EMSMlfS V^JOI^ES. LLAiNGOBAITH; A STORY OF NORTH WALES, REV. ERASMUS W. JOJNES, AUTHOR OF THE CAPTIVE YOUTHS OF JITDAH," "THE ADOPTED SON JOF THE PHINCFJW," "THE OBEAT REVIVAL AT TONVILLE," "THE MAN WITH THE RUFFLED SHIRT," "SHARP WORDS ON! OLD FI.IXTKOCK CIRCUIT," ETC. UTICA, N. Y. THOMAS J. GRIFFITHS. 1886. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1880. BY REV. ERASMUS W. JONES, In the office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington. PREFACE. Midway between the northern ami southern ends of the map of England, on the west side, facing St. George's Channel, with its two arms thrown out to embrace the beautiful Cardigan Bay. the waters of which roll over the lost paradise of the "Hundred Lowland Townships/' is situated a section of country comprising twelve counties or shires, which, in the par- lance of political geography, is called " The Principality of Wales." Here the inhabitants are still using their own Welsh tongue as the language of the home, as the medium of business and social intercourse, and also of religious worship. This little country has fig- ured quite largely in the early annals of modern his- tory, and offers still an inviting field of investigation and study for people of other nationalities and tongues. The scene of the story now offered to the public is in the northern part of this Principality. The author believes that a large community of read- ers are ready to greet with a generous welcome any book added to the very few already existing in the English language, that will contribute its quota to- wards throwing a new light on that country and its people. He was convinced of this by the inter- est'awakened by articles of his touching the peculiar characteristics of his nation, which appeared a few years since in The Atlantic Monthly and The Ne f n~ York Independent. Hence this story. For the substance of the legends related by the min- strel at Thrush Grove, the stories told during the eve- ning at Havod, and those subsequently given at Druid's Grove, the author is under obligation to a charming little Welsh volume called " Cymru Fit" (Wales of the Past.) A word as to the pronunciation of the name "Llaii- gobaith." As our English friends cannot well give the sound of the Welsh LI. let them give it as in Lloyd. The accent comes on the second syllable, and the word is pronounced thus: Lldn-gob'-aith. E. w. j. CONTEXTS. CHAPTER I. PAGE. Schooldays Experience 9 CHAPTER II. Joy and a Journey 25 CHAPTER in. The Minstrel 'and a Pulpit Orator 37 CHAPTER IV. Nationality 49 CHAPTRR V. " Raven's Nest,'>nd a Tale of Cader Idris 61 CHAPTER VI. A Stratagem, and the " Gymanfa," 74 CHAPTER VII. Funeral Customs 83 CHAFFER VIIL Fair Meinir of the "Pant,' 91 CHAPTER IX. Rapid Transit 99 CHAPTER X. Mother's Love and " Dust to Dust," 109 CHAPTER XI. Parting and Plotting 118 Vi CONTENTS. CHAPTER XII. A Question and the Answer 128 CHAPTER XIII. A Covert from the Tempest 13 ^ CHAPTER XIV. A Night at the " Havod," 150 CHAPTER XV. Miss Thomas Loses her Watch 166 CHAPTER XVI. The Rescue on "Llyn Tegid," 176 CHAPTER XVII. Thomas Lloyd's Sister 184 CHAPTER XVIH. Reconciliation and Discoveries 195 CHAPTER XIX. Legal Consultation - - 212 CHAPTER XX. The Arrest 219 CHAPTER XXI. A Midnight Quarrel and a Flight 231 CHAPTER XXII. A Revelation at Druid's Grove 243 CHAPTER XXIII. Two Letters 253 CHAPTER XXIV. At Bala and the Shop," 267 CHAPTER XXV. Pulpit Orators . . 276 CONTENTS. VU CHAPTER XXVI. Riverside's New Master 288 CHAPTER XXVII. Some Excitement 301 CHAPTER XXVHI. The Narrative 314 CHAPTER XXIX. Eccentricity .. 328 CHAPTER XXX. Christmas Eve and " Plygain,"- 336 CHAPTER XXXI. Wedding Bells and a Dirge . . 345 CHAPTER XXXII. Conclusion. . .356 LLANGOBAITH; A STORY OF NORTH WALES. CHAPTER I. SCHOOL-DAYS EXPEDIENCE. Those who have traveled in North Wales, will not easily forget that grand chain of mountains extending from "Cader Idris" in the south, to " Peumaen Mawr" in the north , with the Snowdon toweling high above its fellows, like a giant monarch among his subjects. Under the shadow of one of these majestic elevations, and not far from the nourishing village of Llangobaith, stood two prominent farm-houses. In harmony with a Welsh custom, these residences, with the respective farms on which they stood, had their proper names, as well as did their owners or tenants. This answers an excellent purpose in a country where the Joneses and Williamses so overwhelmingly predominate. In this way, William Jones of Brithdir, is easily distinguished from William Jones of TyWrallt ; and Richard Will- iams of Oae'r-eithin is not confounded with his name- sake of Bryn-y-gloch. The two residences were Glan 10 LLANGOBAITH, V a/on, (Eiverside) and Llwyn y Derwydd, (Druid's Grove), while their masters were Evan Pugh and Thomas Lloyd. Our story demands the mention of another resi- dence which stood forth prominently among the best buildings in Llangobaith. It was partly a dwelling house, and partly a place of business. In America, the business part would have been called a store. In Wales, at that time it was termed a " shop." And for a village, the "shop" was on rather an extensive scale. For many years it had flourished under the careful man- agement of its proprietor, Morgan Edwards. The family proper, at Druid's Grove, consisted of the parents and an only child. Gwennie was a lovely girl of ten summers, whose sweet disposition and charming face easily won the affection of all who knew her. It was often remarked by the neighbors, that she had richly inherited the loving ways and spirit of her mother, and not those of her father. There was also in the family at this time a child, Mary Humph- reys, who had been left fatherless and motherless. Mary was exceedingly comely and bright. Mrs. Lloyd had taken her not only into her house, but also into her heart. Gwennie dearly loved the orphan, and treated her with the utmost kindness. Evan Pugh, of Eiverside, was considered by far the richest man in the vicinity. He was owner of the fine farm which, as an only son, he had inherited from SCHOOL- DAYS EXPERIENCE. 11 bis father. He married his wife in England, and she soon learned to speak the Welsh language with consid- erable ease. Pugh's wealth, as a matter of course, gave him much influence in the community, but he was really respected by but very few. The peasants viewed him in his true character, an unfeeling, proud, overbearing man. From his English wife these traits received no check. In a large measure, she possessed the spirit of her husband. They had one child, a boy of twelve years, who at a very early age gave unmistakeable evi- dences of a depraved heart. After an uncle of his mother, he was called Lucas. Morgan Edwards of the " shop '' had been left a wid- ower with two children. Llewelyn was a finely devel- oped lad, of sweet temper and resolute mind. He was eleven years of age. Helen, two years younger, was a sprightly black-eyed beauty, and greatly attached to her brother. Even before the death of their mother, the children had received the tender care of their aunt, a widowed sister of their father, who at the earnest re- quest of her brother, remained to superintend the affairs of the household . Some years passed away, and the young people were attending a private school of a high grade at Llangob- aith. Those traits which had shown themselves in childhood had been more fully developed. Llewelyn, Gwennie and Helen were great favorites, while Lucas, 12 LLANGOBAITH. by his haughty and vicious bearing, repelled all, except a very few of his own stamp. The popularity of young Edwards naturally excited the envy, jealousy and ha- tred of Pugh, which he manifested on all available occa- sions. In point of scholarship, he was left far behind, and this also increased his spite and malignity. It be- came a standing wonder to the school how Llewelyn could continue to meet the treatment with so much meekness and patience. Another cause of Lucas' ill will, was the very high place the " shop boy" seemed to occupy in the estima- tion of Gwennie Lloyd. Notwithstanding his perverse and depraved nature, Lucas was greatly stirred by the beauty and accomplishment of this girl, who was now verging on young womanhood. Several times he had made moderate advances, and although the young lady had treated him with civility, he had readily noticed the absence of those happy smiles that clothed her coun- tenance while in the society of Llewelyn Edwards. Attending the school there was also a youth of about Llewelyn's age, by the name of TaJiesin Roberts. His parents lived on a small farm in that vicinity, for which they paid a heavy rent. For a boy of seventeen, Talie- sin, in body and mind, was a noble specimen of devel- oping humanity. He was being educated at the expense of a wealthy widowed aunt, his mother's youngest sis- ter. For Llewelyn this young person had strong at- SCHOOL-DAYS EXPERIENCE. 13 tachment ; and no student at Llangobaith stood higher in the estimation of young Edwards, than did Taliesin. Of his age, he was a bright scholar, and David Thomas, the head teacher, was proud of his attainments. For some time Roberts had witnessed the manner in which Lucas and another young fellow by the name of John Spike, treated his friend, and at times his indignation would well nigh break loose. In his ardent love for young Edwards, he would almost forget the insults which he himself received from the same quarters. One summer noon, during their first term, our two fast friends were sitting together in a shady grove on the banks of a clear running brook, a short distance from the school-house. " Llewelyn," said Taliesin, " how can you so patiently bear the sneers and insults of those conceited fools, Lu- cas Pugh and John Spike ?" " It was a little hard at first," replied Llewelyn with a smile, "but I have become so used to it, that it gives me no trouble." "But is it your duty to become used to it, and pass it by with indifference T' asked Taliesin. " But what would you have me do ?" asked Edwards. " Should I go to the master with teais in my eyes, say- ing that Pugh and Spike had treated me unkindly ?" " No, not that," was the reply. " You should meet their abusive language with stern rebukes, and make 14 LLANGOBAITH. them the laughing stock of the school. And if that would not answer, you should threaten to flog them, which you can do with one hand. If you don't wish to put a stop to this thing yourself, give me permis- sion, and I will scare them into better behaviour with- out a blow." "Taliesin," said Llewelyn, "I thank you for your warm friendship, but please let me manage these fel- lows in my own way." " So let it be, as far as you are concerned," said Tal- iesin. "But if they undertake to abuse me, I will take matters into my own hands." At this point, they heard approaching voices ; and a few rods up the stream they saw Lucas and his chum approaching, engaged in animated conversation. They soon reached the spot where our young friends were resting. " Halloo !" cried Lucas in a sneering tone ; " we have disturbed your profound conversation. Spike, I'll wa- ger half a guinea, that Llewelyn's theme was Gwennie Lloyd." " And I'll bet a sovereign that Taliesin's sweet sub- ject was Helen Edwards," said Spike. "You are wide of the mark," said Taliesin. "The subjects of our conversation were of far less import- ance. We happened to be talking of Lucas Pugh and John Spike." SCHOOL-DAYS EXPERIENCE. 15 "Your opinion of our importance is of no conse- quence," said Pugh, in an indignant voice. " Lucas," said Spike, "don't lower yourself by wast- ing words with that fellow. It would have been better for the good name of our school if his auntie had given another direction to her benevolence, and had left him to the simple teaching of some school of charity.' 1 " Spike !'* cried Llewelyn, rising to his feet, " your language is outrageous, and you must take it back !" *' It is the language of a sneaking coward !'" said Tal- iesin. " I will give him three minutes by my watch to take those words back, or sufTer the consequence of a refusal." "And what will the consequence be, may I ask .'" in- quired Spike. "I will let you know in just two minutes," said Tal- iesin, as he divested himself of necktie, coat and vest. Spike having a full knowledge of Taliesin's physical strength, and noticing the terrible expression of his countenance, found no great trouble in persuading his cowardly self that retreat was the safest. " You are on your last minute !" cried Taliesin, look- ing Spike straight in the eye, and slowly approaching him in a threatening attitude. Spike looked at Lucas, and saw in his face signs of fear. He looked on Lle- welyn, and in him there was no disposition to inter- fere. 16 LLAXGOBAITH. " Ten seconds by the watch !'' cried Taliesin, and his visage was terrible. "Eoberts," said Spike, in trembling accents, "I did not think my words would lead to this. I call them back." " That settles the matter between us two," said Tal- iesin ; " but while I am in the vein, let me say to Lucas Pugh, that from henceforth if he would avoid a sound thrashing, he must direct no abusive language either to Llewelyn Edwards or myself." Just then the school bell rung, and the vanquished were glad to find a plausible excuse for escaping from a very uncomfortable situation. No sooner had they left, than Roberts fell into a fit of laughter. " It seems to me that the transition from rage to mirth is rather sudden," said Llewelyn. "It is not such a great transition after all," said Tal- iesin. "I was somewhat angry, but that excessive rage was a piece of acting." " Your generalship was admirable, and you deserve promotion," said Llewelyn. " But come, or we shall be late." Subsequently, the behavior of Pugh and Spike was less insulting, but their hatred was deeper, and their malice more intense. In about two weeks after this, our two friends were SCHOOL-DAYS EXPERIENCE. 17 slowly walking together k in the road between Druid's Grove and Llangobaith. This they were often in the habit of doing : during which occasions, as warm con- fidential friends, they would freely converse together on any and all subjects that might interest their minds. While thus moving toward the village, they were over- taken by a young lass with whom they were perfectly familiar, and of whom they thought much. She was Mary Jones, the youngest of Evan and Margaret Jones's children. Her father was a hard-working, intelligent and pious laborer, living in an humble cot named Pren y Gog (Cuckoo's Tree) on the farm of Evan Pugh, to whom he paid a yearly rent that was considered op- " Good evening, Mary,'* said Llewelyn in a kind, fa- miliar tone. "You seem to be in a hurry." * I am going to the village," said the girl. " Uncle Hugh has come from Liverpool, and we want a few things from the shop." There was something in the girl's voice and counte- nance, as well as in the appearance of her eyes, that gave Llewelyn to understand that something troubled her, and wishing to render her any assistance within his power, he ventured to say " Mary, I am afraid that something is troubling you. Can I give you any help ?'' "Oh, Llewelyn!" sobbed out the girl, "our dear Dick 18 LLANGOBAITH. is going way off to Liverpool with Uncle Hugh, and what shall we do at Pren y Gog without him ? He wants to go so much, and father and mother say that he may. We are glad to see uncle, but it will almost break our hearts to lose Dick." " We shall all miss him, Mary," said Llewelyn, with tears in his eyes. "A nobler boy than Dick Jones never breathed! He is loved by every one." "Not quite by every one," said Mary. "Lucas Pugh and John Spike abuse him every chance they get, and he bears it all quietly, for our sake! O, my dear Dick !" " I would be glad to be near by when Dick Jones is insulted by those fellows," said Taliesin Roberts, with a frown gathering on his brow. " They dare not do it when people are looking on," said Mary, recovering her spirits. " They cowardly in- sult him when they find him alone. They abuse Robin too ; and Jane and I have to listen often to their rough talk. But I must go." And Mary Jones hastened to- ward Llangobaith. While our two friends were enjoying themselves in profitable conversation, and in' viewing the beauties of nature, Pugh and Spike were indulging in ale-drinking at the "Red Lion." On this day, however, they had left in time to notice from a distance the interview be- SCHOOL-DATS EXPERIENCE. 19 tween Mary Jones and her two friends in the road ; and it filled their minds with vulgar curiosity. "I should like to know what that talk was about?" said John Spike. "And you will know in a few minutes,'' said Pugh. "She must not pass until she tells us.'' "Ha, ha! That will be sport," cried Spike. "But she comes in a hurry, and if we don't look sharp, she will pass us." "Never you fear," was Lucas's reph. "The Pren y G6g tribe is pretty well under my direction, and they dare not complain or be saucy." The girl was now close by, and with hasty steps was about to pass, when the two rowdies stepped in front of her, and brought her to a stand. "Not quite so fast, my pretty maiden," said Lucas with mock politeness. I have a number of questions that you must answer before you go any farther." "Mr. Pugh," said Mary, "I go on an errand to Llangobaith. I am in a hurry. Let me go, please." " Not a step farther will you go,. Miss, until you tell us all about your conversation with the shop boy and Taliesin Roberts," said Lucas. " Mr. Pugh," said Mary, " you can stop my going to Llangobaith, but you can never make me tell you my talk with Llewelyn." " I can't, eh ?" said Lucas with a pompous frown. 20 LLANGOBAITH. " We'll see about that. Do you know who you are talking to?" " Indeed I do," said Mary. " You have given all of us at Pren y Gog good reasons to know you, for many years. Now let me go on my errand." And she tried to pass them. " Not yet, you saucy brat !" said John Spike, seizing her violently by the arm. " Now tell us what you were talking about with those chaps on the road." "Never, never!" cried Mary, breaking forth into weeping. "Let go of my arm ; you are hurting me t Shame on both of you! Let go of me, John Spike! If Llewelyn or Taliesin was here, you would not dare touch me!" " Ho, ho!" cried Spike; "just as if we were afraid of the shop boy and his charity chum!" Just at this time, from a sudden turn in the road, Llewelyn and his friend suddenly stood before them. "What does this mean, Mary?" asked Taliesin, while his lips quivered. " 0, Taliesin !" cried the girl, " I am so glad you have come ! They will not let me go unless I tell them what we were talking about yonder ; and John Spike has han- dled me roughly and hurt my arm." " She lies !" cried John. " We could not get rid of her. I took hold of her arm to push her off;" still re- taining his grasp. SCHOOL-DAYS EXPERIENCE. 21 " Take off your hand from that girl's arm, you lying villain !" said Taliesin. "Not at your bidding," angrily answered Spike, " and you may go to" Before he could mention the particular locality, a heavy blow from the indignant Taliesin laid him sense- less on the ground. " Mr. Pugh," said Taliesin, " I leave Spike in your kind care. If there is to be a legal investigation, you know where to find me." Then addressing the girl, he said " Mary, we shall accompany you as far as Llangob- aith ;" and so they left. " That was the first luxury of the kind I ever indulged in," said Taliesin with a smile. "It was brief in its duration," said Llewelyn. " But it was quite enjoyable while it lasted," was the reply. " Let us hope that there shall be no occasion for an- other such indulgence," said Llewelyn ; and turning to Mary, asked " When does Dick intend to start ?" " He starts at an early hour on the day after to-mor- row," said the sister. "We must call and bid him good-bye to-morrow af- ternoon," said Llewelyn. 22 LLANGOBAITH. They now had reached their destination. Mary made her purchase, and was soon hastening homeward. The news of Dick Jones's anticipated departure was soon known throughout the village and vicinity; and all expressed deep regret at losing one who, although poor, was an universal favorite. John Spike was not seriously injured, nor at all dis- figured. The blow had been accommodating enough to fall just below the right ear, where it left a feeling, but not a visible impression. After a wonderful dis- play of curses, and vows of vengeance, they pursued their way toward Kiverside ; and well knowing that they had been overtaken in an undertaking which the people would condemn, they concluded that it was best for them to keep the matter to themselves. On the afternoon of the next day, a number of youth of both sexes assembled at Pren y Gog to bid Dick Jones adieu. " Good-bye, Dick !" said Llewelyn, with tears in his eyes. "We shall greatly miss you." "Good-bye, Llewelyn!" said Dick. "I shall never forget your kindness.'' Taliesin and the two girls, Gwennie and Helen, gave him their hands in tearful silence, and with others they slowly went away. "And they were all here except Mary Humphreys !" said his mother, in a tone of disappointment, after they had all left. "I looked for her above all the rest." SCHOOL-DAYS EXPERIENCE. 23 Had the mother understood the exact state of the case, the absence of sweet Mary Humphreys would have given her no uneasiness. " I promised to call on Mary for a short time this evening, mother,'' said the boy, "and that is the reason she was not here." "Aye, do, my dear child!'' said Margaret Jones, "and tell her to come and see us as often as she can/' Soon Richard was at Druid's Grove, to bid adieu to his weeping Mary, and at an early hour next morning he was on his way to Bangor to take the sloop for Liv- erpool. The young people's stay at school was for a period of three years. Throughout this time Llewelyn had de- voted himself to his studies with great diligence, and had made fine advancement. It was the same with T:il it -sin. The praise he received from the principal on the day he left school was well deserved. He faithfully corresponded with his aunt, and received her thanks and blessings. Spike had left with profane anger, about six months before the rest of the young people. He was openly reprimanded for a malicious falsehood, went home, and explained his movements by resorting to more. His hatred of Taliesin was deep and villainous- The brief affair on the road with Mary Jones, and his unlocked for chastisement, he never mentioned except 24 LLANGOBAITH. to Lucas Pugh. But never did he cease to hope for an opportunity that would permit him in some manner to heap vengeance upon the head of one he supremely hated. Lucas, as a student, had been indolent and stupid. Often when his mates were struggling with hard problems, he, mounted on one of his father's horses, was following the hounds. Throughout the years, his jealousy and conceit had been on the increase. He always had a good supply of money, and with those of his own sOrc he would freely spend it. "With the landlady of the Red Lion he was a great favorite- There he spent much of his time, and often showed a high degree of drunken hilarity, while coarse profanity broke over his lips. Gwennie Lloyd at the end of the course, was universally loved by her companions. Her accomplishments, amiability and moral worth were un- mistakable. She had a host of warm friends, but her one fondly cherished, confidential companion was Helen Edwards, who was well nigh her equal in everything that constitutes a genuine young lady. CHAPTER II. JOY AND A JOURNEY. Llwyn y Fronfrait/i (Thrash Grove) was a beautiful country residence, about twelve miles from Llangob- aith, and was the home of Mrs. Parry. Hugh Parry was the only son and child of Col. Morgan Parry, whose ancestors for generations had resided at tins charming spot. The young man received all the advantages which wealth could procure. The twenty-first anniver- sary of his birth was celebrated with unbounded en- thusiasm. In the evening, bonlires blazed on the hills, while the booming cannon echoed on the sides of those old Welsh mountains His father having been a successful military man, de- sired Ins son to follow the same profession. This was in harmony with the young man's mind, and he received his commission as a captain. Between Hugh Parry and the fair Mary Morgan there had grown genuine affection, and a short time before he left for the army, they were betrothed and pledged to each other their undying love. In two years from this time an "orderly 1 ' rode up to Capt. Parry and handed him a letter. It was from his mother, saying that his father was very low, and re 26 LLANGOBAITH. questiug his presence at home as soon as possible- The Colonel was alive when the son arrived, but was fast sinking. He had strength enough to give a few directions, when suddenly he fell back and expired. The altered state of things at home, compelled the son to resign his commission. It was accepted with much regret. In one year more those hills were again illuminated to celebrate an event in which the accom- plished Mary Morgan was arrayed in bridal robes. The venerable mother did not long survive her hus- band, and deeply lamented, she was laid down to rest by his side in the old parish churchyard. In two years after this, the young, noble hearted and pious Capt. Parry sickened and died, leaving a wife and a bright-eyed babe six months old. For his wife's young nephew, Taliesin Roberts, then about ten years of age, Capt. Parry had manifested great regards. He had noticed in the lad many points of excellence, and in his last sickness he enjoined on his wife to superintend his education and spare no ex- pense. In about two weeks after the close of their school at Llangobaith, Taliesin received the following from his Aunt Mary: "LLWYN Y FRONFRAITH, June 15, 18 . MY DEAR TALIESIN : Your last letter gave me great satisfaction. The pen- manship is excellent, and the sentences finely construct- JOY AND A JOUHNEY. 27 ed ; which shows that your school days have been well improved. I will say for your encouragement, that I received a good long letter from Mr. Thomas, in which he speaks of you in very complimentary terms. I am glad that at school you have had for a constant com- panion such a worthy youth as Llewelyn Edwards. He is one in a thousand. The young ladies you mention are charming. You must be careful or one of those beauties will turn your head. "Now, last of all, I come to the first object I had in view in writing. It would give me and your cousin Arthur the greatest pleasure if you, Llewelyu, his sis- ter and Gwennie Lloyd, would come to Thrush Grove and make us a good long visit. Please make my wishes known to them, and let them consider themselves affec- tionately invited. Let me hear from you soon. You may appoint the day and I will send my carnage to bring you here. When you get homesick, we shall take you back. Y'our affectionate AUNT MARY." Taliesin at once made known to his young friends the wishes of his aunt. They were highly pleased, and after consulting their parents, they gratefully accepted the invitation. The day was appointed. They would start from the "shop," and a word to that effect was sent to Thrush Grove. The company was together before the conveyance ar- rived. Their gay and joyous appearance attracted the attention of three young men that sat around their mugs 28 LLANGOBAITH. of ale in one of the front rooms of the Bed Lion. These were Lucas Pugh and two jovial young fellows from Bangor, who had turned in on their way homeward. " Lucas," said Ned Price, "by Saint George, yonder is a scene for a painter ! Are they not Miss Lloyd and Miss Edwards ?" "They are," said Lucas, "and I have been watching their movements for some time." " I was struck with their beauty a year ago," said Price, " but they look far more charming to-day. Tom, just look over yonder, and give us your impression. ' : "Ned," said Tom, without moving, "you are forever in a glow over some female beauty ! Your weakness on that point is astonishing ! Here you arc all in a nutter over two pretty girls ! A hundred of them, all in a row, would not in the least quicken the pulsations of your unworthy friend Tom Jones." " You may talk that stuff to those that don't know you," said Price. " I'll bet half a guinea that the very sight of those ladies will heighten your heart-beats more than fifteen a minute." "I'll take the bet," said Tom. " Pugh, take out your watch and count my present pulse." This was done. "What is the figure?" asked Tom. " Seventy-five," was the reply. "All right," said the young man. "Now let my JOY AND A JOURNEY. 29 mortal vision rest for a while upon those lovely beings that have so disturbed the calm equilibrium of my friend Ned Price." "This way, Sir Thomas," said Ned, pointing to- ward the "shop." "Now steadfastly gaze on those smiling, angelic beauties that stand on yonder steps ! Mark those symmetrical forms and perfect features ; those sparkling eyes and bewitching lips ; and hark ! Hear you not those sweet voices breaking forth like the melody of chembirn ?" " Ned," said Tom, "the girls are tine, but none of these things move me. I am as firm as the everlasting rock of Gibraltar! Here. Lucas, take my arm again, and count the throbs, while Ned is in search of his piece of gold." Here Gwennie, in reply to some remark, broke out in one of her sweet ringing laughters. "There is a laugh an angel might envy! Let the count begin," said Price. After a while Tom cried out, " Give us the figure, Lucas." "Tom," said Lucas, "your pulse has gone up to 9G. M Ned broke out in a loud " Ha, ha !" " I believe you are correct," said Tom. " It was that bewitching laugh that did the mischief. Here, Ned, is a guinea ; give me the change." " Keep your money, Tom," said Price. " In all prob- 30 LLANGOBAITH. ability I shall lose the next wager, and then we shall be even." Just then a splendid carriage passed by the door of the Red Lion, and a magnificent pair of horses were brought to a stand in front of Mr. Edwards' residence. The coachman was met by Llewelyn and Taliesin, while the girls had gone in. The three young men at the inn looked on with a de- gree of curiosity, and one of them with much astonish- ment. Lucas was uneasy, if not alarmed. " What can all this mean f ' said he, more to himself than to his companions. " Those two fellows are in their best. I must know where this coach is from, and to where they are going. Boys, let us go and see to this matter." "To us it is of no importance," said Ned Price. "The coachman, I presume, will give you all the infor- mation you desire." So Lucas left his companions, and in a swaggering style approached the carriage. The coachman had on his lips a sly smile of satisfaction. His name was Rich- ard Rowland. But among his jovial friends he was known as "Dick Roland." Now Dick was very much of a wag. With an air of superiority, Pugh asked " Who owns this coach and horses f . "They belong to my master," was the answer. " And who is your master ?" was the next question. JOY AND A JOURNEY. 31 u My master is so great a gentleman,'' said Dick, " that the common people address even his coachman with great civility. But as long as you did not know who I was. I will gladly forgive your unintentional roughness." "I ask you again, who is your muster ?" said Lucas, looking at the coachman with a degree of astonishment. "That is a slight improvement," said Dick with a sol- emn look, "but it falls far short of that civility becom- ing my station as the family coachman of one of the greatest men in the nation.'' Lucas was getting angry ; but knowing that an ex- posure of his feelings would defeat his object, he con- cluded that it was best to stoop to conquer, and so he said " I am not one of the common people, yet I would be glad to hear who is the owner of this coach and horses." ' That is very much better indeed, my young friend," said Dick in a patronizing tone ; " and seeing that you have asked with becoming civility, I will tell you that I have the honor of being the servant of no less a person- age than Lord Newboro of Glyn Llifon." "But why in heaven's name is Lord Newboro's coach in this place? And who is to ride in it, and where to?" asked Lucas, with mingled feelings of anger and aston- ishment. 32 LLANGOBAITH. " Too many questions in one breath,'' said Dick. " If the illustnous person that I have the honor to serve has sent for these young persons, it is for some worthy purpose." And lowering his voice to almost a whisper, and looking exceedingly profound, he continued, "lam not at liberty to reveal secrets, but in all probability you will soon hear the names of these young fellows in connection with very responsible offices in the govern- ment. Coachmen hear a great deal that never reaches the ears of ordinary servants." Lucas was very much disturbed. What his next question would have been no one knows. Just then the young people appeared, all ready for the journey, and Lucas, under the stunning effect of Dick's revelations, found his way to the parlor of the Red Lion, where Price and Jones were waiting for further developments. As soon as Pugh was peated, the carriage, containing the happy four, swept by at a swift rate, and Tom Jones noticed that the coachman's face was glowing with what in modern times is called " fun.'' "Well, Pugh," said Ned Price, "who is it that glo- ries in the full possession of that fine rig ?" " They belong to Lord Newboro," was the answer. " W-h-e-w !'' was the united response from Price and Jones ; "But," asked Jones, "where are those young people to be conveyed to?" JOY AND A JOURNEY. 33 " They are to go to Glyn Llifon as guests of Lord and Lady Newboro," was the answer : and Lucas took another heavy drink of ale, " Lucas, you have been most gloriously sold !" said Tom Jones, bursting into a loud laugh. Pugh was about to make a boisterous reply, when another gentleman, who held the office of Exciseman, was added to the number. He sat down by a small table, and in a moment his ale was set before him. He drank, smacked his lips, held the glass between him and the light, and remarked "No sham about the ale drank at the Red Lion. This is what I call honest. Here is to your health, gentlemen. Well, Mr. Pugh." he continued. " how go things at Llangobaith ! I used to know every boy and girl in this vicinity. They have grown up into young men and women. By the way, did I not meet four of your young folks in a conch just now '.' "Yes," said Lucas, "they left a short time ago." "I knew them readily," said John Ellis, " and a more fine looking four put together you don't often find. That Gwennie Lloyd is a perfect beauty : and if young Edwards gets her he will secure a treasure ; and so will she. Dick Roland, the coachman, looked wonderfully well pleased over something. I would be willing to bet a crown that he had just fooled some one with one of his yarns." 34 LLANGOBAITH. "Is that one of his traits?" asked Ned Price. " Dick Roland f said the Exciseman, as if astonished at the question. " He is one of the greatest wags in North Wales. He is as good hearted as the day is long, but has a perfect passion for sport ; and you will find some of his victims all over. They are generally those over whom the people have no tears to shed. He is a very trusty coachman. He was once in the em- ploy of Lord Penrhyn. For the last three years he has been with Mrs. Parry at Thrush Grove. It is there, I presume, the young people are going." The two young men from Bangor felt much inclined to indulge in a hearty laugh ; but an imploring look from Lucas restrained them, and the conversation took another direction. After Ellis had left, Pugh begged of them to keep his interview with the coachman a se- cret, which they promised to do. In a very angry mood, he started for home, and Price and Jones, in a pleasant frame of mind, bent their footsteps toward Bangor. Our young people under the guidance of Dick Ro- land, were enjoying themselves finely. Everything contributed to make them happy. The day was lovely, the scenery enchanting, their conveyance splendid, and their destination inspiring. On their left stood those famous Carnarvonshire mountains in majestic grandeur, while before them and on their left bloomed the vale of JOY AND A JOURNEY. 