberless wheels, pulleys and spindles in rapid motion, he clasped his hands over his ears, uttered a scream, and beat a hasty retreat. In less than a minute, one of the large machines standing near by, became disabled, and in the twinkling of an eye, great iron cylinders, wheels and timbers were hurled in every direction, kill- ing one workman and injuring others before it could be brought under control. At first, Simple Simon’s actions were not at all associated with the accident, but when the same occurrence was recorded at another mill, those present began to credit him with more than ordinary instinct in the matter. - A few weeks after the second disaster, Simple Simon chanced to be passing through one of the great halls, when, upon approaching one of the machines, he uttered a scream, and turned to fly. Every machine in that division was instantly stopped, and upon examining the one which had attracted his attention, they found it to be in a very critical condition. After this incident he was detailed to make a tour of all the mills once a week, and in this way, had been the means of sav- ing much valuable property. Simple Simon, the Tramp. 17 CHAPTER IV. WHEN Lillian left her father, she passed quietly to her own room, threw herself upon the bed, and indulged in a good cry. Her mind went back to her school days. To a certain evening in May, when at a gathering of friends, she had met the only man who had ever interested her. As she now lay with closed eyes, she mentally reviewed the past. * :k *k * *k sk sk sk sk sk It was to be a grand affair. Only people who had made a local reputation in some particular pursuit were to be present. Lillian was invited because she had won the gold medal at a public vocal con- test, given by an art society in the city. She had also distinguished herself as a pianist. She had looked forward to the reception as one of the principal events of her life, for she expected to meet and become acquainted with men and women who were prominent in the arts, and in various other educational pursuits. The reception was to be given at the Palmer House, and the evening was to close with a pro- gram given by fifteen musicians, representing dif- ferent lines of work. As there were many fine £ and vocalists present, as well as per- ormers upon other musical instruments, the name I 8 Simple Simon, the Tramp. of each person representing a certain line, was written on a slip of paper, and placed upon a small tray. Then a disinterested person was blindfolded and allowed to draw from the pile. There were a dozen vocalists present, some of whom were well known throughout the entire city. How Lillian’s heart beat as she wrote her name on the slip of paper and laid it upon the tray as it was passed about the room. It nearly stood still, however, when the little slip was drawn and handed to the referee, who read it in a clear, strong voice which seemed to enter her very soul. A hearty applause had followed the reading of each name, but when Lillian left the auditorium and took her place with the other musicians, her extreme youth, together with her rare beauty and queenly bearing, instantly won the hearts of the entire assembly, and the vast room rang with ap- plause. A fine-looking young man was next chosen, and he came forward amid a storm of applause, and took a chair next to Lillian. They had met dur- ing the early part of the evening, and were mu- tually pleased that they were again together. Finally Lillian's name was called, and she sang as she had never sung before. She was conscious of the presence of only one person, and that was the young man with whom she had just conversed. She seemed inspired: every note being the result of a thrill of happiness which could find vent in no other form of expression. People who had heretofore been conscious of their own personal- ity, seemed now to lose their identity, and leaned forward, breathless, as though fearful of losing Simple Simon, the Tramp. I9. a word or syllable. How they applauded ! Would they never stop? No, not until she responded with a humorous little love song. “Nobly, nobly done, Miss Brown l’” said her companion, as she again resumed her seat. “You are at your best to-night? If not, may I have the honor of hearing you when you are in perfect con- dition ?” “I feel as though I were a hypocrite; as though I had deceived the people here to-night,” replied Lillian. “And why, pray?” asked he, in astonishment. “Because I have outdone myself; that is, I have done better than I ever did before or can ever do again.” This conversation was cut short by the next number being called,—a violin solo by her friend. “I hope that I shall be as fortunate as you, but I fear that I shall make a complete failure. Why did they put mine immediately after yours?” “Because they wanted the best there. You will not make a failure. Do your best for my sake, for I love the violin dearly; it is my favorite in- strument.” As he arose to leave he turned and shot one glance into her eyes. Lillian was not expecting this. Ah! those tell-tale eyes. Telegraphic com- munication was then and there established, and a message shot from soul to soul, and they read each other's thoughts. He was thrilled to his heart's core. Whether he was making a desperate effort to outdo Lillian, or whether her words, “Do your best for my sake,” had inspired him to unusual Simple Simon, the Tramp. 2 I At last the time came when he was obliged to return to Europe to finish his violin work, and they bade each other good-bye. * * sk * *k :k * * * * She arose now, turned the key in the door, and kneeling down by her couch, buried her face in her hands, and gave way to violent demonstra- tions of grief. Finally she arose, calmed and composed. “I’ll tell my father to-day of my love for Donalbain Bennington; and also, oh, how can I! that I never, never can marry Duncan Sly.” But the thought of confiding the secret to her father, consoled her. She must tell her grief to somebody, and who but her dear father could ap- preciate her suffering. Comforted with this thought she bathed her swollen eyes, and went down to luncheon, expecting to meet her father. But for the first time in months he remained in the village for dinner, for there were important matters to be attended to, as the workmen were already leaving the factories and gathering in groups, discussing Squire Brown’s conduct to- wards the committee. He was hurrying from one factory to another, trying to influence his foremen to persuade their men to go back to work, but all to no purpose. The order had gone forth that all should quit work, and this order must be obeyed. “We appreciate your position, Squire Brown,” they said, in effect, “but we are powerless to assist ou. We should gladly have continued working, but the men are hard to handle when they become dissatisfied, and as long as the business is bring- 22 Simple Simon, the Tramp. ing you such large returns, the men think it no more than right, as they say, since they do the work, they should realize more for their efforts.” Squire Brown had an answer ready for this thrust, as he had for every argument that might be brought up, but he was not in the field for a debate with his employes, and he made no reply, but turning on his heel, made straight for Duncan Sly’s office. Passing through the open door, he closed it, turned the key, and threw himself into an easy chair. “What in the world is up now?” said Sly, as he looked upon the Squire's haggard face. “Matter enough ! my men are all on a strike again.” “The deuce you say!” said Sly, in apparent alarm, for he knew of the Squire's promise when the last strike was closed, and he also knew that the old gentleman had a very stubborn way with him when he started out to do a thing. “But they consulted you before they struck, did they not?” asked Sly. “Oh, yes, they presented me with a petition as long as the moral law, telling me what I might and might not do,-the rascals!” and the old Squire clinched his fists. “What did you tell them?” “Tell them : Do you suppose I would waste my breath on such cattle? I tore the thing into shreds and ordered them from my office.” “That was wrong,” and the keen lawyer winced. “You should have told them that you would con- sider the matter, and while we were considering, we could fortify ourselves.” Simple Simon, the Tramp. 23 “Yes, I thought of that after they had left my office, but it was too late then, and I didn’t wish to compromise myself by sending word to the dif- ferent factories that I would reconsider the matter, for they were very angry, and any weakness on my part that they might detect would make them only the more determined in their efforts to in- jure me.” “I am afraid you have got into a bad mess. I’ll go over and have a talk with the chairman of the committee, and it may be that we can do something yet. What proposition shall I make to him if I find him at all susceptible?” “Oh, anything. Tell him anything, for I don’t think it will do any good.” 24 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER V. ON a quiet street in the suburbs of Brownville, just far enough from the business centre to be removed from dust and confusion, was a little cottage, completely covered with roses. In front and on either side was a very Eden, for the large lawn in which sat the little house, was ex- quisitely designed, with shrubbery, plants, and flowers springing up in the most surprising places, and greeting one's eye at every turn as one wound about among the different paths which cut the grounds into curious and grotesque shapes. In the front door stood a girlish figure, and as she parted a cluster of roses which drooped over the low casement, a very pretty face was exposed. Mabel Goodenuff was not beautiful, but she possessed a sweet face and a matchless figure. She also had a personality which immediately won many friends wherever she went, for she had a smile for everybody, and a pleasant word as well. Lillian Brown was worshipped for her dazzling beauty, but her dainty feet never had trodden the threshold of any house inhabited by her fa- ther’s employes. Quite different was it with Ma- bel. For years there had not been a home in Brownville where suffering and misery had en- Simple Simon, the Tramp. 25 tered, where she had not administered to the wants of the inmates. She was now ready to start on one of her errands of mercy, and as she passed down the pathway, arm in arm with her aged mother, who accompanied her as far as the gate, with a large bouquet of roses in each hand and a basket full of “necessaries” suspended from her arm, a casual observer would have been very fa- vorably impressed with Mabel's winning face and gentle manners. She was speaking to her mother. “They say that Duncan Sly has been playing a double game, and that Mr. McFailin will lose everything. The lawyer pretended to be his friend, and would not take a cent for his services until he had everything just as he wanted it, when he foreclosed the mort- gage, and poor Mr. McFailin will be obliged to lose his home that he has worked so hard to buy. I know that he has put every cent of his salary he could possibly save, into the property, for the last ten years.” “That is only another reminder of how grate- ful we ought to be that your dear father left us in comfortable circumstances,” replied Mrs. Good- enuff. “Yes, mother, every day of my life I think how happy we ought to be. With congenial employ- ment, a pleasant home, and surrounded with so many dear friends, we are certainly in a position to envy no one.” Mabel Goodenuff was one of Squire Brown's office girls. She had recently been promoted to the position of private secretary, and was draw- ing a salary sufficiently large to support herself 26 Simple Simon, the Tramp. and mother, besides laying a little away in the bank each week for future use. Another thing, and one she would not like to have told, was that she and her mother denied themselves luxuries they might have enjoyed, had they not wished to buy necessaries for the poor. They were well paid, however, for this sacrifice, in many ways, one of which was the sweet consciousness of having made others happy. sk sk *k * * * * * * sk “Oh, zar tums Miff Doodnuff,” said a little tow-headed youngster, as he dropped his play- things and ran down the path towards the gaté. The air was filled with exclamations of joy as five others scampered along after him, the oldest carrying an infant and leading another, too young to walk alone. At this juncture Mrs. McFailin made her ap- pearance in the open door, with one hand on each of her fat sides, and laughing heartily. “Wall,” she said, “shore and it's the truth I am spakin’ when I tells ye that the words was hardly out o' me mouth that Miss Mabel would be over, agin the sun had sot.” “Mother sent these flowers to you,” said Mabel, presenting her with the bouquets, “and she hopes that you are feeling well to-day.” “And bless the angel’s sowl, and may the saints protict her forever,” said the old lady, and her lips quivered as a tear moistened her eye. “And here is something for Jimmy—and Tom- my—and Ruby—and Patrick—and Mary—and the baby,” said Mabel, as she took out a large Simple Simon, the Tramp. 27 bunch of grapes, an apple, a peach, a sack of store candy, a square of ginger-cake, and a jumping- jack for the children. “Now, run away to the play-house and divide up and have a grand dinner,” laughingly com- manded Mabel. “Me want tiss,” said dirty-faced little Pat, sticking up his red lips. “Me too, me too,” came in a chorus from all the rest. “Run away, now, ye dirty imps, or I'll at ye with the brr-oom shtick. Yer dirty faces would turn the loikes ov her stimmick,” and their mother made a frantic gesture as though in search of the broom, whereupon the children all scam- pered away. “Is it true, Mrs. McFailin, that Duncan Sly has foreclosed the mortgage on your home?” began Mabel as soon as they were alone. “Oh, Miss Mabel, that the Lord had nivver let me live to see the day!” and she burst into violent sobbing, wringing her hands and swaying from side to side, as she moaned, “What will become of me poor babies, for we shall be turned from our own door into the shtreats!” “Oh, not so bad as that, Mrs. McFailin,” said Mabel, consolingly. “I heard all about it yesterday, but was not sure that the mortagage had been formally foreclosed.” “Yer see it was loike this. That shpalpleen of a Sly, bad cess to his bones, had been a-hangin' on to my man fer months, coaxin ov him to buy a lot from 'im. He said as how he would sa 'im through all right, —fer 'im to mortgage this place Simple Simon, the Tramp. 29 “I do declare,” she began, in a high key, “you are as cozy here as two bugs in a basket. A body would think by your ca'm-like expression you was at perfect peace with the world and your Maker.” At that instant Mabel's large white house-cat, the pet of the whole neighborhood, came close to Miss Rasper, and began rubbing his sleek sides against the spinster's silk dress, whereupon that lady reached forth one bony hand, and admin- istered such a cuff on the cat’s head that it sent him spinning to the farthest end of the room. “I can’t abide cats; the nasty things is always a-covering me with dirt wherever I go.” Mabel's mother simply said, “They are very annoying to some people. We are sorry that kitty disturbed you.” “Well, I didn’t come here to talk about cats. I come on a mission of love and mercy. Our dear, good pastor was a-saying last Sunday in church as how we was a-neglectin’ of our dooty, a-settin’ on flowery beds of ease all the week when there was so many ignorant, poverty-struck sinners a-goin’ to hell all around us, and my conscience wouldn’t let me sleep until I had cum over and had a talk with you, to see if I couldn’t save your souls, for you know, Ye shall wear a star in your crown for every sinner you save, saith the Lord.” Mrs. Goodenuff began: “My dear sister, 25 “Oh, don’t sister me! leastwise not until you have repented from your sins and come into our fold,” said the spinster. “But, my dear Miss Rasper, are you not aware that Mabel and I both belong to one of the churches of this village, and have tried to do our * Simple Simon, the Tramp. 3 I you, I’ll be excused, please. I was a-tellin’ Sis- ter Spikes to-day that I’d rather have a rattle- snake cum around me any time than a dirty-faced brat. But I must go if I can’t win you over to the Lord’s side. “I wish you would give up your foolish notions and jine our church. We have a Sigma Pie, or some other kind of a Pie Society, and ignorant people can jine and learn lots. They have jest finished physic, and are in ’lectric’ty now. I was a-tellin’ Sister Spikes to-day that I didn’t think no one could be a real good Christian until they knew all about 'lectric’ty. I am thankful that I can say that I have sifted the matter to the bottom. “Well, I must go, for I feel so spooky-like when I’m out alone. I’m always afraid that a hob- goblin will jump out at me from behind every corner, I’m awfully timid that way. I was a-tellin’ Sister Spikes to-da 32 At that instant kitty chanced to scratch his ear with his hind foot, and his leg made several quick, sharp taps against the wainscoting. “Oh, murder!” screamed Miss Rasper, “that's spirit-rappin’s, and I never can go home alone,” and she wrung her hands in agony. “Mabel will go with you,” said Mrs. Goodenuff, kindly; “she would enjoy the walk.” “To be sure,” responded Mabel, and suiting the action to the word, they were soon on their way. 32 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER VI. We shall now take the reader back a few months and explain what became of Donalbain Benning- ton. When he left Lillian after they had met at their last musicale, he felt as though the whole world had slipped from his grasp. Although he was not sure that she regarded him with anything more than indifference, still, the divine instinct of the human soul, hope, which never dies as long as life lasts, was occasionally fanned to a fierce heat in an instant when he caught a swift glance from those lustrous eyes, and noted the modest droop- ing of the lids as he flashed back a reply. “Why is she so cold and formal?” he mused as he paced back and forth in his room, hours after the other inmates had retired. “I’ll write her, telling her all;—just how mad- ly I love her, and that I must see her before I leave for Europe, for we must not separate in this manner. I could endure far better, to know the worst.” Then he changed his mind and decided that he would write a formal letter; declaring that it would be far more becoming in him. So he opened his cabinet, seated himself and began to write: “My life, my more than life—” - Simple Simon, the Tramp. 33 Then he paused. “It is not best to send that, for it would place her on the defensive. She prob- ably has a trunk half full of letters, all beginning in that way.” So he tore that up and consigned it to the waste-basket. “Oh, what fools we mortals be,” he said aloud, as he threw down his pen and arose; then con- tinued, as he paced back and forth, with bowed head: “Shakespeare was right! Shakespeare was right! If he had penned but that one sentence it should have immortalized him. I wish I knew just what to do in this matter, for really, it is getting serious. I feel as though I should lose my mind. Oh, my dear Lillian, why did you cross my path! You have brought me nothing, and taken away all that I had before I met you. “How beautiful! how pure! how perfectly lovely she is ! I must have her for mine; I must and will have her. Stay—why not give up my trip to Europe and go to Brownville and tell her all? She would love me for the sacrifice I had made. No, fool, she would pity you, and hate you for your weakness, as she ought to,” he said, his mood changing. Then in a moment, continued, “I’ll write her, that's what I’ll do. I'll just make it a commonsense letter, not too full of love or too long.” So he seized his pen again and began: “My dearest Lillian:—” “Now, that's more like it, Donalbain Benning- ton, you haven’t lost quite all the sense you ever had,” then he proceeded. “I was pained beyond expression at not having a few words with you in private before parting 34 Simple Simon, the Tramp. for good. You know and I know that you are too pure, too good, too lovely for me, and I feel at this moment how these lines will shock you, but oh, Lillian life is a thousand times worse than death, without you, and while I am aware that you will look upon me almost with loathing, yet,-” “There I go again. There is always hope, how- ever, for improvement, when a man knows he is making a fool of himself. I thank heaven that I haven’t passed that point. Here goes again.” “My dearest Lillian:—” “Now, steady, old boy, steady, don’t get excited. Measure every word before you put it down. Here goes for the third time, and this has got to be a winner, for ‘three times and out.’” “It seemed hardly justice to ourselves, that is, I mean, it didn’t seem hardly right that we should separate without the pleasure of a little chat by ourselves.” Here he stopped and read it over. “That sounds all right, old boy; now don’t lose your head on the next sentence.” “After the many pleasant hours we have spent together, it seems too bad to separate without hav- ing a few moments to ourselves.” “Oh, hang it! That's just what I said in the other sentence, but I’m going to let it go if I write forty paragraphs just alike.” Then he pro- ceeded. “When we separated only a few short hours ago, it seemed as though the great and glorious sun had suddenly been blotted out of the fir- mament, and all things left in the blackest dark- ness, worse, ten thousand times worse than death Simple Simon, the Tramp. 35 —a death in life. Oh, Lillian, I started to write a formal letter to you, but I love you with such maddening passion that my brain is turned, and my pen refuses to move unless I write what is in my heart. My only comfort is in repeating your sweet name aloud. Hate me, despise me, loathe me, if you will, but you must know the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, and then if there is not a chord in your sweet heart made to vibrate in sympathy with the over- whelming flood of melody that is overflowing from mine, then will I have founght honestly (if not manfully) and lost. Although I shut my eyes to the possibility that one so pure, so good, so lovely, could scorn the love of an honest suitor, I cannot conceive of how one so far removed from the com- mon herd of mankind could stoop so low as to bless my life. But my life's only light, I ask it, —I ask you to be my wife. “If you deign a reply, address me at No. 212, Blank St., Leipsic, Germany. “Your most unworthy adorer, “DONALBAIN BENNINGTON.” He did not trust himself to read it over, but thrust it into an envelope; sealed, addressed and stamped it, and hurried away to post it before his ride could persuade him to change his mind. He ew that it was just what he wanted, for he be- lieved he understood Lillian well enough to feel certain that she would be kinder, at least, if he told her the truth, no matter how bunglingly he might express himself. 36 Simple Simon, the Tramp. But Donalbain had made one fatal mistake, af- ter all his great efforts in penning the letter so carefully. The last stroke of the pen defeated his plan, and made it worse for him, and worse for Lillian, than if he had never written the letter at all. It was in bringing the curve of the “I” too far around, and making it into “Pa” instead of “Ia”; and the next morning his letter was spin- ning over the road as fast as steam could carry it, in exactly the opposite direction from which it was intended. And so two true hearts were made very sad by a careless slip of the pen, on the very last word of the address. Writing the letter relieved his mind, however, and he came back to his room perfectly at rest, and was soon wrapped in peaceful slumber. Youth, when in perfect health, needs but an hour's sleep to restore it to perfect vigor, and so Donalbain felt greatly refreshed when the bell rang for breakfast, and he rose with a light heart, and joined his parents. All was confusion in Fernwood, for the sole heir was going to leave for Europe on that day, and there was much to be done. Colonel Bennington, Donalbain's father, would accompany him as far as New York city, which would modify the grief of both parents and son, besides making the responsibility of purchasing a ticket, getting safely on board the right steamer, etc., much lighter for him,-at least, so his mother thought. “I suppose you will go over and pay your re- : to Miss McFlimsy,” said the Colonel to Don- 8.10a111. Simple Simon, the Tramp. 37 “I had not thought of it, father, but I will if you so desire.” “I wish that you might go to please yourself, my son. Caroline is a very amiable girl, and I have just been informed that her father has fallen heir to nearly three million dollars, which to- gether with the property he already has, gives him a standing second to but very few in the city. As you know, Caroline is their only child, and of course, the property will all pass to her at no great distant day, for her parents are getting well along in years.” “Yes, father,” said Donalbain, as he sipped his coffee, but his mind was far away. “I had a long talk yesterday with Mr. McFlim- sy,” continued the Colonel, “and he told me that he would like to see Caroline well married before he is called away. He gave me a pretty strong hint that if his fortune and mine were united, there would be no one in Chicago that could count dollars with us.” “Yes, father, but she would not be a very con- genial companion, I fear. I know that you have been pleased when I have treated her with respect, but you surely would not think of my marrying her,” and it was with great difficulty that the young man suppressed a smile. His father flashed a quick glance at him, and then flushed as he read in his honest, boyish face what a hopeless task he had before him. - “You will see things in a different light as you grow older, my son. Money is power, power is might, and might is right in this world.” “That is very true, father, but it doesn’t always 38 Simple Simon, the Tramp. . bring the kind of right that makes people happy. I think that if there were more right because it is right, there would be less power gained by simply £ wealth; there would certainly be more appiness in the world.” “You are right, my son. All are willing to acknowledge that if the highest degree of good- ness brought immediate returns in the form of the highest degree of happiness, then the incentive would be so great that all would constantly strive to be good; but the returns are so slow, if indeed they come at all in this world, we are apt to be turned aside by the tinkling of gold, which is sure to bring many comforts, if not entire happiness. To be possessed of the greatest wealth of any one in Chicago would certainly assure conditions which would be more congenial to an intelligent person, than would marrying a pretty clerk in a store, or even an actress from one of our theatres.” Simple Simon, the Tramp. 39 CHAPTER VII. WHEN Duncan Sly left his office, after the con- sultation with Squire Brown, he went straight to the home of the chairman of the committee. Knocking, he was admitted. “I have been looking for you this half hour. What detained you so long?” said the chairman, whose name was James Allen. “The old Squire called on me, and I couldn’t get away until this minute,” answered Sly. “The Squire? He must be getting excited.” “Well, he is the maddest man in Brownville, and I am afraid he will be a little harder to han- dle than he ever was before,” replied Sly. “Oh, well, we'll not worry about that. If you can’t handle him, why, then, we shall have to give him a lesson he will not soon forget,” said the chairman, looking knowingly at Sly. “I can handle him if any one can. I hate to see the poor old duffer's property destroyed, and I hope the thing will blow over without any serious trouble, for he is really a good fellow at heart,” said Sly, with assumed concern. “Oh, yes, I am aware that your conscience is very tender, but you will recover from the shock if you are tempted to do something a little naugh- ,” sneered Allen. 40 Simple Simon, the Tramp. “Well, we might as well get right to business. How much are the boys willing to put up, provided I persuade the old Squire to comply with their wishes?” said Sly, feeling a little nettled. “You know I handled the matter before so that the boys lost not a minute of time, and no one was dis- charged.” “Yes, you certainly did a good job for us both times,” admitted Allen, “but we paid you well for it. You don’t get a thousand dollars in cash every time you go over and have a quiet chat with the old fellow.” “It isn’t how easily I did it, but how hard it would have been for any one else to do it, that I charged you for. You know the height of art is to avoid all appearance of art, and it is an art to handle men. I am thinking the present job will not be so easy, however,” responded Sly. “I don’t think the boys would be willing to vote you more than a thousand dollars for the job, for they all know you get a good fee out of the Squire,” remarked Allen. “That doesn’t enter into their part of the con- tract. They know that I am the only man that can do anything with Squire Brown, and I am not so sure that I can, on this occasion. I will not touch the case for a cent less than fifteen hundred dollars,” said Sly, with decision. “Wh-e-w!” exclaimed Allen, “you are rising rapidly in your own estimation,” and the chair- man jumped to his feet. “Well, it's nasty business at the best, and I am dead sick of it. To tell the truth, I think you have done a very unwise thing, in striking, for 42 Simple Simon, the Tramp. at any place you name, this evening at 11 P. M., and they will be empowered to do as they may think best, and the rest will be obliged to abide by their decision,” said Allen, and the two sepa- rated. Duncan Sly found the Squire anxiously await- ing his return when he came back to his office, and he looked eagerly into Sly’s face to see if he could not detect a ray of hope written therein. But Sly affected a serious countenance, and spoke very dis- couragingly. “My dear friend,” he began, “I have nothing en- couraging to report. I pleaded with him, and begged him to use his influence for your benefit. At first he was very abusive, and ridiculed me and my religion, then began a perfect tirade on you, but I threatened to call an officer and have him arrested if he did not desist; so, realizing what that would mean at this particular time, and know- ing that I am a man of my word, he curbed his temper, and we managed to do business. “Allen loves money, and I believe, can be bribed. He told me, in so many words, that if I would give him a hundred dollars he would arrange with a committee to confer with me, and that he would come with them. He said he believed if that were done, and we could have a few hours of sensible talk with the men, things could be arranged in a perfectly satisfactory manner. Mind, I only re- peat his words. Personally, I would hardly dare express an opinion, for things are in pretty bad shape.” “I’ll draw my check for a hundred dollars, in your favor, and you can give the money to Allen “On the desk lay an open letter, through which was driven a dagger, nearly to the hilt.” Simple Simon, the Tramp. 45 True, I have done all in my power to assist you when an opportunity presented itself to me, for you have been more like a father to me than an entire stranger, ever since I came to Brownville. I have often regretted, in my moments of solitude, when the sentiment of the soul finds expression in thought, that there are not more ways in which I can serve you.” “Well, let us cheer up. Your words have given me new courage, and I believe that things will turn out all right on the morrow. Give me your hand; I feel much better, as I always do after having a talk with you. I’ll go back to my office and resume the duties of the day,” and the Squire left the office, whistling. “If I don’t get your entire fortune, I’ll get a good chunk of it before I get through with you,” said Sly. “There is no justice in some people hav- ing everything while others have nothing. I was a poor beggar all my life before I,-before I came to this neck-o'-the-woods, and now that the cards are placed in my hands, I am going to play them.” * The Squire walked with a light step down to his private office, inserted the key in the door and went in. Then he stood still and stared at his desk. Exactly in the middle was an open letter written in red ink, through which was driven a dagger, nearly to the hilt, into the solid oak. He stepped forward and read the note, partly written and partly printed. It read thus:— “This is just what we will do with your old heart if you’s don’t give us what we ask.” 46 Simple Simon, the Tramp. And in place of the signature was a crude pic- ture of skull and cross-bones. “I must remove all traces of this before m office help enter to offer their services,” he s: but he found that it was with the greatest diffi- culty that he could extract the blade. He put the knife into a private drawer, and filed the note away in a safe place, for future reference. “How could they have entered this place?” he mused. “The windows are perfectly secure, and that lock is a special pattern made to order, with no other key that will fit it.” He touched a bell, and his office boy made his appearance. “John,” he asked, “has there been anybody in or near this office since I left, a few hours ago?” “Not that I know of, Mr. Brown,” said the boy, raising his honest eyes to those of the Squire, and looking him full in the face. “Very well, you may go. Tell Miss Goodenuff I would like to speak with her.” Miss Goodenuff soon made her appearance, and the Squire put the same question to her; but her honest face convinced him that she was telling the truth when she replied that she had seen no one. Each one of the clerks was called, one at a time, and questioned closely, and each responded in the negative, declaring that he had seen no one. The Squire was at his wit’s end, and the faint hope he had gained from his interview with Dun- can Sly, all vanished in an instant, and the pros- pects for a speedy and satisfactory settlement seemed dimmer than ever. “I declare! I must look over this pile of letters,” Simple Simon, the Tramp. 47 said the Squire, with a sigh. “Business must be attended to, no matter what happens,” and he pro- ceeded to peruse his mail. “Here are over a dozen orders for goods wanted immediately, and another dozen complaining be- cause their orders of yesterday haven't reached them. “Oh, distress!” said the Squire, “worse and worse, and more of it. It is a true saying that troubles never come singly.” 48 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER VIII. WE will again ask the reader to go with us while we accompany Donalbain Bennington on his peril- ous journey across the Atlantic. We find him standing on the deck of the great Atlantic liner, “Sea Gull,” shaking hands with his father. We next see him waving his handker- chief, and bidding his father a last farewell, as he disappears from sight in the harbor. Again we find him seated at a table, writing to his mother. The letter runs as follows: ABOARD THE “SEA GULL,” Oct. 19, 18–. MY DARLING MOTHER:— Time has passed so rapidly since I left New York City, I can hardly realize that I have been on the water so long. Our trip has been delightful thus far, and I never enjoyed riding on the water so much in my life. The weather changed very suddenly to-day, and I fear we shall not have as fine weather for the rest of our trip. It commenced to lower about noon; the wind rose, and by evening the vessel was rock- ing just enough to make it jolly, and everybody felt in the best of spirits. We had a merry time while eating. The boat was rocking so that the dishes would not remain in place, and so were obliged to be “packed”; Simple Simon, the Tramp. 5 I great deal to many friends if your account of the storm were discovered,” explained the cap- tain, and then continued: “There is no immediate danger, still, it is not a bad thing to prepare for such emergencies. As long as you have taken the initiative, stick to your notes, and I will send you a report occasionally,” and with these words he left me. sk sk sk * sk * * * *: sk The captain sends word that things are not im- proving, and that if they should continue as they are now, we shall be able to hold out only a day or so. In that time, if the storm should abate, we would probably be rescued by another vessel. As it is, we are being driven with the storm, and no one knows but that we may be dashed upon a rock at any moment. The captain has just brought a contrivance for carrying the letter, if we are wrecked. It is quite a large box, weighted at the bottom, and with a convenient place to insert my letter. On top of the box is painted in large letters, “LOOK IN- SIDE.” So, if we are all lost, you may yet be able to read this letter, for I have written your full address at the top. I shall stick to my post until the very last minute, so that you and the world may have as complete a history of the “Sea Gull” in this fearful storm, as can be given under the circumstances. 52 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER IX. WHEN Lillian entered the dining-room, and found that her father had not arrived, she felt very much disappointed, for she had nerved her- self for the ordeal of telling him everything re- garding her love affair with Donalbain Benning- ton, and now that the opportunity was about to pass, she feared that she could never arouse herself to that point again. “I’ll take a stroll about the grounds,” she said, “and perhaps he'll soon return.” As she passed along the broad pathway that wound about among beautiful flowers and rare shrubbery, which, in themselves, ought to have in- spired her with happiness, her eyes were cast down, and she was very miserable. Verily, happiness does not consist in what we have, but in the possibility of possessing the un- attainable. She wandered about until she chanced to come into the presence of Simple Simon, who was en- gaged in performing some light duty about the grounds. “Why, Simon, you here?” “Yes'm, it's me,” he responded, with a grin, and then continued, for his wits seemed to be clearer under good treatment and sanitary conditions than Simple Simon, the Tramp. 53 when he first came. He could now carry on con- versation, although exhibiting only a child’s in- tellect. “Miss Lillian hain’t happy?” he said, with a rising inflection. “No, Simon, Lillian is very, very unhappy. She is the most unhappy mortal in the world,” said she, as much to herself as to him, for it seemed a relief to express herself aloud. “Oh, you not to be unhappy, when house and pretty posies, and—and—” said Simon, as he stood up and made a sweeping gesture with both hands, and his eyes grew large as he took in the surrounding scenery. “But I am, Simon, very. Are you ever unhappy, Simon ?” “Don’t—ah—know. I try think much. It don’t come, don’t come,” said he, shaking his head and pointing to his forehead with one long fore- finger. “Did you ever love any one, Simon; I mean love any one better, oh, better than your life?” “I dream it. Love awful much, but can’t ’mem- ber.” “You dream you love awful much, but can’t re- member, eh? I would like to have a look at your girl, Simon; I’ll warrant you she is handsome,” laughed Lillian. “She much look as you: long curls way down so,” and he measured to his hips. “Poor fellow,” Lillian mused. “I wonder if it is possible that people so low in the scale of hu- manity do really love, and have love affairs. It is said that they are more affectionate than people of higher station.” She said aloud, “What is your 54 Simple Simon, the Tramp. sweetheart's name, Simon, and where does she live?” “I can’t no 'member,” and he rubbed his head, “some way far, far off.” Then he continued as he turned a steady gaze on her, “You love now, much, very, very much,-yes?” Lillian could not keep back the blushes, under his steady gaze, for it seemed as though the sim- pleton's eyes were reading her very soul, and yet she considered his intellect far below that of the average animal. * “Yes,” she said as she recovered herself, “I do love very, very much. I love my father dearly, and I love these beautiful flowers, and I love the birds, and Biddie, and Mike, and you, and every- body.” - Again the simpleton looked at her and grinned, shaking his head doubtfully. “Well, Simon, supposing your girl had loved you awful hard and you didn’t love her hardly any, would it make you love her any more if you knew that she loved you more than—oh, more than the Whole World?” “My girl not love me. She beautiful, great, great beautiful. Me love her all, all and more, too; more—as the whole world, and stars and sun and moon,” said he, making a spread-eagle ges- ture. “Well, you must have loved her like everything. Didn’t she love you just the least little bit?” she said, laughing. “Sometimes I no think—all goes way off from me—I forget all now—I can’t think nothin’,” said Simon, with a real sigh. Simple Simon, the Tramp. 55 “Poor fellow,” said Lillian to herself, “he really has feeling and can appreciate things. How much more intelligent he is than when he first came.” And then, as a new thought flashed upon her mind, she gave a perceptible start, and said almost aloud, as she clasped her hands to her temples, “Merciful Father ! is it possible that he has had a love affair, and that it has weakened his mind; and is there a possibility that I may meet with a similar fate? No, no, it surely cannot be! There cannot be such a terrible fate in store for me!” But she had now learned to see Simple Simon in a different light; and if she had been kind to him before, she now added thoughtfulness to her kindness. Then she said aloud, “Never mind, Si- mon, we all have our troubles, and I guess you have your share along with the rest of us.” As she turned and walked towards the house, she mused, “What selfish creatures we are. We meet with a disappointment, and we want to pa- rade our grief to everybody, while, at the same time, they may have troubles just as great, or even far greater than ours. I have learned a lesson to-day from Simple Simon, which I will try to remember. Everybody seems burdened with grief, or is it because my heart is so heavy? When I was so happy during my first association with Donalbain, I really believed that the whole world was happy. I am beginning to feel ashamed of myself, really, I have been so thoughtless. I don’t believe that I shall ever have the courage to tell my father of my trouble, he is already so burdened down with care.” 56 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER X. IN a back room of the “Comfort,” one of the many saloons of Brownville, are seated two young strikers, under twenty years of age. By their ani- mated conversation, carried on in a stage whisper, it is easy to see that they are discussing matters of importance. “Dot vos all right, but I tells you he gives up in der end,” said Hans Swaggerhoff. “I hope you are right, Hans, but I fear we shall have to resort to violence,” replied Carey, one of the foremen. “Yah, but vot of dot? He vos got lots of boodle, und can part mit der half off it, und den haf blenty left.” “We don’t want to destroy any of his property if there is any way out of it, so I shall use my in- fluence with the boys, and I want you to do the same.” - “I vos mit yer all der vile, you pet. Der vos no goot done in doin’ harm, und I dells der fellers so,” said Hans, who was under Carey in the mills, and was anxious to please him, for he might ex- ect favors from him. “Well, Hans, the reason I called you back in this room, is, you remember you worked on the building occupied by Squire Brown as his office. 58 Simple Simon, the Tramp. “Dot vos a goot blan, unt I vos in fer der fun. I goes after mine bick-ax unt will soon be return fer pizness.” “All right, Hans, you get your pick-ax and I will get a box of keys, and we can soon be at work.” As Hans went in one direction, the foreman went in another. Carey was soon at the building, and turning into a narrow hallway, passed down the unused flight of rickety stairs, where he was confronted by a massive door. One key after an- other he tried, until his perseverance was finally rewarded by his hearing the bolt turn, and he pushed the heavy door open, which creaked on its rusty hinges. He found the bottom of the cellar carpeted with soft mud, but he picked his way along until he came to the desired wall. At that instant Hans made his appearance, and after closing and bolting the door, stood beside his companion. “Here vos der weak blace,” whispered Hans, as he began picking cautiously at the wall. “You are all right, Hans, only don’t make too much noise, for we must be careful while at this business or we shall be taken for burglars.” “Trust Hans fer dot. Many a dirty schob has he done.” Soon the walls began to show signs of yielding, and a few more strokes caused daylight to show through. “Now, Hans, you come through after me, and steady the ladder while I see what can be done with the trap-door.” He climbed to the top of the ladder and lis- tened. He felt certain that Squire Brown had not Simple Simon, the Tramp. 