35 Llangobaith, promising rich and abundant harvest. The lark warbled its sweetest melody in its upward flight, while the cuckoo chanted her short lay on the high brunches. "Celebrated as our Snow don is," said Gweunie, ''and while strangers by the hundreds come from a great dsitauce to enjoy the views from its summit, yet living BO near to it, I have never enjoyed that pleasure." "In that we are both ulike Gweunie," suid Helen Edwards. ** It is not at all strange that you have never reached those rugged heights," said Llewelyn. "There are but few ladies that have. The ascent is long, tedious, and attended with some danger. It is a shame that the journey is not rendered easier aud more pleasurable, when visitors would so gladly pav for the convenience. From the Wyddfa we have the finest view in Great Britain." "The sight of one sunrise from the summit of the Snowdon, repays all the trouble and expense of reach- ing there," said Taliesin. "It is grand beyond de- scription." " And yet Taliesin I would be very glad to hear a de- scription of it," said Gwennie. " My descriptive powers are weak," said Taliesin, " and I cannot do the subject justice. I will simply say that we reached the top of the famous mountain LLAXGOBAITH. about three o'clock in the morning. The white vapor rested thick and heavily on the valleys, which gave the scene the resemblance of a surrounding sea, while above the fog, the summit of lower mountains stood forth like so many islands. The great expectation was for the signs of the approaching sun. Presently the eastern sky, just above the horizon, gave unmistake able indications that the great Regent of day was about to appear. His shooting forerunners became thicker and thicker, until the firmament was clothed with un- describable glory and splendor ! We stood in silent admiration while the grand orb made its advent like a wheel of crimson fire ! The sight is far different from any sunrise ever witnessed while standing on the plains. The orb appears much larger : and owing to some op- tical illusion or something else, it seems to be changing its form from round to oblong for a few moments after making its full appearance, and then settling down into its ordiary roundness. While the rising sun is the most inspiring sight from the heights of the Snowdon, on a clear day the Isle of Man and the mountains of Ireland are clearly visible." " Thank you, Taliesin !" said Gwennie, " I have been very much interested." " And so say we all," said Llewelyn. CHAPTER HI. THE MINSTREL AXD A PULPIT ORATOR. The guests were received at Thrush Grove with all that genuine warmth and affection for which Mrs. Parry was noted. While no one was better versed in all the requirements of etiquette, and the demands of genteel society, she never permitted these requirements when among her friends to restrain the natural sponta- neous heartiness of her nature. Her countenance beamed with smiles, while her ringing voice of melody broke forth in sentences that charmed every society in which she mingled. She was universally known and admired by the ever ready encouragement she gave to every charitable enterprise within her reach. Among the poor there were hundreds that rose and called her " blessed." Such, and much more, was the mistress of Thrush Grove, who now, with a face radiant with glad- ness, stood at the door of her elegant mansion to wel- come the young company from Llangobaith. "Ah, you have come ! Talieain, how finely you look," she said, as she warmly embraced her nephew. Then rushing to Gwennie and Helen, she kissed their beau- tiful cheeks. After this, she gave Llewelyn such a cor- dial grasp of the hand that at once made him feel very 38 LLANOOBAITH. much at home. "Is not this a most delightful day? I know you oiust have enjoyed the ride. I am so glad to see you ! Arthur, my darling, these are your mam- ma's friends. Yes, kiss him. He is my great treasure, for which I daily thank the Lord ! Now come in, and be sure that you are welcome to Thrush Grove ! Tal- iesin has written so much about you that I feel as if we were well acquainted. I am going to call you Gwennie and Helen ; and this tall, fine looking gentle- man I shall call Llewelyn. There is not a more charm- ing name in all the kingdom. " Llywelyn ein llyvs olaf." Here, Gaenor! take the young ladies' things into tbeir rooms. Gwennie, you have grown tall since I saw you last. Dear me ! it seems but a little while when you were children, and here you are full blown young ladies!" " O no, Mrs. Parry. If I am tall, I claim to be noth- ing more than a little inexperienced girl," said Gwennie. " And you must treat us as such," said Helen. " If we get naughty and unruly, please reprove us and make us mind." "And Mrs. Parry," said Llewelyn, "Taliesin and my- self claim your motherly oversight and correction, while we remain on your preirises." "Upon my word," said Mrs. Parry, laughing, "I am hardly prepared to take under my care four mischiev- ous, inexperienced little children ! I will do the best I THE MINSTREL ASD A PULPIT ORATOR. 39 can. To begin, let me order Taliesin and his little play- mate to go to their rooms, and get ready for dinner: while I show these little girls to their apartments. This way, my little darlings !" and with merry laugh- ter they left the parlor. Although the family proper at this mansion consisted of only Mrs. Parry and her young son, it often abound- ed with visitors. Her parents were dead. The distant relatives of her husband were men and women of fine culture, while her own kin, although not wealthv. were highly respectable. Mrs. Parry hud wisely arranged for her young friends' visit when she would be free from other visiting friends. At dinner the conversation naturally turned on the journey and the joke Dick played upon the heir of Riv- erside. "Dick is proud of a joke, and sometimes he carries it pretty far," said Mrs. Parry " I suppose the}- par- take of the nature of first of April deceptions, which so many look upon as innocent. But unfortunately, Dick's jokes are not confined to All Fools' Day." The dinner hour passed away delightfully. The free and easj' manner of the hostess, served to drive away all restraint. Mrs. Parry noticed this ease with great satisfaction, and was already sure that before her young guests there weve days of pure enjoyment. After dinner, they were taken through the various 40 LLANGOBAITH. commodious apartments, and they -were deeply inter- ested in aP they saw. At last they came to a very large room that had somewhat the appearance of a chapel. There were many seats, but the absence of anything in the shape of a pulpit showed that it was not intended as a place of worship. Neither did the decorations, and the numerous mottoes which the walls presented indicate anything particularly devotional. High above the stage, or platform, was a beautiful banner bearing the national Welsh emblems ; while beneath it hung a fine picture of the harp. In other parts were found in ornamental capitals, " Oes y byd i'r iaith Gymraeg," (the world's lifetime to the Welsh language), and other patriotic sentiments. "Col. Parry, my husband's father, was an enthusi- astic lover of his nation," said Mrs. Parry, in a manner which showed the deep reverence in which she held the name of the worthy departed. "From the days of his youth, he had proven himself a warm friend of our na- tional Eisteddfod. While a great admirer of poetry, especially in the 'restricted measures,' the favorite fea- ture to him at our Welsh festival was harp-playing, to- gether with that feature of vocal melody which we call ' Penillion singing.' He not only encouraged this fea- ture of the Eisteddfod, but twice a year he would have this delightful competition, on a smaller scale, at his own home and at his own expense. This room was THE MINSTREL AND A PULPIT ORATOR. 41 prepared for this very purpose. In his last will he made specific provision for the continuance of these meetings once a year, with a prize of five guineas for the best ranwr yyd cCr delyn (singer with the harp), and two guineas and a half for the second best. It is confined to our parish. The company i.s select. Free admission to all as spectators would overcrowd the room, and ruin the meeting. One of the best harpers in the Principality is selected to plav on these occa- sions, and to select judges. The yearly competition will take place to-morrow afternoon, and I am sure you will be delighted." "We certainly shall, Mrs. Parry,' said Gwennio. "The melody of the Welsh harp always thrills my soul. and this 'canu penillion ' will be something that I have never witnessed." Just then the loud vibrations of harp music from an adjoining room fell on their ears. "I was just going to tell you," said Mrs. Parry, "that Lewis Morris, our harper, had already arrived. He is not only an accomplished player, but he possesses a ripe and thorough knowledge of ancient Welsh lore. He seems to know the history of our people by heart, from the invasion of Julius Caesar to the present time. His stories, with his manner of telling them, are per- fectly captivating. At my house he is always a welcome visitor. I would most gladly have him sit with us at the 3 42 LLANOOBAITH. table, but he insists on putting himself on a lower scale." "Will he play for us, Mrs. Parry?" asked Helen, who, like Gwennie, .was very fond of music. "Indeed he will, my dear, and sing also," said Mrs. Parry. "Let us go in and it will greatly please him." His appearance was such as at once to inspire re- spect, and even reverence. His countenance denoted intelligence and thought. His movements were delib- erate and systematic. His eyes were dark ; his hair white and long, falling gracefully upon his shoulders. " Lewis Moms, these are my friends from Llangob- aith," said the mistress. " They will be highly pleased to hear some of your melody, both vocal and instru- mental." " At any time while your young friends remain at Llwyn y Fronfraith, it will give me the greatest pleas- ure to be their obedient servant," said the minstrel in the most respectful manner, as he moved toward the instrument. The harp was large, and of the old Welsh style, hav- ing three rows of strings. In this manner, at that day, the semitones in all the keys were easily reached. While the pedal in this respect is a grand improvement, we fail to hear from the modern harp that full volume of sound that fell on the enraptured ears of our fathers from the old Welsh harp. THE MINSTREL AND A PULPIT ORATOR- 43 The minstrel sat down to his favorite instrument, closed his eyes, gave his face an upward, listening atti- tude, while his white, delicate fingers swept the well- tuned strings ; and at once our young friends were en- tranced by melody such as they had never heard before ! At first it moved gently, like a smooth, running river along the verdant plain ; and agaiu like a mighty tor- rent rushing impetuously down the cliff. The music was of the minstrel's own composition, descriptive of one of the great battles of the Welsh with the invaders of their country. " O we thank you very much for your wonderful playing and superior music!" said Gwennie. "I never heard the like, and I shall never forget this day as long as I live !" " The young lady expresses herself in very strong terms," said the harper, gently smiling. " She gives the sentiments of her companions as well as her own," said Llewelyn. "I cannot speak as a judge, but my feelings are wonderfully stirred.'' "Will our good harper play and sing Jfor/a RhuV8 LLANGOBAITH. At Talglyn they received a letter to that effect, say- ing that Griffin would be with them in ten days. " Thrice welcome to Griffin, for Evan Ap Gwilynrs sake," said the father. " The young man deserves a hearty welcome on his own account," said Gwenlliw. "Thou hast wisely spoken, my child," said the father- "Let one feature of the welcome be an original song from Gwenlliw, accompanied by her harp," said Bron- wen. "I can sing and play," said Gwenlliw, "but I am sadly deficient in poetry, although I covet it above all other gifts." " Nay, but my sister writes verses with ease," said Blodwen. The ten days were soon over, and young Griffin was a most welcome guest at Talglyn palace. Joy and gladness danced on every countenance, and the young London lawyer had never experienced so happy a day. "Ah !" said he, " and here is the famous Welsh harp, the praise of .which is so often on my father's lips ! I hope to hear its rich melody. Which of you fair ladies will greatly oblige your city friend ?" " We all play some," said Blodwen, but at this time Gwenlliw will entertain us. Come, sister dear, go to thy harp." With much ease and grace, the young sister took the "RAVEN'S NEST," AND A TALE OF CEDER IDRIS. 69 instrument, and in a voice of exquisite richness she sung Cheerful are our hearts to-day, Strike the harp and join the lay: Welcome, stranger, to old Wales ! Welcome to her hills and vales ! Gaze upon her mountains proud, As their summit reach the clouds ; Climb the sides of Idris' Chair, View the landscape far and fair. Welcome ! welcome ! welcome ! Welcome to our humble walls, From the city's crowded hulls, Cast away all anxious cure, Chase the fox and hunt the hare ; Speckled trout call from the stream, Scale the heights where eagles scream : Listen to the birds so gay, Warbling at the close of day. Welcome ! welcome ! welcome ! "Many thanks to Gweulliw for her wonderful per- formance," said Griffin, with much feeling ; " and more than all, for the hearty welcome which in the name of the family she tenders an unworthy stranger." In his bed chamber the young lawyer on that night, in looking over the state of his affection, found himself deeply in love with Gruffydd's youngest daughter. In her own apartment sat Gwenlliw alone in a meditative 70 LLAXGOBAITH. mood. Her cheeks were somewhat flushed, and her heart throbbed with strange pulsations, Avhich took her not long to define. After a suitable interval, our young friend from Lon- don made known to Gweulliw his feelings, and was happy to find that his love was reciprocated. The con- sent of their parents on both sides was readily given, but owing to Gwenlliw's tender years, it was thought best to defer the ceremony for a time. So Griffin re- turned to London and followed his profession for a year. When they met again, their love seemed to be more intense than ever. She was swift of foot, and she would climb the rugged steeps, and dance on the edge of projecting rocks where the mountain goats would not dare stand, while her lover would look at her with mingled feelings of admiration and fear. One night after returning from a pleasant walk, they joined a merry company at the palace, engaged in re- peating stories and old Welsh traditions. Last of all came Gwenlliw's turn, and she went on with unusual animation. "Whoever will venture to spend a whole night in Idris ? Chair will in the morning be a poet, a maniac or dead. Taliesm and Myrddin had courage enough to undergo the test, and they became famous poets. So did a lady of noble birth in the thirteenth century, but she was less fortunate. Her friends put forth every "RAVEN'S NEST," AND A TALE OF CEDER IDRIS. 71 effort to persuade Let- to forego the expei iment, but she was fully determined to reach the chair. One night amid the wailing of the storm, without the knowledge of her friends, she ascended the rugged heights. When on the next morning they went in search of her, they found her pale and lifeless in Idris' Chair. There is for you a tradition of woman's courage ! Was it not glorious? " It is consoling to know that it is simply a tradition, and not a fact," said Griffin. " There is no danger that any one will ever put the matter to a test.'' " As yet you do not know the strength of a woman's resolution," said Gweulliw, with some feeling. ' You may think differently some day." The company retired to their respective bed cham- bers. The young lover's m.ud was not tranquil, for Gwenlliw's countenance in the room below had indicated some inward agitation. The night had become tem- pestuous. He laid down and soon feel asleep. In his dream he saw himself wandering around the famous Chair of Idris. From this he awoke with a frightened, beating heart. He slept again, and was troubled with the same vision, only in a worse form. Now he saw that in the chair sat a lady, and by the lightning's glare, he saw that the apparition was none other than Gwen- lliw, his own beloved, in whom rested all his hopes ! He awoke and slept no more. 72 LLANGOBAITH. It was soon broad daylight. He went down to the room below, where he was joyfully saluted by all pres- ent. " Betty," said Gruffydd to the servant, " go and call ' Gwen;' it is strange that she sleeps so long." The servant returned and said, " Master, Miss Gwen- lliw makes no answer, and her door is locked." This was indeed strange. The father ran quickly to the door of the room and cried : " Gwen, my darling, come down !" But there was no response. The door was forced open, but the daughter was not there. It was evident that she had gone out through the win- dow to the roof of a lower building, and from thence to the highway. "While all was confusion, Griffin was thinking of his dream ; and with a pale contenance, and in words ter- ribly solemn, he said : " My Gwenlliw is in Idris' Chair, a maniac or dead ! In a dreadful dream last night I saw her there." " My young friend," said the father, " that cannot be possible. Your great anxiety has disturbed your reason." " I tell you Gwenlliw is in Cader Idris !" cried Grif- fin. " Did she not admire the courage that made it a test ? Follow me !" and he started. Seeing that he was in such earnest, they followed him. He rushed up the steeps as if assisted by "RAVEN'S NEST," AND A TALE OF CEDER IDRIS. 73 miraculous power. Onward they went through wind- ing pathways, until at last they reached the famous rock. There they found Gwenlliw dead, and cold as the chair in which she sat. Her fine dress and stziped mantle were boiled by the rain, the earth and the tem- pest. Her beautiful hair, blown by the wind, covered her pale face, while her small delicate hands were firmly clasped. The young man rushed forward and clasped her to his bosom with terrible lamentation He loudly called her by name, but there was no answer. Her tongue was chilled in death, and the once merry heart had forever ceased to throb. She was interred near her father's palace, by the side of her mother, amid the convulsive sobs of the family, and the bitter agony of the almost distracted lover. The young man with a sorrowful spirit left for Eng- land, while on his heart deeply graven was " Cader Idris," with its dead Gwenlliw. He bade to Wales an eternal adieu. "That is the tradition of 'The Maid of Talglyn,'" said Lewis Morris. "It is thrillingly interesting, and veiy sad," said Gwennie. " A little too sad for your young minds," was the re- ply. "I will give you a little relief." He took his harp and played that charming Welsh melody, " The Bells of Aberdovey." CHAPTER VI. A STRATAGEM, AND THE " GYMANFA." Taliesin and Llewelyn, although not experts as an- glers, had had some experience in that line. Their re- spective luck in fishing had varied. Past success had not been sufficiently uniform to create in their minds at this time a full confidence that their effort would prove a happy one. For some reason, or reasons, perhaps known to themselves, the trout of "Nant y Brithyll" on that day were in such a mood as not to be charmed by the alluring deceptions thrown before them by those gentlemen from Llangobaith and their expert guide. Occasionally a wandering fellow, who had left the so- ciety of those older in years, fell a prey to the gay de- ceivers on the bank of the stream, but the fish as a body, treated them and their ornamental cheats with supreme indifference, and two o'clock in the afternoon found our fishermen's baskets almost empty. The situation seemed to trouble Dick Roland much more than it did the oth- er two. He was a skillful angler, and had been some- what more successful than the two visitors ; but he was very reluctant to return with such a meagre dis- play of trout. Now they had reached the border of John Moses' green, pastures, and Dick well knew that A STRATAGEM, AND THE "GYMANFA." 75 if they could fish through those grounds they would be successful. " Now, gentlemen," said he in the most respectful manner, "so far we have had poor luck. The clay has been too clear. Now it is getting cloudy, and we shall have trout. I shall go to John Moses' meadow. I am very sure that he will gladly consent to have us fish there. You will please remain on this side of the hedge until I shall give you a signal to come on. I ask of you one favor. While old Moses is near, please drop your Welsh and talk English. When you see nie tak- ing this red handkerchief and wipe my face, like this, you may know that all is well, and come into the mead- ow. Gentlemen, will you consent to this ?" "Most gladly," said Taliesin. " And we shall deal out our best English,'' said Llew- elyn. " Thank you," said Dick, and with a broad smile on his countenance, he jumped over the hedge into Moses' meadow, with his fishing rod in his hand, but did not fish. He was soon seen by the tenant, who walked towards him with hasty footsteps and in a threatening attitude. " Now, see here, Dick Roland," said he, " if you think that because you are Mrs. Parry's coachman you can come and take away my trout, you are very much mistaken, and the best thing you can do is to go back as soon as 76 LLANOOBAITH. you can. If you don't J will set the dogs on you- Clear out!" " John Moses," said Dick, in a very cool manner, " you are a mean, contemptible wretch, and it would give me great pleasure to give you a tremendous flog- ging. I did not come here after your trout, but to tell you something that would be to your advantage, and keep you from getting into an awful scrape. But since you order me away, all right ; I shall go," and he started. " Stop, Dick ! I was a little too fast," cried Moses, who was always glad to hear of anything to his advan- tage. "What is it?" " Well," said Dick, " of course you don't know that the young Ashton Smith, of Vaeuol, and another young gentleman, are guests at Thrush Grove. You don't know that in a few minutes they will be in this meadow fishing for trout." " Young Ashton Smith I" cried Moses in amazement. " Good heavens, his feather owns this land." "I know that, John Moses," said Dick. "Now get your old mouth into perfect order and shape to give . them a regular cursing. Order them from your grounds ; and if they don't start at once, set your dogs on them, and next week when you go to Vaenol to pay your rent, they will kindly remember and properly reward you. A STRATAGEM, AND THE "GYMANFA." 77 Little as I respect you, John Moses, I thought I would give you this warning." "Dick, you have shown me a great favor !" said John Moses. "I consider it a great honor for those gentle- men to fish in my meadow." " It is rather a warm afternoon," said Dick, as he flourished a very large red pocket handkerchief and wiped his brow. The young men were already in the meadow, and at once they found themselves in luck. Splendid trout, in quick succession, were deposited in their baskets. and the English flowed over their lips in commendable abundance. "Is Ashton Smith the one with the straw hat ?" asked Moses. " No," said Dick ; "his name is Mr. Taliesin." The parties soon came together. " Gentlemen," said Dick, "this is Mr. Moses, who is very happy to wel- come you to his most excellent fishing ground." "Is indeed truth!" said Moses, faintly compre- hending what was said, and using nearly all the Eng- lish in his possession. "We shall always remember Mr. Moses' kindness," said Llewelyn. " What did he say, Dick Roland ?" asked John. " Dywedodd y cofient am byth eich caredigrwydd" said Dick. 78 LLANGOBA1TH. " Dick, give me your rod," said Moses ; " I know where there are some fine fellows, and we shall soon fill the baskets." About half an hour sufficed to give them abundance ; and the young men, after giving the tenant a warm grasp of the hand, in English, left the meadow. Under the direction of their guide, they soon reached Thrush Grove, where they were congratulated upon their grand success. The next week, at the yearly rent-paying at Vaenol, the senior Ashton Smith was present and in a very happy mood. When John Moses paid his rent, the es- tate owner pleasantly remarked that he had been very regular in his payments, kept his farm in good order, and that it was reported that he raised the best trout in Nant y Brithyll, and ordered the steward to return to him five pounds. This was done by the steward, who, in Welsh, gave what the master had said, laying particular stress on the trout part of the speech. John Moses reached home at an early hour, and his wife was astonished at the good quality of his temper. His usual growls and curses had given way to smiles and pleasant words. " Nelly !" he cried, " "D tears ; while in words eloquent with in- dignation he cried out, " This is a devilish plot to in- jure as pure-hearted a young man as ever breathed the air of Bala ! Ho, ho ! the plot is as silly and clumsy as it is malicious ; for who out of Bedlam will believe that Llewelyn Edwards is a thief ? v " Miss Thomas," said the officer. ' shall I take Mr. Edwards in custody ?" " May Heaven forbid !" cried the young lady. This matter is either a cruel joke or a villainous plot. I have recovered my treasure, and am satisfied." " Let this matter go no further," said Mr. Jenkins. " Mr. Edwards is above suspicion ; and let him be as- sured that he never stood higher in our estimation than he does this moment/' And thus it ended. The more Llewelyn thought of the matter, the more it became involved in mystery. He revealed the thing to the officers of the school, and they assured him that he had their unbounded confi- dence. He called the attention of the church officials to the same matter, and without a dissenting voice 172 LLANGOBAITH. they gave him the same assurance. By this he was greatly relieved. At that day there was in Carnarvon one weekly pa- per, The Carnarvon Herald, in which was found cor- respondence from various parts of North Wales. In about two weeks after this watch trouble, the following appeared in the columns of that paper as an item of news from Bala : "A THEOLOGICAL STUDENT COMES TO GRIEF. The other day our usually quiet town was thrown into intense excitement by a case of theft, attended by peculiar circumstances. A very worthy young lady by the name of Thomas, remaining at the well known boarding-house of Mr. and Mrs. Owen Ellis, lost a val- uable gold watch. Two officers of the law made a thorough search, and the missing watch was found at the bottom of Llewelyn Edwards' trunk. This young man is from Uangobaith, near Bangor, a candidate for the ministry. Through the influence of friends the thing has been measurably hushed up. It is under- stood that Miss Thomas will not prosecute. Young Edwards heretofore had sustained a good character, and it is lamentable that by yielding to temptation he has blasted his reputation, and caused his friends to hang down their heads in shame. SILAS EVANS." Gwennie's heart was greatly cheered by the presence of her fast friend Helen Edwards. Much of their time was spent in confidential chats touching the future, and MISS THOMAS LOSES HER WATCH. 173 they were happy in each other's love. They would of- ten loiter amid the magnificent ruins of Carnarvon cas- tle, and converse of those years gone by when their an- cestors so nobly fought against foreign invaders and home oppressors. Together they would climb those winding stairs, and stand on the giddy heights of " Twr yr Eryr'' (Eagle Tower), from where they had a magni- ficent view of all the surrounding country. At the close of day, arm in arm, they would promenade the length of that beautiful quay, and view the harbor with its many sails of commerce. From one of these de- lightful rambles they had just returned. They found Moms Williams in his usual seat, looking with much solemnity at the Carnarvon Herald. "Why. my dear uncle Moms," said Gwennie. " you look as if something serious had attracted your atten- tion." "It is serious enough, my dear!" said her uncle. Mr. Williams would occasionally indulge in a rich joke, and Gwennie at first thought that this was the nature of his solemnity. But looking at him again, and noticing a certain unsteadiness in his voice, she made up her mind that her uncle was in earnest. "What is it, my dear uncle?" she asked in a low voice. " It is something touching Llewelyn," he replied. " He is neither dead nor sick, and is the same noble man 174 LLA3JGOBAITH. that he ever was. But some infernal agencies are at work to destroy his character, and they try to make the people believe that he is a thief !" "Ho, ho !" cried the girls, in a mixture of weeping and laughing, while Gwennie continued, " My fright is over ! Llewelyn is safe !" " Heaven bless my dear brother !" said Helen. " You have behaved nobly," said Mr. Williams. "I will now read the strange paragraph, which in part may be true. It has been written by some one who desires Llewelyn's ruin." After reading the article, he said again, " Let us wait one week, and we shall have something from Bala that will show the matter in its true light." The week was soon past. The Herald was again out, and the best brains of Bala had met for the vindi- cation of young Edwards. "A VILE SLANDER. Mr. Editor In your last number you published an item from this town that does cruel injustice to a most worthy young man. The paragraph is partly true, but it was conceived in malice, and is the production of some lying villain. The watch was taken, and it was found in Mr. Edwards' trunk ; but no one believes that it was put there by the young student. Tour corre- spondent signs his name ' Silas Evans ;' we have no such a name in Bala. When he wrote of Mr. Edwards 'yielding to temptation,' he knew that he was penning a MISS THOMAS LOSES HER WATCH. 175 falsehood. Miss Thomas never thought for a moment that Mr. Edwards was guilty. The authorities of the school and the officials of the church have passed resolutions of entire confidence in the young man. The vile plot did not originate at this place. Let not the friends of Mr. Edwards be disturbed in the least. Here he is respected by all. In behalf of the Theological Institute, THOMAS LEWIS. In behalf of the Calviuistic Church, ROBERT GRIFFITHS." In reading this article, Morris Williams several times had to surrender to his emotions, while the young ladies shed tears of joy and affection. The faithful un- cle procured twenty copies of the Herald for distribu- tion in the vicinity of Llangobaith. CHAPTER XVI. THE RE8CTTE ON " LLYN TEOID." Thomas Lloyd, after the departure of Gwennie. sat down and endeavored to comprehend the situation. She was actually gone ! Yes, Gwennie had gone, and in spite of his unbending will, he felt a choking sensation, and faintly heard the voice of a long ago banished con- science crying as if from far away, in distinct accents, "THOMAS LLOYD, YOU ARE WRONG !" That voice he dread- ed, and from that empty room he hastened to another of much smaller dimensions, poured into a glass a liberal quantity of some reviving liquid, and thus, for that day at least, he was well delivered from the accusation of the troublesome meddler. " Jane," said Lloyd to one of his most responsible maid-servants, in about two hours after Gwennie's de- parture, "for a while I wish you to take the responsi- bility of housekeeping. Gwennie is gone." "Yes sir, I saw her going," said Jane, "and without wishing it, sir, I heard some of the conversation. You have turned my deal- young mistress from her own home because she was faithful to her true lover. And now, sir, that Miss Gwennie is gone, there is no pleas- ure for me in this house, and I am going too." THE RESCUE ON " I.LYN TEGID." 177 " Nonsense, Jane ! That will never do,'' said Lloyd, curbing his feelings. " She dared my authority, and I sent her away." "It is not for me to dispute with my master,'' said the servant, "but you commanded your daughter to marry a very bad man. He has plenty of money, but he swears, and breaks the Sabbath, and gets drunk. And for refusing to be the wife of that bad man, you have turned Miss Gwennie, who is the very image of her mother, out of doors! No, this house is no longer a place for Jane Lewis, and I cannot stay." " Jane, you are both foolish and saucy." said Lloyd. " You are a good servant, and if you want higher wages, you can have it ; but you must not leave me.'' "I find no fault with my wages, sir," said Jane, "but I will not be the housekeeper of a man who has so treated my young mistress. If you can get your sister Grace or some other lady relative to come and take charge of things, I will remain your servant for a while longer." " Jane, you have put a new idea into my head," said Lloyd, while his countenance brightened. u This very day I will write to Grace. If she comes, you need not tell her anything about this trouble. I can do that my- self." Here the conversation ended. Jane went her way, wondering at her boldness, and Thomas Lloyd hastened to write a letter. 178 LLANGOBAITH. About two weeks had passed since the stolen watch excitement at Bala. Llewelyn was a favorite at school, in the church and among the citizens ; but no one seemed to enjoy his society more than did Mr. Jenkins, who still remained in town, and was very attentive to Miss Thomas. "Mr. Edwards," said Mr. Jenkins one day, "I envy the ease with which you can manage a boat." " In that I had some experience years ago," said Mr. Edwards. " Since I came to Bala I have taken much pleasure on the lake." " In that line I never had any experience, and I am exceedingly timid in regard to the water," said Mr. Jenkins. " I am almost ashamed to confess it. And yet I have a strong desire to go on that beautiful lake. If I was a good swimmer hi case of an accident, it would be different ; but you see I cannot swim at all." "Neither can I," said Llewelyn with a smile, "but with a good boat there is nothing to fear on this bit of a lake." " Then you are just the man for me to trust." was the reply. " If you will indulge me in this matter, I will most gladly pay for the use of the boat, and thank you most heartily in the bargain." " It will give me great pleasure to be of any service to you, Mr. Jenkins," said Mr. Edwards. " Your warm sympathy when I was in trouble a few weeks ago has laid me under great obligation to you." THE RESCUE ON "LLYN TEGID." 