59 returned, and he knew that none of his clerks ever frequented his office during his absence, for it was commented upon by all his clerks that no one was ever alone in Squire Brown's office but the Squire himself. Carey worked at the trap, and it showed signs of yielding. Another effort and he could thrust his hand through. He pushed the heavy rug aside and stuck his head through the opening, and in another moment was standing on the floor above. He took the letter which he had previously writ- ten, placed it on the desk, sticking the dagger through it into the hard oak. Then with two or three sharp taps with a hammer which he had brought along for that purpose, he drove the blade deep into the hard wood, and left it as found by the Squire only an hour or two later. He then slipped down through the trap, pulled the rug back into its place, adjusted the spring, and soon joined Hans. “Wot luck?” asked Hans. “The very best, Hans; worked like a charm. I would give a little bit to see the Squire when he steps into his office this evening. The more sur- prises of this kind we can have in store for him, the more his nerves will be shattered, and the more he will lose confidence in himself and re- pose confidence in the strikers. It means some- thing to us if we can force him to knock two hours a day from our work without cutting us on wages, and I am going to do all in my power to bring this thing about; that is, all but using violence. I don’t think it is right to destroy his property, but we may be guilty of that before we get through, 6o Simple Simon, the Tramp. for all the strikers have to suffer for the violence of a few.” “We ought ter haf a surbrise waitin’ fer him ven he gets to der office in der mornin’.” “I have it, Hans!” and Carey laughed heartily under his breath. “Vot vos it?” answered Hans, eagerly. - “Well, you see, they may possibly station guard in the room to-night, and it wouldn’t be safe to stick my head up through that hole; at least, I wouldn’t want to risk it. Here is my plan: “We'll go to the slaughter-house and get a bottle of blood, then we'll get a syringe with a long tube, and pay another visit to this place at twelve o’clock to-night. We'll meet at the ‘Comfort. Now, let's get out of here, for I don’t enjoy this atmos- phere.” So, they separated. At twelve o’clock they were at the saloon and made their way towards the cellar, which they soon reached. Unbolting the door very quietly, for the hinges had received a generous bath of oil which rendered them noiseless, they crept to the ladder, and Carey ascended it. He thought he could hear the heavy breathing of a sleeper on the floor above, and was obliged to proceed very carefully. He filled the syringe with blood, brought along for the occasion, as we have previously explained. Raising the trap just enough to get the small tube of the syringe through the crack, he worked it carefully until he was sure it projected up through the heavy rug. The sleeper above stirred and changed position. Carey stopped breathing, and he could hear his Simple Simon, the Tramp. 6 I own heart beat. Then the sleeper began snoring louder than ever, and the foreman knew that there was but slight danger. He now drove the piston in, throwing jets of blood in every direction, and then taking a note from his pocket, he reached out arm’s length and laid it on the floor. Then he closed the trap cau- tiously and joined Hans. “Wot luck dis time?” asked Hans. * “First-class, Hans; there was a man placed on guard, but he is enjoying a nap on the floor, for he probably thinks that no one could get in with- out waking him, and he'd rather earn his money while sleeping than by remaining awake and wor- rying over the matter.” “He will pe von Surbrised man ven he obens his eyes unt sees der bloot on der walls.” And Hans could hardly keep from roaring with laugh- ter. “He’ll declare the devil has been there, and will probably run away without locking the office after him.” Then the young men separated for the night. 62 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER XI. THE sun was just rising when Mike rubbed his eyes and looked about him. He had been sleeping on the office floor all night, although the Squire had repeatedly cautioned him to keep awake, prom- ising him a fine reward if he captured any one who attempted to break into his office. The room was perfectly dark, which proved too much for Mike, and he soon rolled himself up on the office floor, willing to give up all prospects of securing his prize. He now yawned and looked around. His eye caught sight of the blood on the wall, also large drops of it on the floor, and his face blanched, his under jaw dropped, while his eyes bulged from their sockets. The next instant he was dashing through the door, and through the other apart- ment, hatless, when it flashed upon him that it would amount to his losing his position if he should present himself to the Squire in this con- dition, so he ventured cautiously back to the office, got his hat, locked the door behind him, and made his way towards Squire Brown's residence. After breakfast he surrendered the keys to Squire Brown, declaring that he had seen or heard nothing all night long, and that he had left the office in just the same condition he had found it. “I was in hopes they would try it again last night,” said the Squire. Simple Simon, the Tramp. 63 “Indade it's their heads Oi’d be after breakin', the blackguards, if I caught thim snakin’ around there with me on dooty.” “You are quite sure you didn’t fall asleep, Mike, and let them turn the office wrong side up?” said the Squire, with a twinkle in his eye. “Oi wouldn't be after neglectin’ o' my dooty, for a little slape, when Oi gets a-plinty ivery night.” “Well, Mike, I hope we shall have no more trouble. The men were a little by the ears yes- terday, but I trust it will all blow over. If it doesn’t I may want you to spend the night in the office again.” “Great Father and the Holy Saints!” exclaimed Mike, before he thought, for the prospect of spending another night in such a place, was more than his nerves could stand. The Squire looked at him quizzically, but Mike's Irish wit helped him out, and he continued, “But won’t Oi make it hot for the spalpeens that dare come prowlin’ around whin Oi’m doin' guard dooty over the property of Squire Brown? Oi’d make the blackguards wish they had never been born, Oi would.” * *k sk * * * x *k sk * When the Squire had left Duncan Sly’s office, after the conversation in which the old gentle- man had told the lawyer of his interview with Lillian on the subject of matrimony, Sly threw himself into his easy chair and indulged in the following meditation: “They say that ‘Faint heart ne'er won fair lady,’ also ‘That which is not worth asking for is not 64 Simple Simon, the Tramp. worth having. True, I have talked the matter over with the Squire repeatedly and he has given his consent, but there is no mistake but that Lil- lian’s actions towards me are not such as would naturally inspire the heart of a suitor with con- fidence; therefore I have never deemed it wise to propose. The old Squire has probably upset everything by proposing to her for me. In my wildest flights of imagination I never thought that he would do that. - “Had he waited until an opportune moment ar- rived I would have approached the subject in a manner which might have terminated more suc- cessfully for me. Strange, that I can meet the legal talent of this county, in open contest, and never feel a tremor of excitement, but the mo- ment I find myself in her presence I immediately experience a feeling of embarrassment. “Well, since the matter has been introduced to her, there is nothing left for me to do but to see her as soon as possible and plead my own case. Who knows but her answer to me may be entirely different, for it would naturally be rather a deli- cate subject to discuss with her father, as I have never opened my heart to her. “I will see her at once and know the worst. Matters connected with Squire Brown’s business are assuming rather embarrassing conditions, and as I am fortunate enough to be endowed with a certain amount of power to be used either for or against the Squire's interests, I feel that it is necessary to receive this young lady's ultimatum in the matter, before lending my assistance per- manently to either party. When I have seen her Simple Simon, the Tramp. 65 personally, and have it from her own mouth that there is no hope under the present circumstances, perhaps I may be able to change the circumstances which surround her to such an extent that she may look upon my suit in an entirely different manner. I will see her at once.” - So, summoning his office boy, he ordered his carriage, which soon stood before his door, and af- ter making ample preparation he was driven to the Brown residence. He was ushered into the parlor, and in response to his card, Lillian soon made her appearance. This was not the first time the lawyer had called on Lillian, but heretofore some trifling matter was made an excuse for his visit. Lillian showed anxiety upon entering the room, for she feared he brought unpleasant news regarding her father. Upon being informed that Sly had left him only a few moments before in as good health as when she last saw him, she could not disguise her pleas- ure, and the conversation turned upon various subjects of local interest. Lillian was doing her best to entertain the law- yer, but Sly’s keen mind detected a superficiality about her actions which he did not consider com- £ to himself. Nevertheless he knew that e must speak with her upon this occasion, for he could not tell what the morrow would bring forth in connection with Squire Brown's affairs. Eventually the conversation began to flag and Sly knew that he must either broach the subject to her or take his departure. So, after an awkward pause, he cleared his throat and began. “Miss Brown, I have called on you this evening 66 Simple Simon, the Tramp. to speak with you regarding a subject which is nearer my heart than all else besides.”—And he looked straight at Lillian, although there was an expression of defeat written in his eyes. Lillian's eyes immediately sought the floor and she blushed deeply, for she realized the great em- barrassment under which the lawyer was labor- 1ng. Sly continued: “You certainly cannot be blind to the fact that I entertain warmer feelings for ou than those of mere friendship. You cannot ave failed to realize that while in your presence . all else pales into insignificance. In other words, you must have known ere this that I love you; that the thought of living without you to bless my life—” Here Lillian raised her eyes to his and he paused, reading his answer before she spoke. “Mr. Sly,” she began, “I cannot allow you to proceed, for I respect you too highly to allow you to compromise yourself by pleading a case which is entirely hopeless. If I have given you cause to speak as you do, I most humbly crave your par- don. Your association with my father, and the true friendship which he entertains for you, have made your visits to our home a matter of natural consequence.” “I do, indeed, esteem your father highly,” re- plied Sly, “for he is one of the noblest men that lives. While you were absent in Chicago, I spent many happy hours with him, but when you came, your presence was like a ray of sunshine, and I would have been less than human had I not been affected. I do not demand an immediate answer, Simple Simon, the Tramp. 67 —I would be willing to wait until I had proven myself worthy of you, and you had learned to look upon me in a more favorable light.” “Your words grieve me exceedingly, Mr. Sly, for I have the highest respect for you, but I can- not, must not allow you to express yourself to me in this way, for, believe me, I never, never can look upon you in any other way than that of a friend.” “Just one more word, Miss Brown; the most ten- der feelings of affection are oftentimes the result of friendship ripened into love, and I shall live with the one hope that my life may yet be blessed by the love of the purest, noblest, and most beau- tiful woman that ever lived.” Saying this he bade her good-by and took his departure. 68 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER XII. THE Squire could not help feeling much re- lieved after his conversation with Mike, for he had really expected that there would be some kind of an effort made to enter his office in the night, and perpetrate some outrageous joke on him, to prove their hatred for him. He requested Lillian to accompany him this morning, for he felt that the world was cold and unfriendly, and he wanted her companionship, happily realizing that her heart was warm, and her fidelity towards him undying. As they entered the business portion of the vil- lage, he met unfriendly faces at every turn, for the great factories were closed and the workmen were loitering about the streets, which conduct indicated that they blamed the Squire for all their trouble. They did not fawn upon him as they had done when everything was moving along ac- cording to their liking; neither did they take the least notice of Lillian. “I was in hopes that I might find my men in better humor,” he said to Lillian; “but I am afraid their conduct foretells unpleasant times.” “It seems strange, father, after spending your life, establishing and maintaining these great fac- tories, and then furnishing so many hundreds of men employment, who were running the world over for work;—it does seem strange that they Simple Simon, the Tramp. 69 haven’t just a small bit of appreciation. Why, we meet them face to face on the street, and not one of them shows sufficient respect to even recog- nize you.” “That is the way of the world, my child. If I should concede to their wishes on this occasion, they would bow very low to me on the morrow.” “Don’t you think it would be wise to do so, fa- ther? It might avert a great deal of trouble, and perhaps prevent the shedding of blood.” “I have made two concessions, and on the last they promised in writing that they would not strike again. They have broken their contract, and were I to concede in this instance there would be another cause for striking within a few months, and I would have to yield again. I am glad to see my employes happy, and am giving them more wages than any other manufacturer along my line, and that ought to satisfy them. I don’t begrudge them the two hours a day they ask for, but there never will be an end to my men striking if I con- cede every time.” By this time they were at the office, and the Squire unlocked and opened his office door. They both stepped inside. Great drops of blood were spattered over ceiling, walls and floor. Lillian and her father were shocked beyond ex- pression, and both stood still, in utter astonish- ment. Finally Lillian's eye detected the note lying upon the floor, and picking it up, she traced these lines: “This is just what we'll get out of your old heart, if you don’t do as we ask you to. We are 7o Simple Simon, the Tramp. smarter than you think, and you will find it out.” Again the skull and cross-bones were given in place of the signature. Lillian's movement in picking up the note had entirely escaped the Squire's notice, and she had read it while his back was turned. “He shall never know of this,” she said, as she folded the note away in her purse. “He has trouble enough now, and it shall be my constant thought to lighten his burdens. I will do every- thing but—but—marry Duncan Sly, and I can- not do that, for I think it would bring misery to both of us.” - “There are the men who put this blood on your walls,” said Lillian, as she pointed through a large window, across the way. Two young men, unable to restrain their curi- osity, had been hanging around the vicinity all the morning, and now that he had arrived at his office, they could not resist the temptation of getting a look at him through the large window, as they passed by on the opposite side of the street. “Why, that is William Carey and a young man they call Hans. I don’t think they would do such a thing,” replied the Squire. “But I am sure of it, father. They did not see me at first, and the fiendish look on their faces could mean nothing less than that they were loi- tering about to witness the result of their deed. Then, you ought to have seen the expression change when they detected me looking right into their eyes. I never saw such sheepish-looking faces, which actually blanched when I pointed my fin- ger at them.” Simple Simon, the Tramp. 71 “You will help me to remember their names and faces, Lillian, and I will deal with them as they deserve when matters are finally settled. But how they succeeded in getting into this office, is a mystery to me. I have always believed it im- pregnable.” “There must be a way, which will seem simple enough when it is discovered. Such tricks as these are more despicable than many that appear hei- nous, for they are entirely unprovoked, and do not enter into the natural details of offence,” said Lillian. “You are right, my daughter. When matters are settled, I will be much more willing to forgive a man for heaving a rock at me, in the heat of passion, even if it should inflict a wound, than I would the rascals who could insult me in this manner.” Word was passed around that the Squire had ar- rived, and a mob of idlers was gathering within sight of his office. There is nothing that lives, so heartless, so void of all feeling, as a crowd, especially if it is in the form of a mob. This crowd contained desperate characters. “They are gathering in a regular mob, father. You don’t suppose they are planning to do any- thing violent?” “They probably have no intention of it, but there is no telling what a crowd like this would do if they should become a little excited. I wish that I had left you at home,” and the Squire looked worried. “I am so glad I came, father. If there is any 72 Simple Simon, the Tramp. danger, I want to share it, for all this trouble and worry is killing you. How blind and selfish I have been; but I believe I am getting my eyes open lately, in more ways than one, and I hope that I may yet develop into a real womanly woman, capable of appreciating somebody else's trouble be- sides my own petty trials,” and she took his hand in hers. The crowd witnessed this act, and some of the coarser rowdies jeered and sang out, “Put your little hand in mine.” Then a half-drunken sot hurled a lump of soft earth in that direction. In less than five minutes there was a shower of dust and harmless missiles flying through the air. Next, something more substantial came whistling to- wards them, and struck the door. This was fol- lowed by others, until a large stone came crash- ing through the window. The clerks had all ceased working, and came near the office door that opened into their apart- ments. “I will go out and reason with them,” said John Hathaway, the head bookkeeper. “I don’t think it would do any good,” replied the Squire. “Let me go out, father; I am sure they would listen to me,” said Lillian. It was at this instant that the stone was thrown through the window, and the mob, fearing that they had gone too far, desisted for a few moments. Lillian did not wait for a reply, but opened the door and stepped boldly out upon the front porch. She had no more than taken her position, when all manner of jibes were hurled at her. Simple Simon, the Tramp. 73 “Look at the bird of paradise, boys; our hard work bought all those fine clothes for her. If I could throw straight enough I would knock that peacock hat off her head.” This was followed by a shower of dirt, and Lil- lian was forced to beat a hasty retreat. “There is just one person who can quiet them,” said Eli Simpson, the young man who kept the men’s time, and who mingled with them more or less, “and that is Miss Goodenuff. They all re- spect and like her, and I am sure that if she were to make her appearance they would be quiet and listen to reason.” “I am perfectly willing to try, although I am afraid my friend, Mr. Simpson, has overestimated my influence with them.” She stepped to the door and opened it carefully, even while dirt and sticks were flying in wild con- fusion. The bombardment ceased immediately, and some of the ruffians hung their heads. “Friends,” began Mabel, “I am sorry that this has happened. It will cast a blight upon the fair name of our little city. If you have differences to settle with Squire Brown, would it not be better to give him a hearing? You are taking an unfair advantage of him now. He certainly has rights as well as you have, but you are not giving him a fair chance. He is powerless to do anything against so many, and if you should continue in this way, nothing whatever could be done, and you would have to leave Brownville and search for employment; and they say it is hard to get em- ployment nowadays. Now, let us show the Squire due respect, the same as you would expect under 74. Simple Simon, the Tramp. similar circumstances, and I am sure he will do the right thing by you, in the end.” By this time the crowd was broken up. Many had suddenly bethought themselves that they were downtown on errands of importance, and quietly disappeared. When Mabel came inside, the Squire said, “I wish you would teach me how I may have such power over mankind.” “Simply by trying to be kind to them, through no other motive than mercy’s sake,” replied Ma- bel. “Or, in other words, to teach by precept; to do unto others as you would that they should do unto you,” remarked the Squire, thoughtfully. Mabel merely bowed an affirmative. Simple Simon, the Tramp. 75 CIIAPTER XIII. I AM still writing. The captain has been good enough to let me remain on deck. The wind is blowing quite hard and the waves are running high, but the sun is shining, and it is very warm. We are still under military discipline, although there is not so much danger of a panic as there has been at any previous time, for after the terrible ordeals through which we have passed, we have learned to look upon death with less fear. Then again, we have escaped from so many apparent disasters, it seems to lead us to believe that we shall pass through any that may arise. The pumps are working desperately, but the wa- ter still continues to gain on us. There can be but a few more inches admitted before a vital part of the machinery will be submerged, which will mean, the propellers will cease to work, and then we shall be at the mercy of the sea, for we can do nothing but drift. * x * * sk sk sk sk * •k There has been nothing to write about for an hour or so, and I have been looking out upon the vast expanse of water and admiring the foam- crested waves. What a sight, as they rise and fall. Mother, do you know that there is something grand 76 Simple Simon, the Tramp. about having such a burial-place? It may be that they will be rolling over me at this time to- morrow, for the captain and I have just had a long talk, and he informs me that the water has risen so high that they have been obliged to stop the machinery. * sk *k 2k *k sk sk *: * sk The panic has come at last. Even military force did not prevail, for the guards are as anxious to save their own lives as any one else. Such a scene! People are fighting for the boats. They claw and scratch and fight like lunatics. I saw a mother rush frantically into the crowd which surrounds the boats, with several little ones racing after her and screaming at the top of their voice, but she had apparently forgotten them in her frenzy to save her own life. The poor children were tram- pled to death. I can almost imagine I hear that woman, one week ago, bemoaning her sad fate, for some slight misfortune, and wishing that she might die; also, I can hear her declare that she would give up her life for her precious babies. Ah, poor, weak human nature! How little we know ourselves! It takes great occasions to bring out our real natures. I just saw one man kill another. He was try- ing to get his wife and children in the vicinity of the boats, when a great burly ruffian seized two of them and hurled them to the floor, and was about to walk over them, when the father drew a dagger from his pocket and stabbed the monster to the heart. Many saw the deed com- mitted, but no one took particular notice of it. Simple Simon, the Tramp. 77 Two boatloads have already started from the vessel, and both have been swamped, being manned by inexperienced people; and in a short time their passengers all disappeared from sight. The captain stands by me and says, “If it were possible to handle them, we could place every one in boats. We have been under such a strain so long, the people are worn out and beside them- selves with despair, and I have lost control of my men. I don’t know as there would be much use in getting them into boats, for the sea is running so high that there would not be much chance of their surviving, and if they did, they are without provisions and could not last long. Had they re- mained quiet until after the engines ceased work- ing we could have made ample arrangements so that all would have been well with them for sev- eral days, as far as the provisions are concerned. “I might have placed the provisions in the boats, filled the boats with passengers and set them adrift before the climax came, but I wanted to avert the panic as long as possible, and that would have been sure to hasten it. Then, again, every hour was precious, for the sea is becoming calmer every mo- ment, and could we have kept the vessel afloat but a few hours longer, the boats could easily have withstood the sea.” Boat load after boat load leave the vessel, only to be capsized. In the first place, they are all overloaded, and in the second place, incompetent people are placed at the oars. Some are so fran- tic that they jump from our deck, and swim after the boats. I saw one overloaded boat capsize because its 78 Simple Simon, the Tramp. inmates tried to pull a poor wretch over its side. I heard a man say, “My God! there goes my wife and child,” and the next instant he sprang from the deck. He struggled manfully with the waves, and finally succeeded in getting near them, when the boat capsized. His wife and child saw him coming, and they all managed to keep on top of the water until they were together, and then threw their arms around each other, and all sank be- neath the waves. The captain has just said to me: “I suppose we might as well remain on board and go down with the “Sea Gull as to attempt escaping. How I regret that this noble old craft could not have proven seaworthy for just a few hours longer. Then, if we could have avoided the panic, we would have distributed the life-preservers and taken to the boats in perfect order, but that was not to be.” “Do you think there would be any possibility of a rescue, were we to take to the water with our life- preservers and some kind of an object to support us?” I asked; to which he replied: “Life is very dear when we come to the test, and although I had vowed never to leave the dear old Sea Gull while I lived, things look different when we are brought face to face with death. It is natural to struggle to the very last, on our own account, but there is a higher duty, perhaps, which we owe to our friends. To throw ourselves upon the mercy of the waves, is almost certain death, but it would be grasping at a straw. I someway feel at this moment that we shall be held respon- sible if we do not exert ourselves to the extent of our capacity, on this occasion.” Simple Simon, the Tramp. 79 “Your words have converted me to the same opinion,” I answered. “The fate of all who at- tempted to escape, so thoroughly impressed me that it would be utterly impossible to succeed, I had resigned myself to go down with the ship, rather than perhaps undergo a lingering death by trying to escape; but if there is the faintest shadow of a hope, we ought to grasp at it, for the sake of others if not for our own love of life.” “There is perhaps one chance in ten thousand,” he replied. “If we should succeed in riding the waves until the sea becomes calm, we might be picked up by a vessel, but without water or food, we could not survive long. My last observation showed us to be about —” N. by —” W., which gives us rather an unfavorable location. The ves- sel will not remain above the surface very much longer,” he continued after a few moments’ pause, during which time we were both engaged in deep meditation, “and whatever we do must be done as soon as possible.” My dear mother and father, I bid you a last fond farewell, and may the good Lord have mercy on our souls. P. S.—The captain wishes to send his love and blessing to his friends, and bid them a last good-by. He says that had he known how this would termi- nate he would like to have said more. P. P. S.–Now, dear parents, I must close and put this in our improvised post-office, securely close the opening, and set it adrift, and may God in His infinite wisdom guide it safely to our dear, dear home. Again, again, darling parents, good-by, and may God bless you. 8O Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER XIV. OH, joy unspeakable! We are safe on dry land, and as we have the post-office with us, I shall write a complete description of our delivery and put it in the box before setting it adrift. After writing my last words on board the “Sea Gull,” and closing the box, I joined the captain, and we began active operations. Although the odds were so vastly against us, and we had sunk into a despondent mood, awaiting death, it is wonderful what change a little activity produced. As soon as we began to perspire, we began to hope, and really became almost jubilant. I am inclined to believe that if there were more perspiration expended, there would be fewer sui- cides. We first ran for the life preservers, and after strapping them around us, ate a hearty lunch, and then stuffed our pockets full of cold boiled meat, a bottle of water each, a supply of matches, which we placed securely in a water-tight match- safe; also, a few other small articles which would not weigh much, but which would be of inestima- ble value were we so fortunate as to drift ashore. The heaviest article was a small axe, which the captain thrust through his belt, and which I off- set with a large carving knife. To finish with, Simple Simon, the Tramp. 83 line, and we knew that we looked upon land. It was the unveiling of a great monument, mother, a monument of Life to us. When the sun peeped above the horizon. Oh, glorious light of day! How can I express the joy we felt as the great and glorious sun made his ap- pearance. We shouted, mother; although we were almost famished and ready to faint, we shouted like demons, for his rays disclosed a picture sweeter than all the visions of Paradise. It was LAND ! Mother, LAND ! and lay only a mile away from us, and best of all, we were drifting towards it. The sun rose in his majesty and poured his rays down upon an untroubled sea, for the storm had ceased. Oh, treacherous sea! Your countenance is as sweet as that of a loving child as you smile back at us; but think not that we have forgotten your terrible deed of yesterday! Where are all those precious lives consigned to you, only a few days ago? Where are those who rose but yester- day morn, in the full vigor of manhood and wo- manhood? Where are the young maidens, so beau- tiful in their youthful purity? Gone, all gone to satisfy your greed. And now you cover them over and look up and smile as though wishing to lure others to the same terrible fate. We kept working our post-office towards the land and just before noon, had the extreme delight of wading to shore, and were soon lying down upon the green grass. How lovely it is! Green grass for a little space, then plants and shrubs, and here and there a large tree. In the distance are high hills covered with a dense forest. There are flowers all around, and we see much fruit, and have Simple Simon, the Tramp. 85 CHAPTER XV. AFTER Duncan Sly’s unsuccessful proposal to Lillian, he was driven directly to his office where he soon found himself alone, with locked doors and blinds closely drawn. He was certainly not in an enviable frame of mind, and he walked slowly back and forth in his office, with hands clasped behind him and head bent forward. “She respects me, does she? If that were only true I would stand some chance, but well do I know that it is false. That girl can read my very soul with all its multitudinous sins, and she knows that it is a perfect cesspool of iniquity. Oh, that I were good and pure like her!” and then, as his mood changed, he said, scornfully, “So that I might live a dull worm to be spat upon by those who are not one-half my equal in intellect? That is one's pay for being good. Give me happiness as a reward for purity, and I’ll be a saint. But, ah! the sting of poverty when those who are thus afflicted are endowed with high intellectual attain- ments. “God knows that it is bad enough when the mind gropes in ignorance, and accepts as its portion the lot of a slave; but when it is capable of placing its possessor on a throne, and then is doomed, by force of circumstances, to tolerate slights and in- Sults from its inferiors, then the sting becomes un- 86 Simple Simon, the Tramp. bearable. No! no! give me the life of a villain instead. “I was a beggar once, when I was good, but I committed a crime; I took money that did not be- long to me, which caused death and destruction, but from that day to this I have prospered. Do the eyes of those I wronged, haunt me? Do the voices of little children who shiver with cold, break me of my rest? Do I see the suffering mothers with pinched and starved faces stretching out their bony hands, begging me to look with mercy upon their dying babes? Do I start and look wildly about at every sudden noise? What of it! I am successful and people fawn upon me and say that I am shrewd and know how to handle men. I am shrewd; I am powerful at the present time; and oh! how glorious it is to be a power, even in a small town like this. “Aye, I know, Duncan Sly, that you have climbed to your throne by dishonest means; that you have been the cause, indirectly, of more than one death; but would you turn back and be a dull clod? Never! You have power! You hold in your hands, reins which govern the destinies of men, and, fool, will you weaken now? “No! I will drown remorse by plunging still deeper into crime, and by so doing, make the minor misdemeanors of my life seem but pleasant pas- times. I will marry Lillian Brown; if not by fair means, why then by foul! This world is a stage and I am one of the actors. If I take my cues correctly and play my lines successfully, the spec- tators will aplaud. Even the very ones who have been brought to poverty through my actions will Simple Simon, the Tramp. 87 * show me homage, while, were I poor but honest like themselves, they would show me nothing but con- tempt. “Then, here's for greater success, greater power! My brain seems on fire, and every nerve in my body quivers with uncontrollable passion as I contem- plate the great possibilities before me. Oh! am- bition' is there no satisfying your Gorgon appe- tite? You shall be satisfied ! I will prove treacher- ous to my friends; I will betray those who repose confidence in me; I will smile on misery and laugh at fear, and all the time I will pray the loudest for the salvation of souls, and give bountifully of my sumptuous income for the support of the church.” Just then he paused, passed his hand over his eyes, and stood with both clinched fists raised, as he said aloud, with set teeth: “I behold a vision. It is a scene made visible by the lurid glare of fire. Tongues of flame leap from casement to turret, and wavering darts of light penetrate the more uncertain gloom as they glance from spire to spire. In wild alarm the bells peal forth their startling, discordant notes, and the shouts of terrified people add to the con- fusion. Women and children cling to each other in terror, and the faces of strong men blanch; but you, Duncan Sly, smile upon the scene, for it brings you one step nearer the desired goal. What care you if every home in Brownville be laid waste, or if the earth should open and swallow its inhabit- ants, if you can but gain your end. “I would be willing to dye my hands in blood, if by so doing I could claim Lillian Brown as my 88 Simple Simon, the Tramp. wife. Yes, I would face the very portals of hell for the chance of coming into possession of her and her vast fortune.” At that moment a knock at the door arrested his attention, and his soliloquy was brought to a close. Upon opening the door he was somewhat surprised and disappointed to behold the angular form of Miss Rasper, who, without waiting for an invitation, walked in and helped herself to a chair. “Ah, Miss Rasper, I have just been thinking about you, and only a moment ago I stepped to the window to see if I could not espy your graceful form anywhere on the street.” “Ah, Brother Sly,” simpered the spinster, “your mind is allus a-dwellin’ on high and noble things. I was a-tellin’ Sister Spikes to-day that I didn’t believe you ever had no temper, you allus appear so soft-like.” “Indeed, you flatter me,” said Sly. “I have a bad temper, or, rather, did have during my younger days, but I find that by calling upon the Lord almost constantly during my waking hours, I have been able, through His grace, to subdue it, to a certain extent.” “Yes, yes, youth is impulsive. I am jest a-pass- in through that period, and I suppose that when as many winters has passed over my head as has over your’n, and I, like you, am on the decline, I will be more serious-minded; but you know I am young, Brother Sly, very young, and all kinds of a-lowances must be made. I was a-tellin’ Sister Spikes, 22 “Did you wish to see me on business,” said Sly, Simple Simon, the Tramp. 89 thinking it about time to shift the conversation into a more agreeable channel, and fearing that what she told Sister Spikes would be no compli- ment to him. “Yes, indeed; we are a-circulatin a partition to raise money for the widder and orphanless. I have come to you, knowin’ as how you are a-han- dlin’ of public money and wouldn’t mind puttin’ down a few dollars, as it wouldn’t have to come out of your pocket. Sister Spikes was a-sayin’ that it's precious little you’d give if you stole the town blind, but I said as how a man could pinch a cent till it squealed and yet give to the Lord, for He loveth a ready giver.” “I don’t mind contributing my share, as long as it is for a good cause, for such acts of charity appeal very keenly to me,” and he took the petition, and wrote his name thereon. “Thanks, Brother Sly, thanks. I’m sure that you’ll feel happier for this one kind act in your life. I was a-tellin’ Sister Spikes right before everybody at the suin’ society that there wasn’t an- other pusson in town as could get a cent out of you. They all allowed that it depended on sendin’ the right pusson, and they all thought that I would have more influence over you than anybody else; that I could get you to sign my partition when all the rest of them had failed.” “You must be doing a great deal of good at your sewing societies. The atmosphere must be very elevating,” said Sly, with an amused look. “We air. We have taken up the Mabel Good- enuff case, and we air a-goin’ to sift it to the bot- tom. I was a-tellin’ Sister Spikes—” 90 Simple Simon, the Tramp. “What the dev—, that is, what has that pure irl done to call forth denunciations from such an infernal—that is, such an august body of ma- trons?” said Sly, for although he had suffered much at Mabel’s hands, he had nothing but the highest respect for her, and although he would have been glad to see her out of the way, this attack upon her purity was so sudden and from so unreliable a source, the lingering spark of man- hood in him answered without consulting the baser man. “Done!” said the spinster, glowing with sup- pressed animation, and rubbing her hands in irre- pressible delight. “Done! what ain’t she done, more as likely. They say she spends nearly half a day every day locked in Square Brown’s office with the Square, and we have 'p’inted a standin’ committee to look into the case, and sift the matter to the bottom. I was a-tellin’—” “I suppose you know that Mabel is Squire Brown’s private secretary, do you not, and that he has matters of importance to communicate by cor- respondence that could not be trusted to other ears than his official stenographer?” said Sly, more for the sake of argument than because he wished to champion Mabel’s cause. “That's jest the p’int. We was a-discussin’ of that, and allowed that no man had no right to pour into the ears of no maiden what he wouldn’t jest as leaves the hull world would know.” After which speech Miss Rasper made her way to the door, and opened it preparatory to leaving. “Well, I guess that's so, and I hope you will keep on with your good work; and if there is any- Simple Simon, the Tramp. 9 I thing I can do to help matters along, I am your bonded slave. We all ought to be interested in placing the intellectual and moral standing of Brownville upon a higher standard, so that when embarrassing circumstances compromise influen- tial citizens, and vacillating coadjutors circulate erroneous and contradictory testimony, uncompro- mising jurisprudence may mete out speedy jus- tice to the offenders.” “Them's jest the very words I was a-sayin’ to Sister Spikes not more as a-nour ago,” and she bowed herself out of the office. 92 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER XVI. AFTER recovering thoroughly from the recent exposures, the young men looked carefully after the different articles they had brought from the “Sea Gull.” They found them all in good order. “We shall probably have use for our revolvers and ammunition if we remain here long, for this island may be inhabited by savages or pirates, or even wild animals,” said Donalbain. “Yes, we must be sparing of our ammunition. Fortunately there are plenty of water, fruit, nuts, and meat on the island, and while these would sus- tain life, they would not protect us against wild animals, or what is infinitely worse, wild or des- perate men.” “We have a very good supply of matches, but we must be careful of them, for it would be a ca- lamity if we should find ourselves without means to cook meat. We shall probably never be obliged to use a fire as a protection against the cold, for we are in a part of the world where warmth pre- vails during the entire year,” remarked the cap- tain. “It will stand us in hand to be careful of every- thing we brought ashore. I am afraid that our clothing will become rather seedy if we remain here for any length of time,” said Donalbain. Simple Simon, the Tramp. 93 “I don’t know how it is with you, friend Ben- nington,” said the captain, “but I am almost be- side myself with anxiety to explore our little world to see if it is really inhabited, or if we are the sole occupants.” - “I was turning the same thing over in my mind this very instant, and the sooner we get started, the better,” replied Donalbain. “We will conceal the articles we don’t need, and obliterate all traces of our landing, for it is well to be cautious, not on account of the discovery of our presence by wild beasts, but by that most terrible foe to mankind—man,” said Captain Grant. In a few moments they were on their journey, tramping over hills and through vales. At night they camped by a little stream, and after shoot- ing two or three fowl, roasted their meat on live coals, and enjoyed a hearty supper, after which they divided the night into watches, one remaining awake while the other slept. Finally it grew light and they prepared break- fast, and were soon on their journey of explora- tion. Suddenly there were signs of an opening before them, and they hastened forward a few rods more, when their eyes beheld the open sea. “I guess we have arrived at the end of our little island,” said the captain, “and we may as well turn and go back.” “Would it not be a good plan to follow along the beach for a few miles, and see if we return to our landing?” asked Donalbain. “That's a good idea,” said the captain, where- upon the two travelers followed the narrow beach 94 Simple Simon, the Tramp. to the left, and after a few hours' walk, came back to the place they had learned to call home. As time went by, the two young men became better acquainted. Although each day found them eagerly watching for a sail, and as darkness closed down upon them they were obliged to record an- other disappointment, many pleasant hours were spent in telling incidents from their past lives. One day as they loitered in the shade, reclining on improvised hammocks, which they had woven of vines, the conversation turned upon beautiful wo- men, and Donalbain could not resist the tempta- tion to speak of the one he had met in Chicago, and who he declared was the most beautiful wo- man in the world. The captain listened attentively. “And you say you loved her so fondly, and yet never asked her if your love was returned?” he asked at length. “Oh, captain, how could I ask so much? It seemed like asking an angel in heaven to become my wife. Had she been less pure, less good, less beautiful, I might have hazarded the question, but as it was, together with her attitude of cold- ness, towards the last, made it quite impossible,” answered Donalbain. “Ah, there is where you made a mistake, my dear boy. Without a doubt she loved you as fondly as you loved her; in fact, from your story, I feel certain that she did, but it is not in the nature of woman worth the winning, to make ad- vances. One of her temperament would not be so unladylike as to place herself in a position to be criticized. I feel certain that if you ever win Simple Simon, the Tramp. 