179 "Oh, don't mention it!" said Mr. Jenkins. "But when shall we go?" " Let us go this evening at six o'clock. Shall any one go with us ?" "Oh no!" said Jenkins with a hearty laugh, "I should be so afraid the boat would sink." At the appointed time they started ; Llewelyn took the oars, while Jenkins timidly sat in the stern. The boat was soon skimming along at a rapid rate. " This is delightful," cried Jenkins. "It is a shame that I have not been on this lake before. Hereafter I shall not be so silly." " I will row you to any part of the lake or shores you may wish," said Llewelyn. "Thank you, Mr. Edwards, you may go where you choose. It is all the same to me." And thus they chatted away indifferently for a long time, until they thought it was time to give their boat a homeward direction. "Mr. Edwards," said Mr. Jenkins with a most pleasant smile, "your movements seem to be so easy and graceful, that I would give a great deal if I could boast of such proficiency in the same line." " A very little practice, Mr. Jenkins, would give you all the proficiency you desire," said Edwards, " and I would advise you to begin at once." " I am inclined to make the trial now," said Mr. Jen- 180 LLANGOBAITH. tins, " and you are at full liberty to laugh at my blunders." "There will be no occasion for laughing/' said Llewelyn. "Now let us change seats." They both stood up ; and Mr. Jenkins, in changing his location, stepped on the extreme end of the rowing seat, the boat leaned over, he lost his balance, fell heavily into the water and sunk from sight. He soon came to the surface, reached out his hands and wildly cried, " For God sake, save me!" Llewelyn stooping over, gave him both hands, when Jenkins in the most frantic manner gave such a jerk that instantly pulled the young student into the water. Not knowing how to swim, he went down. When he came up, Jenkins was at some distance, clinging to the stern of the boat. Llewelyn made a desperate struggle to keep his head above the water, but soon again sunk out of sight. Fortunately, this was seen by two men from the shore, who at once started to the rescue ; and when the student came up the second time, they were on the spot with their boat, and he was saved. Seeing that Mr. Jenkins was in no immediate danger, they paid their attention to Llewelyn, who, although much exhausted, soon revived. " Is my friend safe ?" was the first question. " He is safe," was the reply. THE RESCUE ON " LLYX TEGID." 181 The two men now slowly pulled toward Mr. Jenkins and took him into their boat " Gentlemen," said Mr. Jenkins, " your timely arrival seems like a miraculous interposition of Providence in saving a most worthy young man from a watery grave." "But your behavior in the premises seems to us as strange," said George Griffith. "To tell you the truth," said Mr. Jenkins, I was so alarmed and bewildered that I did not know what I was about. But we are in no condition to stay here any longer, and so we will take our own boat and start for the town." " Mr. Edwards is not in a lit condition to row," an- swered Thomas Phillips. " You had better remain in this boat, and let us take you home." "lam fully recovered," said Llewelyn; "I can row without the least difficulty. We most heartily thank you for your assistance. Mr. Jenkins explained to me before we started, his great timidity on the water, and that fully explains his behavior. You will do me a great favor by keeping this unfortunate thing to your- selves. If the students should hear of it, it might cause me much annoyance, and it might be embarrassing to Mr. Jenkins, who on all occasions has proved to me a most excellent friend." "Mr. Edwards," said Mr. Griffith, "we shall do as you desire." 182 LLANOOBAITH. They again went into their own boat, reached the town, sought their respective rooms, changed their gar- ments, and all passed off without drawing any particu- lar attention. That evening Mr. Jenkins came to Mr. Edwards' room, and said " I have just received a letter from home, and my sister is so anxious to have me return, that I have con- cluded to start in the morning. While I have been here, your society has been to me very agreeable. And better than that, I trust that your moral influence has told favorably on my mind. I see more beauty in Chris- tianity than I ever have before. I am sorry that my behavior on the lake was not more manly. For the time being I lost my senses. Never again will I ven- ture on the water in a small boat. To-night I will stay at the hotel, in order to take the coach at an early hour. I will now bid you good-bye, in the hope of seeing you again in a few weeks. I would advise you to be on your guard against secret enemies. That silly gold watch plot convinced me that there are those who are bent on doing you an injury. I think it will yet be brought to light, and that the guilty wretch or wretches will be punished." The two then parted, and Llewelyn felt that he was indeed losing a true friend. Mr. Jenkins, in a most THE RESCUE OS "LLYN TEGID." 183 honorable manner, settled all his bills, and made sev- eral nice presents to Mr. Ellis' children. Miss Thomas was evidently affected, but her good sense was a sufficient guard against any demonstration. The popular young stranger departed next morning, and the impression he left upon the inhabitants of that quiet town, with but very few exceptions, was decidedly favorable. CHAPTER XVII. THOMAS LLOYD'S SISTER. Grace Lloyd was a lady of forty years, whose heart, as yet, had never throbbed with any particular emo- tions of affection for any male member of the human race. In other years she had caused many hearts to flutter. With imploring looks, more than one had beg- ged of her in touching poetic strains, to save them from destruction. But with an expression on her fair coun- tenance that only quickened their pulsations, she had given them to understand, that hitherto she had not met a man for whose society she was willing to ex- change her single blessedness ; and in accents plain she had bidden them to depart, and seek balm for their wounded spirits in some other quarters. And thus she had reached this age without a single wound from Cu- pid's arrow. Grace possessed an independent mind ; but in her manners there was nothing haughty or imperious. She was somewhat abrupt in her expressions, and often se- vere in her remarks ; but she was always found on the right side of all moral questions. She had means of her own, and for several years had lived with some of her Welsh friends in Liverpool. THOMAS LLOYD'S SISTEU. 185 Of her brother's trouble with Gwennie she was in blissful ignorance. The letter, urgently requesting her presence at Druid's Grove, gave her no reason for the daughter's absence ; and under the impression that her niece would soon return, she had consented to super- intend the household duties. Several things, in different parts of the house, indi- cated to her keen perceptions, that Gwennie had not left home under the ordinary circumstances of a per- son paying a transient visit to a distant relative, with the expectation of soon returning. There was a strange absence of almost everything that belonged to the daughter, with a suspicious silence on the part of her father in regard to her departure ; and several times, to questions relative to Gwennie he had returned eva- sive answers. "I don't know what it is," said Grace to herself, " but I am sure that something of a serious nature has of late taken place under this roof. I am not going to remain in the dark any longer. As Tom's sister, and Gwennie' s aunt, I have a right to know how matters stand; and I will know, or my name is not Grace Lloyd. Jane !" That person was soon in her presence, and mani- fested in her countenance a thorough readiness to do the housekeeper's bidding. " Sit down, Jane," said Grace in a cheerful tone." 5 " I 12 186 LLANOOBAITH. wish to ask you a few questions in regard to matters in this house." " If Miss Lloyd wants to know anything about flour, butter, cheese, meat and cooking, or anything else in my line, I will tell her with great pleasure," said Jane. " Those are not the things I care about just now," said Miss Lloyd with a slight smile. " I wish to know what were the circumstances under which Gwennie left home. You need not answer unless you are perfectly willing." "I could tell you much, Miss Lloyd, but I am not at liberty," said Jane in trembling accents. "I honor you for your faithfulness," said Grace. " But Gwennie is the last person on earth that I would have suspected of doing anything wrong !" " May Heaven save us !" cried Jane, wringing her hands. " Don't you suspect for one moment that my deai- young mistress did anything wrong ! She is as pure and good as the angels in heaven !" and she burst into violent sobbing. Then resuming, she said, " Let Miss Lloyd go to her brother. He is the one to an- swer her questions." "You are quite right, Jane," was the answer, "and I will follow your advice." And the housekeeper and the excellent servant went about their respective du- ties. "I have never made much of an ado over the girl," THOMAS LLOYD'S SISTER. 187 said Grace again to herself, "audit may be possible that she thinks that I care but little about her. If she does, she will one day change her opinion." The next morning, after breakfast, Grace requested her brother to come to her room up-stairs, that she wished to consult him in regard to some household movements. And Thomas Lloyd having no objection to being consulted, found his way to Grace's room. "Grace, you are getting along finely. If you wish to get any information in regard to housekeeping, Jane will tell you all about such matters." "At present I am in search of information that should not come from a servant, but from the head of the family," said Grace. " Tom, I want to know in the first place, what were the circumstances under which Gwennie left this house ?'" "O bother!" said her brother, "why should you trouble your head about that ? Gwennie is away, and will stay away, and I beg of you not to mention the subject again." " Your begging is in vain, and the subject will be mentioned again," said Grace. " Your letter to me was misleading and deceptive. J came here under the im- pression that Gwennie had left on a visit to friends. The looks of her rooms appeared to me mysterious, and I soon became convinced that there had been some trouble. Why did you not tell me the whole truth ?" 188 LLANOOBAITH. " I told you as much truth as then answered my pur- pose," was the short reply. " And I intend that before you leave this room, Tom Lloyd, you will tell as much as will answer my pur- pose," said the sister, in a way that the brother pretty well understood. " Please bear in mind that I am not a dependent on your charity. I would advise you to be a little careful in regard to the manner in which you answer my questions. As your sister, and Gwennie's aunt, I have a right to know these things in regard to which I am in the dark. If you prove stubborn, I give you fair warning that to-night will find me at Bangor, and that in less than forty-eight hours I will be in my own rooms in Liverpool. I ask you again, what were the circumstances under which Gwennie left this house ?" Thomas Lloyd well understood the nature and tem- per of that person before whom he quailed, and re- plied: " Gwennie defied my authority, as a parent, and utterly refused to obey my commands." "When I hear what those commands were, I shall be able to judge whether she did right or wrong," said Grace. " What did you command her to do, Tom f ' " I commanded her to accept the hand and fortune of a worthy young gentleman, who sought her for a wife, and she disregarded my command, and rejected his generous offer," said Thomas Lloyd. THOMAS LLOYD 8 SISTER. 189 Here Grace burst out in a peculiar laughter in which were mixed in equal quantities, scorn, auger, and ridicule. After the laughter came a certain look, which Thomas Lloyd had often witnessed in other years, and before which he could never stand. And now. pe- nurious as he was, he would have given a good round sum of money to escape that peculiar stare. But to run away, at this stage, would have been disastrous. "Grace, for Heaven's sake, don't look at me in that way !" he cried. ' Your words are hard enough, and your laugh is worse, but give me anything rather than that look !" "Well, brother," said Grace, with somewhat of an altered countenance, "I am deeply interested in the narrative. Now proceed, and give me the name of this worthy gentleman, as you call him, that your daughter, contrary to your command, rejected." "He is none other than Mr. Lucas Pugh, of River- side," said Lloyd. " And you call him a worthy gentleman !" said Grace. " And why not ?" asked the brother. "For the best reason in the world." was the answer. * l He has not one worthy quality, nor a single gentle- manly trait. And, Tom Lloyd, you know it ! And yet, with that full knowledge, you commanded your pure- minded daughter to unite herself to that vile specimen of moral corruption !" And again she gave her brother 190 LLANOOBAITH. that look. " Of course, she disobeyed your command," she continued. " It could not be otherwise. Oh, I feel humiliated to think that I have a brother that could pollute his lips with such a monstrous order !" "Grace!" said Lloyd, jumping to his feet, "such language is jard to bear !" " We cannot tell how much we can bear until we are put to the test," said the sister. " I have much more to say before you leave this room, and I am going to say it in my own way. But let me hear more of the narrative. Why did Gwennie leave her home ? An- swer me that question." *' I commanded her to leave," said the brother, with as much assurance as he conld command. " In addi- tion to rejecting Mr. Pugh, she has accepted the suit of a fellow whose father cannot command a thousand pounds." " And who is this ' fellow,' as you call him, that was so bold and daring ?" asked the sister in feigned won- der, and with a smile which Lloyd well knew did not indicate that the storm was subsiding. " It is Llewelyn Edwards, of the ' shop,' " aaid Lloyd. " He has of late become a ranting Methodist, and is now at Bala preparing to be one of their ministers." Without replying to his last remark, the sister said : "At last I understand the situation, and I am some- what relieved. At first I had some faint fears that THOMAS LLOYD'S SISTEK. 191 Gwennie had been guilty of some imprudence and had, without reason, left her home. Now I see that she has been perfectly blameless, and that her actions have been those of a pure-minded lady. Never has she stood so high in my estimation as she does this moment. 1 ' " And by the same rule, I never stood so low in your estimation as I do this moment," said Lloyd. " Tom, thou hast said it,'' said Grace. " I have known for years that the love of money was the great ruling passion of your soul. But I had no idea that you could ever stoop to such a depth of degradation as this. I shudder to think of it!" " Then let us drop the subject,'' said Thomas. " No ! The subject is of too serious a nature to drop," said Grace. " You have committed a great wrong. I hope that this awful sin against God and your daughter is not yet known. Tom, this matter must be righted, and that without delay, or you will be hissed even by the children when you pass by. "What is your candid opinion ? I thiuk you have seen the time when you had a degree of conscience. Tom, is there any left ? I am very anxious to know whether there is anything in you that is worth saving. Are you satisfied with your treatment of Gwennie f "Well, Grace," said the brother, "seeing we have gone into the subject so deep, I may as well admit that 192 LLANOOBAITH. I ain not satisfied with \\hat I have clone. I have been too severe.' 1 " Ah, Tom," said Grate, " I ain sure that that is the voice of a good conscience, and is a positive proof that it still lives ! I will give you all the assistance in my power. This conscience, if you will but listen to its voice, will tell you that Lucas Pugh is a person that no Christian girl can admire ; that your commands were cruel and wicked ; that Llewelyn Edwards is full worthy of your daughter, and that you should ask Gwennie's forgiveness and bring her home. All this conscience will tell you." For a fewfmoments there was silence, while the sharp eyes of the sister rested on those of the brother. Lloyd, from the moment when the conversation began, felt that he] was brought before a terrible tribunal with whose^judgment he could not trifle. During each ad- ditional minute he felt that his defence was weakening, until at last he clearly saw that he was indeed the un- kind wretch so plainly described by his sister, and more so by the voice of conscience. His pride and stub- bornness fought desperately, but that terrible voice came nigher and stronger, ringing in the ear of his soul, " You have done wrong /" until at last, in words marked with agitation, he said : " Grace ! it is both foolish and wicked for me any longer to hide my real feelings and convictions. I THOMAS LLOYD'S SISTER. 193 know that your severest sentences are all true. I felt that I was guilty, but I tried to defend myself with weak sophistry. From that fatal moment when I drove Gwenuie from her home, I have been one of the most miserable of men. I have not enjoyed one quiet hour by day or by night. A heavy load has been pressing me down. All the arguments I could gather have ap- peared weak and foolish. Several times I have been on the point of starting for Carnarvon after Gwennie, and to ask her forgiveness. But pride triumphed over con- science. When I wrote to Liverpool, I ought to have been honest. I promised myself that I would give you the information on your arrival. Since you came, the more I thought of it, the more I shrunk from approach- ing the subject. I am astonished at the change that has come over me, and I am tempted to doubt my senses. My eyes have been opened to see the past, and the sight is shocking ! I have been governed by one ruling motive money-making. For the first time the awful conviction conies upon me with crushing weight that had I been a different man, my wife would not have died ! I am well convinced that Lucas Pugh is a bad young man, and I am very glad that Gwennie re- fused to comply with my mad request. Llewelyn Ed- wards is a worthy person, although I have no sympathy with his Methodism. Grace, I have told you all ; the effort has almost prostrated me. I feel as weak as a 194 LLANGOBAITH. ch ild, both in body and mind. I will leave this matter in your hands, and I will abide by your instructions." Grace, while delighted, was not demonstrative. She simply said " Tom, in regard to your bodily strength, I cannot say. But in my opinion, you have manifested more strength of mind than ever before. We have reached a favorable point, and before many days Druid's Grove will smile again under a brighter sunshine than it has seen in many years." CHAPTER XVHI. RECONCILIATION AND DI8COVEKIES. It was a delightful evening. The sun had disap- peared beyond the hills of Sir Fon, and the western firmament was covered with golden splendor. Gwennie and her uncle had just returned from a pleasant walk on the beach fronting that tine harbor, and were seated in one of Mr. Williams' parlors. Helen Edwards had returned to Llangobaith some days before. " Uncle Morris," said Gwennie, k * to me this has been a day of deep meditation. Past events have crowded upon my memory." " And most of them have been pleasant," said her uncle. " They have," she replied. " My school days were one perpetual stream of enjoyment. My church rela- tion has been happy, and I have rejoiced in the affec- tion of a most loving mother." "And yet you nave passed through some severe trials, Gwennie," said Mr. "Williams. "Yes," said the maiden, "but worse than all, my father turned against me and banished me from my home !" " His conduct was very bad !" said Mr. Williams- 196 LLANGOBAITH. But, Gwennie, he will yet look at the matter seriously, be heartily ashamed of his conduct, and ask your for- "Oh, my dear uncle!" broke out Gwennie, with tears. " Do you really believe that my father will again be good and kind, and that I shall get home to Uwyn y Derwydd?" "Yes, my dear," was his answer. "I am almost sure of it." " And why do you think so, Uncle Morris f ' "For several reasons," he said. "First, no person, unless utterly depraved, can go as far as he did with- out meeting a tremendous reaction. I think he has some conscience left after all, and that he will yet try to atone for his cruel treatment. Another thing, Grace Lloyd has taken him in hand before this time, and if she has not scattered the live coals of truth upon his naked heart, I am mistaken. Yes, Gwennie dear, you will go back to Druid's Grove. I shall miss your soci- ty much, but I don't wish it to become known that your father has treated you so unkindly." " My dear uncle, are you not too hopeful ? M cried Gwennie. " But may my father in Heaven grant that it may so prove !'' Here one of Mr. Williams' clerks brought in the mail .and presented it to his master. RECONCILIATION AND DISCOVERIES. 197 He looked the letters over, and quietly smiled. Gwen- nie watched him with a throbbing heart. " Is there anything for me, uncle Moms ?" " It looks very much as if there was, Gwennie," said her uncle, as he handed her three letters. " Oh, uncle !" cried the girl, " a letter from papa ! Is not that astonishing ?" '" Not as I view things, dear," was the reply. " I am afraid to open it, uncle Morris !" she cried again. " I think there is nothing in it that will hurt you/' She opened it and read the first sentence. " M} dear abused child." She jumped to her feet, uttered a loud cry of joy, fell upon her uncle's neck and kissed him. " Oh, uncle Morris, I am almost too happy to live ! Papa calls me his 'dear abused child!' This is too good to come all at once! Where is the letter? I must go by myself or you will be ashamed of me !" and she ran to her room. A calmness came over her, and she read the following : "MY DEAR ABUSED CHILD: Ever since that day when I so cruelly and wickedly ordered you to leave your own nome, I have been a deeply wretched man, continually tormented with guilt and shame. I tried to get Jane to take charge. She refused, and gave me a rebuke that cut deep into my soul. Your aunt Grace came with the impression thai 198 LLAXGOBAITH. you had only left on a visit. One morning she brought me to an account. I tried to evade, but it was of no use, and I confessed the whole. At first I showed no penitence, but she soon overwhelmed me in confusion ! I told her my regrets and sorrow, and put myself under her training. Dear Gwennie, I am deeply sorry for my conduct, and sincerely ask your forgiveness. I am thankful that you disregarded my cruel commands. To-day Lucas Pugh looks as forbidding to me as he does to you. I gladly withdraw all objections to Llew- elyn Edwards, who is a worthy young man. On next Wednesday, Robin Jones will bring your aunt Grace to Carnarvon, and I trust that my dear daughter will re- turn with them to her old home. You can show this letter to your uncle Morris. Affectionately your penitent FATHER." Grace's letter was very brief. 41 MY DEAR GWENNIE : Your father's letter will explain all. Your conduct throughout has been praiseworthy, and your trouble is at an end. On Wednesday, of course, you will return with me to Druid's Grove. Affectionately your AUNT GRAC*.'* With a spirit sweetly calmed, she again joined Mr. Williams. " Uncle Morris," she said, ' the news was so good, and, to me, so unexpected, that it completely ove r RECONCILIATION AND DISCOVERIES. 199 whelmed me. I am afraid that my behavior was a little wild." "It was just right, Gwennie," said Mr. Williams, " and I would not have had it different." " Papa writes that I may show his letter to you," said Gwennie, " and here are a few lines from aunt Grace.'' " Short and to the point," said the uncle. " Grace never indulges in waste words, but has always on hand a good supply of common sense. What beautiful wri- ting, Gwennie ! Just look at the graceful curve of that G, and the beauty of that L ! Such penmanship, in my opinion, shows something more than mechanical in- genuity. Have you any more letters for me to read ?'' " I have one more, uncle Morris, and I have no objec- tion for f,ou to read it." " Oh, no ; I don't wish to read that letter. I hope Llewelyn is well." " He is well and happy, and sends kind regards." On the afternoon of the following day the familiar equipage from Druid's Grove appeared in front of Mor- ris Williams' mansion. The door of the carriage was pulled open, and the aunt and niece enjoyed a hearty embrace. Gwennie also took her father's faithful ser- vant by the hand, which greatly pleased Kobin Jones. The aunt was conducted into the parlor, where she was gladly received by Mr. Williams, with whom she was on familiar terms. 200 LLANOOBAITH. " Gwennie," said Grace, " my stay at present will be very short. I have only one errand, and that is to take you home to Druid's Grove." " Nay, Grace !" said Morris Williams, " stay and let us enjoy a little visit." "Not to-day, Morris," said Grace. "Before long we shall come and make you a good all-day visit. With that promise, we must go. Call Robin in, and let him take the trunks. Now, my dear, put on your things and prepare for a delightful ride." The trunks were properly deposited, Gwennie gave her uncle a highly demonstrative kiss, and the briefly disowned was on her way to a reconstructed father. About the time Llewelyn entered the Theological In- stitute at Bala, Taliesin Roberts, through the influence and under the direction of Mrs. Parry, of Thrush Grove, was admitted as a student into the office of an eminent barrister at Bangor, by the name of Parry Jones, in whose eyes the young man found much favor. Roberts was tall, straight and comely, and was often mentioned in highly complimentary terms by some of the noted lady beauties of the city. Llangobaith being not far from Bangor, Taliesin was often found under his parents' roof, and he was by no means a stranger at the " shop," where he always found a most hearty welcome. RECONCILIATION AND DISCOVERIES. 201 The day had passed, and part of the night. The lights in the business part of the " shop " had been extinguished. The father, daughter, Mrs. Owen and Taliesin, were seated together in the pleasant parlor. Taliesin," said Mr. Edwards, ''for some little time you have been a law student. Think you not that this plot against Llewelyn originated at Langobaith '?" - 1 certainly do," said the young man. It sprung from the cowardly malice and hatred of Lucas Pugh and John Spike, assisted by those who are more expert in mischief." ' " And yet," said Helen, "he utterly fails to lincl a person at Bala that he cannot call a real friend. There is but one stranger with whom he associates, and in him he has the utmost confidence.'' "Aye," said Taliesin, "and that one stranger is a villain in disguise a hired tool of Lucas Pugh to dis- honor your brother." Taliesin, you perfectly astonish me!" said Helen. " Papa, what do you think ?" -I think Taliesin is correct," answered the father. ' I am concerned about our boy's personal safety," said Mrs. Owen. " I am troubled on that score myself," said the young man. "Such is Lucas Pugh's depravity and revenge- ful disposition, that he would furnish money to carry on even a murderous plan. Llewelyn says that this 13 202 LLANOOBAITH. Jenkins has left Bala for South Wales ; but I am of the opinion that even now he is in malicious con- sultation with Pugh and the Spikes. I have revealed this matter to Parry Jones, and this is his candid conviction. He has given me permission to stay in this vicinity for a number of days, and watch the move- ments of things. I ask for no higher honor than to bear some part in bringing these depraved wretches to justice and punishment.'' " Taliesin," said Helen, with some alarm in her voice, " don't put yourself in the way of these bad men, for they hate you almost as much as they do my brother." " I will be careful, Helen," said the young man, " but I am willing to run some risk in the interest of one who is so dear to us all. I have no fixed plan, but I am on the watch." After some more conversation of the same nature, the hour being late, Taliesin took his leave. The night was dark and windy. He was no sooner in the street than he was accosted by a voice quite familiar. " Robin Jones, is that you ?" asked Taliesin, grasp- ing the young man's hand. " Like myself, you are out at a late hour." "Aye, and so I am," said Robin. "I have been at your father's, snd they told me where to look for you. I did not wish to disturb you, and so I have waited for you on this spot." RECONCILIATION AND DISCOVERIES. 203 " It must be something of importance that puts you to all this trouble," said Taliesiu. " You will be the better judge of this when I tell you what it is. First, I have something good to tell you. Gwennie is home again. Her father has asked her forgiveness, and all is sweet." " Kobin Jones !" cried Taliesin, u are you sure that is true?" "I drove the carriage that brought her home this very day ; and didn't I see the master kissing of her ?" said Robin. "It is enough ! The news is glorious!" said Taliesiu. "But I have something bad to tell you." Robin went on, " There are some chaps hereabout that wish you ill, and intend to murder Llewelyn Edwards, and you must know it." " You are a good, faithful friend, Robin !" said Tal- iesin, "and your faithfulness will not be forgotten. But this is no place to talk about such matters. Come with me," and in a moment he was seeking admission into the room he had so lately left. " Helen," said he, " I have just met Robin Jones, who has something of importance to tell me in confidence. He also informs me that Thomas Lloyd has repented of his ill-treatment of Gwennie, asked her forgiveness, and brought her home." " May the Lord be praised !" was Helen's reply. 204 LLAXGOBA1TH. They were shown into a room, the door was closed, and Robin Jones began : " Last night I went to see my bister Jane. She is a servant at Nant y Llyffaint. I was coming home across the fields, and it was quite late. Not far from Riverside, I heard voices approaching. Not wishing to meet them, I jumped over the higu hedge and hid from sight. When they came close to where I was, they stopped, and although they spoke low, I could hear every word. There were three of them ; two I well knew by their voices. These were Lucas Pugh and John Spike. The other voice, which was very rough. I did not know, but from their talk I soon found that it belonged to John Spike's father." "Didn't we tell you that the stealing trick would fall flat?" asked old Spike; "but like fools, you thought it would be a sure thing. Who the devil would believe that Llewelyn Edwards would steal watches? The other scheme came within an inch of being a success. He went down twice, and would have been nicely out of the way if those cursed students hadn't picked him up. To-morrow night we shall hear all about it from Scroggs himself." " I have already paid a sight of money," said Lucas, " and I am ready to pay more ; but the thing must not fail." "Fail!" cried old Spike, " Scroggs never fails. Be- RECONCILIATION AND DISCOVERIES. 205 fore he gets through, he will put that pious howler eternally out of the way, and of course we shall all be sorry for the sad accident." "And I am bound that Taliesin Roberts must come in for a share," said John Spike with an oath. " That will come in all right at the proper time," said the father. "But, John, you must learn to keep your mouth shut.'' " At what hour to-morrow night shall we meet Scroggs?'' asked Lucas. "At midnight, in the bower," said Spike, ''where he will give us an account of his labors at Bala." Here the company left. I wanted to run to Baugor and tell you at once, but learning that you were to be at home to-day, I waited." " Well, Robin, you have discovered an infernal plot," said Roberts. "Already the}- have tried to murder our friend, and are fully bent on accomplishing their work. To-night they meet again. A thousand pities we don't know the place of their concealment." " I take it to be some out-of-door place they call 'the bower,'" said Robin. "I dare say, it is far enough from any road or pathway." "We can now leave, Robin, and enjoy each other's company for at least a mile," said Taliesin ; and with another pleasant "good night," they left, and started 206 LLANGOBAITH. for their respective homes. In a low undertone they continued their conversation. When they had traveled about half a mile, Robin came to a sudden stand ; but it was only for a few sec- onds, and starting again, he remarked, "I presume it was nothing, but I thought I saw a faint light." He suddenly stopped again. " Now, Taliesin Roberts," said he, " can you see a bit of light in that direction, or do my eyes deceive me?" Taliesin looked into the far-off darkness and said in a low voice, " I certainly see it ! And now, Robin, tell me the spot as near as you can judge, and see if we agree on the locality." "I think it is in the vicinity of Coed y Pant" said Robin. " There, it has gone out, or out of sight per- haps into the valley." "Tour opinion agrees with mine," said Roberts. "It may be possible that Coed y Pant is the very place where these villains have their 'bower.' Robin, I am going to try to find the hiding place of these incarnate demons. There is no time to be lost. Will you go with me and stand by me f " I will go with you to any spot on earth, and stand by you, even if it should cost me my life !" said Robin. " Brave fellow !" said Taliesin. " Now for the Valley Woods. I have some knowledge of the surroundings, RECONCILIATION AND DISCOVERIES. 207 and will lead. When we get there, we must tread with the silence of a cat. Here we start !'' And at a rapid rate, with their hearts beating with indignant excitement, they started for that unfre- quented spot, and before a great while they were not far from the locality where they thought they had seen the light. Instead of moving forward at once into the wooded valley before them, they went around its south- ern end, and carefully looked clown into its depths from the opposite side. Thus they moved slowly and carefully, in perfect silence, for some time. At last, Robin seized Taliesin by the arm and secured his atten- tion. He then, without even a whisper, pointed with his finger downward to the valley. Taliesin saw at some distance a faint light, as if shining through thick branches. With noisless movements they slowly ad- vanced through the thicket, in the direction of the light. Step by step they persevered until they reached the spot. It was a rude cabin, made of tree branches cov- ing a slight frame-work. To their great satisfaction, our two young friends found that they were at the rear end of the structure, and that in case they were discov- ered, they could make good their escape. They sat down within a few inches of the cabin, and through very small openings, they had a fair view of the interior. There were four together, and Scroggs secerned to be the great man of the occasion. 208 LLANGOBAITH. " Let us drink around, and proceed to business," said Lucas Pugh, in rather a strong voice. ' "It would better suit me, Mr. Pugb, if you would pitch your tune on a lower key." said Scroggs. "There is no danger," said Lucas. "Ill defy all hell to find us out !" " The spot is a good one," said Scroggs, " but your in- sisting on having a light because you had dropped a knife that was not worth two and sixpence, proves that you are not the safest man for an enterprise of this na- ture. If we are not pursued by spies, no thanks to you. Among my fellows I stand high, and in this mat- ter my reputation must not suffer. For the present, put that bottle away." Lucas made no reply, and Mr. Scroggs proceeded. " The theft movement, on which you boys insisted, utterly failed. I told you it would, and I never would have consented to try it, only as I saw that out of it I could manufacture strength for further movements. I did not blame Mr. Pugh for wishing to accomplish his object without resorting to extreme measures. It would have been far more agreeable to me, and far cheaper for him. I gave the watch movement all the force I could, but it would not work. It was folly to suppose that Gwennie Lloyd would throw off Edwards on the strength of that. In the case of a person of an indifferent character, it would have worked. But RECONCILIATION AXD IMSCOVERIES. 