95 her love you will have to show yourself a man, for if I judge her rightly from your description of her, she could love nothing less than manliness in mankind,” and the captain looked reprovingly at Donalbain. - “I don’t believe I am a coward, but it did seem as though the whole world would know it, and would point a finger of scorn at me, were I to propose and be rejected; she seemed so far above me, -of so much finer clay.” “That is as it should be. Still, one should not put off matrimony until he can go about the mat- ter in the same manner that he would a business transaction. While she seemed so far removed from you, she probably had not the faintest idea that you regarded her in that light, and when you acted upon the supposition that she knew how ou regarded her, she, on the other hand, imag- ined that she had all reason to believe that you were acting from entirely different motives,” re- plied the captain. “Your words madden me,” replied Donalbain, springing from his hammock, and standing be- fore the captain. “To entertain the faintest shad- ow of a possibility that I could have possessed that angelic being for the simple asking, and that now perhaps she is lost to me forever, is worse, infin- itely worse than suffering ten thousand deaths.” “You have not lost her,” said the captain, with a reassuring smile. “When you have been res- cued and taken back to civilization, you will go in search of her and will find her. Then you will do what you ought to have done before, and believe me, all will be well.” Simple Simon, the Tramp. 97 sure you would be in a better condition to listen to my story,” replied the captain. “Perhaps you are right, for I know that when you brought the matter before me as you did, it nearly turned my head, but I am really very anx- ious to hear your story, and believe it would assist in diverting my mind from my own troubles,” re- plied Donalbain. Then the captain proceeded to relate his story. 98 Simple Simon, the Tramp. - CHAPTER XVII. “I was born in New York City, and lived there until I reached my majority. My father was a merchant prince, and has recently retired from business. In youth I had a perfect mania for the sea, and told my parents that I would one day be a sailor. They laughed at me, little believing that such would be the case. But as I grew older, in- stead of losing my love for that occupation, the desire seemed to grow stronger with every year of my life. “Of course, my parents would not tolerate such an absurd notion, and the matter was always laughed down whenever I reverted to it. My father was very desirous that I should take up the study of law, not as a means of subsistence, but more as a mental development, and also, to place me in a better position to handle the property which would fall to me upon the death of my parents. “After spending the earlier part of my life in school and college, I had a serious talk with my father regarding my love for the sea, and in time, I succeeded in persuading him to allow me to make a regular study of navigation. I advanced rapidly, having, as I did, a university education as a foundation. I seemed so happy and diligent Simple Simon, the Tramp. 99 while engaged in my favorite calling that, when I became competent, he purchased the beautiful craft, Sea Gull, and placed me on board as master. “I had sailed the sea five years as master of the vessel, and had been in many of the world’s prin- cipal ports, when I started on my last and fatal voyage, which landed me on this island. “That is the outline of my life, and now I will go back to boyhood and give you an account of the affairs which make me an unmarried man at thirty. “My father's being wealthy naturally placed my mother in high society, -I use the term “high so- ciety, for the wealthier class in a city can hardly be denominated as ‘aristocratic, to say nothing of being considered the ‘best.’ My mother was a pure, Christian woman, and looked askance upon many of the usages of her class. “There was one woman, however, for whom she formed the strongest attachment, and who was her only bosom friend, Mrs. Goode; whose hus- band was the president of one of our largest banks. Mrs. Goode was also a devoted Christian, and was certainly one of the purest, noblest wo- men in the world. She spent much money in be- half of the poor, and it seemed her greatest desire to do good. “She had one child, a daughter by the name of May, or May Bell, as she was usually called. She seemed to inherit her mother's beautiful dispo- sition, and every one loved her. We were thrown together in childhood, and learned to love each other, at an early age. IOO Simple Simon, the Tramp. “May and I became inseparable companions, and I knew that she was as fond of me as I was of her. As we grew to more mature age we became engaged, although we said nothing about the mat- ter to our parents. We were not only lovers but we were the best of friends,—a state of affairs which always should exist between lovers, but which, I am sorry to say, seldom does. Our hearts were so full of each other that there seemed no room for others, except our parents, to gain a sub- stantial foothold in our affections. “It was a sad day for both of us when my par- ents informed me that I must prepare for col- lege. We could hardly reconcile ourselves to the separation, but we were better prepared for it when the time came for me to leave. Before my departure, we thought it best to make known to our parents our relation to each other, and so told them the whole truth regarding our engagement. “My people were pleased, and said that they had expected as much, but May's mother was al- most beside herself with grief. At first she re- fused to give her reasons, but when she saw that her determined stand was liable to create ill feel- ing between the two families, she yielded and told us her story, which, in brief, is as follows: “When a young girl two worthy young men had sued for her hand. She had given it to May's father. The other young man married, but did not live happily with his wife, for, as he said, he never could love but one. A boy was born to them. As years went by the father prospered and became wealthy. Finally his wife died. “A few years afterwards, May's father and Simple Simon, the Tramp. IOI mother were called to the bedside of the dying hus- band, who said: ‘I am dying, and I wish to spend my last moments with you. We have always been good friends since early youth, and not even the love affair in which we engaged, and in which I was defeated, has made any difference with our friendship. You won the fair lady, John, but you have not been successful in wooing the fickle god- dess, Fortune. I am wealthy, you are poor; I have millions while you haven’t even thousands; therefore, I have taken the liberty to perform one act which will make my dying bed much softer, and which I can do on the simple promise that you will repay me by one single act.” “After being assured that May's parents would do all in their power for him, whatever it might be, he continued, ‘I have made my will, and have remembered you to the extent of one million dol- lars; here Mr. and Mrs. Goode remonstrated, but he begged them to be quiet, that he might place the other part of the contract before them, before he breathed his last, then he proceeded. “‘I have a boy ten years old who is now being educated in a private school for boys. You have just had born to you a daughter, and this is my request. I will give you the million dollars anyway, but if you can bless my dying hour by simply promising that if they both live, your daughter shall be the wife of my son, I shall die happy.” “Upon saying these words he relapsed into un- consciousness, and it was several minutes before he revived sufficiently to speak aloud. When he did, he opened his eyes, and staring straight into I O2 Simple Simon, the Tramp. those of Mr. Goode, said, “Do you promise?” and May's father said, ‘I do.’ “And so May was betrothed in babyhood to this young man, who began a life of dissipation almost unparalleled, and by the time he became of age was a debauched wretch, and then May’s parents lost trace of him. “Mr. Goode said that whenever he thought of May's marrying any other man, those staring eyes would look up at him and say, “Do you promise?’ For that reason he had begged his wife, time and again, to discourage any attempts on the part of May to accept attention, not thinking that any- thing would develop between his daughter and me. “If May and I had been fast friends and lovers before, we were doubly so now. We had a new theme to discuss, and had really found that we could not live without each other. “Finally I took my departure for college, and May and I corresponded regularly. Her parents did not interfere in our love affair, for they had told us how matters stood, and they expected us to use our own judgment in the matter. We did not give each other up, by any means, but were more closely bound together than ever before. “When I had finished my college education, I returned home, and began fitting myself for the sea. May was as much interested in my studies as I was, and we were constant companions. Not a plan of mine was thoroughly adopted until she had sanctioned the same. We cared not much for society, in general, although we managed to keep up appearances. “It was a great day for us when I raised anchor, Simple Simon, the Tramp. Iog and steamed out of New York harbor for a trip to Liverpool. It had been my plan to have May accompany me as my wife, but the fates were against us, and we were obliged to give it up. We were in hopes, however, that by the time I re- turned, something would transpire that would set matters right, and release Mr. Goode from his vow. 106 Simple Simon, the Tramp. obliged to call my servants, or ring for the police,’ and Mrs. Goode started to leave the room. “‘No, you won’t, said the rascal, as he whipped out a revolver and flourished it in the air. “But, as good luck would have it, the whole conversation was heard by Topsy, who had ushered him into the hall, and suspecting him, had listened to what he had to say. She now hurried away and rang for the police, and at the same time, ran for the servants, gasping ‘Fo’ de Lawd; dah be a man w’at done kill May Belle and de Missus, fo suah!’ “Such a rush as there was for the hall! And, ‘in no time, as Topsy said, they were there, strug- gling with the intruder. They soon succeeded in disarming him, after which they bound him se- curely with rope, when the patrol drove up to the door, and four policemen bounded out and took the rogue in charge.” “And is that the reason you are not a married man? The simple fact that some adventurer claimed her hand on so slight a pretext?” asked Donalbain, who was so interested that he could keep silence no longer. “No, the most serious part of the story is to follow,” replied the captain. “I suppose he got a lot of people to swear that he was the identical prodigal son; the Court ac- cepted the testimony, and he finally married the girl,” said Donalbain, laughing. “Hardly so bad as that, for we never heard of the fellow again. Whether he was the real Will Wayward, or whether he simply got a smattering of the story in some way, we never knew, but it gave the women a severe fright.” IO8 Simple Simon, the Tramp. to survive the blow, without serious embarrassment. “At noon when his carriage drove up to the Goode mansion, an old man, bent with age and care, was assisted to alight, and a strong arm sup- ported him as he climbed the steps which led into the house. “‘Oh, father, what has happened?’ cried May, as she wrung her hands in terror, and ran to the door, closely followed by her mother. “‘How can I ever tell you!' said Mr. Goode, seating himself and resting his face in his hands. “‘Oh, tell us! tell us! don’t keep us in sus- pense!” pleaded the women, almost beside them- selves with fear and anxiety. “‘Well, we are paupers! My cashier, in whom I reposed such confidence, has absconded with all our money, and also taken all our securities and other valuables that could be used by him. This would not be so bad, but the large manufacturing establishments in London, in which I invested so heavily, have failed, and we are paupers. Aye, worse than paupers, for I have scarcely enough property to pay ten per cent. on what we owe, and the old man groaned aloud. “‘Oh, father, cheer up !’ said May, ‘it might be worse. This will release us from our obligation to Mr. Wayward, and we surely can make a living some way, and she placed her arms affectionately around his neck. “‘May is right, dear husband, said his wife, tenderly, caressing one of his hands. “Ah, those noble hands! she continued, how they have la- bored all these years, and no person on earth can I IO Simple Simon, the Tramp. no money. Well do I know that one of the most difficult things for wealthy children to learn, is the value of money. Your heart is good, and when you suddenly find that we are poor, your great, gen- erous nature immediately prompts you to pledge yourself to undergo all kinds of sacrifices. But sacrifices to wealthy children mean to do without luxuries after they have had all and more than they want.” “‘Indeed, father, I take the rebuke kindly, but I will see Professor Sharp this very day, and find out if I can arrange with him for private lessons. I may make mistakes, but you shall see that I am in earnest about this matter. Of course, we shall be cut out of society, which will be very mortify- ing, in a way, but that amounts to little after all. Only think, mother, just last week, Mrs. Hogg was admitted to our circle, simply because her uncle in the West, a poor farmer, suddenly struck gold, and then was accidentally killed, and she is the only heir. She is so ignorant and coarse! but she has several million dollars.” “‘The poor creature has my warmest sympathy, for she will live to learn what mortification and humiliation mean,’ said Mrs. Goode. “‘Regarding your qualifying for the position of secretary; would it not be better for us to try a new location?’ questioned her father. ‘There are good schools in Chicago; but then, there is the financial consideration. How hard it is to become reconciled to the fact that we have not unlimited wealth at our command.” “‘Well, dear father and mother, we have each other, and let the world laugh. There is certainly Simple Simon, the Tramp. III plenty we can do to make a living. I blush as I think of a strong young woman like myself, and in perfect health, quibbling over the question of simply earning a livelihood, and May drew her- self up to her full height. “I’ll go this instant and see Professor Sharp.’ II 2 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER XIX. “AND so, suiting the action to the word, she was soon ready, and after a walk of a few blocks, stood before the Professor. “‘I could hardly give you lessons and wait for my pay. I should be glad to, but you see, it is uite contrary to my rules, and I could not violate them without doing an injustice to my other stu- dents. Of course, Mr. Goode would see that every cent was paid me in time, but there is the injus- tice to my other students, don’t you see?” said the Professor. “May left the room. She had received her first lesson in poverty. What would the next be? “‘I have it, she said. “I’ll go to Mr. Money- bags. The old fellow has been one of my father's warmest friends, and he always treats me as though I were his own daughter. He used to tease me so, when I was a little girl, by telling me he was going to steal me. I overheard him and father talking once about some speculation into which my father thought of going, and he said he could furnish my father with cash to the amount of fifty thousand dollars if he wanted it. I’ll not go back home until I have seen him. Won’t my parents be sur- prised and pleased when I return and tell them how I have come out victorious in the matter? Father's face will beam with joy.’ “She found her husband lying upon the floor, with features set in death.” | Simple Simon, the Tramp. II 5 plied that they must expect such things, now that they were poor; that people were hardly ever good to others purely for the benefit it would be to others, but principally through selfish motives, so that they themselves might be benefited. “Mr. Goode had left the room; he could not en- dure the scene. “‘Where is father? I can’t bear to have either one of you out of my sight. Poor, dear father, I have added to his unhappiness again; oh, why did I do it? Let me run and get him, mother, and then we can all be together. We at least have each other and a home full of love.’ “She gently unfolded her mother's arms from about her waist and springing up, tripped out of the room. The next instant a piercing scream greeted Mrs. Goode's ear, and she ran from the room, in great terror. The sight that met her eye as she entered the library, was one which drove the blood from her heart and the strength from every muscle, and she fell prostrate. “She had found her husband lying upon the floor, with upturned face, and features set in death. She had correctly interpreted the deathly pallor and the glazed eye, and the shock had been too much for her. May was stroking his hands and begging him to speak, but well she knew that he never would answer her, for he had been dead sev- eral minutes. “When her mother fell upon the floor, a new terror seized her, and she sprang to her parent's side and supported her head, chafing her hands at the same time. “‘Oh, mother, don’t die! don’t die! you must II6 Simple Simon, the Tramp. not both of you leave me! that would be too much ! too much !' she wailed piteously. “The servants had heard her screams, and they came running into the room. Prompt action was taken, and soon the family physician was on the spot. Before he arrived, Mrs. Goode had recov- ered, but the husband was beyond human aid.” We will now draw a curtain over a scene too sacred for the public eye. II 8 Simple Simon, the Tramp. that the report regarding the ten thousand dollars was true. “Mrs. Goode and her daughter had decided not to remain in New York City, and as soon as the funeral rites were over and all matters of impor- tance settled, they quietly left the city for the West, and despite all our efforts, we have never been able to hear one word from them since.” “Did they not at least tell your people where they were going?” asked Donalbain, whose sym- pathies were fully aroused. “No. My people were with them almost con- tinually from the beginning of their trials, but they seemed so overcome with grief and so com- pletely prostrated, my mother felt as though it were almost an intrusion to call upon them. They seemed to be so entirely wrapped up in each other that they had no thoughts of their old friends. Finally, upon calling there one afternoon, she found them gone. The same day my mother re- ceived a note which informed her, among other things, that they had started for the West; that they thought it best to seek a new locality, as their circumstances had changed materially, which would necessarily subject them to embarrassments. Had I been at home, all would have been well, for I should have insisted on our immediate marriage; but alas! I did not return until too late. When I did, I took all possible pains to trace them, and, in fact, have men employed at the present time to search for them, but they might as well have been spirited away to another world, for there seems to be no way of locating them.” “Old boy,” said Donalbain, “I sympathize with Simple Simon, the Tramp. I 19 ou from the bottom of my heart, and how I wish could help you,” and he approached the captain, and £ him warmly by the hand. “I appreciate your kindness, Donalbain,” an- swered the captain, “and I can’t give up the idea that I shall yet find her.” “Give up the idea! Why, Captain Grant, for shame; to admit of such a possibility! I’ll find her myself!” exclaimed Donalbain, little dream- ing what prophetic words he was speaking, and under what peculiar circumstances his words would come true. “I don’t anticipate that you will deviate from your path, to find May, while your heart is so full of Lillian, but if we should be successful in again returning to civilization, it would be a great favor to me if you would report any encouraging information regarding this matter,” said Captain Grant. “That I will gladly do, my dear friend, and, believe me, I shall ever keep your secret very near my heart, and you shall see that I mean what I say.” The young men relapsed into silence after this conversation, as each seemed filled with his own thoughts. *k ::: sk *k sk :k :k sk sk sk Judge Gruff was seated in his library, enjoying the many adventures of Don Quixote, when an approaching form attracted his attention as he glanced through the open door. “Good Lord!” he exclaimed impatiently. “There comes that old vixen, Miss Rasper! She has prob- ably gotten a few items of gossip, and is going the I2O Simple Simon, the Tramp. rounds to peddle them out so that her mind will be at rest.” “Good-mornin', good-mornin', Jedge! glad to see you; caught you a-readin’ trash as usual. Where do you expect to die when you go to?” said the spinster, as she came through the open door so sud- enly that he did not have time to conceal the novel, and take up a Bible or hymn-book, and thereby silence her meddlesome tongue. “It might be well for some of my sisters in the church to emulate my example, and remain quietly at home, 'tending to their own affairs, instead of traveling about the neighborhood, dispensing scraps of knowledge concocted by the devil.” “But you know, Jedge, you can’t expect us young people to stay quietly at hum a-readin’ novels, when there is so much a-doin’ in the world. Girls will be girls, you know. Land knows I will be old and superanimated like you soon enough. And then there is so much a-needin’ to be done for the Lord.” “Yes, your extreme youth is the only apology for your incivility. A good course in common sense would aid materially in developing congeni- ality in your personality. As far as working for the Lord is concerned, some people are not ca- pable of discerning between the Lord’s work and the devil’s work.” “That's jest what I was a-sayin’ to Sister Spikes, only jest yesterday, when she was a-tellin’ that you said as how you could read Don Quickshot in the fear of the Lord, just as well as you could any- thing else. I’m a plain-spoken woman, Jedge Gruff, and I say as how I orter, right to your face, Simple Simon, the Tramp. I 2 I that I consider such things sack-religious, and a abomination unto the devil, saith the Lord.” “Wouldn’t it be well for you to study up on a few points of religion before you attempt to dis- pense it to your superiors? One should be thor- oughly conversant with at least the first principle of a subject, before attempting to teach it in its en- tirety.” “That's so, Jedge Gruff, that's so. People do say as how you ain’t got no idee of right nor wrong, and it seems awful, bein’ a jedge so. I hardly slept a wink last night, my mind was so onsettled over you and other sinners in this town, and I says to Sister Spikes, says I, ‘If ever the Lord spares my life till to-morrow, I’ll pay a visit of love and mercy to Jedge Gruff, and p’int out to him the er- ror of his ways, and now that I am here, I’m goin’ to sift the matter to the bottom. She allowed as how you would snap my head off if I attempted to arger reason with you, but I stood for the p’int that the blood of the Lamb was shed for sinners, and that it was a-neglectin’ of our dooty if we didn’t learn sich things to people as never read the Bible.” “You had better pass along to the next door. Your methods would be better appreciated by the inhabitants of my barn. If it were not for seri- ously unbalancing the mental equilibrium of my donkey, I would let you take the initiatory steps in your new departure by administering to his mental and spiritual necessities; but I respect his feelings too much for that.” “Law sakes alive, Jedge, you needn’t bother; you’ll do jest as well. It's all one and the same I 2.2 Simple Simon, the Tramp. to me which one I begin on fust, you or the dun- key. I don’t know but what your advice would be worth follerin fer they do say as how the dunkey is a intelligent beast.” “If that is true, you better not trust yourself in his company, for it would prove as embarrass- ing to him as it has to me.” “I know that you are a kernel-minded man, Jedge, but I shall continue my supplications with the Lord for your soul, and I hope that e'er time shall roll by, we shall be able to gather the sinners of Brownville like sheaves in the vineyard, for few shall be called and many chosen, saith the Lord,” after which speech she bowed almost to the floor, and took her departure. s: I 24 Simple Simon, the Tramp. “All of 'em. Mike, Biddie, all people down- town and everybody. I feel bad, all 'lone by my- self, but nobody care.” “Yes, there is one that cares, Simon. You know that I wouldn’t let any one make you feel bad if I knew it.” “Yes, Miss Lillian is good, so good. She's way up high and all love her. I’m nothing but Simple Simon, the fool, and I don’t like much to go where people be.” “If you will tell me what they do to make fun of you, I will see if there can’t be a stop put to it.” “They throw sticks at me, and yell, and say Simple Simon, and that ain’t my name. I for- gets my name, but that's ugly name, I hate it. I kills somebody they calls me that sometime, may- bel” and Simon shook his head, and clinched his fists in a defiant manner. Lillian was surprised and alarmed at the terri- ble look in his face, and she thought: “Suppose he should take a turn and grow savage? What a change has already come over him since I first saw him! He is certainly growing more intelligent,” but she said: “Why, Simon, I wouldn’t get angry. Everybody likes you, and if you should get angry and kill somebody, they would have to send you to prison, and then Lillian would feel awfully bad.” “If Miss Lillian likes me good, I try be good, but some these mean men, they stop calling me Pieman and throwing sticks at me, I—I hurt ’em, Sure ! will, for I don’t like 'em, and I ain’t Pie- man.” Simple Simon, the Tramp. 127 us when we meet them, if we only hold the winning cards! “You have the winning cards, Duncan Sly, at the present time; be careful how you play them. “All roads lead to Rome, and every act must lead, finally, to your coming into possession of Squire Brown’s vast fortune, through a marriage with his daughter. “For me to win her by fair means, I reckon among the impossibilities. She is my superior in every way, and she seems to loathe me. Whenever I betray the faintest sign of affection for her, it has a tendency to widen the gap between us. She says that she respects me, but it is a very cold re- spect, and I am satisfied that there is not the slight- est chance for its ripening into love. “No, my only hope is to surround her with em- barrassing circumstances, pretending to be her friend the while, and then, when calamities are about to overwhelm her, step in, and rescue her, thus winning her confidence, and at the same time placing her under deep obligation to me.” At that moment Chairman Allen walked into his office, closed and locked the door behind him. Sly greeted him cordially, for he was anxious to learn the particulars of the meeting. “Well,” began Sly, “how did the boys take my proposition?” “They think it pretty steep, and say they can do better,” and Allen looked straight into the lawyer's eVeS. “Which means,” continued Sly, “that they can take the case into their own hands, and bring the Squire to terms without any of my assistance.” I 28 Simple Simon, the Tramp. “It amounts to that,” rejoined Allen. “You see, the boys are feeling a little sore over several things that have transpired between the Squire and them, of a personal nature, and they seem determined to have a fuss. I have opposed this strongly, but I fear the time has come when there will be mischief done if the old fellow doesn’t come to terms pretty readily.” “Well, I shall not raise my finger for you people if there is nothing in it for me. There is no use in my compromising myself in any way if I can’t do myself or anybody else any good. I was in hopes the boys would take up with my proposition, and then I could, at least, talk with the Squire, As it is, I shall look to his interest in this matter, for his interests are nearer mine than are yours.” Then there was a few moments’ pause. “Sly,” said Allen, finally, “you are a lawyer.” “Yes,” answered Sly. “You work for profit, no matter which side em- ploys you?” “Yes, usually, but, of course I have my choice of accepting or not accepting a case; I have some conscience left.” “To be sure; to be sure; but if the stake were large enough, your conscience wouldn’t be apt to bother you as much as it would for the same act if there were not much in it,” continued Allen. “What are you getting at? If you have a propo- sition, state it, and if it doesn’t meet with my ap- proval, I am bound by the laws of business cour- tesy to, at least, remain quiet regarding the matter. It would mean death to my business if I should se ', "3o Simple Simon, the Tramp. some of them were fuller of love than the one he has. You see, Bennington had thrown them into the waste-basket before they were finished, for he didn’t think them strong enough. “Well, this Bennington is a great favorite among the ladies, and half the aristocrats of the city are trying to marry their daughters to him, but he doesn’t seem to have any spare time to spend with them. “All the millionaires’ and billionaires’ sons were simply wild over this Lillian Brown, but she never looked at one of them. She had eyes for no one but Donalbain Bennington. Why it is that he doesn’t show up and claim her, is a queer thing, but it is probably on account of some misunder- standing between them. “You may consider it meddling for me to go at this thing as I do, but you will soon see that it is part of my errand, and when you understand, you will pardon me for touching upon what might . be called your own personal affairs.” . “Indeed, I thank you heartily for what you have said,” remarked Sly; and it was true, for he be- lieved that he had at last learned the real cause of Lillian’s coldness towards him. Here was a clue at last. It had been so discouraging, hereto- fore, prosecuting his cause with nothing appar- ently in the way, yet no probability of making any advancement. Allen knew that his words had aroused an un- pleasant train of thought in the brain of the law- yer, and so he remained quiet until Sly finally broke the silence. Simple Simon, the Tramp. I3 I “Did you say that this young man was a work- man in the mills?” “Yes, he is a sort of under-foreman,” replied Allen. * “And he has this letter in his possession?” con- tinued Sly. “Yes, I have read it. He and I are very good friends, and he has let me read it. No one else in Brownville has seen it,” said the chairman. “You are quite sure of that?” asked Sly. “Oh, yes. It was under promise of the most pro- found secrecy that he consented to let me read it, and then he was frightened over the matter, for, you see, it would place him in rather a queer po- sition for the facts of the case to become known,” replied Allen. “Do you think you could get the letter into your possession?” . “That would depend upon circumstances.” “Which means,” continued Sly, “that if it is worth anything to me, it is worth paying for.” “That's,as near as you could get at it, I guess.” “I wouldn’t want to pay for the letter until I knew it contained valuable information to me. At least, knew that it would do me some good.” “It will do you just this much good,” answered the chairman. “We have made up our minds,- that is, he has made up his mind to send the letter through to Miss Brown, without letting her know who sent it. If he does that, your guns will be spiked, and you may as well draw off.” “Oh, bosh!” expostulated Sly, “he probably has written a thousand letters to her since that was penned. I wouldn’t give you two cents for it.” Simple Simon, the Tramp. I33 Bennington. They couldn’t get a word out of him about it, and I don’t think he knows anything about the matter, but he gave you a bad rub.” “What did he say?” asked Sly, eagerly. “He said that you were “bad, bad man, and that Lillian didn’t like you; not that she had told him anything, for she very good, way up—good allus; she no say bad about nobody; ” and the two men laughed. “The fool don’t like me,” remarked Sly. “I al- ways joke with him; that is, sort of tease him, when I meet him, more to be sociable than any- thing else.” “Well,” resumed Allen, “he hasn’t any use for you, and he carries the idea that Miss Lillian has not, and you know the simpleton has proven on more than one occasion that he has a peculiar way of looking into things, which surprises people.” “Yes, but what has that to do with the letter?” asked Sly, impatiently. “Nothing at all,” answered Allen; “it is point number two.” “Very well, let's have point number three as soon as you can,” and the lawyer betrayed the un- easiness he felt from his visit with Allen. “All right,” continued the chairman. “This is the most important one of all, and the one I wouldn’t dare mention without getting you into a proper frame of mind to receive it. It is this.” Sly listened attentively. In fact, so eager was he to find what could be of greater importance than that which he had already been told, he ceased to breathe for an instant and leaned his head ea- Simple Simon, the Tramp. I35 besides placing within your grasp one of the most beautiful women in the State. Then you would have everything; almost unlimited wealth, more power than any other man in this county, and for a wife, the sweetest, most beautiful woman in the World.” Sly was indeed interested. His great greed for gain, his uncontrollable passion for power, and his love for beautiful women, all combined to place him in a frame of mind almost beside himself with eager anticipation, and he rubbed his hands together excitedly as he said: “Are you sure of this, Allen, or is it simply a theory that you have laid out to your own liking? You must know that there is a great deal of dif- ference between what a man thinks he knows, and what he really does know.” “That is all very true,” said Allen, “and no one has greater reason to be convinced of that fact than myself, for I have been the loser in several instances when that saying would apply, but this is different. The circumstances have shaped them- selves without an effort on my part, and there are so many of them, and they have formed them- selves into such tempting positions, it is not a mat- ter of whether we can do it, but whether we will. To be sure, as I said before, there must be desper- ate work done, for you know, extraordinary results require extraordinary efforts.” “Well, I am in a fit condition to hear anything. Go ahead with your proposition,” said Sly. 136 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER XXII. SIx months have passed since Captain Grant and Donalbain first landed on the little island, and no relief has yet come to the castaways. They have made many tours of exploration about the island, and find that it is only a few miles in extent. Dur- ing their wanderings they have met with many strange adventures, and have had several hair- breadth escapes. After the first sensation of gratitude for their miraculous delivery had begun to subside, and they realized that they were doomed to perhaps a life imprisonment on this island, a sense of loneli- ness took possession of them that they could not shake off. As time dragged wearily and monoto- nously by, this feeling grew upon them, until they dreaded to see the morning dawn, from the fact that it brought consciousness, and with it a knowl- edge of their desolate condition. The young men have changed their location, and now occupy the eastern part of the island. This change was made because, while loitering about the eastern shore, weeks before, the cap- tain had discovered a strip of dark shadow, away to the east, stretching from north to south as far as the eye could reach. This was hailed with rejoicing, and they im- Simple Simon, the Tramp. 137 mediately changed their location so that they might gaze upon the distant strip, for the captain felt sure that it was land. One day as they gazed longingly across the ex- panse of water, a new idea occurred to the cap- tain, and he spoke: “Donalbain, do you know that we would be a great deal happier if we were engaged in some kind of physical labor that would occupy our time?” “That's true. I have often thought, since being penned up on this island, and with so much time on our hands, what a wise dispensation of Provi- dence it is that there is some incentive to keep the hands, as well as the brains of the millions, employed,” replied Donalbain. “It is certainly a wise provision,” continued the captain, “and seems of comparatively recent ori- gin. We read of man at first wandering about, much as the animals do to-day. Next, his superior wisdom is the means of plunging him into trouble, because he can reason from cause to effect, and in so doing, reaches out, mentally, into the future for pleasures which he cannot enjoy at the pres- ent time. Next, his mind turns to battle, first for revenge alone, and afterwards for glory, and later for possession. Then comes a desire to ex- cel in different pursuits, which should fill the heart of every civilized person, and which keeps him in the path of rectitude. It is what prompts people to carry on the numerous duties of each day, and enables the commercial machinery of all the great nations of the world to work in perfect unison.” “Yes,” replied Donalbain, “I have often thought that if one-half the people of any great city, should Simple Simon, the Tramp. I39 “As you say, there would be no harm in trying,” rejoined the captain. “We could be as long about the job as we liked, working at it when the spirit moved us.” “The plan is worth trying,” continued Donal- bain, “and I begin to feel hopeful already. With- in a few weeks, or months, at the outside, we can have a large raft with sail and rudder complete, and capable of riding the sea when it is free from storm.” To-day they are diligently engaged in manual labor. The ground is strewn with chips, and sev- eral large logs lie side by side in the edge of the water, and bound together with vines. It is a raft, and is the result of many weeks of hard labor. From its center rises a pole a dozen feet high, with cross-bars on which is a sail made from the leaves and bark of trees, carefully sewed together with delicate tendrils, and tacked to the cross- bars with wooden pins. From the latter part of the raft projects a rudder, hewn from a long pole, and kept in place by two wooden pegs. “There, isn’t she a beauty? Who says we are not shipbuilders?” said Donalbain, with a laugh. “You are right, she is a beauty; the very finest this island ever produced. All that remains to be done now is to store her hold full of provisions, and then we shall be ready for the trip,” replied the captain. So, a clumsy box was brought aboard, fastened together with wooden pins, and covered with hewn slabs. Inside this box was an assortment of nuts, fruit and meat, besides a hewn vessel full of wa- ter. > I4O Simple Simon, the Tramp. * With what happy hearts they stepped aboard their little craft and unfurled the sail! Then, as the breeze caught it, and the raft moved slowly out to sea, cheer after cheer awoke the solitude, until our young heroes were so hoarse they could shout no more. What a day of triumph and happiness was this for those unfortunates, after being on a desolate island for so many months! “I never was so happy in my life, or else the in- toxication of this hour has driven the recollection of all past events out of my mind,” wheezed Don- albain, for both had shouted until they could hardly speak aloud. “There is certainly something in an experience like this that seems almost to upset one's reason, and drive one mad with joy,” replied the captain. “If the strip of shadow in the east only proves to be land containing friendly human beings, we shall be well paid for our weeks of hard labor,” remarked Donalbain. “Provided we reach it alive,” observed the cap- tain. “The constant moving of these logs, no mat- ter how quiet the sea appears, will, in time, wear the vines in two, under which circumstances we shall be obliged to swim for life.” Then they relapsed into silence, and it is prob- able they built many castles in air, regarding their immediate future, should the shadow really prove to be land. The uncertain outlines grew more and more dis- tinct as the gentle breeze wafted them onward, and by noon, they could easily make out permanent landmarks. Still more distinct grew the ol' lines Simple Simon, the Tramp. I4 I until at last the voyagers were only a mile away. The young men tried to shout, but they made only a sorry attempt, for their vocal organs refused to respond. Finally Donalbain began relieving him- self of his outer garments, wheezing as he did so: “I can’t wait any longer for this clumsy old craft; I am going to swim for it, for the sea is as smooth as glass;” and he plunged into the water. The captain was not long in following his ex- ample, and soon they were racing for the shore, leaving the raft to follow at leisure. They were soon dancing and capering about on the green grass of their new home, like madmen. “How I wish I could yell!” articulated Donal- bain, in a stage whisper. “I, too, but I guess we shall have to take it out in dancing and climbing trees,” replied the cap- tain, in a tone scarcely more audible. “This must be a very large island, if indeed it is not the mainland.” The raft soon floated ashore, and the hungry pair built a fire and prepared their first meal in this new land. The reader would hardly recognize in these bearded men, with bronzed features, calloused hands, and rather shabby clothing, the immaculate young men who landed on the little island more than half a year before. They have become regu- lar pioneers, and are well inured to hardship. “We did not need much fresh water or provi- sions for so short a voyage,” remarked Donalbain. “That is very true, but who would ever have imagined we would come through so easily. The Simple Simon, the Tramp. I43 CHAPTER XXIII. THE next morning our two eager tourists started out on a voyage of exploration. That night they camped by a large log, and cut and threw down boughs upon the ground to form a bed upon which one sat while the other reclined. It was during Donalbain's watch, along towards morning, and he was doing all in his power to keep awake, when his ear caught the careful tread of approaching feet, from the opposite side of the log. He was fully awake in an instant, and had his revolver ready for active operation. Nearer came the object, cautiously, using every care to approach as quietly as possible, until it was ready to spring upon the log, when it stopped and listened. Donalbain could hear his own heart beat with excitement as he aimed his revolver in the direc- tion of the foe. Had the fire been burning brightly, there would have been no danger, but it had sunk to only a few embers, and so afforded no protection against wild beasts. Suddenly there was a spring, and the form of a huge panther alighted upon the log. He pre- sented a terrible appearance to our young hero. With lips tightly drawn back, exposing his blood- red gums, from which protruded two sets of glis- tening fangs, and with great fierce eyes glaring wildly about, the picture was enough to strike ter- I44 Simple Simon, the Tramp. ror to the heart of a more experienced hunter than Donalbain. “Bang!” went Donalbain's revolver; then springing to his feet he uttered a war-whoop which penetrated the dense forest, and echoed and re- echoed in the distance; at the same time, he grasped a firebrand and flourished it wildly about his head. “Great God, what has happened?” said the cap- tain, springing to his feet, with eyes protruding from their sockets, and revolver grasped in his right hand. “Have you gone mad?” “Not exactly gone mad, but nearly frightened to death,” said Donalbain, laughing heartily. “If you had witnessed the sweet vision that I did only a moment ago, you would be in a better condition to appreciate my story, but as it is, I fear my de- scription will fall rather short of the mark.” Then he proceeded to relate to the captain the particulars of the incident, interspersing his re- marks with hearty peals of laughter. “I don’t suppose I came within a rod of him with my revolver,” said Donalbain, “but the look of terror which came into his eyes when I jumped up and yelled and whirled the firebrand around, was certainly too funny;” and they both laughed heartily. After traveling for several hours in an easterly direction, they broke through a narrow belt of tangled wildwood, and found themselves in an opening, from which they looked upon a sight that filled them with alternating joy and fear. A little bay lay before them, and on the narrow beach were a dozen or more men, swarthy, desperate Simple Simon, the Tramp. I45 looking fellows. A short distance from the shore, was a vessel, lying at anchor. - The young men retreated and concealed them- selves in the thicket. But curiously enough, they had been seen by the men on shore, also by a Sentinel on board the vessel, who was looking towards the land. “Something more than usual has excited them, for they appear very much agitated,” said the cap- tain. At that moment several