209 out of the movement, weak as it was. I made a grand capital. The way I ridiculed the trick, laughed at its folly, stood by my young friend with tears in my eyes, and poured a stream of indignant eloquence against the vile plotter, rendered me doubly dear to Llewelyn and to all his friends. This proof of my burning friendship made my after movements much more safe. Mr. Pugh soon saw that no half-way measures would answer, and in harmony with his direction, as made known to my chief, and with the knowledge that the sum agreed up- on had been promptly advanced, I at once went to work in a more sensible way. " The boat disaster was well conceived, and carried out to the letter. In a spot where I thought no one could see us, I fell into the lake, and like a stone I went down. I came up, and being unable to swim ha! ha! I cried for help. He reached over the side of the boat and took hold of my hands. Then came that frantic pull which brought him into the water as quick as lightning, and lie went down like a piece of lead. I then made for the boat, and pushed it off some distance, clinging to the stern. Edwards came up, blowing and struggling, and there I was, longing to save him, but couldn't! Ha! ha! I knew he would come up again, and with tears in my eyes, you under- stand, I was preparing for a last farewell, when a boat, with two men in it, shot by me like an arrow, and when 210 LLAXGOBA1TH. Llewelyn came up he was grabbed by one of the stu- dents, and taken into the boat. Didn't I inwardly damn those fellows? Edwards, fearing the laughter of his fellow students if the thing should be known, begged of his rescuers to say nothing about it, and they prom- ised. " That evening, after a most friendly interview with Edwards, I bade him good bye for a few weeks, to visit my father and sister at Cardiff. "With Miss Thomas, the parting interview was af- fecting. She believes that Mr. Jenkins is on the very threshold of the kingdom of heaven, and that soon he will be an ornament to the Christian ministry. As a token of affection, I took from her the trifling sum of fifty pounds, which, like a thoroughly honest man, I delivered to my chief, as I have thousands of pounds before. She will not miss her coin for a long time, and when she does find out the deficiency, her friend Mr- Jenkins will be above suspicion. " You see, gentlemen, that I have been true to my engagements. The lake undertaking was one of my best, and I shall be proud of it as long as I live. I have a project in my mind that cannot fail. It is so ingenious as to astonish myself. As yet it is not fully matured. With the assistance of my chief, I shall be ready to report at our next meeting." RECONCILIATION AND DISCOVERIES. 211 "And when shall we meet again, and at what hour?" asked Fugh. " On the night of the day after to-morrow, at mid- night," said Simon Spike. " But let there be no light on the hill to look for a two and sixpenny knife," said Scroggs. " Now let us drink !" said Lucas. " Yes, pass around the bottle !'' said Scroggs. And while this closing ceremony was going on at the " bow- er," Taliesin and Robin, with beating hearts, were on their way homeward. CHAPTER XIX. LEGAL CONSULTATION. The two students who rescued Llewelyn from his desperate condition, had faithfully kept their promise of secrecy. They had also endeavored to believe that it was an accident. In that, however, they were not successful. The more they thought of it, the stronger became their convictions that Mr. Jenkins' movements were deliberately planned, and murderous in their in- tent. On one afternoon they were seated on an embank- ment overlooking the lake, admiring its pacific appear- ance. " About there is the spot where we saved Edwards/' said Phillips, pointing to a certain part of the lake. " I wonder that such a bright intellect does not suspect foul play." " It is owing to the wonderful goodness of his heart," said Griffiths. " He is as unsuspecting as a child. He thinks well of every one as long as he possibly can. While this is a noble Christian virtue, yet, when wick- ed, designing men take advantage of it, it is well to put our friend on his guard. It is evident that he has malicious enemies that seek his hurt, and that this LEGAL CONSULTATION. 213 Jenkins is a hired agent in the interest of these enemies. He has left, and the people shed tears when he depart- ed. But he gave them the consoling assurance that he would come again. If he returns, I fear there will be another accident.'' 1 " George," said Phillips, " let us have a plain talk with Mr. Edwards. There is no time to be lost." They were about starting for the town, when the subject of their conversation suddenly joined them. "Edwards, we are glad to see you!" said Phillips. "We were conversing about you. " I am glad that you consider me worthy of your at- tention," said Llewelyn, with a pleasant smile. " We shall take the liberty of asking you a few ques- tions," said Griffiths. "And I shall answer them to the best of my ability," said Llewelyn. " Have you those who cherish toward you feelings of hatred ?" asked Phillips. " I have at least two malicious enemies," was the an- swer. "If they wish to hurt you through an agent, can they furnish money ?" asked Griffiths. "As to that, both have abundance of gold," was the reply. " Have you not suspected that such an agent was seen at Bala ?" was the next question. 214 LLANOOBAITH. "When Mr. Jenkins left, I felt as if I had lost a friend," said Mr. Edwards. "I am now well convinced that he is a knave and a murderer. Under this impres- sion, I now seek your advice. I am ashamed that I have been thus duped, and from henceforth 1 shall be more on my watch." " My advice is this," said Phillips. "Write to your friends and ask them to be on their watch in regard to the movements of these enemies. In all probability, Jenkins is now in that region, in consultation with his emploj'ers." " My friends are already on the alert," said Llewelyn, " and I have great confidence in their skill." " Edwards, please keep us posted in regard to this matter," said Griffiths. * I will certainly do that," said Edwards, and the three students slowly walked together toward the vil- lage. After they had left the rear of the bower, it was some time before Taliesin and Robin uttered one word. The complete success of their undertaking gave them won- derful bodily vigor, and they found themselves at Mr. Roberts' mansion before they were aware. So careful was Taliesin in regard to keeping the matter a secret, that he took Robin, at that late hour of the night, into his own chamber, in order to give him instruction. LEGAL CONSULTATION. 215 The parents were somewhat disturbed, but a few words from their son quieted them. " Hooray, Robin !'' cried Taliesiu. " we've got them ! To-morrow, or rather this morning, I shall go to Ban- gor and make a full statement to Parry Jones. We shall call for you at the proper time : so now you may go, and don't even mention the thing to a living per- son until the villains are secured." "You may trust Robin Jones!' was the answer, as he bade Taliesin good night, and he was soon on his way toward Druid's Grove. Robin's chamber was not in the house proper, but in a small adjoining building, and he was at liberty to go or come at his pleasure, and so his absence or return was not often noticed. " Well, Mr. Roberts." said Parry Jones, " you must have taken an early start. A little excited, eh ? Found out something, I judge. I knew we were on the right trail. Now what is it?" " Mr. Jones, I would be pleased to see you for a while at j'our private office, sir." saidTuHesin. "I have made very important discoveries." "Tom," said the lawyer to an office boy, "if any one comes in to inquire for me, you may say that I am en- gaged for an hour, and am not to be disturbed," and to the private office they went. The reader is already aware of what the young law student had to reveal. He made a full statement of 21G LLAXGOBAITH. what Robin Jones had heard in the field, and of what they both had heard at the bower "Nicely done, Roberts!" said the lawyer. "Capital! There, give Robin Jones that, as a present from ine," and he threw half a sovereign on the table, which Tal- iesin took with a respectful bow. The barrister then took a pen and in a very short time filled a page of legal paper, folded it and handed it to Taliesin. " Take that and give it to Justice Ormsby," he said. " On your way, call on Constable Jarvis, and take him with you. You will be .sworn, and as I am the counsel for the Crown, I will see that Jarvis has force enough to tie up the mean devils before they know what is the matter. Be sure and have Jarvis come with you to my office.'' Taliesin did as directed. The justice read the paper and remarked : " This is a very serious case. Your preparation is very thorough." He then prepared the papers, and Taliesin, as a witness, swore to their truth. ;< Jarvis," said the justice, "take these and proceed according to your best judgment." The constable bowed, and with Taliesin went into the office of the Crown Advocate. "Jarvis, you have a job on hand that will do you honor," said the barrister. " Two of those fellows, if they are not instantly subdued, will fight like devils. LEGAL CONSULTATION. 217 You must take sufficient force to make a sure thing of it.' "That I will certainly do," said Jarvis, "and your Honor knows what luck I generally have in this line." " There is not a better officer in the principality,' said Parry Jones, to the great satisfaction of the head constable. * I presume Mr. Roberts will be glad to give me all the information that he can in regard to the locality," said Mr. Jarvis. "I shall not only do that, but I shall be with you, and so will Robin Jones," was the reply. Jarvis then took a blank book out of his pocket, asked several questions and put down the answers. " Now, Mr. Roberts," said he, " please pay strict at- tention to what I say. Be near the spot to-morrow morning before daylight. When it becomes light enough for you to see objects clearly, seek the bower and mark the shot-test distance to reach it from the hill. Walk it a number of times over, until you are sure that you will know the way in the dark. Notice well the surroundings of their retreat. Select a good spot where we may be safe, and yet near enough to see and hear. Select some tree, stone, or some other ob- ject by which you can tell the exact place where we enter the valley. When you leave the woods for home, let it be at quite a distance from the bower. By half- past ten we must be on the ground. See to it that 218 LLANGOBAJTH. Robin Jones is at your father's as early as nine o'clock. You may look for rue and rny force soon after dark. I shall come first, the others will follow at short inter- vals. You have done finely, and I can trust you with- out the least fear." And Jarvis went his way. "We can rest assured that he will make a clean job of it," said the lawyer. "In an undertaking of this kind he is in his element. He is cool, strong, and abounding in courage." " Mr. Roberts," he continued, " we have known that there has been a gang of well- trained, murderous bur- glars that have long troubled the principality and parts of England, and have so far escaped. I am now of the opinion that this Simon Spike is at the head of the thieving gang. If so, Mr. Roberts, in finding out this villain, you have conferred a lasting favor upon the whole country. This exploit is worth more to you than a thousand pounds. Robin Jones' name also will be favorably known." " But the thing is not yet accomplished," said Tal- iesin with a smile. " Not fully ; but it is in such a shape that its com- plete success is only a question of less than forty-eight hours," said Parry Jones. " You have been deprived of rest ; to-night you will find but little sleep, and to-mor- row night less yet. Now the best advice I can give you, young man, is to go to bed. In view of what you have to to perform, you had better take this needed rest at home. " CHAPTEK XX. THE ARKEST. We have barely mentioned the lady who was known by those who lived in the mountain pass, as " the wife of old Spike." This adjective " old '' was not used to show that the person it qualified had reached advanced age, but rather to distinguish one Spike from another one of more recent date. This woman was never seen away from her own premises. She was small in stat- ure, of a sad countenance, and avoided all conversation with her few neighbors. The impression was left on the minds of all that saw her, that she was very far from being happy. The following will throw some light upon the situation : " Hold your tongue, you blasted fool, or 111 choke the breath out of you !" said Spike, looking at the little woman with the ferociousness of a very cross tiger. "Attend to your own business, will you? and the boy and myself will attend to ours ! I say again, hold your tongue !" "Simon Spike," said the little woman, in a low but firm voice, "I have held my tongue for years, while my heart has been ready to break. I have been your slave ; I have run at your command ; I have made 220 LLANGOBA1TH. no reply to your abusive language. At last I have summoned up courage, and I have thrown off fear. I have something to say; say it I will, and don't you interrupt me, at your peril ! You look aston- ished, Simon Spike ! I am astonished at myself, and I can hardly believe it is my own voice. With a lying tongue you enticed me away from a good home, and the paths of virtue, into a life of sin and shame. You promised to become my lawful husband, and after- wards you laughed at me and pronounced it a joke. You gave me the charge of your little boy. With him for a while I took some comfort, hoping that he would be a better man than his father. In this I have been disappointed. Already he is rough, and every day I suffer his abuse. After this I learned that I was the mistress of a master burglar. Gold you found in abun- dance, procured by thieving hands. You are engaged in the same bad business now, if not in something worse, and your son willingly joins in the wicked plot- tings. What means this absence from home until three o'clock in the morning so often daring the last few weeks, and why this close consultation with Scroggs? You think I have not seen him. Curb your anger for a little while longer, Simon Spike ! I will soon stop. It is my first utterance and it may be my last. Give up this dreadful way of living. The curse of God is hanging over our heads ! Settle down with your son, THE ARREST. 221 and lead an honest life, and after so many years, do justice to one that you have degraded and abused. Si- mon Spike, will you do it ?" The pent-up wrath of Spike now broke loose like a rushing torrent. His face was livid with auger. With gnashed teeth and threatening gestures he poured out a volley of abusive epithets. " I have been a fool to let your cursed tongue run on so long. Will I 'settle down and lead an honest life f Ha, ha ! I will lead the life I choose, and come home when I please. To-night, again, we go on a pleasure excursion, and to-morrow, if Charlotte Bruce will venture another sermon, I shall have the pleasure of pulling her nose and spitting in her face." " That is a fair warning," said Charlotte, " and I will take it under consideration," and in her countenance was seen a decided purpose. An hour before the dawn, Taliesin was on the hill overlooking the wooded valley. As soon as daylight appeared, without any delay, he went in search of a convenient passageway. He carefully surveyed every opening. At last he came to what seemed to be an ancient cowpath, and in the loose earth he plainly saw marks of heavy footsteps. He at once concluded that this was the conspirators' entrance, and that it would lead to their secret resort. Far sooner than he expect- 222 LLAKQOBAITH, ed, he found himself in front of the structure. His next search was for a safe and convenient hiding-place. Here again he was fortunate, for one side of the bower rested against heavy underbrush, where a number of persons in the dark could rest unseen. With a strong pocket-knife he cleared a spot sufficiently large to ac- commodate the expected company. He then, as direct- ed by Mr. Jarvis, went over the ground several times, until the whole path was clear to his mind. At the en- trance to the valley there was a large stone, which in the night would prove an unmistakable guide. Having fully satisfied himself on every point, he left for home, while most of his neighbors were yet in the embrace of sleep. The first arrival at " Cae 'r Eithin," in the evening, was Robin Jones, who was already fully instructed in the program. Next came Jarvis ; and after him, at short intervals, came four able-bodied men fully armed. To relieve bis parents 1 mind, Taliesin had partially ex- plained to them the nature of these movements. " Well, Mr. Roberts," said Jarvis, " first of all we will hear your report." " I have made a thorough survey," said Taliesin, "and am ready to lead you to the spot without the least trouble. I have also prepared a safe hiding-place close to the bower." " You and your friend here are worthy of all praise," THE ARREST. 223 said the chief constable. " My men are fully instruct- ed. What is said must be said here. Not a word must be spoken on the way, or even after we get there, until we rush upon the gang. At a given time, when we shall have fully learned their future prospects at Bala, I and my men will fall upon them. Let Mr. Roberts and his friend Jones follow at their leisure. Now, Mr. Roberts, we are ready to start. You and your friend may lead. March !" They moved rapidly, and with very little noise. They avoided the road, and went across the fields. They soon reached the entrance, and in a very short time they stood by the bower. Jarvis with his men, as far as the darkness would permit, closely examined the sur- roundings. He then gave signs for Taliesin to pro- ceed, and in a minute more they were all seated within a few inches of the cabin, encircled by an undergrowth which rendered their hiding-place perfectly safe. The excitement which the occasion produced, measurably relieved the monotony of their dark and silent retreat. The time soon passed, and the hour of midnight ar- rived. Every heart beat a little faster, while each ear keenly watched for the coming of the conspirators. At last they heard low voices near by, and the next min- ute the four villains were within what they considered their safe council chamber. A lantern was uncovered, and Jarvis was glad to know 224 LLANGOBAITH. that through the brush he could partially see the plot- ters, as well as hear their words. " I feel a little easier now tnan I did night before last," said Scroggs. " Fortunately, Pugh did not drop his knife, and we had no illumination on the hill." " That was careless in me, I know," said Pugh, "but we are all safe." "Now to business!" said Simon Spike. " I move that the first item be a little inspiration from this," said Lucas, producing a well-filled bottle. "What say you, Mr. Scroggs?" " We have had a long walk," said the operator. " Yes, pass around the inspiration ! Ha, ha ! Pugh, that's a good one." The first item having been disposed of, Scroggs as- sumed the charge of the meeting. "Our stay to-night in this quiet spot will not be long. We have but 1'ttle to do. For the benefit of Mr. Pugh, for whom I entertain very high regards, and who has not been at all backward in furnishing funds, I will say that I have matured a plan that will in the end give him perfect satisfaction. My worthy chief has given it his full endorsement as a .scheme possessing great merit, and has given me some very valuable hints in re- gard to its faithful execution. Some time may be re- quired to perfect the arrangements, and to make my- self doubly dear to my bosom friend. Now let me THE ABREST. 225 give you a piece of good advice. "When the heart- rending news reaches Llaugobaith that by an accidental discharge of a pistol in the hands of Miss Thomas, that Llewelyn Edwards lost his life, let not grief completely overwhelm you. Be moderate in your sorrow. My own grief on that occasion will be frantic enough to answer for the whole company. Oh. how I shall weep ! I need not give you the particulars: but I will assure you that it is as neat a thing as I ever produced." "Mr. Scroggs has not a superior as an operator in the kingdom," said Simon Spike. " I hope your little instrument will make a sui e thing of it," said Lucas. " My father knows nothing of tins, and he is too faint-hearted to come up to the scratch. I get the money from mother, who know*; all about it. But she cannot give much more without creating suspi- cion in my father's mind. The final payment will be met when the job is finished." " Mr. Pugh, it will be but a short time before you will admit that you have had more than the worth of your money. I will also say to my young friend John Spike, that before I return to my field of labor at Bala, I will give him the outlines of a scheme by which he au bring a veiy fine disaster upon his old schoolmate Taliesin Roberts." 'My revenge will be sure!'' cried John, under a de- gree of inspiration. 226 LLANGOBAITH. " Let us drink all around, and be gone," said Simon. u Pugh, out with the inspiration !" said Scroggs. "And let me drink damnation to Taliesin Roberts !" said John. Jarvis and his men were instantly on their feet. With silent tread they left their hiding-place, and rushed upon the conspirators, while a glare of light filled the bower. " Surrender as my prisoners, you murderous devils!" cried Jarvis, in*H voice that echoed through the wooded valley, while a polished pistol was grasped by each of his men. " Surrender !" " Damnation !" cried old Spike, " I'll never surrender ! Come my men let us fight our way out! " and he made a desperate rush toward the door. The but-end of Jarvis' pistol knocked him senseless. " Put on his ornaments, Davis !" said Jarvis, " he will raise no objections at least for a while.'' The officer placed the burglar's hands in the vicinity of his back and decorated his wrists with heavy irons. " Who is the next to try the amusing experiment of running away f asked Jarvis. " Mr. Scroggs, do you wish to indulge in that recreation ?" " My dear Mr. Jarvis," said Scroggs, in the most polite manner, " I have no taste for the absurdities, and in unprofitable amusements I never indulge. I ana THE ARREST. 227 astonished that Mr. Spike has so far forgotten his com- mon prudence as to rush into seen danger. I ' " That will do for this time," said Jarvis. " Let me see what kind of hands you have." "With the utmost pleasure, sir. The ladies pro- nounce them fair and delicate," was the answer, as he gave the officer every advantage to adjust the iron cuffs. Pugh and John Spike were completely overwhelmed with terror, and made no resistance whatever. By this time the prostrate Spike had partially re- vived, and was anything but amiable in his speech. '*My deal' Mr. Spike," said Scroggs, "you seem to be unduly excited You are not in possession of that calm tranquility of soul, that a good Christian should manifest in the dark day of affliction." "Stop your blarney, you infernal fool !" cried Spike. " If my hands were free, you would not dare talk such stuff as that to me." " Cease thy ravings," said Scroggs in a mild voice. '* I am in the sauie adversity myself ; but, with St. Paul, I have learned "in whatever situation I am, therewith to be content.' " "You are a devoted Christian, undoubtedly," said Jarvis, " but, it is getting late, your lodgings are at some distance, and we must leave this consecrated spot." " Adieu ! sweet bower, adieu !" said the poetic prison- er. " Never again shall thy walls resound to the elo- "228 LLANGOBAITH. quent fiction of Thomas Adolphus Scroggs! Never more shall thy evergreen arches look down and smile upon a merry group eagerly sucking inspiration from the famous rum bottle of the aristocratic heir of River- side!" Here the said heir, forgetting himself, and being con- scious that his 'feet were not handcuffed, bestowed a most vigorous kick on a certain portion of Scroggs' corporeal system, which at that moment was the most easy of access. Mr. Scroggs, being absolutely certain that some solid substance had come in very unpleasant contact with his person, raised his manacled hands to a certain angle, turned about quickly, and with violence brought the iron wristlets against Lucas' head, which laid him prostrate on the ground. " This must be stopped," said Jarvis, while a slight smile rested on his countenance. " That was an unfortunate accident," said Scroggs, with a compassionate look. " It was not an accident," cried Pugh, " and you are> a liar !" "Spike, if you refuse to get up and walk," said Jar- vis, "my men will drag you on the ground. Here, Jones and Pritchard, take hold, and start him, while the rest of us follow. Taliesin Roberts, lead us out to the hill." THE ARKEST. 229 They started, each officer holding a weapon ready for instant service if required. Spike, after some re sistance, saw fit to walk, and the entrance was soon reached. Here for a while they halted, and Scroggs availed himself of the occasion. "Behold the memorable spot where the rich heir of Riverside, on the night before last, dispelled the dark- ness of night, to search for his two and sixpenny pocket knife ! Ha, ha ! To that blaze we are indebted for this grand entertainment. In honor of that event, forever hereafter let this spot be known as Illumination Hill." " Mr. Roberts, lead us to the highway, and make the distance as short as possible," said Jarvis; and they started. " Yea," said Scroggs as they advanced, " let us reach our destination with all speed. My weary eyelids long for repose, and my stomach is becoming an aching void which ruir can never fill. So haste thee on, Taliesin !" Let it not be supposed that the other prisoners were silent. Far from it. The Spike father belched out terrible anathemas thick and fast. The sou spent his vocal strength in hurling bad sounding adjectives at Taliesin, and Lucas poured out curses on the head of Robin Jones. They had now reached the highway. Jarvis stood on the top of a stone wall and swung his lantern for some thirty seconds. 230 LLANGOBAITH. "What is that contemptible scoundrel at now?" asked Lucas. " My dear Pugh," answered Scroggs, " I am deeply shocked to hear such an unguarded expression from a youth brought up religiously ! ' Speak not evil of magistrates,' is the language of the good book. Alas ! I see that the prayers and godly admonitions of your devoted parents have proved unavailing! The swing- ing of the lantern, is a signal for the horsemen and chariots of Israel, to hasten hither to convey Mr. Jarvis' distinguished guests to that city that has a cathedral, even Bangor, which quietly nestles between the hills." Scroggs' judgment was correct. A couple of two- horse chariots arrived on the spot with ample accom- modations, and the prisoners were properly arranged. " Mr. Roberts and Mr. Jones, you will save me much extra labor by being present at Bangor, in the morning at ten o'clock," said Mr. Jarvis. " And ere we part," said Scroggs, putting his head out of the carriage, let me assure Roberts and Jones, that their calm and modest behavior under great provo- cation, has secured my most profound admiration. If ever in their wanderings they should come near my city residence or country seat, I hope they will call and en- joy my grateful hospitality." The chariots left, and Taliesin and Robin went to their respective homes. CHAPTER XXI. A MIDNIGHT QUARREL, AND A FLIGHT. Oue night, at somewhat of a late hour, Liewelyn reached his lodgings from an appointment at a Meth- odist chapel about three miles from the town of Bala. He was no sooner in his room than Mr. Ellis handed him a letter which he had brought from the post of- fice. The familiar handwriting made his heart throb. He fondly gazed at the address, while he admired the beautiful penmanship. "But how is this?" said he, " Zilangobaith ?" and his heart beat quicker. "Is it possible that Thomas Lloyd well, I'll know in a mo- ment!" And the letter was opened. He read one brief sentence, looked up and cried, " Thank God !" The letter was as follows : " MY DEAR LLEWELYN : Wonderful things have transpired since I wrote to you last. I am restored to my dear old home, and these lines are penned in that familiar room that I have called my own ever since I can remember. Three days ago, a little after sunset, my uncle's clerk brought into the house a number of letters, some for my uncle and others for myself. The one from Bala I expected. But judge of my astonishment when I saw one from my father! I opened it, and the first sentence almost 232 LLAXGOBAITH. overwhelmed me. With his consent, I enclose it to you, together with a few lines from my Aunt Grace. I am very, very happy! My cup of enjoyment is run- ning over. The Lord has been better to us than all of our fears. Papa treats me with a new kind of af- fection. He is much more quiet and subdued. I fear that he is not yet a Christian. Let us pray for him. The wonderful change already wrought, is a proof that more can be accomplished. I have a sweet hope that dear papa will yet be a child of God. I am heartily glad that your Mr. Jenkins has left Bala. If he returns, as I fear he will, I beg of you not to admit him into your confidence. I have my strong fears that he is a base deceiver. Dear Llewelyn, be very watchful. I have not seen Helen since I came home, but we shall meet before many hours. May heaven bless and protect you, is the earnest prayer of your own dear GWENNIE." By this time the young theological student was on a higher pinacle of enjoyment, according to his best judgment, than at any former period of his life. On this same night there had been a large, enthusi- astic meeting at the Methodist chapel, for the purpose of relieving the house of worship from an embarrass- ing debt. The effort had been highly successful, and the sum realized quite large. Among the liberal sub- scriptions was one from Miss Thomas for fifty pounds. This lady was proverbially liberal in all worthy enter- A MIDNIGHT QUARREL AND A FLIGHT. 233 prises, especially those directly connected with the gospel. The next morning Miss Thomas met Llewelyn in one of the passages, and smilingly said "Mr. Edwards, we greatly missed you last night, and you lost a highly interesting meeting." "I am sure of that," said the young man. "I am very happy to hear that the effort was such a grand "O, I am delighted!" said the young lady, while her animated countenance gave clear evidence of the joy of her heart. " I had the pleasure of handing in my name for fifty pounds, and I know by experience that ' it is more blessed to give than to receive.' " "At that, your share of blessedness must be large," said Edwards, " for your giving is quite extensive." "It is not worth mentioning," said Miss Thomas. "But the little I do give affords me much pleasure. Mr. Edwards, seeing that you go to the Institute, will you be so kind as to hand my subscription to Professor Davies, who is the treasurer?" "I will do so with pleasure, Miss Thomas," said Llewelyn. " Thank you. I will run into my room and get it. I laid by that sum for that very purpose some time ago," and ske left. 15 234 LLANGOBAITH. She was gone a long time, and at last she asked Mr. Edwards to come up stairs. He found her in the sitting-room, with a reflective look upon her countenance. "I have arrived at another mysterious event in my lif e !" said she. " That gold watch transaction remains. a mystery. I have now discovered that fifty pounds have been taken from a locked drawer hi my desk !" " Miss Thomas," said Llewelyn, with perfect calm- ness, " your watch was found in iny possession, and I would be pleased to have every article moved from my trunk in your presence." "If the money is in your trunk, it was put there by the same thieving hand that took the watch," said Miss Thomas. Let the knowledge of this matter be con- fined to us two; at least for the present. I want no uproar or excitement. For our own satisfaction, you may examine the trunk." This was carefully done, to the perfect satisfaction of the young lady. "I have plenty of money in the bank," said Miss Thomas, "and my subscription will be promptly paid, but not to-day." " Miss Thomas," said Mr. Edwards, "pardon me if I ask you a few questions, for this is a serious matter. Have you any remembrance that at any time, say within two months, you mentioned this subject of A MIDNIGHT QUABKEL AND A FLIGHT. 235 church debt, directly or indirectly, to any person, or in the presence of any person?" Miss Thomas hesitated a moment, and said, "I men- tioned this thing to Mr. Jenkins, and gave him a hint that if he wanted an object worthy of his benevolence, it was our church debt." "And what did he say ?" " O, he seemed to be interested at once, as he al- ways was in everything that was good," said Miss Thomas with a moderate sigh. " Did you tell him that you intended to give some- thing yourself ?" " Yes, and if I am not mistaken I told him that I had laid by a sum for that purpose. But, has not this questioning in regard to Mr. Jenkins a strange appear- ance, Mr. Edwards?" " I was sure you would think it strange," said Llew- elyn, " and you will think it more so when I tell you in all sincerity that I fully believe that this very Mr. Jen- kins that you and I have so confided in, and looked upon as a perfect gentleman, is a thorough scoundrel, an accomplished thief, and a would-be murderer." For a while Miss Thomas looked on her young friend in utter astonishment. She turned pale, and then her color returned. At last she spoke " Mr. Edwards, I have always looked upon you as a man of deep sense and good judgment, and I exceed- 236 LLANGOBAITH. ingly regret that anything has transpired which com- pels me to change my opinion." "Your regret cannot be greater than niy own, Miss Thomas," said Llewelyn, "for I hold your favorable opinion in very high esteem. I have expressed to you my firm convictions. I am fully persuaded that it was his hands that took your watch and put it in my trunk, that it was he who wrote that letter to the Carnarvon Herald, and that it was he who stole your fifty pounds." "But in the matter of the watch, did he not elo- quently and with tears in his eyes declare you inno- cent? And did he not ridicule the plot as silly and ludicrous? And did he not on that occasion endear himself to un all ?" asked Miss Thomas. " That he did," was the reply. " But he had accom- plished his double purpose. First, under a guise of truth he could slander me. Again, it gave him a fine opportunity to blind our eyes as to his true character, by becoming my eloquent champion and defender. In this last he was eminently successful ; and in this, as far as I can see, was the only strength of the plot- Jenkins is in the employ of others, who pursue me with deadly malice." "Of your enemies I know nothing," said Miss Thomas, coldly. " Of Mr. Jenkins I have some knowl- edge ; and I cannot believe your monstrous theory for A MIDNIGHT QUABREL AND A FLIGHT. 237 one moment. Mr. Edwards, is it not possible that of late your studies Lave been too hard, and that your mental powers have been too heavily taxed ?" "My studies are not burdensome," said the young man, with a broad smile. "I think. Miss Thomas, I am in my right mind, and I believe also that the sequel will prove that my theory is correct." "Let this answer for the present, 1 ' said Miss Thomas, pleasantly. "Please say nothing about this interview or the lost money, and I will keep the same silence. In regard to Mr. Jenkins our opinions greatly differ. You believe him to be a thieving knave, and I believe him to be a true gentleman." While the exciting scene was going on at the bower, and while the conspirators were being secured by the strong arm of the law, an uneasiness and sleeplessness had crept into the magnificent bed-chamber, in which, on downy pillows, were found the heads of Mr. and Mrs. Evan Pugh. " I cannot account for his absence from home night after night until such late hours," said the husband, with evident feeling. "I thought at first that he staid at the Bed Lion ; but Mrs. Owens assures me that he does not stay there. I cannot see into it, and he must explain the matter to my satisfaction." "Lucas knows what he is about," said his wife, 238 LLANGOBAITH. sharply. " He has not forgotten the dirty insult heaped upon this house. And are you not aware that he has vowed vengeance against the shop boy, and sworn that that howling Methodist shall never wed Gwennie Lloyd ? Lucas knows w .at he is about, and so do I. Evan Pugh !" " Am I to understand that you encourage that boy in anything for which he would be arrested if it was known ?" asked Pugh. "You may understand what you choose," said the wife. "Llewelyn Edwards will be disposed of to my perfect satisfaction, and we must all lament the painful accident." " My God !" exclaimed Pugh, suddenly leaving his bed. "This is something I never dreamed of! A mother and son plotting against the life of an innocent man ! Heaven save us ! Get out of that bed in one moment and dress you !" and he hastily put on his own garments. "I have always said that I married a fool !" said Mrs. Pugh, while she remained unmoved upon the pillow. " At that time I was indeed a fool !" said the agitated husband. " But I was not aware that I was bringing with me to Riverside a woman that would connive with murderers." The lady of the house was no longer in bed, but on the floor, and resorting to her common mode of war- A MIDNIGHT QUARREL AND A FLIGHT. 239 fare, she was about to hurl a water pitcher at the head of her husband, when for the first time in his life he came to the conclusion that he would use new tactics. He suddenly snatched the pitcher from her hands, and gave her a proof of his bodily strength in the shape of a violent and prolonged shake. Indeed, he was con- scious of a degree of enjoyment in the new exercise. It increased in violence until the aggressive party cried for quarters. " There !" said Pugh, proud of his first victory. " Let that answer for the present. Now put on your gar- ments and prepare yourself to answer some ques- tions." The new process had produced a wonderful change in the little lady, and to her own astonishment as well as that of her husband, she found herself in the very act of obedience. " Now, Mrs. Pugh/' said the master, " according to your own confession you have given countenance to a most villainous scheme. From whom besides does Lucas receive advice?'' "I shall answer no questions, Evan Pugh !" said his wife, with returned courage. " I feel much more like spitting in your face. Lucas will be home in a few minutes, and he may answer you as much as he pleases." "If this devilish thing should be found out, it would 240 LLANGOBAITH. result in your transportation for life, if not in your death on the gallows," said Pugh. "But it will not be found out," said Mrs. Pugh. "It is in the hands of those who understand their business." "Aye, business worthy of demons!" said the hus- band. Just then they heard the sound of approaching car- riages. They listened, and the horses stopped in front of their gate. "What can this mean at such a late hour of the night?" said Pugh, in evident alarm. Heavy knocking was heard below. They both went down, and the husband opened the door. Standing before him he saw a man with a lighted lantern in his hand and heavy pistols in his belt. " This is an untimely hour to call, Mr. Pugh," said Jarvis, "but I could not well come sooner. I have under arrest a gang of murderous conspirators, who have aimed at the innocent life of Llewelyn Edwards. Among them I find your son. The others are Simon Spike, his son, and an accomplished knave by the name of Scroggs. Their hiding-place was found, and their guilt has been learned from their own mouths by reli- able witnesses. They will be examined before Justice Onnsby this morning at ten o'clock. I thought it was best to let you know it." A MIDNIGHT QUARREL AND A FLIGHT. 241 " Mr. Jarvis, I am shocked and crushed !" said Pugh. " I knew that iny son was often out late at night, and it gave me uneasiness, but it never entered my head that he was engaged in mischief." "Your son assured his fellow conspirators in my hearing that his father knew nothing about it, and that he was wholly ignorant in regard to the large sums of money furnished him to carry forward the plot." It is possible that Mr. Jarvis had a purpose in thus emphasizing the word "father."' At any rate, Pugh gave it that construction, and said 44 Mr. Jarvis, I thank you for the information, ter- rible as it is." Thus ended the interview. The constable left for the carriage, while Pugh closed the door and joined his wife in the parlor. " Well, you have heard all," said the husband, with some severity. " You have furriished Lucas money to reward a villain, with the full knowledge of what was going on ! Without any delay you must escape, or in the morning you may be arrested and shut up in jail. And now before you leave, if it will give you any satis- faction you may spit in my face." Here the wife broke down, and gave vent to her feel- ings in hysterical weeping, freely mixed with very bad language. She soon recovered her composure, and with a desperate resolution on her countenance said 242 LLANGOBA1TH. "Our scheme has miscarried! Now, Evan, if you think I am worth saving from prison, give directions and I will follow them." " Pack your trunks at once !" said the husband. " You must be in Carnarvon by five o'clock to take the coach for London. J will give you a good supply of money. Keep your face veiled until you are out of the Prin- cipality. Settle in London, and keep away from your relatives in other parts of England. Write to me regu- larly, and I will address you by the name of Jane Mc- Knight. I will dispose of my property as soon as I can, and join you at the Metropolis. You have acted most wickedly. But in this Gwennie Lloyd business I was not without blame myself. Put your things to- gether, and Tom Williams will soon have the carriage ready." " Betty " was called to assist, and a plausible reason given. The trunks were soon ready. At three o'clock in the morning Mrs. Pugh bade a sudden adieu to her Welsh home, and at five she was inside of the royal mail coach on her way for London. CHAPTER XXII. A REVELATION AT DRUID'S OROVE. Early in the morning Bangor was thoroughly excited. The news of the wonderful arrest had quickly spread throughout the city. Women ran to and fro, and men gathered in groups on the street corners. To hundreds,. Lucas Pugh and John Spike were well known. The nature of their offence was but slightly understood, but they had been informed, that at ten o'clock the prison- ers would be brought before Justice Ormsby. Long before the hour the public room was crowded, and so would have been the passages, only as they were kept open by the police. There was a noise of a crowd outside, and presently Jarvis, and his assistants, brought in the prisoners. "With the exception of Scroggs, who still maintained his strange hilarity, they appeared angry and defiant. Able counsel had been procured. The warrant was read, and Parry Jones before examining the witnesses, briefly addressed the Court. " May it please your Honor, in the evidence we shall present, the Court will learn the nature and origin of the most cowardly, malicious and depraved conspiracy, that has ever disgraced the pages of history. It was 244 LLAXOOBAITH. against a young man of as pure a character as ever breathed the air of the principality. "While these con- spirators were taking their parting drink, at their plot- ting place, Mr. Jarvis and his assistants claimed them as their legal guests, adorned them with wristlets, and gave them a free ride to Baugor. Here they are, your Honor, and we are ready to proceed with the ex animation." Robin Jones gave in his evidence with clearne ss and simplicity. Taliesin followed. The Justice remarked, that at this stage it was not necessary for the prosecu- tion to produce any more testimony, and asked the ad- vocate for the defence if he wished to speak. " The evidence is of such a nature, your Honor," said the lawyer, " that at present I have nothing to say. When they are brought to trial, it shall be my pleasure AS well as my duty to see that, as prisoners, they have all their legitimate rights. That is all, your Honor." Justice Ormsby then remarked, " From t he evi dence advanced, I am compelled to commit the prison- ers. The officers will now see that these four men are taken and lodged in jail, to await the action of the grand jury." The prisoners were removed, and were soon on their way to the county jail. During the examination, a young man of comely ap- pearance was seen near the Crown Advocate, busily en- A REVELATION AT DBUID's GROVE. 245 gaged in writing, who, as soon as the men were com- mitted, rushed out of the court room with eager haste. In a few minutes after this, the same person was seen on one of the swiftest horses, sweeping along towards Carnarvon at the rate of twenty miles an hour. He was the Bangor correspondent of the Carnarvon Herald, and this was the day of publication. In the afternoon, the Herald made its appearance, and the excitement it produced may be judged from the following heavy heading : " STARTLING NEWS FOOM BANGOR ! AN INFERNAL PLOT DEFEATED! THE WOULD-BE MURDERERS OF LLEWELYN ED- WARDS BROUGHT TO GRIEF ! LUCAS PuGH, SlMON SPIKE, JOHN SPIKE AND THOMAS ADOLPHUS SCROOGS, (the Bala "Jenkins,'') LODGED IN CARNARVON JAIL! THE HEROIC CONDUCT OF TALIESIN ROBERTS AND ROBERT JONES!" Then followed a long article, in which was given the full particulars, ending thus : ' The praise of Taliesin Roberts and Robin Jones is on every tongue. Through their untired efforts by day and by night, a gang of vil- lains have been arrested, and in all probability a most worthy young man saved from a violent death/ 1 Morris Williams was one of the first to see the startling article. He was not demonstrative, like some others, although deeply agitated. "And this villain wanted Gwennie for a wife, did he ?" said he to him- self, and hastened to the post-office. 246 LIANOOBAITH, "Mr. Stevens," he asked, "what time will the next regular mail reach Bala ?" "About this time on the day after to-morrow," was the answer. " Thank you," said Mr. Williams, and then left for the office of the Herald. " I should be glad to get fifty copies of this day's Herald, Mr. Jones," said Williams. " We published a large edition, and we can accom- modate you," was the reply. " Please send them over to my house as soon as you can, for I am in a hurry," said Williams, and off he went. " Tom, now see how quick you can get ready my horse and chaise. I wish to be off without any delay. I will not be home until to-morrow night ; and then you will be on hand to take good care of ' Black Jim.' " " Yes sir," said the young man, and he made haste for the stable. " Black Jim," was the finest horse in Carnarvon ; and many of the gentry envied Mr. Williams, as they often witnessed "Jim's" graceful form and grand speed. Large offers had been made for the noble animal, but the uniform answer had been, " The horse is not for sale." The chaise was already at the door. Presently Mr. Williams came out, and threw a large bundle into the vehicle. A REVELATION AT DRUID'S GROVE. 247 " Tom, take this note and this paper and leave them at the livery stable office." He then seated himself in the chaise, took the reins, and Jim proudly trotted out of the city in the direction of Llanllyfui. In the parlor at Llwyn y Derwydd, there were to- gether Thomas Lloyd, Grace aud Gwenuie. " Papa," said Gwenuie, ' don't you think that for a number of days. Robin Jones has acted somewhat strange and mysterious f ' "I certainly do, Gweunie," said Lloyd. ''His cheer- fulness is gone, and he is absent-minded. At times he seems to be indignant. At one time when he thought perhaps that no one was near him, I heard him indulg- ing in what sounded like a defiant laugh, while his fists presented a very threatning shape." " I don't feel easy about him!" said Gwennie. ''Re- cently, I think he has been out until late hours. This is so unlike Robin Jones ! Papa, what reason did he give for going to Bangor this morning ?" "He said that Taliesin Roberts requested him to go on very important business." " That certainly was a good reason," said Gwennie. "When Taliesin requests his presence, it must be either in Robin's interest or for the good of some one else." " Tom, would it not be well for us to question Robin 248 LLANQOBAITH. in regard to this trouble?" asked Grace. "We might be of some help to the good fellow." "I think it would be well," said Lloyd. "But here he comes, and there is certainly a great improvement in the appearance of his countenance. Gwennie, if you wish to question him, you had better invite him in." Robin came up from the road toward the house with a lively step, and with such an animation of counte- nance, which they had not witnessed for several days. Gwennie rose and stood in the door. " Well, Robin," she said, " and you have got back. You have had a long walk, and you must be tired." "I am not tired the least bit, Miss Lloyd," said Robin. "I never in my life came from Bangor to Druid's Grove so easy and in so short a time." " I am very glad to hear it, Robin. I want you to come into the parlor, for we have a few questions to ask you." Robin entered the parlor with some diffidence. It was a room where men-servants never visited. Gwen- nie noticed some signs of embarrassment, and said " Sit down on this chair, Robin, and be just as much at home as if you were in your own room." " You are very good, Miss Lloyd," said Robin, " and I am ready to answer any questions as far as I know." " Robin, we have thought that for some days you have not appeared exactly like yourself." A REVELATION AT DRUID' 8 GROVE. 249 "And you have thought right, Miss Gwennie," said Robin, " and it is a wonder that I did not behave a good deal worse. When I tell you what the trouble was, you will say that Robin Jones behaved pretty well." "Robin, why did you not let us know about this trouble ? We might have helped you." ' I think you could not have helped me a bit, Miss Gwennie," said the young man. "And that is the rea son that Taliesin told me to be sure and not mention it to you nor anyone in the house, until we got through. I can tell you all about it now, Miss Lloyd. It will shock you a good bit, but it will not kill you." "Go on, Robin!" said Gwennie with wondering anx- iety. Just then a boy on a horse suddenly stopped in front of the house, jumped from the saddle, rushed to the open door and knocked. Gwennie met him. " Mr. Morris Williams, from Carnarvon, sent me with this paper for Miss Gwennie Lloyd." " I am that person," said Gweunie. " Will you not come in f " "I thank you, Miss Lloyd," said the boy, "but I must return at once." And so he left. " What can there be in the Herald of sufficient im- portance to require a special messenger ?" said Gwen- nie, as she slowly opened the paper. 16 250 LLANGOBAITH. " I think you will learn in that paper what was the trouble with Robin Jones," said the faithful servant. Gwennie's eyes soon fell upon the startling article from Bangor. She instantly dropped the paper, and in a voice of deep agitation, with uplifted hands, cried out "Oh, papa, papa, papa!" Thomas Lloyd jumped to his feet in a moment, and in a soothing tone asked "What is it, my child?" " Oh, papa, papa !" cried Gwennie. "It was dread- ful!" " Is any one killed T' asked her Aunt Grace. "No, but they were going to murder him!" cried Gwennie, with tearful eyes. " Murder who ?" cried her father, in a voice of alarm. "Take the paper, papa, and read that terrible head- ing." Thomas Lloyd took the paper, glanced at it for n few moments, and turned pale. " In the name of Heaven, what is it ?" cried Grace. "I will give you the heading." And in trembling accents he read the dreadful words. '"It is no wonder, dear Gwennie, that you were so terribly shocked !" said the aunt, fondly kissing her. " But how thankful we are that their wicked plot has been defeated !" A REVELATION AT DRUID'S GROVE. 251 "May the name of the Lord be praised!" said Gwennie. Thomas Lloyd then read the article aloud to its close, while the rest listened with intense/ interest. " Gwennie," asked her father, " did Llewelyn tell you anything about this lake disaster ? " Not a word, papa !" "In that he acted wisely," said Grace. " Now, Miss Gwenuie, you understand why I be- haved a little strange." said Robin Jones. "Oh, Robin, you have behaved most nobly!" said Gwennie, with joyful tears in her eyes. " I cannot see that I have done anything that should make the people cry in the streets of Bangor. 'Hooray for Robin Jones !' And only think. Parry Jones made me a present of half a pound!" "And here is another present of half a pound," said Thomas Lloyd, while the astonished Robin took the coin. "And here, Robin, take that from me." said Grace," handing him a crown. "And, Robin, take that from me !" said Gwenuie, as she earnestly kissed his cheek. Robin, with all his power of endurance, was not proof against such wholesale demonstration. He broke down, and wept like a child. '* Now, Robin," said Gwennie, " you can go and eat 252 LLANOOBAITII. your dinner." And, rising, she continued, "I will see that you have a meal worthy of the occasion." And she left the room. "And, Kobin," said Thomas Lloyd, " after dinner, you need not go to work. You have slept but very little this week, and I would advise you to go to bed." "I thank you, master !" said Bobiii, as he left to en- joy a feast, in the merits of which Gwennie was inter- ested. The daughter soon returned to the parlor. Her father was again looking over the paper from Carnar- von. "Ah !" said he, " here is something in writing." " On the start for Bala with 'Black Jim,' twenty-four hours in advance of the mail, I have fifty copies of the Herald for free distribution. Will be home to-morrow night. UNCLE MORRIS." "Well done, Morris!" said Lloyd in all sincerity. "That is a wise movement." " Just like all the rest of his movements," said Grace Lloyd, with an expression of countenance that, for her, was a lit 1 1 unusual. They left the parlor. The brother went into the gar- den, where he sat down for deep reflection ; the sister to see that Robin Jones was provided with abundance; and the daughter to her room, and prayed to that " Father that seeth in secret." CHAPTER XXHI. TWO LETTERS. As intimated in another chapter, repeated burglaries had been committed in various parts of North Wales at different times, in such a manner that the authori- ties, with all their skill, had utterly failed to find the perpetrators. It was now believed that the chief of this gang was in custody, and the sheriff at Carnarvon, without any delay, sent two officers, in behalf of sev- eral parties that had been robbed of money and valu- ables, clothed with full authority to make a thorough search at ''Raven's Nest," and the premises. On their way they made some inquiries at a house in the moun- tain pass, and were informed that the men were seldom at home, but that the woman never* left the " Nest." They went forward and reached their destination. After repeated calls and knockings, no one answered. They tried the door, and found it unlocked. They went in, and the interior presented a scene of strange disorder. It was a mixture of squalor and finely, destitution and opulence. It was evident that no presiding genius was on the throne in the management of that household. They moved into a small room, which showed some de- gree of order; and on the table was a letter which had 254 LLAXGOBAITH. an outside fresh appearance. It was unsealed, and in a fair, legible hand it was directed, " Simon Spike." One of the officers took the letter and read the follow- ing: "Simon Spike, you have abused your slave for the last time. Long have I suffered your cruel tyranny. With lying lips and fair promises, you enticed me from my home. A thousand times have I purposed to leave your accursed service, but until now my resolutions have failed. Your abusive language to-night strength- ened my courage. I am on the point of leaving the premises of the most abominable wretch that ever cursed the earth. Your house abounds in stolen goods. When you come home to-ruorrow morning from your wicked conspiracy, you will find me gone. With my departure will disappear, also, from Raven's Nest a large sum of gold. Ah, Simon Spike! you thought that your submissive slave knew nothing of your money depository. I have known the passage for years, and the secret spot where you leave the keys. You will see that I have not taken all ; that would be too heavy. I have taken as much as I can conveniently carry. This gives me some compensation for years of degraded service rendered Simon Spike, the great burglar chief, the lying villain, and murderous plotter, for whom the burning fires of an endless hell will be too good. What did I hear the other day from you and Scroggs, in regard to young Edwards, when you thought that I was far away? It was murder! There is preaching for you, Simon Spike ! Now please ' lead me by the nose and spit in my face.' I am glad that my educa- TWO LETTERS. 255 tion reached a fair point before I ever saw a devil in human shape. It is to that bit of learning that you are indebted for this letter, and that I am indebted for the pleasure of cursing you on paper. The balance of the gold I had a good mind to throw into the depth of the well, but I have left it in the coffer. I have been careless enough to leave your secret door open. Go down and shut it quickly, and learn that Charlotte Bruce is not such an 'infernal fool' after all. HA. HA !" "A good discovery. Williams." said Thomas Lewis. "This letter puts us on the right track, and is a crush- ing evidence against the prisoners.'' and he carefully put it in his pocket. " Now for a thorough search. The letter says l go doirn quickly.' So the treasures are below, and the door is open." They went down into the cellar, and in a corner they came to an opening into a dark passage, dug even with the floor. They procured a light, and pursued their way until they reached a small, square room at a dis- tance of about fifteen or twenty feet from the opening. Here, as they expected, they found treasures. In one small coffer was about 500 in gold. In a larger coffer, or rather chest, was found a great quantity of valuable articles, in gold and silver, of almost every description. On many of these were names and initials of owners, and on some the coat of arms of the houses to which they belonged. 256 LLANOOBAITH. Seeing nothing more in that secret place, they care- fully secured the chests, and made further search, but they found nothing of value that had the appearance of being stolen goods. The sheriff's seal was put on the treasures, they were taken to the ready vehicle, and conveyed to Carnarvon to await further develop- ments. Miss Thomas was in her parlor. In her hand was a letter which she had just read, and in her eyes there were unmistakable tears. Those tears were a mixture. The prevailing ingredient was sympathy. There was some affection, and a few grains of indignation. The reader will better understand the young lady's feelings when they have read the epistle. "CABDIFF, Sept. , 18. MY DEAK Miss THOMAS : In harmony with your kind consent, and my own glad promise, I now attend to a most pleasant duty. I found my father, sister and aunt all well, and the ado they made over my return was altogether more than I deserved. My long absence explains the warmth with which my return was hailed. Miss Thomas, the day is lovely. Our residence stands on an elevation, and these lines are penned in an upper room. From my window the scene is inspiring, and to many it would be perfectly enchanting. I look upon the broad bay, stretching into the expansive ocean, while a hundred sails dot the blue waters. To these scenes I have long TWO LETTEBS. 257 been accustomed, and they possess an enduring charm. But far sweeter to me were the quiet scenes of Bala, with its charming environs, than anything Cardiff can afford. Those few weeks spent in your delightful little town will forever remain in my fond memory as the most happy in my history. They were also, I trust, the means of a foundation of a better life. My early training. I am sorry to say, was not strictly religious. My mother was a quiet woman, and a modest Chris- tian. My father, although an excellent man in many respects, is somewhat skeptical on the subject of re- ligion. That is one reason why my own views of Christian doctrine have not been more positive and fixed. Never have I witnessed the practical workings of Christianity in so beautiful and clear light as at Bala ; and I think I left you a much better man than when you first saw me. I trust that I shall yet be brought into the full light. I consider Mr. Ed- wards the finest specimen of young manhood, phy- sically, intellectually and morally, that I ever saw. I have seen, also, at Bala a high perfection in woman- hood. I will mention no name, for fear it may not please you. My sister Helen sends her love in her own impulsive way, as the enclosed lines will show you. A friend of mine, Mr. Burt, is about to start for the north, and he will post this letter at Carnarvon. My kind regards to friends, especially Mr. Edwards. Hoping to see you again before long, I remain Your sincere friend, JOHN- JENKINS." 258 LLANGOBAITH. The small note from the sister, written in a neat, delicate hand, was in this wise : " MY DEAR Miss THOMAS : John has said so much about you since he came home, that I feel as if I was well acquainted with you. I have fallen desperately in love with Bala, and with its good people, especially with you and Mr. Edwards. There ! I have said it ! Never mind, I will not call it back. Oh, Miss Thomas, I do hope my dear papa will let me come to Bala with John. Yours truly, HELEN JENKINS." "To think that this pure-minded and noble young man is regarded by Mr. Edwards as a thief and a knave is perfectly shocking!" said Miss Thomas to herself. " I cannot endure it ! I think this letter will cure him of his cruel suspicion. As there is nothing in it of a confidential nature, I will ask him to read it ; and if it will not make him blush, then I am mistaken," and she put the letter in her pocket to await the hour of her triumph. About the time when Miss Thomas was shedding tears over Mr. Jenkins' letter, there was something of a sensation in front of the " Bala Hotel," caused by a certain arrival. The personage that made his advent was not the cause of this wonderment, for in his per- sonal appearance he did not much differ from other gentlemen. Neither did the chaise in which he rode create any particular excitement; for finer and more TWO LETTER8. 259 costly vehicles they saw almost every day. It was the horse he drove that drew both their attention and ad- miration. Never had they seen a horse to equal him ; and if "Black Jim" was conscious of the praise be- stowed upon him, he certainly must have felt proud. But he was not long on exhibition. "Take this horse, my man, and see well to his com- fort, and you will lose nothing by it," said Morris* Williams. "When I bring him out, sir," said the man, touching his cap respectfully, "you will be sure that David Jones knows what is good for a horse." And the tine beast was taken into comfortable quarters ; while his master was ushered into a weh furnished little parlor. "If you have any orders, sir, they will be attended to with great pleasure," said the landlord. " I have a young friend at the Institute by the name of Llewelyn Edwards," said Williams. "I will thank you for sending him this card." " That will be done without the least delay, sir," said Mr. Hughes. " Mr. Edwards is a young man that we all greatly respect." " I wish to dine with Mr. Edwards at one o'clock," said Mr. Williams. " Please to furnish the dinner in a piivate room." " With great pleasure, sir," said the proprietor, and left. 260 LLAXGOBAITH. In about fifteen minutes Llewelyn came, and it was evident from his countenance that he had some fears. Mr. "Williams took his hand in a friendly manner, and remarked, " Llewelyn, I am glad to see you. How do you do?" " I am quite well, Mr. Williams, and am very glad to see you at Bala. I hope you bring no tidings of evil." " Well," said Mr. Williams, " I hardly know what to say to that. Yes, I think I bring tidings of evil ; but don't take it much to heart, for evil as it may be, it partakes of features that call for thanksgiving." " I trust that no calamity has befallen any of our friends," said Llewelyn exhibiting a degree of nervous- "Our friends are all well, and very happy I should judge," said Williams. " I have brought with n-e the Carnarvon Herald about twenty-four hours in advance of the mail. In it you will find an article in which your own name is mentioned several times." And he handed the young man the paper and pointed to the page. Llewelyn read the startling heading and at first was so agitated that he bowed his head on the table by which he sat. He soon mastered his feelings and said : 'Mr. Williams, I have for some time believed that I was the subject of a plot, and that Jenkins was a villain. But little did I think that their evil design would so TWO LETTERS. 261 soon be unveiled." He then read the whole article and said : "I have no vengeful feelings, but may the Lord's will be done ! It is well for the safety of the com- munity that such characters are shut up. May heaven bless my ever faithful friend, Taliesin Roberts, and the kind hearted Robin Jones! I wish that you had brought twenty copies of the Herald with you, so that the Bala people might see Jenkins in his true character." 44 1 think you will find more than twenty copies in this package Llewelyn," said "Williams, as he handed him the large bundle. " Open it, and let these copies be at once distributed among those of your citizens that you may choose to mention. Now speak the names, and I will write them on the papers." This was soon accomplished to the entire satisfaction of the two friends : and the papers were put into the hands of faithful and competent carriers. "Now, Llewelyn," said Williams, " we have got along nicely. At one o'clock we dine together in this hotel. This will give us ample opportunity for confidential conversation." " I would be most happy to have you as my guest, Mr. Williams," said Edwards, " but if you have made a different arrangement, it is all right. Please excuse me for a while, and let me inform my people that they need not expect me to dinner." "262 LLANGOBAITH. "Yes, go and return at your convenience,'' said Mi-. Williams. Llewelyn picked up a copy of the Carnarvon Herald, and was soon on his way toward his boarding house. Miss Thomas stood in the door with a triumphant smile on her countenance. " Mr. Edwards, if you are not very busy I would be pleased to see you at my parlor for a short time." " I am at your service this very moment, 1 ' said Llewelyn, and together they went into Miss Thomas' room. "Mr. Edwards," said Miss Thomas in her politest manner, " do you still entertain those cruel opinions which you expressed in regard to Mr. Jenkins at our last conversation ? " "I have had no reason for changing my mind. >h Thomas," was the reply. "I think I have something here that will give you reason for changing your mind," she said, producing Mr. Jenkins' letter. " Will you be so kind as to read it carefully and then tell me what you think? " "I certainly wi'l if you so desire," said Llewelyn with a peculiar smile. Miss Thomas closely watched him as he read, and was pleased to see unusual excitement in his coun- tenance, while mentally she said : "I have him at last." Llewelyn finished the reading with a heavy bigh. TWO LETTERS. 263 "It is n:> wonder you sigh, Mr. Edwards," said Miss Thomas, " we are all liable to fall into error, but that you should fall into such a monstrous mistake is to me a wonder of wonders. Of course you are now thoroughly convinced." "Yes, Miss Thomas, I am thoroughly convinced," said Mr. Edwards. "I am thoroughly convinced that this letter was never written at Cardiff. I am thoroughly convinced that his residence on the hill, his Mr. Burt and sister Helen are purely fictitious. I am thoroughly convinced that Mr. Jenkins is tin unmitigated liar, a scoundrel, thief, and would-be murderer. I am thoroughly convinced that Miss 'Thomas is duped a little worse than I was myself, and that it will not be long before she will see things in their true light." " Mr. Edwards," said Miss Thomas, while paleness gathered on her countenance, " if you have got through with Mr. Jenkins' letter I will relieve you from what must be a burden." She took the letter and tenderly put it in her pocket. " I ;im not deceived in Mr. Jen- kins, but I am bitterly deceived in you ; and from henceforth I must drop from my list of friends a person that can use such vile language against a person that I so highly esteem." " Tour language is plain, and I can not fail to com- prehend its meaning." said Edwards. " "With the views you have of Jenkins your language may, perhaps, be jus- 264 LLANGOBAITH. tifiable; but before you erase iny unworthy name from the list of your friends, will you do me one favor ? At your request I read Mr. Jenkins' letter. At my request will you read an article in yesterday's Carnarvon Herald? " ' Most certainly I will ! " said Miss Thomas somewhat sharply, " give me the paper." She was seated on a sofa, and the Herald was handed to her. " Show me the article," she said in a voice denoting irritation. " You will easily find it on the second page by its startling heading," said Llewelyn. The heading was read, and with a shriek she fell over on the sofa. Mrs. Ellis, passing through the hall, heard the cry and was instantly by her side. "What can ail Miss Thomas, Mr. Edwards? " asked Mrs. Ellis as she bathed the young lady's temples. " Did she hear some bad news? " "She saw something in the paper that greatly shocked her," said Llewelyn. By this time Miss Thomas had partially revived, and, being unwilling to exhibit weakness in a certain direction said : " I am so nervous ! and it is so dreadful ! Mr. Ed- wards, I have greatly wronged you ; and when I get my strength I will make suitable confessions and ask your forgiveness." TWO LETTERS. 