armed men moved rap- idly along the beach towards the north, while an- other division started south. Others shouldered their rifles and came leisurely towards the woods, whistling and singing as they advanced; but no one came directly towards them. “That looks suspicious,” declared the captain. “I believe we are discovered, and they are going to try to capture us by stratagem. My opinion is that we had better fly for our lives.” The next instant they were making their way, as fast as possible, through tangled vines and brush. “Here, let's crawl into this hollow log,” said Donalbain, after they had run a short distance. “Come on and crawl in, feet first,” and he illus- trated by getting down on all fours, and backing into the large opening. The captain followed, and was hardly concealed from view before several of the ruffians met near by, and after discussing matters in an unknown tongue for a few moments, they sat down upon the log to rest. The hearts of our young heroes pounded so violently, they felt sure the pirates would hear them. - 146 Simple Simon, the Tramp. Presently, others came up from different di- rections, all talking at the same time, and seeming much perplexed over the sudden disappearance of our young friends. Then one went to the end of the log and peered in, but as it was total darkness inside, he could see nothing. The young men grasped their revolvers and prepared for battle. Another form appeared at the opening. They were examining the disturbed soil at the entrance and our heroes knew that their doom was sealed. Finally the outlaws called to their companions, and soon the whole company were very much in- terested in the matter. A long pole was cut and thrust into the opening, but the inmates managed to avoid being injured by it. They were greatly frightened, lest their enemy should decide to send a shower of bullets into their retreat, but nothing of the kind happened. At last the pirates began chopping with their hunting axes, and in a short time daylight began to shine through in several places. The young men shifted their position so that by crouching as close together as possible, the pi- rates would just miss them on either side, although they well knew that as soon as the light was let into the opening near them they would be dis- covered. They nerved themselves for the ordeal. “You guard one opening and I will guard the other,” whispered the captain, “and don’t shoot until we can easily bring down a man apiece, and perhaps get a shot at the second.” The opening grew larger and larger, and finally the captain said, “Select your man, and when I say “three, fire; don’t wait an instant after you 148 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER xxIV. “VERY well,” said Allen, “here is my proposi- tion: “The men are on a strike, as you know, and the circumstances are against ever adjusting matters satisfactorily with the Squire. I have watched the thing from the start, and everything points to- wards there being a big row, and probably a great deal of property destroyed, and without a doubt, some lives lost. “The letter I spoke about coming into my pos- session, at the beginning of our conversation, also the interview of young Carey and Swaggerhoff with Simple Simon, from which they learned how Miss Brown regards you, are all points in my fa- vor, for thereby I am enabled to interest you vitally in the matter. Your exorbitant fee, which the boys feel they cannot pay; the Squire's de- termination not to yield in the matter, and many other circumstances, form an array in my favor which beckon me on to desperate action, with de- termination that it seems impossible to resist.” “Well, and what would you do?” said Sly, calmly, as he noted the increasing excitement of the chairman. - “Do! Why, do nothing, to be sure,” replied Allen, “let others do. You are influential with Simple Simon, the Tramp. I 5 I comply with your part of the contract, knowing at the same time that it would be the ruination of me.” “Very true, but with such a paper against me, in your hands, how am I to know that you would not play me false, and use this as a means to ruin me?” “I would make a paper over my signature, and give it to you at the same moment that you gave me yours. In this way we would both be pro- tected,” explained Allen. Again there was silence for a few moments. Allen said nothing, for he imagined that the law- yer was turning the matter over in his mind, and trying to reconcile himself to so desperate a propo- sition. He was very much mistaken, however, for Sly was doing nothing of the kind. He was hesitating simply for effect, and he was playing his part well. “You couldn’t give me until to-morrow noon to think this over, could you?” “Till to-morrow noon l’’ ejaculated Allen. “Why not let you think it over until next Christmas! I tell you the very success of the thing depends upon almost immediate action.” Then Sly said, slowly and apparently with great effort, “Then—I—consent.” “Good! Let's get right to business and draw up the papers,” and springing to his feet, Allen patted the lawyer approvingly on the shoulder. Then he left Sly, and hastened to his own office, where he proceeded to draw up and sign the strongest paper he could write, after which he has- tened to the lawyer's office. I 52 Simple Simon, the Tramp. Sly had his document all written when Allen returned, and they now exchanged, each carefully perusing the other's document. Each knew per- fectly well that the contents were not worth the paper on which they were drawn, further than placing in the hands of the other, a formidable weapon for mutual protection. 156 Simple Simon, the Tramp. until the injured party had entirely recovered, physically and mentally. They would have thrown themselves into the sea, but the eyes of the pirates were upon them every moment. Therefore, the only thing they could do was to be patient and hope for final rescue. When the trio finally returned to the ship, the pirate reported that his slaves had stubbornly re- fused to do a stroke of work, and that he was obliged to bring them to terms, with a whip. “I would have smashed their heads with a rock, had I been in your place,” chimed in several voices. The days wore wearily away into weeks, and the almost never-ending weeks formed themselves into vast expanses of time, called months. While the young men were confined as slaves, the pirates had many adventures. They never attacked an enemy unless they were very certain that their foe was much inferior in strength. They stole and plundered in small towns, and attacked wrecks when they considered them so far disabled that they could not show resistance. * Months had passed since our young heroes were captured by the pirates, and during that time, not one word had passed between the two. They had learned the language of their associates, and were allowed to converse with them when one of the rascals saw fit to spend his valuable time in that way. The boys had become abject slaves, to all appearances, and the hard usage, coupled with their many deprivations, had confused their minds to a certain extent, and they had lost exact count of the number of months they had been confined. One day, -a day never to be forgotten by them Simple Simon, the Tramp. I 57 —the two slaves noticed an unusual stir among their captors. It was unusual, from the fact that their actions seemed to be governed by fear, to a considerable extent. The fact developed that they had been signaled by a passing vessel, and upon returning the usual salutation, they were again asked to allow the signaling vessel to come near enough to communicate with them, as important matters were at stake. This filled them with alarm, for they feared the ship contained officials who might want to pry into their private affairs; and that would be em- barrassing, under the peculiar circumstances. So, instead of responding, as requested, they turned tail to the enemy, and steamed away as fast as ever they could. This aroused the suspicion of the other vessel, which bore down upon them, determined to over- take them and teach a lesson of respect. Great excitement prevailed aboard the pirate ship, and they immediately prepared for battle. On came the pursuers as fast as steam and wind could carry them, steadily gaining on the outlaws. When within cannon shot, they signaled the pi- rates to halt, but upon receiving no reply, the enemy sent a ball whizzing after the fleeing ship; then another and another followed. The stranger came nearer and nearer, and the pirates were getting very much excited. They were no match for the enemy and they knew it. They also knew that if they should be captured, as they were sure to be, every circumstance would be against them, and it would be little less than a miracle if they were allowed to go free. 158 Simple Simon, the Tramp. Finally the pirates began to arrange matters on board their vessel so that appearances would not be so strong against them. They could not leave their prisoners shackled, as that would be conclu- sive evidence that there was something wrong, and they did not wish to kill them, although the matter was discussed. They had found the young men so valuable as servants, their lives were spared, on account of their future usefulness, should the outlaws be fortunate enough to escape from their pursuers. So, it was agreed to relieve them of their shackles, if they would promise not to reveal their identity. In accordance with these arrangements, the irons were taken from their ankles, and for the first time in months, the young men could move about naturally. The pirates had wisely refrained from any show of fight, for they intended to make a pretense of being modest traders, and fleeing from the stran- ger under the impression that she was a pirate ship, and after their treasures. The stranger stopped firing when within easy range, for those on board were mystified at not re- ceiving a reply from the retreating boat. They argued that it must be a friend or very weak enemy, and if such were the case, there would be no occasion for bloodshed or destruction of prop- erty. * Simple Simon, the Tramp. I 59 CHAPTER XXVI. WHEN the retreating vessel saw that there was no possible escape by flight, it surrendered. As the armed sailors came on board, the pirates made a great pretense of fear. They fell upon their knees and begged, “Mr. ‘Piro, not kill.” Our young friends thought that the rascals rather overdid the matter, but they were obliged to ape the manners of the rest, and so fell upon their knees and begged for mercy. The pirates each carried concealed weapons, and it was agreed that, should the slaves reveal themselves, and thereby commit the rest of the gang, the pirates would whip out their arms and fight for dear life, first riddling the young men with bullets. Therefore, as great as the temptation was, and as near freedom as they seemed to be, they were powerless to do the first thing to assist themselves. They could only wait and see how matters would develop. Fortunately the captain of the strange ship proved to be no novice in the art of war, and he wisely decided that whether friend or foe, it was always best to be on the safe side, and so he promptly ordered his men to seize and securely bind every one of the ruffians, and to place their Simple Simon, the Tramp. I6 I the captain had tried to attract the attention of the commander, from the first, but the roar and confusion of the battle, the rolling and tumbling and cursing of the men until the next victim was secured, and then the tramping of feet, the beg- ging for mercy, and the commands of the officers, had baffled all attempts to make their voices heard above the general din and uproar. But now was the eventful moment. Each vic- tim had been snatched from the gang of pirates as they huddled together in the further quar- ter of the deck. They were seized and jerked into place, and the noose fitted over their neck, in an instant, while they continued to struggle and shout until the very last. Therefore the chances seemed small for our friends, and as Donalbain was rudely torn from the crowd of ruffians, and the same treatment was about to be administered to him, the captain made a great effort and rolled, tumbled, and kicked (for he was securely bound, hand and foot) him- self forward, so that he attracted the attention of the executioners, one of whom was about to strike him with a boat hook. At that instant he said, with a mighty voice that could be clearly dis- tinguished above the confusion of the hour: “You are about to hang an innocent citizen of the United States, and a captive of the pirate ship, and may his blood be upon your souls!” The executioner paused, and the commander raised his hand for them to desist for a moment. Meeting with success thus far, Captain Grant continued: “If you will listen to my words, we can easily I62 Simple Simon, the Tramp. prove that we are not of this gang by choice. Ex- amine our ankles and see the marks of chains we have worn for half a year, until to-day, when we were liberated to help fight.” The commander was astounded, and stepping forward, said to Donalbain: “Who are you and how did you come aboard this pirate ship?” Donalbain answered: “My name is Donalbain Bennington, son of Colonel Bennington of Chicago, and I was on my way to Germany to finish my musical education, when the vessel of which Captain Grant, yonder, was master, was disabled by a storm, and all on board perished, except him and me, who succeeded in floating to a small island, where we remained for nearly six months. Then we built a rude raft and floated to another island, and were taken by these pirates and imprisoned as their slaves, where for many months, it seems years, we have been their shackled slaves, performing all their drudg- ery and receiving in payment the vilest of treat- ment.” “Release these two young men and bring them into the cabin. Keep a guard over them, however, but hang every one of these black rascals, and see that you do the job up brown,” said the comman- der with a queer look on his face, after which re- mark he led the way to the cabin. When once there he questioned the young men closely, and then ordered one of his men to bring a letter that he had found in the floating box, several days before. He then asked Donalbain to relate the substance of the letter, as he followed 164 Simple Simon, the Tramp. Presently the commander joined them, and the conversation took a more general turn. They were not slow in showing appreciation to the comman- der for his kindness to them, and, on the other hand, he was never tired of hearing them relate incidents of their strange adventures. They found that the vessel was bound for New York City, and their joy was beyond expression. A few days more, and they again stepped foot upon the pavements of the metropolis of the United States. Even were it possible, there would be no need to record the thoughts that filled the minds of these two, as they hove into the harbor of New York City. “You will have to trust us for our passage,” they laughingly informed the captain, whereupon a sudden thought occurred to him, and he said, as he thrust a gold coin into the hand of each, “Here, take this, you will need it. I for- got that the conveyances of New York City do not carry one free, be he king or peasant.” “We will see that you are well remunerated for your kindness and trouble. We have your address, and you may receive a slip of paper, with our names signed, which will reimburse you, to a cer- tain extent.” “Do not even think of such a thing for a mo- ment,” said the big-hearted commander. “Why, all I regret about the whole affair is, I shall be obliged to put to sea without you. I want to give you a standing invitation to make my vessel your home, whenever you feel like again abandoning yourselves to the mercy of the waves,” and so, with Simple Simon, the Tramp. 165 the kindest feelings of appreciation and friendship, they parted. Good food, combined with plenty of rest, had restored Donalbain and the captain to their usual health and spirits, and the excitement of the mo- ment lent additional vigor and strength, so that, as they sprang into a cab, a casual observer never would have imagined that they had been casta- ways for nearly a year, and slaves to the lowest gang of robbers upon the high seas, for nearly six months more. Captain Grant gave directions to the driver, and they were soon rattling over the pavements in the direction of his father's residence. In time they arrived at their destination, and sprang out. They had not been observed, and passed from one room to another. Upon opening the door to the library, the captain discovered his father and mother, quietly engaged in conversation. “Mother! Father!” he exclaimed, joyously. The mother uttered a scream, sprang to her feet, and fell forward, but she was caught in the strong arms of the captain, where she lay, sobbing, while she clung to him frantically. His father ad- vanced and threw both arms about his boy, while the tears streamed from his eyes, as he exclaimed, “My son my son risen from the dead! My darl- ing boy, we thought you dead!” Donalbain took the liberty to step into another room, where he remained for some time. Finally the captain came to him, and after a word of apology for leaving him to entertain himself, es- corted the young man to the library and intro- duced him to Mr. and Mrs. Grant. Simple Simon, the Tramp. 169 “Oh, you don’t thsay thso, how ferfectly dwead- ful. “I thshould have died, I know I thshould,” she replied. Then ten more maidens, who sat near by her, clasped their hands, shook their heads solemnly and said, “Me, too.” “And did you we-ally have to wa-ah old clothes?” she asked. “Yes, we had to wear old clothes that were not distinguished for cleanliness,” he replied, with a merry twinkle in his eye. “O-h!” shrieked eleven voices, and the lady in- terrogator clasped a lace handkerchief, apparently about the size of a postage stamp, to her eyes, to shut out the terrible vision, at the same time press- ing her dainty hand to her heart as though to still its beating, as she panted for breath during a period of several minutes, and then said: “Oh, Misther Bennington, that wath too dwead- ful; how did you ever thstand it?” Whereupon her ten associates all echoed solemn- ly, with clasped hands and a shake of the head, “How did you ever stand it?” “And did the dweadful pirots make you dine with them?” questioned the lady. “No,” said Donalbain, mischievously, “they simply threw the leavings to us after they had eaten their fill, just to see us quarrel over them.” “0-h, I tshall thSurely expih,” she wailed, as she dropped her head upon one of her companion’s shoulders, saying in a voice scarcely audible, “Fan me, Lithe, fan me or I thshall faint!” Whereupon every member of the chorus suppressed a scream and all began fanning her. 170 Simple Simon, the Tramp. It was some time before she could sit erect with- out assistance, and when she did, she sat with closed eyes, fanning herself vigorously. “I feel thstronger now, Misther Bennington, please proceed to relate the remainder of your thstory. Donalbain proceeded to clear his throat and his eyes sparkled with merriment as he said: “You see, when the vessel went down, the captain and I stood on the deck. He, poor fellow, couldn’t swim a stroke, and was very timid.” “Poor fellow, did he suhvive?” interrupted the lisper. And her ten companions all echoed, “Did he survive?” “Yes, he lived to a good old age and died happy, -” “Oh, bravo!” again interrupted the fair dam- sel, as she clapped her dainty hands; and her sup- porters all exclaimed “Bravo!” and clapped their dainty hands. “Oh, Misther Bennington, I think your thstory is p—erfectly b–eautiful. I would like to travel and be thshipwrecked and capchud by savage pi- —rots if I was suah I wouldn’t be injued.” “There is not the slightest chance for one to get injured if one only keeps out of the way of dan- ger,” he replied, seriously. “I thsuppose not,” replied the innocent, and her ten friends all came in on the chorus with, “I sup- pose not.” “But, Misther Bennington, didn’t you get just perfectly aw—fully lonethsome away off there among thstrangers?” “Not in the least, not in the least. I never en- 172 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER XXVIII. As Donalbain repaired to his room that even- ing he chanced to pass his hand over a bruise upon his head, which served as a reminder of bygone days. He caressed several other sore places about his shoulders. “How wonderful!” he said, “to think that be- fore my bruises are well I am raised from the position of slave, to such surroundings as I now enjoy.” He sat down and gazed into space, and his mind reverted to the days of slavery; and the cir- cumstances which had placed these bruises upon his person passed vividly before him. Then an- other followed, the remembrance of which had helped to keep him alive for so many weary months. It was the vision of a beautiful woman, fairer to him than all else in the world, and he meditated: “As soon as possible I must go to Brownville and ascertain if my darling is still alive and un- married. Strange she never answered my letter. But I must not give up the struggle, simply on that account. The letter might have been lost. I will say nothing to my parents about the matter until I am sure of winning her, for it would do neither them nor myself any good.” Donalbain had brought home the letter which Simple Simon, the Tramp. I73 he had written on the “Sea Gull,” and had read it to his parents, but had wisely omitted the para- graph referring to Lillian. He had been at home but a short time, but had fully recovered from his experience with the pi- rates, when he was seized with an uncontrollable desire to see Lillian. So, after telling his parents that he had some matters to attend to in Iowa, but that he would not be gone more than two or three days, he bade them good-by, caught a passing cab, and was driven rapidly to the Central, as de- scribed in the first paragraph of this book. The reader will remember that he was riding quietly along when the train was wrecked. It was a terrible disaster. Two trains collided, and before the passengers could be rescued, the cars took fire and burned many to death. A long list of the dead was published in all the leading papers of the Northwest, but through an error of a reporter, his name went into print as D. Pen- nington, of Chicago. The only clue to his death was the fact that an old friend of his with whom he had been engaged in conversation only a few minutes before the wreck, and who was saved, had reported his case. Although the papers made a mistake in the name, this friend promptly telegraphed Colonel Bennington of the sad event, who came with all possible speed to the scene of the