265 "Ask no forgiveness of me, Miss Thomas," said the young man. " For weeks I was deceived myself, and only through the importunity of my friends was I brought to see my mistake." " Please say nothing about this foolish fainting," said Miss Thomas. " Be kind enough to leave the paper here. You need not stay. I will see you again in regard to this matter." After explaining to Mrs. Ellis that he was to dine with a friend at the hotel, Mr. Edwards left. " Now, Miss Thomas, for pity's sake, do tell me what is all this about," said Mrs. Ellis. " Here, read this article to me clear through, head- ing and all," said Miss Thomas, " and then you will find that my fright was not all for nothing. Now go on while I lay me down and listen. Why don't you read ? " " May the Lord of Heaven have mercy upon us ! " cried Mrs. Ellis, dropping the paper, rising up, and wringing her hands in a parox3 T sm of excitement. ' Oh my dear Miss Thomas, it is no wonder that it upset you ! Mr. Jenkins a villain after all ! " "Yes, and a thief! " cried Miss Thomas. " And an intended murderer ! " said Mrs. Ellis. "Oh how the guilty wretch deceived us all ! I will try and read the dreadful article, but I tremble like a leaf from 17 266 LLANGOBAITH. head to foot." And so she read, occasionally stopping to make remarks. "Well," she continued, "the old adage says ' Drwg y ceidw'r diawl ei was,' (the devil gives his servant but a poor protection). Let us be thankful that ' " Mrs. Ellis, what is the matter outside ? " asked Miss Thomas. " The people act as if there was an alarm of fire ! " Mrs. Ellis looked from the window and asked a neighbor passing by what it meant. " There is startling news in the Carnarvon Herald in regard to the narrow escape of Mr. Edwards from being murdered on our lake : and forty copies have been distributed in town. The people are almost wild: and no wonder, 1 ' said the man, and went his way. CHAPTER XXIV. AT BALA AND THE " SHOP." On his way to the hotel Llewelyn met Phillips ami Griffiths, who had saved him on the lake. Now that the secrecy was over, it soon became known to the citizens who were Mr. Edwards' deliverers, and tbeir names were on every lip. "Come with me' to the hotel, and let my friend Williams from Carnarvon have the pleasure of grasping your hand ." Said Llewelyn. "With pleasure," said Griffiths. ''We are anxious to see the man who brought us the good news twenty- four hours in advance of the mail. The Bala people appreciate his kindness, and he must receive some token of our gratitude." "Mr. Williams, I have brought with me my two kind deliverers Mr. Phillips and Mr. Griffiths." "Gentlemen, it gives me great pleasure to see your faces and take you by the hand," said Mr. Williams. "And we most sincerely thank you, sir, for bringing us the news with such unusual speed. Your great fa- vor is warmly appreciated by our citizens," said Mr. Phillips. " It has given me no trouble that is worth mention- 268 LLANGOBAITH. ing," said Mr. Williams; "and if it had, the pleasure ti has afforded would entirely overbalance it." "At what time must you leave us, Mr. Williams ?" asked Mr. Griffiths. "I must leave at have-past two." was the reply. The two young men then left, saying they would see him again before he would leave the town. The confidential conversation between Williams and his young friend was long and pleasant. They branched out into the doings and circumstances of days and years gone by ; and the time passed away delightfully. Mr. Hughes furnished a most excellent dinner, and as- sured the gentleman from Carnarvon that this day would long be remembered by the inhabitants of Bala. The hour at last arrived for Mr. Williams to leave. When about to go, Phillips and Griffiths called again at his room. "Gentlemen," said Mr. Williams, "my short stay among you has given me much pleasure. Should you come to Carnarvon, be sure to call on me." They now left the parlor and walked into the front of the hotel. They were no sooner seen than a loud " Hooray !" went up from some two hundred people. "What means this, Llewelyn?" asked Morris Wil- liams in perfect astonishment. "You will learn in a moment what it means," said AT BALA AND THE " SHOP." 269 Llewelyn. Presently a gentleman stood on a table in the midst of the company, and said : "As citizens of Bala, we have thus assembled with but little consultation, to express our thanks to our worthy friend, Mr. Moms Williams, for bringing to our town, in advance of the mail, the good news con- tained in the Carnarvon Herald. We wish Mr. Wil- liams a prosperous journey home. (Loud cheers.) We also express our thanks to Thomas Phillips and George Griffiths, who saved our friend Edwards from impend- ing destruction. (Cheers for Phillips and Griffiths.) We also thank those young heroes, strangers so us. Taliesin Roberts and Robert Jones. (Tremendous cheers.) And now three Hoorays for Llewelyn Ed- wards!" (A wild demonstration. ) Mr. Williams was now loudly called for. He stood on the steps and said : " Ladies and gentlemen, I am no public speaker. These two noble men who saved my young fiiend from the jaws of death, are worthy of all praise! As for myself, your words express far more than I de- serve. You have my wannest thanks. And now, good bye !" He stepped into his chaise, put half a crown in the hand of David Jones, took the reins, and " Black Jim," in splendid style, amid a grand shout, was on his way to Carnarvon. 270 LLANGOBAITH. At a little later hour, on the same day on which was witnessed the exciting scene at the parlor of Druid's Grove, mentioned in another place, Morgan Edwards and Helen were sitting together in their comfortable parlor. The aunt was absent on a short visit. " Llewelyn is convinced at last that his Mr. Jenkins is a villain in disguise," said the daughter. "Yes; and for him he uses very strong language,'' said the father. "I am led to think that he has some evidence of Jenkins' villainy beside that matter of the watch." " Papa, I am afraid that my brother is in danger of bodily harm !" said the sister in a trembling voice. " Lucas Pugh hates him with all the malignity of his depraved heart, and he has sworn that he shall never be the husband of Gwennie Lloyd." " Llewelyn is far safer at present than when he con- fided in Jenkins," said Mr. Edwards. " He will now be on his guard, and others are on the watch in his inter- est. Above all, I trust that an overruling Providence will cover him with her protecting wing." " I am almost sure that the secret communication of Robin Jones three nights ago, was something in regard to this matter," said Helen. " It was But, papa, here comes Taliesin at an awful speed ! I hope he brings no bad news !" Taliesin gave his panting steed to a boy, rushed into AT BALA AXD THE "SHOP.". 271 the house without ceremony, and threw himself into a chair. "Taliesin," cried Helen, "what is the matter? You don't act like yourself !" " Perhaps not," said the young mau. * However? under the circumstances, my behavior is excusable." " Taliesin Roberts, what has happened ?" asked Hel- en in a very serious tone. '"Have you heard any bad news from Llewelyn ?" "I have not," was his reply. "I came straight from Carnarvon, and the whole town is in a whirl of excite- ment over an item of news from Bangor." "And does the news affect us, Taliesin ?'' asked Mr. Edwards. "You can judge for yourself," said Taliesin, as he handed Morgan Edwards a copy of the Carnarvon Herald. "You will find the article marked on the second page." Mr. Edwards read the heading, while his face showed great agitation. " Oh, Taliesin, what is it ?" cried Helen almost in agony. " Be calm, my child !" said the father. " To us the news is not bad. I will give you the startling caption." Helen fell on her knees, bowed her head on her father's lap, and gave vent to her feelings in sobbing, w hich continued for some time. 272 LLANGOBAITH. When the rush of feeling had subsided, Mr. Edwards read the article aloud. "Helen, you can easily excuse my strange behavior/' She made no reply in words, but she looked upon him through her tears, and never before had she been able to concentrate so much love into one look. Talies- in felt its power and was of the opinion that the hap- piness of those moments was not much inferior to the joys of heaven. After a long conversation, in the course of which he gave them to understand that Morris Williams had gone to Bala, Taliesin got his horse and hastened to his father's house and there indulged in what he greatly needed sound pleep. Before the close of day, the news had spread far and wide. At Llangobaith men and women ran to and fro in all directions in a high state of excitement. In front of the Red Lion there was a crowd :>f people indulging in loud talk and violent gestures. Rejoicing and indig- nation were found in equal quantities. Thus things continued, more or less, for several days. Evan Pugh kept within the walls of his own resi- dence. The calamity had fallen upon him with terrible weight. Still, there was in his countenance a defiant, angry appearance. He still felt an undiminished hatred of Llewelyn and Gwennie. He came to the conclusion AT BALA AND THE " SHOP." 273 that be would either sell Kiverside or secure a trusty tenant. He would then leave the country and mingle among strangers where he would not be known as the father of a felon. Affairs at Druid's Grove were progressing favorably. In the light of the recent terrible developments, Thom- as Lloyd still more clearly saw the enormity of his of- fence against his daughter, and fairly shuddered as he viewed the awful gulf into which he had endeavored to hurl her. The reflection lowered him in his own estimation, while it revealed Gwennie's superior judg- ment. He did not express himself very freely, but it was evident that his nature was undergoing a rapid transformation. The past seemed to him as far worse than a failure. The retrospective view was humiliating, and he was honest enough to confess to himself that in point of moral goodness he was exceedingly deficient. The idol at whose shrine he had worshiped with such uniformity for so many years, had not only lost its former charms, but appeared to him now horrid and repulsive. He closed his eyes from beholding its frightful visage, and solemnly vowed that never again would he pay homage to Mammon. Men whom he had despised rose before his mental vision, with whom he compared himself, and the result to him was anything but flattering. Even Methodists and other Dissenters, drove him completely into the shade. His great zeal 274 LLASGOBAITH. for the Established Church he saw was but a shain, wholly destitute of a single holy purpose, or worthy motive. He was a prisoner at the bar of his own con- science, under heavy charges, which were all sustained, and he pronounced himself guilty. He was sorry, but at this time his sorrow was not thoroughly evangelical. His repentance, as yet, was not " toward God." But he was progressing in the right direction. His former imperiousness had disappeared, and he showed a fair degree of hurrility. He looked upon Gwennie from a new standpoint. In addition to his restored natural affection for his child, he loved her for her grand moral perfections. Such transformations are not common oc- currences, especially in those persons who are Mammon worshipers. They generally wax worse and worse, un- til at last they reluctantly leave their accumulated treas- ures and pass away to the great hereafter. Thomas Lloyd was an exception to the rule, and in that light let him be considered. The affectionate intimacy between Helen and Gwen- nie was becoming closer and sweeter from day to day. They were very often in one another's society, and each looked to the future with joyful anticipations. At Bala, Llewelyn's popularity was on the increase, chiefly on account of his pulpit power. He was also rendered more dear to the people by his narrow escape from the malice of his enemies. AT BALA AND THE " SHOP.'' 275 Miss Thomas, in her own estimation, was greatly humiliated. She knew that before Llewelyn she had betrayed a degree of regard for Jenkins that could not be well explained on the score of simple friendship. She had lost fifty pounds, but to her that was a trivial calamity compared with the fact that she had given a thorough villain the highest seat ha the sanctuary of her heart, and that another person had witnessed the proof of it. In a subsequent conversation she had said to Mr. Edwards " In view of this matter, I abhor myself in dust and ashes ! The hard words I spoke to you, and the manner in which I defended that wicked deceiver, must have astonished and grieved you. You are in possession of a secret known to no other person at Bala except myself. But such is the confidence that I have in you that I am sure you will not expose the weak judgment of a woman that has been too confiding." " Miss Thomas," said Mr. Edwards, with much feel- ing, "you judge yourself too severely. I have seen nothing in your behavior for which you need offer the least apology. You may rest assured that any conver- sation between us in regard to this man will be consid- ered sacred." " Thank you," said Miss Thomas. " In this I have learned a lesson that will prove valuable in the future. Satan's agents, as well as their master, can transform themselves into angels of light." CHAPTER XXV. PULPIT ORATORS. In those days the Calvi istic Methodist ministers of Wales were itinerants not over small circuits like the Wesleyans, but under the direction of the Association they traveled over extensive fields. They were very much of the time away from home, while their ap pointments were well understood by the churches seve- ral weeks in advance. Sometimes a young uuordained man would be put on the plan with his more experi- enced and older brethren. These men usually preached from fifteen to twenty times a week, and at most of the places their congre- gations were large. Even in the heat of harvest the farmers, with their men servants, would, for a while, leave the field and hasten to a neighboring chapel to listen to one of these noted ministers. For this lux- ury, however, they would willingly work harder, earlier and later, so that there was no temporal loss in the premises. These traveling preachers were supported by the voluntary contributions of the churches. At Llaugob- aith they were always well rewarded, while from weak- er societies they received but little. PULPIT ORATORS. 277 \ Among the Welsh, even until to-day, the notices are given out by an official of the church, who is y cyhoedd- wr (the announcer). At the close of the morning serv- ice, on one Sabbath, Robert Ellis said : " You will be glad to hear, as I am glad to announce, that on next Sabbath, Providence permitting, our young friend, Llewelyn Edwards, will preach here morning and even- ing." To nearly all present this was unexpected, and every countenance beamed with gladness. His recent escape from the malice of his enemies, together witb his fame as a preacher, rendered his name at this time exceed- ingly attractable. The thrilling events of the few months which had passed rendered Llewelyn's arrival at his father's house deeply affecting, and the reader's imagination can do better justice to the occasion than the pen of the writer. The student was received by Thomas Lloyd with genuine warmth. He well knew that Llewelyn had full knowledge of all that had transpired between him and his daughter, and this caused him some embar- rassment, but he was really glad to see his anticipated son-in-law. Of Gwennie it is only necessary to say that her deportment was easy and worthy of her sound sense and warm heart. Grace, also, being yet at Druid's Grove, was delighted to welcome her young friend. Sabbath morning came, and at an early hour Thomas 278 LLANOOBAITH. Lloyd, the exclusive churchman, seemed to be full}- ready for service, although in the parish church Mr. Rowlands would not officiate before two in the afternoon. Gwennie noticed this early preparation with a degree of interest. Presently the daughter and her aunt Grace stalled, when Lloyd promptly joined them, and together they walked slowly toward the place of worship. As they progressed, it became evident that " Siloam," on this Sabbath, would not be able to accommodate the hundreds that from all directions were bending their way thither. By the time our friends from Druid's Grove reached the chapel it was well nigh filled, al- though they were u full half hour f arly. Extra seats were brought in, and every available spot was filled. At last the young minister, accompanied by the rest of the family, made his appearance. With some difficult}- he reached the pulpit. The sight of Llaugobaith's favo- rite deeply touched the audience, and with the remem- brance of recent events, there were tears in many eyes. No more could possibly get into the building, and a large number were under the necessity of remaining without. The day, however, was fine, the windows were open and the people, with but few exceptions, were able to hear the preached word. The preliminaries were conducted by Griffith Jones, from Bangor, a most worthy unordained minister. Af- PULPIT ORATORS. 279 ter the opening prayer and singing, the young herald stood and announced his text "The Lord reigneth let the earth rejoice/' Psalin 97, 1. He was somewhat pale and slightly embarrassed, but he well knew that under God he was master of the situation. At first he went on in a conversational style, and beautiful sen_ tences fell over his lips as easy as the running rivulet. He gathered inspiration as he went. He dealt in weighty theological truths, tut in a way familiar to the congregation. His sermon abounded in pertinent illus- trations. His imagination was lively and his language perfect. He was earnest, pathetic and emotional. As he advanced the interest continually increased, and old fashioned shouts of "Diolch i Dduw !" (Thank God) were heard from many lips. He closed the Bible and the audience feared that he was going to sit down, but to their joy he still continued, entering sweeter into the Welsh melodic " Incyl." He soared like the English lark, chanted in his upward flight, and closed amid a halo of glory. In this morning service the piesence and appearance of Thomas Lloyd caused much astonishment. For yeais he had been known as an open despiser cf the " sects," especially the Calvinistic Methodists, and on no occasion would he enter a chapel. But far more than his simple presence at " Siloam," his evident emo- tion took the notice of the people. In vain he strove to 280 LLANGOBAITH. hide his feelings. Unbidden tears forced themselves to view. Was it any wonder? In the one who stood be- fore him in that pulpit he saw a young man whom he had despised and hated, while his covetous admiration had centered on a villain into whose polluted embrace he had endeavored to force his own lovely daughter. Here, with other things, were materials for the produc- tion of penitence, and among those repentant sinners that cause " joy in heaven " was Thomas Lloyd. In the evening the ministry was equally powerful. The closing appeal to the young people was attended with great effect. As is customary among the Welsh, at the close of this evening service, the members of the church were asked to tarry, with all others who were willing to take upon them the yoke of Christ. A num- ber of these remained, and among them was found the bowed head of Gwennie's father. The day for the trial of the conspirators at last ar- rived, and in view of the overwhelming nature of the evidence for the prosecution, it was generally believed that their attorney would advise them to plead guilty. This conviction served, in a measure, to moderate the excitement. Still there was an immense throng at the commodious court house. The country people, especi- ally from the vicinity of Llangobaith, were present by the hundreds. From Bala, also, there was a large num- TRIAL OF THE CONSPIRATORS. 281 her, and many who had suffered from burglary had come to have a look at Simon Spike and Scroggs. The four prisoners were marched in under strong guards, and seated in their appropriate place. Spike, the elder, looked angry, and faced the audience with a detiant frown. Lucas Pugh endeavored to do the same, but failed. John Spike gave further proof of his de- pravity by vulgarity and profane levity. Scroggs seemed to be at perfect ease, and gave the audience an excellent imitation of amiability and politeness. Under peculiar disadvantages, as far as his costume was con- cerned, he had taken pains to appear well. He smi- lingly looked around on the large audience and bowed in a style that would have done honor to royalty. The couit, amid perfect silence, proceeded with its business. The indictment was read, and Judge Tudor politely asked the attorney for the defense, what, in be- half of his clients, he wished to plead. The talented advocate arose and said, "May it please your Honor, in view of the overwhelming evidence that is in the possession of the advocate for the Crown, the prisoners at the bar plead guilty. We trust that this pleading may somewhat modify the sentence." The advocate for the prosecution then respectfully submitted that the court proceed at once and pronounce the sentence. The Judge rose and said, " The prisoners will stand 18 X 282 LLANGOBAITH. up." He then proceeded, " Simon Spike, Thomas Adol- phus Scroggs, Lucas Pugh, and John Spike, you plead guilty to ah awful indictment ; a conspiracy to take away the life of an innocent man. Your plot well iiigh succeeded. The whole movement shows a depth of depravity, perfection of iniquity, ripeness in villainy and fiendish cruelty seldom equaled in the anna.s of crime. I will not disturb the delicate and modest feel- ings of some persons present by referring to the origin of this base conspiracy. It is enough to say that it is the offspring of cowardly malice. You, Simon Spike, in consideration of a large sum of money paid and promised by Lucas Pugh, sent a well-trained villain to a distant town, who worked himself into the confidence of a most worthy young man, in order to take away his life under the guise of an accident. This having failed, you met together again, and were about to try another murderous scheme. Your talented counsel hopes that your pleading guilty may modify the sen- tence of the court. Your pleading has no virtue. The evidence is overwhelming. A recent change in the law, however, is in your favor. If this trial had trans- pired a few years ago, Carnarvon would have witnessed the hanging of four guilty wretches. But fortunately for you, if not for the community, that law has been abolished. The sentence of the court is, that Sinmii Spike, Thomas Adolphus Scroggs. Lucas Pngh and PULPIT ORATORS. 283 John Spike be transported to His Majesty's penal col ony in New South Wales, and there be subjected to hard labor during the whole period of their natural lives." The sentence was received with thundering applause, and the four culprits were taken back to the prison. The court adjourned to two o'clock in the afternoon, and the assembly dispersed, well satisfied with the re- sult of the morning session. Nearly three years had passed away since that morn- ing when Llewelyn Edwards, amid the well-wishes of friends and relatives, left his home for the Bala Theo- logical School, a period crowded with weighty and startling events, with some of which the reader is ac- quainted. He had diligently pursued his studies and had won the high regards of his instructors. At a late meeting of the Association for North Wales, after a thorough examination, in experience, doctrine and dis- cipline, he was elected to sacred orders, the ordination to take place at the " Gymanfa " (yearly meeting) at Llangobaith. This was well understood, and through- out all that region it was looked for with more than or- dinary interest. In the meantime Llewelyn had left Bala, and was once more a happy inmate of his father's home. At these ordination meetings there were always a 284 LLANGOBAITH. large number of ministers present, and many sermons delivered. To the church officials it was evident that their chapel, although large, would not hold one quar- ter of those who would attend, and they very wisely made excellent arrangements for an out-of-door meet- in^. A few rods from the chapel stood a number of tall trees, whose wide spreading branches formed an excellent shade. Here a large platform was erected, and as many seats prepared as they could well secure. The long expected period at last arrived. On the after- noon of the first day the " Gynadledd " (Conference) was held in the church edifice, and so was the preach- ing meeting in the evening. Among the celebrated pulpit orators of the occasion were Ebenezer Morris, Ebenezer Richards and John Elias. These were stars of the first magnitude, which, at that time, with many more, blazed in the ministerial firmament of the Calvinistic Methodist Church. Their n unes, even to-day, among the Welsh, are familiar as household words. Besides these, there were present other eminent ministers. In those meetings they often stood before an audience of eight or ten thousand, who " were astonished at" their " doctrine," for like their great Master, they taught as those 4t having authority." While the Welsh Calvinists of the present day can point to men in their regular ministry who are far in advance of the fathers in intellectual culture, it is doubtful PULPIT OKATORS. 285 whether they have any that surpass those we have men- tioned in genuine pulpit oratory that oratory that moves and thrills the masses. At an early hour of the second day the people began to come " as clouds and as doves to their windows.' The first to preach was a young man of fine appearance and excellent pulpit ability ; and, consideiing who was to follow him, he succeeded well in securing aud retain- ing the attention of the thousands present. JStill, there were many on the outskirts that walked to and fro. The first speaker having sat down, John Elius stood, and in harmony with custom, gave out one stanza to sing "Dysgwyliaf o'r mynyddoedd draw, Lie daw im' help 'wyllysgar." ("Up to the hills I'll turn my eyes, From whence my help shall come.") After the singing, in his own impressive manner, he announced his text, " Whom God hath set forth as a propitiation." His very appearance had a magnetic- power. His clear voice reached the remotest in the as- sembly. As he advanced with his grand theme, the atonement, the standing multitude came nearer the stand and closer together. No more walking about or idle conversation. All were wrapt in the deepest atten- tion. The speaker soon became animated. His great soul was inspired. The throng swayed under his burn- 28() LLANGOBAITH. ing eloquence as a field of wheat is swayed by the breeze. Copious tears fell, while shouts of praise from hundreds echoed among the trees. Thus, for an hour, the vast concourse was oblivious of everything in heaven above or on earth beneath, save the sublime truths pre- sented by this famous Welsh pulpit orator. In the afternoon, before a still larger audience, Ebene- zer Richards preached one of his characteristic sermons, which in many respects was not inferior to the second sermon in the morning. He had a wonderful facility of expression, unlimited command of words, and a most loving spirit. At the close of this service, Llewelyn Edwards, with a number of other young men, surrounded by some forty ministers, was solemnly ordained to the full work of the Christian ministry. The grand address of the occasion was by the eloquent and venerable Ebenezer Morris. He also preached the last sermon in the eve- ning, from the text, " The way of life is above to the wise, to escape hell beneath." His majestic presence, com- manding voice, melting pathos, peculiar delivery and tremendous earnestness, swept every thing before them, A single emphatic word from his lips would roll over the people like a wave. At this time, he represented the sinner's course as a downward career, until at last he reached the awful "beneath!" and with this one word in his inimitable manner, he thrilled the audience. PULPIT ORATOR8. 287 The union of Llewelyn and Gwennie took place at the parish church. It was conducted quietly, and in the presence of a few invited guests. Thomas Lloyd spared neither pains or expense to render the occasion delightful and highly respectable. On this day he was a happy man. He looked upon the young minister with love and pride, and upon his daughter as ' blessed among women." They were to remain at Llwyn y Der- wytld, and Gwennie rejoiced to know that she was still to enjoy her dear old home. Druid's Grove had already become a welcome retreat to the weary itinerant ; and he who had for so many years treated them with contempt, was now glad to sit at their feet, and learn from their lips more fully the way of truth. In his religious experience Thomas Lloyd was humble and penitent. He chose a low seat and re- fused all official honor. He was liberal in his contribu- tions for the support of the ministry, and benevolent in almsgiving. Llewelyn, being now in the regular itinerancy, was much of the time from home. Soon he became known throughout Wales as " Edwards of Llwyn y Der- wydd." Gwennie was noted for spirituality and her cheerful labor in every enterprise affecting the interest of the church. CHAPTEK XXVI. RIVERSIDE'S NEW MASTER. Evan Pugh was now never seen at Glau 'r Afou. It was generally believed that he bad joined his wife in some part of England. His farm was managed by an agent in Bangor by the name of George Price. Before Pugh left, he had secured a tenant in the person of John Trevor, to whom he had given the use of every- thing as it stood, for a reasonable rent, for the term of two years, with the understanding that in the interval the farm would be for sale. John Trevor, by his kind disposition and upright walk, was much beloved in the community. He had an amiable wife and one daughter, a brilliant lady of eighteen. For several months Riverside, with all it contained, had been advertised to be sold at auction. This notice was well circulated, not only throughout Wales, but al- so in the most prominent of the English papers. At that time the sale of a farm was not a common occur- rence in the Principality, for nearly all belonged to some large estate, owned by some rich landholder. It was generally expected that this valuable property would be purchased by the Hon. Ashton Smith, and added to the " Vaenol " estate. The sale was to be on the RIVERSIDES NEW MASTER. 289 premises, and the appointed day arrived. At an early hour the people began to gather ; some from curiosity, and many with the intention of buying. It was evi- dent from the conversation that many of those present, were from England. A printed list of all the personal property was freely distributed among those present, and ample time was given for examination. The whole was to be sold, and each bid was to include the whole property. It seemed to the agent that all who had an intention of bidding had already arrived, and the auctioneer was requested to proceed with the sale. Chairs had been placed in a semi-circle in front of the house, while the " orator of the day " faced the company from a higher position. He was not one of those dispensers of cheap nonsense that are so often seen in that fraternity. A fluent speaker he was, but before those rich men his speech was dignified, and his language choice. ' Gentlemen," said he, " I will not insult your intel- ligence by claiming for this property undue value. In this matter every one of you is a better judge than my- self. I am cheered by this conviction, and I am sure that this magnificent farm, with all that is mentioned in the bill, will bring a sura that will nearly equal its value. I base this opinion upon your individual judg- ment, as well as your individual ability. We shall not hurry matters in a business of this importance. You -'.') LLAXGOBAITH. will be calin aucl deliberate. In bidding please speak out plainly and distinctly, so that there shall be no mis- take on my part. Now we ' Here he suddenly stopped, observing in the road close by a very fine carriage drawn by a span of spirited horses. They turned, and with full speed they came up toward the house. The animals gave signs of hav- ing traveled in haste. The coachman hurriedly opened the carriage door, and a full bearded gentleman, of youthful appearance, finely dressed, came out and, with much ease of manners, took his seat within the half circle. "The gentleman is in time," paid the auctioneer. U I presume he knows all about the property and the terms of the sale." The new comer simply bowed. "I now ask how much am I offered for Riverside, embracing one hundred and fifty acres of choice land, with this fine residence and all its rich furniture ; all farming utensils, with barns, carriages, horses, sheep' cattle, and many other things too numerous to men- tion. What is the first offer ?" " Five thousand pounds," said the Vaenol agent. " That is certainly a bid," said the auctioneer, with a smile, " and I will not despise the day of small things. " Six thousand was the next. RIVERSIDE'S SEW MASTER. 291 *' I Thank you, but gentlemen are respectfully request- ed not to indulge too freely in playing. Go on !" Then the bidding began to be lively, the Vaenol man showing much interest. By degrees it ran up to twelve thousand pounds, while the talented salesman enter- tained them with very ingenious remarks. Hitherto the gentleman that arrived late had taken no part in the bidding, and seemed to view things with indiffer- ence. The bidding was still progressing, although slowly. It had reached 12,500, and it was the bid of Ashton Smith's agent. No one seemed disposed to go higher. " Now, gentlemen," said Mr. Gibson. I have no- fault to find with your bidding. If no more is offered, Thomas Ashton Smith will have a tine addition to his estate, and that at a great bargain. Shall I have any more ? 12,500 once, 12,500 twice, 12,500 three" "13,000!" cried the young gentleman that arrived last. This caused some merriment among a number of the bidders, while the Vaenol agent looked somewhat dis- turbed. "I am offered 13,000," said Mr. Gibson. "Now you begin to see things in their true light. Next !" "13,503 !" cried the Vaenol agent. "14,000!" cried the young gentleman. "Now that begins to look like it!" said the auc- 292 LLAKGOBA1TH. tioneer. " Glan 'r Af on begins to be appreciated. Do I hear any more from Vaenol ?" "Vaenol has got through!" said the agent, with somewhat of a flushed countenance. "I am not au- thorized to go any higher." "14,000 I am offered for Riverside, with all its grand advantages. Gentlemen, your superior judg- ment must tell you that this property is worth more money. But it must be sold. Fourteen thousand pounds! Must I be compelled to sell this earthly par- adise, the most lovely spot in the vale of Llangobaith, for fourteen thousand pounds? Now is your last chance! Once, twice, t-h-r-e-e times and sold! What is the gentleman's name ?" "You may call it Thomas Wynn," said the young man with perfect ease. And inasmuch as I am a stran- ger to you all, I will relieve you from all embarrass- ment by paying the agent a small sum now. He will please call at my rooms at Penrhyn Arms, at Bangor, on the day after to-morrow, and he will find that his money will be ready." " How much does Mr. Wynn wish to advance ?" asked the agent. "You may write me a receipt for two thousand pounds," was the prompt reply. " Much less would have answered," said the agent, as he took the money. The receipt was quickly writ- RIVERSIDE'S NEW MASTER. 293 ten and given to the young gentleman, and the sale was over. When most of the people had dispersed, John Tre- vor, the tenant at Riverside, in a most respectful man- ner, approached the purchaser and said : "Mr. Wynn, if you have not already a tenant in view, sir, I would be very glad to remain at Riverside. I think Mr. Price will say that he finds no fault with my management." " In Mr. Trevor I have found a most excellent ten- ant, Mr. Wynn," said the agent. "Then if Mr. Trevor wishes to remain," said Mr. Wynu, " he may have the place for one year at the same rent that he pays you, if that meets his mind." "It meets my mind, and deserves my thanks," said Mr. Trevor. " If you will please to accept our humble offer, we shall consider ourselves highly honored if you tarry with us until to-morrow, or longer if you can. This will give you an opportunity to see the farm and all its surroundings." "I think I shall accept your kind offer," said the stranger. " I will give my coachman a few directions." " Robert, you may return with the carriage ; and day after to-morrow, at ten o'clock, I want you to be here again to take me to Bangor. Let the horses return slowly. Take my valise but, and give it to Mr. Tre- 294 LLAXGOBAITH. The coachman bowed, removed the valise, took his seat, and the carriage rolled away Mrs. Trevor and Miss Nellie seemed at first a little embarrassed in the presence of the rich new master, but his ease of manners and cheerful conversation soon gave them perfect relief. To them it was a matter of some astonishment that a person who could command his thousands should make himself so much at home in the family of his comparatively poor tenant. After a conversation of half an hour after dinner, the new^master proposed a walk through the farm, which proposition met the hearty wish of Mr. Trevor. They started, and it was not long before they came near "Pren y Gog," the humble cot of Evan and Mar- garet Jones. "I don" ^consider this little hut of any benefit to this property, nor an ornament to the farm," said Mr. \Vynn. " How came Mr. Pugh to permit such an un- sightly looking building as this to remain standing ?" "I have heard," said Trevor, "that his father, before he died, gave express orders that Evan Jones was not to be disturbed as long as he wished to stay, and pay a reasonable rent. It is true, Mr. Wynn, that the /> d looking at Mr. Wyn- , she continued : " Here, sir, we children were all born. In and about this poor hut, we laughed and sung, and shouted and ran, when we were little boys and girls. How our dear Dick used to climb to the very top of yon tree, and say he was going to be a sailor " And here poor Mary had to stop, overcome with the fond memory of the departed. " Well," said Mr. Wynn, " and did Dick became a sailor ?" "Aye, that he did!" said Mary, "and the poor boy was lost on his first voyage !" "That was very sad!" said Mr. Wynn. "But, Mr. Trevor, we must go." And looking at Mary, he said : " Young woman, I will give you my word that your father will not be disturbed, and while I am owner of Riverside he will have no rent to pay." " May the blessing of heaven rest upon your head, sir !" cried the girl, breaking into a sob, while the two men walked away. " Mr. Trevor," said Mr. Wynn, " I am becoming somewhat interested in this family, and I am sorry we did not find the parents at home. I am disposed to do something for their comfort. Think .you that Mr. RIVERSIDE'S NEW MASTER. 297 Lloyd's family would take it kindly if we should call there for a short time this afternoon f ' " The family would be delighted to have a call from the new master of Riverside," said Trevor. Whenever you choose to start, it will give me great pleasure to drive \ ou there." ' Thank you !" said Mr. Wynn, " let us start in about an hour that will be about four o'clock," and they slowly walked toward the house. " John," said Mrs. Trevor, " Nellie has had an urgent invitation to make a short visit at Druid's Grove this evening. Mary Humphreys is there and must return to Bangor to-morrow. You know that if there is any person on earth that Nellie loves, it is Mary." "Let her go, by all means," said Mr. Trevor. "And by the way, Mr. Wynn and mvself are going there in less than an hour, and Nellie can ride with us." That will be nice," said the wife. " I will tell her to get ready." Mr. Trevor went out to give some orders to his men. When Mrs. Trevor returned to the room, she smilingly remarked : While Mary Humphreys' name is of no importance to you, she is very dear to all in these parts on account of her many excellencies. Mrs. Lloyd took the little orphan into her family and treated her with the tender- ness of a mother. She gave her school advantages, 19 298 LLAXGOBAITH. and when she was seventeen, sent her to Bangor to learn to be a dressmaker, and in eighteen months from that time she was considered the most accomplished in that line in the city. But it is her kindness and amia- bility that makes her such a favorite. She is in her element among the poor, and deeply attached to tLose who were her playmatee. There is one family that she seems to love above all others that of Evan Jones. She insists on calling the old people father and mother. It would be a wonder if they were not called to meet her at Druid's Grove to-day." "They have gone there,'' said Mr. Wynu, "and from the daughter I learned the sad fate of poor Dick. 1 ' "Since you have come to that," said Mrs. Trevor, "I may as well say that that is the grand secret of Mary's love for the family. Dick Jones was her lover, and a bright young fellow he was, and so kind to his parents. His sad fate almost killed his mother, while poor Mary Humphreys wept in secret. To a few she revealed the depth of her sorrow. Half a dozen of worthy young men have since then sought her hand, but all in vain. The image of her lost Dick is so stamped upon her heart that no power can erase it. She looks for some spiritual reunion in heaven." Trevor now came in, and Nellie being ready, they were soon on their way. The daughter, by this time, as will be seen, had conquered her embarrassment, and RIVERSIDES NEW MASTER. Z was in a good frame of mind for a pleasant chat. Nel- lie Trevor had the name of being quite entertaining in conversation. " If Mr. Wynu is so unfortuate as to be a batchelor." said she, with her prettj' smile, " I think he will be in danger of falling in love when he gets to Llwyn y Der- wydd. A word of warning may set him on his guard." "And is it not quite possible. Miss Trevor, that the great calamity may overwhelm me while on the way there?" asked Mr. Wynu. " It is barely possible, but not at all probable, that Mary Humphreys may meet us on the road, said Nel- lie, "so you may reserve your power of resistance until you reach the end of the journey. Then. Mr. Wynn, you must be on your watch, or you will be a bound cap- tive." " Your mother gave me a brief sketch of this wonder- ful Mary Humphreys," said Mr. Wynn. "I judge that she must be a very interesting person, and that you have some reason for settiug me on my guard.' 1 " You will see more clearly the reasonableness of my caution,'' said Miss Trevor, " when I assure you that to fall in love with Mary Humphreys will be a fruitless performance. She has sacredly and forever consecrated herself to single life." " She may yet, possibly, change her mind." said Mr. Wynu. 300 LLANGOBAITH. " Not unless Dick Jones is raised from the dead !" was the emphatic reply. A sharp trotting pony soon brought them to Druid's Grove. The sight of Trevor's carriage brought out Thomas Lloyd, Gwennie and Mary Hurrphreys. Miss Nellie attended to the introduction in an easy, graceful style. " Mr. Wynn, we are heartily glad to see you !" said Mr. Lloyd, " and we are sure that you will give us the pleasure of your company for a few hours this after- noon and evening." "I thank you for your cordial invitation," said Mr. Wynn. "I understand that you have company, and I only fear that I shall intrude." Don't mention such a thing, my dear sir !" said Lloyd. " A few friends have come together who will be very glad to see the new master of Glan Y Afon. Trevor. Robin Jones will take care of the horse. Now let us go in." and to the house they went. CHAPTER XXVH. SOME EXCITEMENT. Gwennie and Mary Humphreys went with Mi-s Tre- vor up stairs, where Helen Edwards awaited them, and. as a matter of course, the conversation turned upon the new master. "What a magnificent looking person, Mary," said Mrs. Edwards. " If his goodness corresponds with his looks, he is a noble specimen of a man," said Mary. " We cannot judge of his moral character on a few hours' acquaintance/' said Miss Trevor. ''He has all the appearance of a perfect gentleman. I think if he had less beard he would resemble Taliesin Roberts. "What say you, Helen ?" " I only say that the comparison pays the stranger a very high compliment," said the young lady. " We shall not disagree on that, Helen," said Miss Trevor, smiling, "for you have the handsomest lover in the parish.'' "But are we treating the illustrious stranger with re- spect by shutting ourselves up in this room ?" asked Mary Humphreys. " Let us go down and help to en- tertain him." 302 LLANOOBAITH, "That is well said, Mary," said Gwennie. "You go down, girls, and I will run into Llewelyn's room and acquaint him of the grand arrival." So they went down, and Mrs. Edwards hurried to the minister's study, where he was busily engaged on a sermon for Sasiwn y Bala (Bala Association). "Now, my dear, : ' said Gwennie, putting her soft hand on his head, " lay aside your books and papers for a little while, and go down with me to be intro- duced to the new owner of Kiverside." " That I will, Gwennie, with pleasure. I shall be right glad to form his acquaintance," was his reply, and together they left the study. " Mr. Wynn, this is my husband Rev. Llewelyn Ed- wards," said Gwennie. They cordially shook hands, and entered at once into a general conversation. The company was not divided. Evan Jones and his wife were present, with all their chil- dren, except Robin, who was attending to some outside duties. Mr. Wynn rendered himself highly agreeable. His remarks ran smooth and easy. The venerable pair from Pren y G6g were delighted with the frank man- ner of the rich stranger. Mary had already informed them of his kind remarks at the house, and they were sure that in the new owner they had found a friend- In about an hour, tea was announced, and in the mobt friendly manner, they sat around the table. The meal SOME EXCITEMENT. 303 being over, they again united in the parlor, and the new master was the great centre of attraction. It soon began to get dark, and the candles were lighted. "My daughter Mary informed me of your very kind remarks to her at our house, sir," said Evan Jones. >k l had my fears in regard to the matter. I did not know into whose hands I would fall. We dearly love the old spot where we broughc up our children. There are a score of sweet but sad memorials about the premises that remind us of our dear Dick ! Yes, Mary told you, and I need say no more. To think that we can still re- main there, and that without rent, has almost over- come ine, sir! My dear, good wife, does not look as she did three or four years ago. The sad fate of our poor boy almost crushed her !" 'Oh, he was such a kind, dear lad !" said the mother, wiping away her tears. " His letters from Liverpool were so religious. I would not part with them for the whole of Glan V Afon. He was in the church ever since he was fifteen. I am sure that he safely reached"his home." " Pardon us, dear sir, for introducing a subject that cannot be interesting to you, but when we begin to talk of poor Dick, we don't know how to stop," said Evan Jones. " Do you know the name of the ship in which he sailed, and the name of her captain ?" asked Mr. Wynn. 304 LLANGOBAITH. " O, dear, yes !" said Evau Joues. " He sailed in the ship Bombay, bound for the East Indies, and com- manded by Captain Bradley.'' Mr. Wynn suddenly arose and said : " Mr. Edwards, I would be glad to see you alone for a few "minutes." " Please walk with me into my study, Mr. Wynn." said Llewelyn. They went, and the door was closed after them. " I wonder what he wants with Llewelyn ?" said Hel- en Edwards. " I think he wishes to convey, in writing, all rignt and title of Pren y G6g to Mr. Evan Jones and his wife Margaret," said Nellie Trevor. " Nellie is always devising liberal things," said Mary Humphreys. " Mr. Trevor." said Gweunie, ' has Mr. Wynu told you where he is from?" " He has not," was the answer. " I should not won- der if he is a relative of Sir Watkyn William Wynn." " I think it is a great pity for such a fine man to cov- er his face with hair," said Margaret Jones. "Mother," said Mary, "don't you know that all the pictures we have of Jesus Christ show him with a heavy beard ? But you don't think any less of the Saviour on that account ?" " No, my child, I don't," said the mother. " Neither SOME EXCITEMENT. 305 do I think less of Mr. \Vyun. But when he talks so nicely, I would be so glad to see his mouth. " Just then Llewelyn returned with a very peculiar ex- pression of countenance. His eyes were tearful and his face pale. " My deai- husband !" cried Gwennie. rushing toward him in evident alarm, "what is the matter? Is Mr. Wynn sick ? What is it ?" " Don't be alarmed, Gwenuie : I have no bad news to relate," said her husband, while every eye in the room rested upon him, and while every ear was watching for further developments. " Since I left this room I have received some startling revelations, and now I wish to make them known to you, as Mr. Wyuu revealed them to me. They concern Evan Jones and his family most- ly. Mr. Wynn has lately returned from the East Indies, from Bombay, and gives me the most positive assur- ance, not only that Captain Bradley is alive, but that Dick Jones also was saved from the wreck, and is now alive and well." Here was a scene ! The father, mother, sisters, and indeed tlie whole company, as by a sudden shock, rose to their feet. Exclamations broke forth from almost every lip. The mother ran to Llewelyn, seized him by the arm, and cried : "Is it true? Oh, is it trite f Is my Dick alive? Do you believe it, Llewelyn? An- 306 LLANGOBAITH. swer me that before you say another word ! Do you believe it ?" " Thank God !" cried Llewelyn, " Margaret Jones, I know that Dick is alive and well ! Try and govern yourselves, for I have much more good news to tell you. Mr. Wyiin sailed from Bombay with Captain Bradley, and landed in Liverpool only two days and a half ago, and he declares that Dick was one of the cabin passengers !" Here was another scene, far exceeding the first in demonstrations. There was a mixture of joyous weep- ing and laughter. Mary Humphreys, who, until now, had manifested entire calmness, broke down with emo- tions and buried her face in Gwennie's lap. " O 'Lleicelyn anwyl /" cried the mother. *'A oes genyt fwy o newyddion da ?" (O, dear Llewelyn ! have you any more good news?) ' Yes, I have, Margaret Jones," said Mr. Edwards* "and may God give you grace to bear it. It seems that Dick arrived in Bangor at the same time as did Mr. Wynn, and in some manner has contrived to get into this house. I have seen him with my own eyes r and he is now up stairs." Here was a scene that far exceeded the two previous. "Now, order!" cried Llewelyn. But there was no order. All was happy confusion. "O, let me see my boy !" cried the mother, with arms extended. SOME EXCITEMENT. 307 " Now I will go after Dick Jones, and then you may enjoy yourselves over him as jonr feelings may dictate," and he left the room. By a struggle, they kept back for a few moments the torrent of feeling that was almost irresistable. Foot- steps were heard descending the stairs. The door was partially opened, while Llewelyn stood in it and said : "Mr. Wynn has disappeared, but Dick Jones re- mains. Walk in, Dick, and make yourself at home !" And the tall form of the new master was seen rush- ing into the extended arms of an almost bewildered mother. " Ofy mam anwylT (O my dear mother), he loudly cried, as he pressed her sinking form to his throbbing bosom. Then the rest of the family clus- tered around the restored one and covered him with tears and kisses. Trevor laughed and wept. Nellie ran and kissed Helen Edwards, and then both together embraced Mary Humphreys. Thomas Lloyd cried like a child, and Gwennie, leaning on the bosom of her hus- band, looked up to heaven with thanksgiving. When Dick was released from the grasp of his relatives, he made his way to Mary Humphreys. Their eyes met, and those glances were crowded with intense affection, and that mutual grasp told a story of undoing love. After a while silence was restored, and the young- man thus addressed the company : " I am not in a frame of mind to speak at length. 308 LLANGOBAITH. For three years I have been to you as one dead. You have wept over my sad fate. Now that I am restored, you naturally wonder why I did not write to you and acquaint you of my almost miraculous escape from an awful shipwreck. I will only say now, that such were the circumstances that rendered this impossible. My story is full of interest, but it is long, and I will not touch upon it to-night. I would gladly embrace the opportunity, if offered, to give a full narrative before the public, in the shape of an address. In this I could put myself right before the community, and it would save me the trouble of explaining the matter to individ- uals.'' "Richard," said Llewelyn, "on what evening can you give us the narrative at Llangobaith ? The people will receive it as a great favor. 1 ' " On any evening you may see fit to appoint," was the answer. " Then I will take upon me the responsibility of say- ing that on next Wednesday evening, Richard Jones, formerly of Pren y Gog, will give a narrative of his shipwreck, rescue and adventures in the East Indies, at thfi Methodist chav>el, in Llangobaith. The meeting will be publicly announced on next Sabbath. And now, .as some of the company must soon leave, it is highly proper that this extraordinary event should close with prayer. Let us now all kneel before the Lord." SOME EXCITEMENT. 309 They bowed in grateful reverence, while the pastor, in language of pathetic earnestness, offered up thanks- giving for the kind Providence that had watched over their joung friend. A holy atmosphere filled the room, while the face of Margaret Jones shone like that of an angel. The father and mother now departed for home. The sisters also left with beating hearts, while the sweet impressions of their brother's kisses rested on their ani- mated cheeks '* Now, Mr. Richard Jones, formerly of Pren y Gog," said Miss Nellie, ''if you are responsible for the prom- ises of that fine looking Thomas \Vynn, with whom I came pretty near falling in love, we have a claim on you for the night at Riverside.'' "You certainly have, Miss Trevor," said Richard, 44 and I shall most gladly accompany you and your father home. 'I was a stranger and ye took me in.'" "Yes, I think that is the way it reads,' 1 said Nellie, with a smile, "and to show your gratitude, you have 4 taken in ' a dozen of us.'' Amid the hearty cheers and good wishes of the com- pany, they started for Glan 'r Afon. Miss Trevor was uncontrollably happy. This showed itself in sudden fits of alternate laughter and sobbing. " O, papa dear, isn't this glorious ?" she cried. " Yes. Dick Jones is 310 LLANQOBAITH. risen from the dead, and some one will change her mind !" " Nellie, I ain afraid you will not sleep much to- night," said her father. " Sleep, papa ! I don't wish to sleep ! I would like to sail on this beautiful stream of happiness, without interruption, for a week ! But, dear papa. I shall soon be myself again." They had reached home. '* Well, Nellie," said the mother, " I presume that you had a pleasant time ?" Nellie could not control herself. Perhaps she did not try. " O, Mother, mother /" she cried, " I have such good news to tell you. I have been half crazy ever since I found it out. Dick Jones has come back, and we Lave seen him!" " Nellie Trevor," said the mother, " I think you are a little more than half crazy !" " Mother, dear, it is no wonder you don't believe it." said Nellie, " but I am telling you the living truth ! I appeal to Mr. Wyun." " Mrs. Trevor," said the new master, " your daughter is telling the simple truth. Dick Jones 1ms certainly returned from India. She has seen him and conversed with him." Mrs. Trevor now sat down completely overcome with emotion. SOME EXCITEMENT. 311 " Mother, I have been laughing and crying for two hours," said the daughter, "and so have all that were at Llwyn y Derwydd." " How does he look, Nellie ?'' asked the mother, mas- tering her feelings. " O, he looks a nobleman all over !" proudly answered Nellie. "And where did you leave him f asked the mother. " We didn't leave him ! We brought him along with us, and, mother deal 1 , here he is : no longer Thomas Wyiin, but just Dick Jones of Pren y Gog, the new master of Riverside !" and she ran around the room clapping her hands. Mrs. Trevor hardly knew what to do or say, and so Richard came to her relief. " I hope you will pardon me, Mrs. Trevor, for this bit of deception. It did not continue long, and it had a very happy ending. I had a hard struggle to keep it up as long as I did, and I am very glad that it is over. Mi\ Trevor and your daughter will tell you, in my ab- sence, how things went at Druid's Giove, and on next Wednesday evening I am to give a public narrative, at the chapel at Llaugobaith, of my shipwreck, escape and stay in India. Mrs, Trevor rose, gave Richard her hand, and said : " We thank the Lord for your wonderful escape, and most gladly welcome you to your home and friends ! 312 LLAXGOBAITH. I know you must be til-eel ; your room is ready when- ever you wish to retire." The young man thanked her, bade them good night, and went to his room. The next day the whole family, with the addition of Mary Humphreys, met together at the old familiar home- stead, and there they had another joyful meeting. In all the principality of Wales there could not be found a happier company. In the evening, Dick and Mary went to Druid's Grove. The next morning he sent word to Riverside to have the carriage call at Mr. Lloyd's, and so about ten o'clock it came. Good wishes were ex- changed, and they were on their way to Bangor. The news that "Dick Pren y Gog" had returned from the East Indies a rich man, and that he was the owner of Glan 'r Afon, spread like wild-fire throughout all that region of country. The fact that for three years he had been considered dead, added much to the enthusiasm. It was the great theme of conversation among old and young. Crowds visited the humble res- idence of Evan Jones to inquire about him, and were satisfied with the assurance that they would hear all about it from his own lips, at the chapel, on Wednesday night. " Siloam," on the appointed evening, was crowded to its utmost capacity. A most earnest prayer was offered SOME EXCITEMENT. 313 by Llewelyn, while heartfelt responses freely resound- ed throughout the congregation. The speaker was appropriately introduced to the audience, and, although at that day, cheering in a Welsh chapel was not encouraged, for this ouce those sacred walls echoed with loud applause. 20 CHAPTER XXVIII. THE NARRATIVE. " Ladies and gentlemen," said the speaker, with a smile on his countenance, " you well know that Dick Jones is not a public speaker. You do not expect elo- quence or philosophy. You have come together to hear the plain narrative of one brought up in humble life, and a stranger to the higher branches of education. Our voyage was rough throughout. \Ve first encount- ered a severe gale at the head of the Bay of Biscay, which lasted forty-eight hours. I greatly enjoyed the sea, and almost welcomed the gales. We had rounded Ibe Cape of Good Hope, and were east of Madagascar, entering into the Indian Ocean, when we were over- taken by a dead calm. This continued for two days when, to the joy of all, one morning about six o'clock, a fresh breeze blew from the west, and the Bombay was again on her way. At the close of that day the western sky showed signs which Captain Bradley did not consider favorable. '"What do those fellows in the west say to you, Mr. Bigelow f asked the captain, pointing to the clouds. ' They tell me that they are busily engaged in work- THE NARRATIVE. 315 ing up a storin that will overtake us, sir,' said the first mate. 'You are correct, Mr. Bigelow,' said the captain, * Send the men aloft at once and reef the foresail and close reef the main-topsail.' The order was given, and we ran aloft and everything was well secured. The wind was gaining in strength every hour, and already it was tempestuous. Other sheets were closely reefed, and by morning the Bombay presented a bare appearance. The sea was in a perfect fury, and thus it continued and increased in wildness throughout the long day. Darkness overtook us, and such darkness I had never witnessed. It seemed as if the firmament, in all its horrid blackness, had fallen and was crushing us. Daylight, such as it was, again appeared. It only revealed a more terrible sight than that of the day before At seven in the morning, our galley was swept overboard, and at ten the topsail was carried away. Owing to the entire absence of the sun. it was impossible to know how far we had drifted. The storm was yet in the height of its madness. ' Starboard watch, man the pumps !' cried the sec- ond mate. 'Shake her jp lively, my lads!' 'Aye, aye, sir !' we heartily responded. We joined in our familial- pumping choruses with as much heartiness as we did in fair weather. In half an hour the water gained upon us, and the officers found out, to their ut- 316 LLANGOBAITH. ter consternation, that the ship had sprung a leak ! For hours we continued at the pumps, but to no purpose, and by order of the captain we were commanded to go aft. He met us with a cheerful countenance, and thus addressed us : ' My men, I have called you here to thank you for your noble sailorlike behavior during this long and stormy voyage. To all appearance, the Bombay is about to bo lost. We shall do our duty to the very last mo- ment, and when it comes to the worst, we shall meet our fate like men. Now, Mr. Bigelow, you may order one watch to the pumps and the other to have in read- iness the long boats. 1 Every man was swift to do his duty. The leak gained upon us in a fearful manner. ' Mr. Bigelow,' said the captain, in hurried words, ' let the lead be thrown overboard ! By the looks of those waves, I suspect we have no deep soundings.' This was done, and ' six fathoms !' was sung out. ' Captain Bradley, we are close on breakers ! Shall we drop an anchor, sir ?' cried the first mate. Let go the starboard anchor !' cried the captain. In a moment the anchor was dropped. But the vio- lence of the storm, and the immense weight of the ship, caused the anchor to drag. Presently the ship's stern struck with a fearful violence, and the mizzen mast, with a terrible crash, fell overboard. By this time the an- THE NABBATIVE. 317 chor kept the ship from drifting, while it continued to beat violently against the breakers. The boats were quickly supplied with water and provisions, as well as with quadrants and compasses. We were divided into three parties under the command of the captain and the two mates. I was to be in the boat with the captain. I knew we were about to leave the ship. I ran to the forecastle, opened my chest, seized my little Welsh Bi- ble which my mother gave me the day I left home, put it in an inside pocket of my waistcoat, locked up my chest, put the key in my pocket and joined my com- panions. The boats were soon in the water, and the Bombay was abandoned. We soon found that our condition was well nigh hopeless. How our companions of the other boats were doing, we could not tell. By reason of the darkness, the captain was no longer able to see the huge waves, and was less effective at the helm. Our boat's side became partially turned to the wind, a Luge billow took it, and in a moment we were upset. It was so sudden that there was no struggle. When I came up I could see the boat with its bottom upward, and in a moment I lost sight of it. I could see none of my companions, and I did not hear any cry. I was a good swimmer from early childhood, and I kept myself afloat without much trouble. I know not how long I had thus drifted, when I found myself in contact with a 318 LLANGOBAITH. piece of wreck, which evidently was not a part of the Bombay. I eagerly clung to it and found that much of it was under water. With a great effort I reached the upper portion and was able to sit down. Suddenly the wind ceased, and before a great while I could see the stars. At last the morning dawned, and the sea was much more pacific. After some hours, I could dimly see in the southwest what resembled land, and I was glad to know that I was drifting that way. I took out of my pocket my soaked Bible, read the 23d Psalm, aud committed myself to the tender care of the Shepherd of Israel. Onward my piece of wreck slowly moved, and I was more sure I was in sight of land, and that it was not far away. My spirit greatly revived, and I drifted along for another hour. Soon my heart leaped for joy ! Not far away I saw a large canoe, pad- dled by two men, approaching. I was saved ! They were natives, strange in features and language, but at the moment I hailed them, as angels from heaven. Their countenances denoted compassion, and I knew they were friendly. In about two hours we reached the shore. The appearance of things indicated that this little groupe had but recently reached this remote, desolate little island. I learned after this that they had fled from the violence of some hostile Indians. They were low in the scale of humanity, and yet possessing a kind THE NARRATIVE. 319 disposition. The women and the children at first shunned me, but soon, however, concluded that I be- longed to some tribe of the human race. I was able to make them understand that I was very hungry, and the men put before me some pieces of fowl, fish and rice, which, under the circustances, proved quite palatable. It was about two weeks after I landed, that in com- pany with Lago, a lad who, perhaps, was twelve years of age, I wandered until I came to the brink of a rivulet. Through its clear water I saw a number of shining substances. I went into the water and found that they were pieces of solid gold, without any mix- ture of dross. I became excited over my discovery. The lad looked upon me with a smile, and seemed to pity my folly. I carefully marked the spot and we re- turned home. I showed my host the gold, and he treated it with more indifference than did the boy. The next morning the two men who had rescued me started in the same canoe on a fishing excursion, while I went in search of more gold, which I found in rich abundance. In the afternoon I returned and deposited my treasure in a hollow stone, without any fear of its being stolen. The men were returning, and near the shore. In one end of the canoe there was an elevated something, over which the men had thrown a covering. I met them at the landing place ready to render them assistance, and there, to ray utter astonishment, I found 320 LLANGOBAITH. my own familiar sea chest! I clapped my hands in perfect ecstacy. As well as I could, I informed them that the chest belonged to me, and that it had floated from the wreck. They understood me. The inmates of the cabins were given to understand that the box was mine. I took the key, which I had carefully kept, put it in the lock, the chest was opened, and I found all my things perfectly dry ! The man at Liverpool who had made it assured me that as long as it was kept locked not a drop of water could enter it. I first brought out my violin, put the instrument in tune, and played ' God Save the King,' which perfectly delighted the whole company. I then played on the clarionet. The overhauling of the articles took some time. I gave them a large number of presents, with which they were greatly delighted. Without much change in niy mode of proceeding, I remained with this people for two years. I imparted to them some instruction in the preparation of food and the cultivation of rice, which they slowly adopted. I now anxiously longed for civilization and home. I gave up gold gathering, being well satisfied with the sum deposited in my chest. Borga well knew that I was daily watching for a sail, and had promised to help me whenever I desired assistance. One morning we sat together on an elevation near the shore. I took my excellent telescope and surveyed THE NARRATIVE. 321 the ocean, and to my great joy my glass brought to view a vessel in the distance, and it was evident to me that it was nearing the island. In about half an hour it became visible to the naked eye. I asked Borga to leave for home, and have the canoe in readiness. He left, and I remained on the hill for another hour. I then hastened down to join the men. My two friends assisted in bringing out my chest, which, by the way, was quite heavy. The rest well understood what was going on. There were tears in their eyes, and Laggo fairly sobbed. He had become greatly attached to me, and I had taught him to play several pieces on the vio- lin. I had also taught Kroonah to play on the clari- onet. I again opened my chest, and gladly parted with everything I could spare. I handed Laggo my violin and asked )im to play for me once more. The poor boy, with tearful eyes, played ' God Save the King,' and with quivering lips, handed me back the instrument. ' O, no, Laggo! 1 I said, 'the violin is yours for ever ! Keep it in remembrance of Dick Jones.' The boy's countenance plainly showed the depth of his gratitude. I then gave my clarionette to Kroonah. which he took with many gestures of thanks. I then gave my telescope to Borga. He was overjoyed, while the women and the smaller children rejoiced in their wild heathen fashion. I closed my chest and had it 322 LLANOOBAITH. carried into the boat. With moistened eyes and a choking sensation, I parted with the women .and chil- dren, jumped into the canoe and took my place at the helm, while the men pulled at the oars. We pointed due west, and when about five miles from our starting point, I judged that we were near the ship's course. I asked Borga for the glass. I put it to my eye, and the first object I saw was the British flag wav- ing in the breeze ! ' It is enough,' I cried, with much feeling. We again started. The mammoth propor- tions of the ship filled my men with terror. I assured them that they had nothing to fear, and they calmed down. At a point, which I considered suitable, I stood up and cried at the top of my voice 'Ship ahoy!' ' Aye, aye, sir !' was the laughing answer. 'And who are you. and what is the name of your ship f ' I am an English sailor, once shipwrecked, picked up by Indians, and carried to a well nigh desolate island/ I cried out. ' You have an honest face,' said the man, ' but ship- wrecked sailors are not in the habit of swimming ashore with their sea chests on their backs.' ' It is a strange story, sir,' I said, ' but as sure as I am a Welshman, this chest was picked up in two weeks after the ship went to pieces.' THE NARRATIVE. 