disaster. But nothing could be found but the charred remains of a few unfortunates, burned beyond all possible rec- ognition. So, the Colonel was obliged to return home without so much as the dead body of his be- loved son. I74 Simple Simon, the Tramp. With bowed form and tottering steps he de- scended from his carriage and entered the hall. Mrs. Bennington was there to meet him, and needed no further explanation of his unsuccessful effort to find their darling, than the dejected appearance of her husband. There was no need of words. Their hearts were too full of grief to find relief in utterance. They could only weep. She clung to him in despair, as her whole form shook violently with uncontrollable emotion. The strain was too great for the Colonel, and he placed his arms about his wife’s neck and drew her cheek against his, and wept aloud, great honest, manly sobs, as though his heart would break. •k sk sk : sk :k sk * *k * Shortly after Duncan Sly’s interview with Al- len, he paid a visit to Squire Brown. He found him in his private office, and they were soon en- gaged in earnest conversation. - “You think the boys will finally give up the struggle, and go back to work without concessions on my part?” asked the Squire. “I am sure they will if you will only maintain a decided stand,” answered Sly. “What grounds have you for such an opinion?” resumed the Squire. “I have just been conversing with Chairman Allen, and have also passed a few words with some other strikers,” responded Sly. “And you detect signs of weakening on their part?” asked the Squire. * * “Unmistakable evidence, Allen says that they Simple Simon, the Tramp. I79 had received at the hands of the Squire, and treat- ing to poor whiskey all the old loafers, and in fact, all who expressed themselves as being op- posed to the Squire's interests. The plan worked well, and about eleven o’clock in the evening they were able to get two small companies of men together at the different saloons, and say to them: “The town is being overrun with strikers. Let's take a run out on the back streets and see what they are doing, and when we get back it will be my treat.” The loafers had been used so well at the hands of these young men, they could not refuse, so fol- lowed their leaders. They passed within sight of each other, and every follower in each company sincerely believed that the strikers were rising in full force. Thus encouraged, they became more desperate, and when a tongue of flame leaped from the roof of Factory Number One, followed by the furious ringing of the firebell and the rattle of horses’ hoofs, as the fire department responded to the signal, and people rushed hurriedly from their homes and ran along the streets, they seemed filled with a desire to perpetrate almost any act of violence. The two companies had now united, and had also been, augmented, until they numbered nearly two hundred reckless characters, all bent on mis- chief. They ran directly to Factory Number Two, and set fire to it. No sooner were the flames leap- ing upward, than the mob ran for Factory Num- ber Three and treated it in the same manner. On they sped from one to another, until six large I8O Simple Simon, the Tramp. buildings were in flames, and Duncan Sly’s vision was being verified. “Let’s away to his home,” said a loud voice, and the crazy mob headed itself in that direction. Soon they were on the spot, out of breath, cov- ered with perspiration, and beside themselves with excitement. I 82 Simple Simon, the Tramp. * with the wind. The Squire hurried into the house after his hat, and upon returning, sprang into the carriage. Sly was about to follow, but the Squire begged him to remain, lest his own home might be attacked, when there would be no one present to stay the hand of the ruffian. “It is worse than madness, Squire Brown, for you to venture upon such an expedition,” said Sly, but before the sentence was finished, the Squire had given directions to Mike, and the two were being conveyed down the gravel pike, at a rapid rate, behind two fiery thoroughbreds. They had just reached a crossing of the high- way, when the mob, bound for Squire Brown's house, confronted them, and the two spirited horses dashed off in terror to the right, entirely beyond the control of the driver, and before they had run half a mile, they were floundering in the ditch by the side of the road, with the carriage a total wreck. Men, horses, and carriage were thrown together in one confused heap, and when the horses regained their footing and darted away in the darkness, they had left part of the carriage and two mangled forms behind. re sk * sk sk *k * * * * All was confusion at the Brown mansion, and the inmates, aroused from slumber, made their appearance, very much alarmed. Lillian was nearly overcome with fright when she was in- formed of her father's rash act, but Sly partially consoled her by repeatedly saying that there could be no danger. They were watching the fire from the window, Simple Simon, the Tramp. 183 when sounds of the approaching mob arrested their attention and in a few moments the house was surrounded by a crowd of angry men, bent on mischief. The servants wailed, and declared that they would all be killed, but Lillian was calm, al- though very pale. Simple Simon had disappeared for a few moments, but soon re-entered the room, holding a butcher knife in one hand and a stove poker in the other. “Never mind, Miss Lillian, me kill 'em all, they come in house.” “You are a brave fellow, Simon, but I trust they will do us no harm. My only fear is for my dear father.” Shouts of “We must see Squire Brown,” were heard from all directions, and Duncan Sly was at his wits' end to know just what to do. Finally he went out upon the porch, and said in a loud voice, “Gentlemen, your bird has flown. When he saw the fire, in the city, he ordered his carriage, and nothing that I could do prevented him from leaving in great haste.” But, as it had been previously planned by Sly and Allen for the former to make a pretense of concealing the Squire, no one believed his words, not even young Carey and Swaggerhoff, and so all further explanations were drowned by a chorus of voices all calling for Mr. Brown. In a short time they began pelting the house with missiles; then they went still further, and coming upon the porch, demanded admittance, declaring that they would search the house, and when the Squire was found, would tar and feather him if he did not conform to their wishes. 186 , Simple Simon, the Tramp. He had found several broken bones, and the Squire was in a critical condition. “If we can only keep him in ignorance of his financial losses, and keep his mind from dwelling upon his business affairs, we can easily save him,” said Doctor Wheeler, as he worked over the pros- trate form. “I will spend the greater part of the day here, each day, besides doing all in my power to restore order among the strikers. The Squire is my truest friend, and has been more like a father than a mere friend to me since I came to Brownville,” said Sly, pretending to be affected. “Yes,” answered the doctor, “everybody has no- ticed the intimacy which exists between you and Mr. Brown, and it is universally conceded that it has been through his efforts, that you are the successful man you are to-day.” Sly winced, but said, “He has certainly done a great deal for me, and I have always tried to show my appreciation in every way.” “Well, you ought to,” continued the doctor, “for, if ever there was a good man, and a kind one, that person is Squire Brown; and if ever any young man in the whole world was, and is, or ever will be, under obligations to his superior in posi- tion and influence, you certainly ought to be to the Squire. For the first time in many years Sly was touched, and remained silent, but he thought: “If it is not too late, I will let my future ac- tions atone for my past; but, ah! the possibility of winning that girl. I never loved her until I gathered her sweet form in my arms this evening, I90 Simple Simon, the Tramp. that night, but after the scene at Squire Brown's residence, they had gone to their boarding house, packed their trunks, and taken the night train for Chicago, unwilling to trust their lives and fortunes in Brownville. sk * :k :k sk sk * sk * sk st “I don’t think it is safe for you to go to Squire Brown's office this morning,” said Mrs. Goodenuff to Mabel as they stood on the front porch and looked down the street. “There can be no danger during broad daylight; besides, there seems not to be a living soul upon the streets. Squire Brown may need my assistance this morning, for he has been having much trouble of late, and his correspondence is in bad condi- tion.” Saying this, she put her arm around her mother, who accompanied her to the garden gate, as was her custom. Upon arriving there they were startled by see- ing the form of a young man lying face down- wards near the gate. They both hurried forward, and upon turning him over were surprised to find him no less a personage than Simple Simon. They found the body warm, and placing a hand over his heart, its beating told them that the youth still lived. Calling their gardener they ordered the prostrate form carried into the house and placed upon the bed in their “spare” room. Then they sent the gardener, in all haste, after Doctor Wheeler, who arrived within a few mo- ments. The doctor recognized the unfortunate, and while he was examining and dressing the wounds, he related to the horrified women the Simple Simon, the Tramp. I9 I tragedy which had taken place at the residence of Squire Brown, the night before. “Give as good service to the poor fellow as possible, and I'll have him removed as soon as convenient to some other quarter. Miss Brown will feel quite relieved to learn of his whereabouts, I am sure, for she expressed real concern when she learned that he was missing, last evening. “Are his injuries serious?” asked Mabel. “He is severely bruised about the head, and there seem to be several deep gashes, with a frac- ture of the skull in one place, but by a delicate op- eration I can restore him to health.” “We will keep him here until he is entirely well. Poor fellow, I have always felt so sorry for him I’’ remarked Mrs. Goodenuff. The doctor worked faithfully over Simon until he felt satisfied that he had done all in his power for him, and then he left him in care of Mabel and her mother, leaving a generous supply of medi- cine, with ample directions for administering the Sanle. sk sk *k * sk sk sk :k :k •k When Simple Simon stood just inside the door of Squire Brown's residence, with poker in one hand and butcher knife in the other, on the night of the riot, no one imagined that the simpleton held in his hands the destiny of Duncan Sly and Chairman Allen, as well as the happiness of every important character in this book. Allen was one of the principal rioters, and was the first one inside the door. He was disguised so that he could not be easily recognized. As Simon struck out right and left, he landed Simple Simon, the Tramp. I93 I will make confession of all I know about the rascal, and may the Lord have mercy upon our wicked souls l’’ So, on the next day, the proper officer was sent for, but when he learned the nature of his errand he sent for Mabel Goodenuff to take down the con- fession, in shorthand, so that there might be no mistake. Allen also gave into the officer's keep- ing the documents signed by Sly, telling him that he would find one signed by himself upon the person of Sly or among his private papers. sk * sk sk *k sk *k :k :k * The next day, after the disaster, Lillian did not feel able to rise, and so contented herself by re- ceiving frequent messages regarding her father's condition. During the afternoon the doorbell rang furiously, and upon Biddie's opening the door, Miss Rasper stepped into the house. “I have ben to no end of trouble to cum clear up here for to pay a visit to the dead and the dyin'! If I’d a know’d it was sich a long, hot drive, I reckon I’d a-staid to hum as I orter. Tell Miss Lillian I’m here and here's my card, and I don’t want no ‘not to hum' business about this, nuther. I was a-tellin’ Sister Spikes, >> . But Biddie had placed a chair for the caller and retired to Lillian’s room. “An’ it's an awful tongue she's got in her mouth, to be shure. I fear she'll kill the loikes of ye’s with her blarney.” “Show the poor thing in, Biddie; she means well, and has come a good ways,” replied Lillian, kindly. 198 Simple Simon, the Tramp. The conversation drifted from one subject to another, Sly doing the principal part of the enter- taining. He told her of his interest in the church, of his devotion to her father, of his in- fluence over Allen and the other men, which he had used to the Squire's advantage. Sly had no intention of speaking to her of love when he sat down in her presence only an hour before, but everything had seemed in his favor, and he seized upon this opportunity to again broach the subject. He told her that since the evening on which she refused to become his wife, he had been utterly miserable and unfit for business; that if she still held out no hope, life would not be worth living. Lillian was quiet as he frankly opened his heart, and she thought: “Oh, that it were Donalbain Bennington pleading thus for my love. Why is it that things go so by opposites in this world? Some fair maiden probably loves Duncan Sly and he loves me; I love Donalbain Bennington, and he probably loves some beautiful Chicago belle worth millions, but who cares nothing for him.” Sly ceased speaking, and Lillian, realizing that she was in his presence, although she had heard but little of what he had said, acted somewhat confused. Sly was nearly beside himself with joy, and his face flushed as his whole frame quiv- ered with excitement, for he interpreted Lillian's silence and apparent confusion as good omens, and he was about to beg for her final answer then and there, when a well-dressed, rather distinguished- looking man made his appearance. Sly paused, thinking that the interruption would be .# tem- - * - ** s **. * i t - s . - * , , . " - - * - - - * , i. * : * (i. * - - * * ... r : .* * - ** . * * * * - , , , . . . . . in . . . . . . . * - • - - 1, ...) | | | || - - - • - - - * , lite . . . . - * * * t w" ( " .. ", , , , , , , * * * * * * * * * * ** - - - “.. - . . . * * * * - - - - - - , , *: ". * i. 1 -- * - * * * * *.*.*, *. * * - * , , , , * * . * * . . - - - * - - . . . . . . . . . . . . . t . - - * . . . ~ * * 1: s 1. - - f - - - * * s , , - *** * * ; it ! : ". . . " - * * *: * * * - * * . . . . . . * , , - * *** * * . * * * * * * t * . . . . ti .. f : * - *: it * 1. * - - t ... w, . f. , t , 'd : 111s ( ' '. t - - * - - * * r * , A 1. " . . . . . ." was - * - - - - * * * ** . . . . . . . . . . . * * * * * * * * * * * - - * 1- e - w is a te: " " : : * , , * : - - - - - - - - - - - - - Simple Simon, the Tramp. 2O I corded, so that there could be no mistake regarding the proper parties. Although but a short time had elapsed since the lawyer's incarceration, there had many strange events transpired, which we shall proceed to re- late. 2O2 Simple Simon, the Tramp. CHAPTER XXXIII. SIMPLE SIMON was in good hands. As soon as the trained nurses came from Chicago, Lillian directed that one of the men should go to the Goodenuff residence and take care of Simon. Lillian called frequently, and was glad when she was convinced that there was no danger. Her father and Mike had regained consciousness and were recovering rapidly. Insurance inspectors had been on the field, and a speedy and satisfactory settlement was sure to follow. Soon the factories would again be in running order. Mabel was given full power to open all the Squire's mail and answer all letters as her judg- ment dictated. This was not a difficult thing to do, as it consisted almost exclusively in writing letters explaining the situation. - This occupied her attention but a few hours a day, and she spent the rest of the time at her home, with her friends, and among the poor of the town. Since Simple Simon’s confinement in the Good- enuff residence, Lillian had learned to look upon Mabel and her mother as very superior people, and nearly every day the three might have been seen in one of Squire Brown’s best carriages, en- joying the balmy summer air. One day as Mabel sat by the bedside of Simple *. Simple Simon, the Tramp. 2O7 CHAPTER XXXIV. DoNALBAIN was not allowed to converse, until the next day, but he then felt so well and looked so bright he was allowed to resume the conversation. Lillian came in during the afternoon, but Donal- bain had instructed the nurse to report that he could see no one. He heard her sweet voice, and once he overheard her say something about “poor Simon,” but he could not understand what it was. Every day recorded a marked improvement in his condition, until he was able to sit up and read a little in the newspapers. One day he asked for a mirror, and was shocked to behold his wasted condition. He said to his nurse, “Send for a barber at once. I look like a savage.” The bar- ber came and soon transformed him into a bright, intelligent-looking young man. Mabel and her mother were very much pleased at the improved appearance of the young man, and complimented him highly, for he had become more like a son and brother to them than the poor foolish creature they had always known him to be. - That evening, as the trio were chatting together, Donalbain said, “I am strong enough to bear the excitement now, and there are two things I wish to do. One is to have an interview with Miss Brown, and the other is, to have my parents come Simple Simon, the Tramp. 209 “It was here on my bed only a few moments ago; ah, here it is,” and he handed it to Mrs. Goodenuff, who immediately left the room, greatly agitated. “What in the world is the meaning of this?” he said as he knit his brows; then as a new thought came to him he struck his left palm with his right fist as he said under his breath, turning purple with suppressed emotion, “I have it! I have it! This Mabel Goodenuff is no less a person than May Bell Goode, and her mother is the widow of John S. Goode. Eureka! I told the captain I would find his sweetheart.” Mabel and her mother did not appear in Donal- bain's room again that evening. They were too busy speculating over the article in the paper and meditating on what Donalbain had said regarding his young friend, the sea-captain. T' next forenoon, however, they made their appearance, and he could see that their faces wore a determined look. After a few commonplace re- marks, Mrs. Goodenuff said, “Did you say that the sea-captain was still searching for his sweetheart?” “He was, the last I knew anything about him, and I feel sure that he has not given up yet. He told me that he should never give up the search, and added that if ever I could give him any en- couraging information regarding the matter, it would make him the happiest man on earth,” said Donalbain. “I hardly know how to begin my story,” said Mrs. Goodenuff, “but John S. Goode was my hus- band.” “Yes,” said Donalbain, smiling, “and Captain 2 IO Simple Simon, the Tramp. Grant is May Bell Goode's young gentleman friend, and a nobler fellow never lived, and he is just dying to come to her.” “We were not sure how he would take our mis- fortunes,” said Mrs. Goode, “and to be on the safe side, came West, believing that if he were very much interested, he would find us.” “How could you expect any one to find you in this out-of-the-way place?” inquired Donalbain. “It seemed to us that the eyes of the whole world were on us. May Bell finished a course in shorthand at one of the colleges of Chicago, and then was sent, by her professor, to fill the position in Squire Brown’s office, where she has remained ever since.” “I will send two telegrams to-day; one to my parents and the other to Captain Grant. Then there is another thing; I am strong enough now, and I would like to see Miss Brown.” A message was dispatched and Lillian soon alighted from her carriage at the door of the Goode residence. When she was seated in the par- lor, a note was placed in her hand, and she read: “MISS BROWN:— “I am at present stopping in Brownville, and I crave the pleasure of an interview with you, “Respectfully, “DONALBAIN BENNINGTON.” Lillian read the note several times, to convince herself that she was not dreaming, then as the door opened softly, she raised her eyes, and there beheld the idol of her soul,—Donalbain Benning- 2 I 2 Simple Simon, the Tramp. and Mrs. Bennington, also Captain Grant, were soon traveling towards Brownville as fast as steam could carry them. . It was a day to be remembered when Donal- bain's parents arrived and were driven to Mrs. Goode's residence. Everybody cried and laughed at the same time, after which the sun began to shine again. A few days later, Captain Grant ar- rived, and everybody laughed and cried again. The Squire was now able to receive callers, and the Benningtons and Goodes and Captain Grant paid him a visit. He was overjoyed at seeing Simple Simon transformed into Donalbain Ben- nington, and to see his stenographer, Mabel Good- enuff, changed to May Bell Goode. Colonel Bennington, being a lawyer of note, in- vestigated the Duncan Sly will, and found that Mrs. Goode and May Bell were indeed the posses- sors of a considerable fortune. After a week of country-life, Donalbain's par- ents returned to Chicago, but the lovers re- mained. Every day Squire Brown's carriage was seen winding through pleasant drives, and the voices of the happy quartette could be heard in laughter and song. - In a month from the day Squire Brown met with his accident, the Benningtons and also the parents of Captain Grant were summoned to Brownville, when a double wedding took place at the residence of Squire Brown. The next morning the happy quartette left, with their parents, for Chicago, where they re- mained for a short time, and then went to New York, whence they journeyed to Europe. Simple Simon, the Tramp. 213 The reader need not be told that they selected for their voyage the vessel which had rescued Donalbain and the captain from slavery. The com- mander's face beamed with pleasure as the two young men introduced their brides, and he said: “I have liberated you young gentlemen from bondage once, but as you seem to enjoy your pres- ent captivity so well, and your captors seem to have a high appreciation of the good qualities of their slaves, I shall not interfere, but leave you to your own destruction.” The citizens of Brownville were very much wrought up over the whole affair, and Miss Rasper was heard to say, as the curtain went down: “I never did see sich goin’s on, in my hull life, no how, and I think this matter orter be sifted to the bottom. I was jest a-tellin’ Sister Spikes,—” THE END.