32$ * And what was the name of your ship T was the next question. ' The Bombay, sir,' I replied, ' commanded by Cap- tain Bradley, as able and kind a master as ever walked a quarter-deck/ 'Correct, my man !' he answered, in a loud voice, a he threw over the side the ship's ladder. ' Now bring your craft along side. Two of you men get that chest aboard and give it a careful handling. Now be lively.' ' Aye, aye, sir,' and it was safely on deck. I tried to persuade the Indians to go on board to see the wonders of the ship, but they refused. I bade them farewell, and they pulled away with desperate speed. I looked after them from the ladder on which I stood, waved my hat, and then sprang on board.' The man who had spoken with me was a fine looking Englishman, while the finished sailor was visible in his every movement. He invited me to his room. ' Well Richard,' said he, (he had seen my name on the chest), 'I should like to hear a little more of your his- tory.' 'I will give it most gladly, sir,' I said, and did so, but said nothing in regard to the gold. ' This ship is the Borealis, and it belongs to Bombay, where we are bound,' said he. ' Please remain here for a short time. I will report you to the captain, who is. ; 324 LLANGOBAITH. very busy with some papers. I am the first mate, and my name is Boriner,' and he left for the cabin. 'What has been going on, on deck, Mr. Bonner,' asked the captain. ' Has any one boarded us f (This I learned afterwards.) ' Two Indians brought us an English sailor, sir. who relates an exciting adventure,' said the mate. ' I think he tells a true story." ' I should like to ask the fellow a few questions my- self,' said the captain. 'Bring him to the cabin, Mr. Bonner.' The mate returned, and to the cabin I went, feeling a little uneasy. The chief officer, with his back toward UP, was busily engaged with his papers. ' Captain Bradley,' said the mate, with some emotion, ' This is Richard Jones, formerly of Liverpool, who claims acquaintance with the captain of the Bombay.' The captain turned around, jumped to his feet, and in a moment I was in his arms ! We both wept like lit- tle children. The mate also was affected. He bowed, and left. Then followed a long recital of our respective es- capes. The captain, after remaining in the water some time, saw the longboat close by. By this time it had been righted. By an effort, he found himself once more in his boat. When the storm subsided he unfastened a THE NAKRATIVE. 325- pair of oars secured to its sides, which he used to good advantage. He also found water and biscuit in the locker, and at the end of three days was picked up by a schooner bound for Bombay, where he was quickly furnished with the Borealis by the same owners. He had not heard anything from the unfortunate crew, and he presumed that all had been lost. And now, my dear Kichard,' he said, 'my next voy- age will be to England. I start in about four ironths. From this moment until, with the consent of Provi- dence, I land you safely in Liverpool, you are to be my guest.' ' Captain,' said I, ' I am not worthy of such honors, but I will obey orders.' I then related to him my gold enterprise. ' Heaven bless you !' said he, ' your little island has made you rich. There is now a great demand for un- coined gold, and at Bombay you can easily exchange it for coin or bills of exchange, Bless my soul ! Rich- ard, we have been driven two hundred miles from our course, or you would never have seen the Borealis in these waters. It is hardly ever a ship heaves in view of your island, and it is a wonder that you saw us.' Nothing could exceed the kindness I received from Captain Bradley. His home in Bombay was my home. The owners gladly took my gold and gave me in exchange^ coin, and bills of exchange on the Bank of England. 326 LLANGOBAITH. The day arrived for the Borealis to sail. The cap- tain's wife and son were to accompany us, and all were in fine spirits. The anchor was weighed, and before a prosperous breeze our noble ship was ploughing the waters of the Arabian Sea. In six months from the day we left Bombay we an- -chored in the Mersey. In Liverpool, during my short stay there, I received the same kind treatment from Captain Bradley. One day, at my hotel, I chanced to take up a Liver- pool paper. In large letters I found the familiar name ' GLAN 'B AFON.' I read the notice. The place was to be sold to the highest bidder, and that in less than f orty- eight hours. I hurried to the bank, took what I thought a sufficient sum to pay for Riverside, and hastened to secure a passage for Wales. I reached Baugor on the morning of the day of sale. I procured a conveyance and reached the spot in time. The rest you know. The little deception I played for a few hours, was the hardest mental effort of my life. Our meeting in the evening at Druid's Grove was an event never to be for- gotten. Now that I have reached my native land, 1 in- tend here to remain until I leave for that ' bourne from whence no traveler returneth.' I thank you for your presence, and the kind atten- tion you have paid to my unadorned story."' When the narrative was ended the audience gave THE NAERATIVE. 327 vent to its feeling in rapturous applause. Llewelyn Edwards, in behalf of the throng, thanked the speaker for his interesting address, and declared the meeting closed. Then came such hearty greetings as were seldom witnessed in any country. The people would not leave without grasping the hand of him whom they had mourned as dead. CHAPTER XXIX. ECCENTRICITY. Druid's Grove had now become a point of great at- traction to the Calvinistic Methodist ministers ; not only as the residence of Llewelyn Edwards, but also on ac count of the cordial welcome they received at the hands of Thomas Lloyd, who was never so happy as when en- tertaining these laborious men of God. Aside from its yearly Associations, this body held meetings on a much smaller scale every six weeks in different parts of the country, at which, besides preaching, they arranged the local appointments and other matters. One of these meetings was held at Llangobaith on the week following the one on which our young friend from In- dia delivered his narrative. On the morning succeed- ing this meeting, there were some half a dozen minis- ters seated in the commodious parlor of Druid's Grove, enjoying a friendly visit before starting again for their various fields of labor. Their countenances denoted cheerfulness, intelligence and humor. No class of men enjoy each other's society in a familiar, friendly chat, more than do gospel ministers. Many of the early dis- senting ministers of Wales were exceedingly eccentric, and the peculiarities of these pioneers were often made ECCENTRICITY. 329 the theme of conversation among the preachers in their social intercourse. This genial gathering at Druid's Grove had drifted into this strain. Some of the inci- dents and sayings mentioned partook largely of the ludicrous, but on that account they were only the more acceptable. " Yes," said Rev. John Thomas, " old Sienkin, in the main, was a good preacher, and secured good congrega- tions. But he was unsafe. Sometimes he would drop suddenly from the finest thoughts into the most laugh- able absurdities. He was at one time preaching on the prodigal son. In dwelling on the father's love for the erring boy, his language was very touching and pathet- ic, and his hearers were much affected. But when he came to the ' fatted calf,' he was not quite so fortunate. " I shouldn't wonder at all, my brethren," he cried, in his own peculiar tone, " if that dear father had kept that very calf for years and years, waiting for his son to come home!" At this, the mirth of the audience became uncontrollable, to the great disappointment of old Sienkin, who looked for tears and not laughter. What did that uncommon levity mean during a part of my sermon, Robert Davis?" he rather indignantly inquired of one of the brethren, after the meeting had closed, "and I rather think that you joined in it your- self." ' I did, indeed," said the man. " We were laughing 330 LLANGOBAJTH. at that wonderful ' fatted calf,' that was so accommo- dating as to remain a tender veal for "years and years.' " Sienkin saw the point, pronounced himself an hen $wl (old fool) and declared the levity to be perfectly justifiable. "Perhaps of all the preachers we had in the principal- ity, no one was more peculiar or eccentric than Robert Thomas," said Rev. John James, "and there were but very few that were more talented in the pulpit. Yet. in many things, he seemed to be as ignorant as an in- fant. At one time he published a very small volume of his poems. He ordered one thousand copies, and he got the impression that this would be an enormous quantity. He would often inquire, with deep anxiety, how they could be brought from the publisher's, at Bala, to Ffestiniog. ' ' I wonder,' said he, ' if the four horse wagon of JRhyd y Fen can bring them all at once?' Then addressing his wife, he said : ' Sarah, you must empty that large clothes press ; we can put many of them in that. And then you can move the things from that long shelf in the kitchen. We shall need it only for about two weeks ; by that time the books will be sent to the subscribers. And if we need more room? we can move the parlor table and pile them in that cor- ner/ That is the manner in which this great man dreamed about the bulk of a thousand very small vol- umes of his poems." ECCENTBICITY. 331 One afternoon the hired servant of Rhyd y Fen brought in his arms a good sized bundle, and said: "Here is something from Mr. Saunderson, Bala, for Robert Thomas." " But where are the rest, my good man f asked Mr. Thomas, in astonishment. " Why should he send these few copies ?" " That is all he gave me," said the man, "and he said nothing about any more." " Well," said Robert Thomas, " you can bring them all next time. Tell your master I would be very glad to get them, even if for once he should not bring any flour." " Robert," said Mrs. Thomas, " the book, you know, is a small one, and they may be all in that bundle." "All in that bundle!" cried Robert Thomas, out of all patience. " Sarah, you have lost what little com- mon sense you ever had! A thousand 'Gleanings from the Field of Boaz,' in that little bundle !" He opened the parcel, and to his utter astonishment he found a thousand copies. The clothes press was not disturbed, the long shelf was not molested, the parlor table remained as it was, and Robert Thomas humbly apologized for the reflection he had cast upon Sarah's common sense. "How about that spider, Mr. James?" asked a young minister by the name of Hugh Evans. 332 LLANGOBAITH. " That was at Pant, G-las, near Bala," said Mr. James- " He was in the middle of a splendid sermon, when he spied a small spider descending by his web from the ceil- ing and approaching the front of the pulpit. The preach- er at once spread out his open hands, ready for execution, but kept on preaching with all his might, with his eye fixed upon some object, which the congregation did not see. At last those open hands came together with such a force as to make the walls of the chapel ring, and the poor spider was no more. ' There, 1 said the minister? in a lower tone, as between parenthesis, ' that is the end of Aim/' He then, without the least embarrass- ment, finished his discourse." " This is certainly very amusing," said Kev. Morgan Griffiths, "and I could well enjoy it for an hour longer, but I shall be under the necessity of leaving very soon, so let Robert Thomas and the spider end our stories." "Just a minute longer, if you please," said Levi Thomas. " Mr. Jones, who was it that called the Gla- morganites Salamanders, and what were the circum- stances ?" " O, that is soon told," was the reply. " You sea, David Evans, from the north, had been in the land of flames and furnaces preaching, and when he returned from the south, some of the ministers asked him if he had had good success in Glamorganshire." Well, yes, upon the whole, but not at first," said ECCENTRICITY. 333 he. '! had a sermon upon the burning of Sodom and Gomorrah. I preached it repeatedly, but every time it fell perfectly flat. You see, those old Salamanders were so used to fire that it didn't affect them at all. But I had a sermon on the deluge that took splendidly, and produced a wonderful effect." The company now arose, and after an affectionate parting with the family at Druid's Grove, the itinerants went then- way toward their respective appointments. We will not undertake a description of that unspeak- able bliss that filled the devoted hearts of Dick Jones and Mary Humphreys since they had been restored to each other ; those hours of unmixed pleasure in telling over the joys and sorrows, hopes and fears, clouds and sunshine, they h^d experienced since that night, over six years before, on which they parted with tears at the kitchen door of Druid's Grove. Soon after completing the business with Pugh's agent, Richard made an arrangement with Mr. Trevor to make his home at Riverside for the present The house was commodious, and there was abundance of room to spare. This gave much satisfaction to all con- cerned. To Mr. Trevor it was a financial gain, and the boarder was near his family, and in the midst of his friends. In Wales, among th e festivals of the year, none com- 334 LLANGOBAITH. pares in importance with that of Christmas. It is so now r and it was so then. The festivities were not confined to the day proper ; they began before, and continued after. It was a season of general rejoicing and happy greetings. The well-to-do remembered the poor, al- though in many instances, on the part of many, this was sadly neglected. Within the surroundings of Llan- gobaith, there were quite a number of needy parents r who could not enjoy a Christmas dinner with their lit- tle ones, even on a small scale, unless they were remem- bered by some benevolent heart. Just then there was in that vicinity, at least one such heart. He well remembered a little boy, many years before, whose heart had often beat with joy a& Mrs. Lloyd, or some other benevolent person, would send to Pren y Gog materials for merry' Christmas in the shape of flour, a dressed goose, with, some times, pairs of shoes for little destitute feet. Yes, he thought of that time with a tear in his eye, a smile on his lips,, and a very good purpose in his heart. " Very well," said the master, after a long conversa- tion with Trevor. " Let him bring, to-morrow, from Bangor, twenty baskets, into each of which you can put a dressed goose, a piece of bacon, and a small bag of flour ; for which I shall have the great pleasure of paying you a good price." ECCENTRICITY. 335 "All that will be strictly attended to, Mr. Jones," said Mr. Trevor. The baskets were well filled and labeled ; and on the day before Christmas, Kobin Jones of Druid's Grove, and John Pritchard of Riverside, with their respective conveyances, started on their benevolent mission, with the instruction to make no explanation, but simply to say that the baskets were presents as well as their con- tents. CHAPTER XXX. CHKISTMAS EVE AND " PLYGAIX." On JVbs Nadolig (Christmas Eve), above all other eves in the round year, the young people, with a fair sprinkling of those older in years, would assemble in different neighborhoods and spend the most of the night in innocent mirth. Their amusements were va- rious. One feature was the making and pulling of cyflaith (molasses candy.) At what period this custom began, we cannot tell ; but it is ancient as well as uni- versal. To see a boy or a girl among the peasantry on Christmas day, without a good supply of taffy, was an unusual sight. The writer remembers, with lively emotions, the delightful features of many a Nos Nadolig in Llanddeiniolen over fifty years ago. In these gath- erings there was also what was termed codi afalmi oV dwr, or bobbing for apples. A good number of fair sized apples were thrown into a large tub, half filled with water. A very slight touch would cause the fruit to sink below the surface, and to secure an ap- ple by simple suction was not an easy matter, and the effort would cause much merriment. When a victory was won, the prize was handed over by the fortunate swain to some favorite maiden, who would accept the CHRISTMAS EVE AND " PLTGAIN." 337 compliment with blushing delight. They had another laughable performance. A string was fastened to the ceiling, and the other end to a short stick in such a way as to balance an apple at one end and a lighted candle at the other. To snatch the apple with the lips, and yet escape the candle, was the aim of the compet- itors, and in the great majority of efforts the candle would come in contact with their hair, and create bursts of laughter. After a wholesome repast, the company would generally settle down into hearing and telling stories. The most popular of these were of the ghost and fairy type, or anything that had a touch of the su- pernatural. It was about two weeks before Christmas, and Gwen- nie thus addressed her father : " Papa, I would be delighted to give Robin Jones, during these Christmas holidays, some special proof of the high estimation in which we hold him. Let him. at our expense, on next Christmas Eve, entertain his friends at our commodious kitchen. Let us provide for them a good supper, and this will please him much more than anything we can ghne him in the shape of a present." "This strikes me favorably," said Mr. Lloyd, "and you may tell Robin that it is for his sake." "Thank you, papa!" said Gwennie, and she went and revealed the matter to Robin, who was deeply af- 338 LLANGOBAITH. fected by the sudden news, and especially the motive that prompted the movement. That Wo s Nd'lolifj at Druid's Grove surpassed in enjoyment anything of the kind ever known in the vi- cinity of Llangobaith. The company was large, made up of choice young men and maidens from the sur- rounding peasantry, with a few older friends. The usual features were fully carried out, and gladness beamed in every countenance. Occasionally, the family went in to smile upon their youthful hilarity and to assure them of a cordial welcome. After an abundant feast, the tables were cleared, and the closing feature was story-telling. There were those present who were perfectly at home in that line, and were never found without a fresh supply. "I'll give you Ijlwyn y Nefoedd" (Grove of Heaven), said Ellis Thomas. " There was in the olden times in Olynog Fawr, in Carnarvonshire, a very pious monk. He often spent hours together in meditating on the splendid scenery of the heavenly world. He also had one longing desire to have while yet below, one glimpse of the better land. One day, about vesper time, the question arose in his mind, 'Can the bliss of heaven retain its sweetness and freshness to ' all eternity ? Will not the period arrive in the great hereafter when even the melody of the upper sanctuary shall become monotonous ?' CHRISTMAS EVE AND "PLYGAIN. With these questions in his mind, he was slowly walking along the banks of a silvery stream not far from the monastery. Nature was retiring to rest, and the feathered songsters in the grove had well nigh ceased their melodious warbling. He slowly pursued his way, while his thoughts were full of heaven. The stream hastened toward the ocean, and the monk pene- trated farther into the beautiful grove. Presently the most delightful warbling music fell upon his ears. He sat down beneath the shade of a green tree, and fell into a blissful trance. The melody continued, and time sped on. The monk was oblivious of all below, and in heavenly ecstacy he listened to the strange music. At last he heard a voice, ' Sleeper, arise !' He arose, and after some wandering in the grove he found his way out. To his astonishment, he found that all things had changed. The old monastery was there, it is true, but every house, cot, wall and stile had been moved since he saw them last. He went into the monastery,, but no one knew him, and he knew no one. He was treated kindly and conducted to a soft seat. His ven- erable appearance commanded respect. In utter bewil- derment, he looked around him and cried out : ' O, Arglwydd Dduw, pa le maem pobl ?' (O, Lord God, where are my people ?) 'But who art thou, and where hast thou been?" asked a priest. '340 LLANGOBAITH. 'I aru a monk of this monastery,' was the reply. ' One short hour ago, as it seenis to me, I went to yon- der grove, and in listening to some wonderful bird melody I fell into a heavenly trance. I awoke, and what means this strange transformation?' 'And what is thy name, venerable father?' asked the priest. ' This morning they called me Father Ignatius,' said the old monk, gazing around in wonderment. 'Ignatius!' cried the priest. 'There was such a monk here long ago, who mysteriously disappeared and was never found.' ' Give me a few of the circumstances !' cried the stranger, with deep feeling. The priest took from a shelf an ancient manuscript, and read, ' On an afternoon in the month of August of that year, Father Ignatius, a most devout priest, left the monastery. He was last seen in the vicinity of a grove near by. He never returned, and as no trace of him could be found, it is believed that he was miracu- lously carried up into heaven, for he had one longing, abiding desire to see the glory of the heaven y world.' 'And when did that take place?' asked the old man. ' That was over two hundred years ago !' was the an- swer. ' To me it seems but one brief hour !' said the monk. * But I am weary and need rest.' CHRISTMAS EVE AND -'PLAGAIN.'' 341 'But thou needest food also,' said the priest. ; Nay, I simply need rest,' was the answer. He was conducted into a comfortable bed-chamber, and when they sought him they found but a handful of dust /" " If you don't object to a goblin story, and a pretty rough one at that," said Twm y melini/dd (Tom the miller), I will give you Bwgan Llanegryn (Llaneg- ryn goblin.) "About fifty years ago, the good people of this place in Merionethshire were most unmercifully treated by some unseen monster. The pious Lewis Williams lived in the vicinity of the trouble, and had often wit- nessed the antics of this abusive devil. Mr. Williams was a fearless old gentleman, and fully trusting in the Lord, he was not afraid of a goblin. Now I will give you his own words here they are : ' While with others in a field belonging to this haunted house, binding wheat, some invisible power followed us, untied every sheaf, and scattered the grain in all directions. This was done three times right before my eyes, on days when there was not a breath of wind.' This is what Lewis Williams said. Well, after this he thought he would go to the haunted house to sleep, hoping to put an end to this goblin disturbance. But here he found no peace. Sometimes the noise would be under the bed, again above his head, and often the pillow would 342 LLANGOBAITH. be snatched away. At times the whole house would be violently shaken to its foundation. So on this night he found no rest. But Lewis Williams was not dis- posed to give up the contest. And so on the next night he went with a candle and a Bible. He made his way to the room where they were mostly troubled, thinking of spending the night in reading the word of God and in prayer. But long before midnight the in- visible something came on with more fury than ever, and in spite of Bible and prayer, he began to throw things about in the most spiteful manner. The room was filled with very offensive odor, and Williams was obliged to retreat. After this the family sought the assistance of old Mr. Lewis, the vicar of the parish, for it was> under- stood that he could master any devil out of perdition. He came, and it was said the conflict was terrible. His sister, who kept house for him, told her neighbors that he reached home in a dreadful plight; that his gar- ments had to be hung out for days to be purified from their sulphurous and Satanic smell, and that his flesh for a long time savored of brimstone. But after that night, the inmates of the haunted house were not troubled; and that is the story of .Bwyan Llanegryit.'' Here the festivities of that Christmas Eve came to an end. The company was greatly pleased, and Robin Jones stood higher in their estimation than ever. The CHRISTMAS EVE AND "PLAGAIN." 343 hour was late, and the company dispersed, in order to enjoy a brief rest before the meeting in the parish church in the morning. Among the religious features of Christmas at that time was the Ply gain, for which I find no single Eng- lish word. It means very early in the morning. At Llangobaith, this CLridtmas meeting had been held for generations. It commenced about five o'clock, and con- tinued until daylight. The gathering was highly pop- ular, owing to the joyous event it commemorated and to the attractive melody it presented. Jn every pub- lished volume of the old Welsh bards we have a goodly number of Carolau Nadolig (Christmas carols) in a variety of metres. For weeks before the event the best vocalists of the community had prepared them- selves in this branch, and it was generally understood who were to sing at the Plygaiu. On this occasion the church was beautifully decorated, while hundreds of lighted candles presented a grand illumination. The officiating clergyman read the morn- ing service, with additional lessons and prayers suita- ble to the " Nativity.' 1 After this came the singing of carols. Never had there been known a Plygain at Llangob- aith in which the poor people showed such cheer- ful countenances. The remembrance of those well 344 LLAXGOBAITH. filled baskets at home rendered their morning meeting doubly valuable. The last carol was sung, the meeting of the early morn was over, the congregation was dis- missed, and a perfect shower of " Merry Christmas !" fell at once from a hundred lips. CHAPTER XXXI. WEDDING BELLS, AND A DIRGE. The winter was over. Nature smiled in beauty. The meadows were dressed in living green. The lark mer- rily warbled in his majestic ascent. The thrush poured forth its sweetest strains, while the woods rang with the sound of melody. The joyous day had dawned on which the new master of Riverside and Mary Humph- reys were to be united in holy matrimony. The old church at Llangobaith had never been so gaily decorated. Evergreens and flowers, woven into beautiful mottoes, abounded throughout the building, while on the outside the bridal party was to pass under spacious floral arches, on a pathway strewn with roses. All along the road from Druid's Grove to Llangobaith, at short intervals, there were inscriptions worthy of the event. The expected procession at last appeared. It was fine ; as much so in equipage as Bangor and Carnarvon combined could make it. They soon reached the church, and in perfect order they entered it. Then fol- lowed the concourse, and the edifice was thronged. The bride was given away by Thomas Lloyd. The cer- emony presented no new features, but the peculiar in- 22 346 LLANGOBAITH. cidents connected with the history of the bridegroom, gave the service a peculiar effect. They were pro- nounced " husband and wife together," in the name of the Holy Trinity. t When the party again reached the open air, and the restraint was removed from the throng, a grand shout of good cheer went up from five hundred voices, while banners waved and church bells rung. The carriages were soon occupied by the guests, and all were ready to start. In an instant the horses were released from the bridal carriage, when a company of broad shouldered young Welshmen seized the vehicle, and thus the united twain were conducted from the church to the residence of Thomas Lloyd, where preparations had been per- fected on a large scale for feeding the gathered throng. And on that evening, when the last gleam of daylight had vanished from the western sky, there were seen such illuminations as never before had been witnessed in that part of North Wales. Bonfires were kindled on every hill, while along the sides of the adjoining moun- tains the ascending flames were visible until a late hour, and the people at last had found the coveted oppor- tunity to show their kind regards for Dick Jones and Mary Humphreys. Llewelyn Edwards had been away from home for about two weeks, engaged in his itinerant labors, preach- WEDDING BELLS AND A DIRGE. 847 ing twice every week day, and three times on the Sab- bath. He was closing one of his meetings on an after- noon in the old and historical town of Harlech, when a letter was put into his hand. At once the seal was broken, and while the congregation was singing the last hymn, he read the following : " MY DEAR LLEWELYN : Papa is very sick. He was taken down a week ago. Dr. Evans thinks that you had better come home with- out delay. The fever is very high, and of a malignant type. His case is considered as highly critical. Our trust is in the Lord. Affectionately. GWENNIE." Llewelyn gave the audience to understand the nature of the message, and said that he would immediately re- turn. His appointments would be filled by others, to whom he would send word at once. And the congre- gation at Harlech was dismissed. On the afternoon of the next day, Mr. Edwards reached home. By the tearful eyes of his wife, he knew that the sick man was no better. With silent steps they entered the chamber where, under the influence of a burning fever, the father was restlessly tossing about. By a table sat Dr. Evans preparing some powders. Grace was present, paying the strictest attention to every direction that fell over the physician's lips. Mrs. Richard Jones was also there like a ministering angel, 348 LLANGOBAITH. moviiig about quietly and systematically. Her hus- band, also, and Mr. Trevor were near at hand to render any assistance within their power. Anxious days and weary nights passed away, and there was no improve- ment. When lost in delirium, the sick man would sometimes refer with horror to his past behavior, call himself a cruel father, and beg of his daughter to come home. But far oftener would he find himself with the brethren at "Siloarn." "No! 1 ' he would cry, "confer no office on me, for I have persecuted the church of Christ !" Once or twice he mentioned his wife. "Sarah !" he cried, "you were right, and I was wrong! Never mind, Gwennie is safe !" At the end of fourteen days, the fever subsided, but so fearful had been its ravages that there was no hope of a rally. He was calm, conscious, and fully aware that he was passing away. While he was yet able, he bade them all an affectionate farewell, and smiled in view of his approaching departure. He continued to sink, and at last, without a struggle or a groan, the spirit of Thomas Lloyd passed away to the great here- after. The funeral was very large. At the house a most im- pressive sermon was delivered by Rev. John Elias, who, although comparatively young, had already set the country ablaze by his wonderful ministry. At the church, the rector read the usual burial service, and the WEDDING BELLS AND A DIRGE. 349 mortal remains were laid in their last resting place by the side of her who had gone before him into the " Bright Forever." He left a caref ully prepared will, by which Gwennie received a large sum of money, with much personal property. A liberal sum was left to the Methodist so- ciety at Llangobaith, the interest of which would go for the support of the ministry. To his most faithful servant, Kobin Jones, in view of special services ren- dered the family, he left fifty pounds, with smaller sums to several other servants on the farm and in the house. " Kobin Jones," said Llewelyn, one nioruiug, " I am no farmer, as you well know. If you are willing to re- main here and superintend this farm, I will do well by you. I have but little confidence in the judgment of any of the other men." "I am very thankful to you, Mr. Edwards,'' said Rob- in, " but my brother has made different arrangements. I am to have the charge of Riverside on very favorable conditions." "You have my hearty good wishes!" said Llewelyn. "But I must have a competent hand to superintend Druid's Grove. I presume that Trevor, ere this, has secured a place?" '' I think he has not," said Robin. " Trevor is a per- 350 LLANGOBAITH. feet farmer, and Mrs. Trevor is a splendid housekeeper, and she would be such a company for Mrs. Edwards." " Robin, you are a philosopher, as well as a farmer," said Llewelyn. " I will at once try and secure their services. There is another member of the family that you have not mentioned. Perhaps that Nellie would not object to remain where she is, if she was properly approached. Eh, Robin ?" Robin colored, and with some embarrassment, as well as ingenuity, he replied " Nellie has never been known as a servant, and I doubt if Dick would ever approach her on that subject." "That is well turned, Robin," said Mr. Edwards. "I will go and see Trevor this very day." " I should be so sorry to leave this vicinity and go so far !" said Nellie Trevor, with tears in her eyes, as she and her mother sat together. " We have been so hap- py, and we have such excellent friends." " There is no certainty that your father will go, dear," said the mother. " He has ten days to think of it. Be- fore that time expires, an offer may come that will not take us so far away." Just then Llewelyn and Gwennie drove into the front yard. The mother and daughter rushed out to meet them, and to give them a cordial greeting. WEDDIKG BELLS AND A DIRGE. 351 "Mr. Jones and Mary have gone to Bangor," said Mrs. Trevor. " I know they have," was the reply. " Our errand to-day is with Mr. Trevor and his family. Is your hus- band at home ?" " He is, and will be in the house in a few minutes," said Mrs. Trevor. Presently Mr. Trevor came in with a smiling counte- nance, and assured his friends that he was very glad to see them. Mr. Edwards then very briefly stated the object of his visit, informed Mr. Trevor what he would do for him, and asked if the offer and terms suited him. " With many thanks, I accept your very liberal offer," said Mr. Trevor, "and I know my family is greatly re- lieved." " And so we are !" cried Nellie, while joy beamed in her face. '* O, I was so afraid that we would have to go far away from this dear vicinity, where we have so many kind friends." " Well," said Llewelyn, " I have but little time to spare. I must leave home to-morrow morning to be away for some time. We shall have to start." "And between this and your leaving Kiverside, be sure and come to see us often," said Mrs. Edwards, ad- dressing the family. 352 LLANGOBAITH. " I shall often pay a visit to my future home," said Nellie. " Of your father and mother we are pretty sure," said Mrs. Edwards, "but you may meet with a bet- ter offer and give us the slip." And amid very pleas- ant feeling, the company separated. " And Robin Jones is to have the charge of this noble farm," said Trevor. '" Heaven bless him ! It could not go into the hands of a more worthy young man.'' And Nellie, as if remembering something she had forgotten, ran up stairs. On that evening, it was no wonder at all that Robin Jones took more pains than usual with his toilet. Of late he had been much in the society of Nellie Trevor, and but few knew it. It was so fortunate ! He could, of an evening, go to Riverside, and the people would naturally suppose that he went to see his brother. The twain had often been in the parlor, without molestation, for long periods, when the young man would be per- fectly charmed with the spontaneous brilliancy of the young lady, while his heart throbbed with emotions. He looked upon her as far above him, and shrunk from the important avowal, and the weighty question. On that night he had come to the firm resolve that he would conquer his timidity and know his fate. His toilet being finished, he started, and on the road he pondered in his mind whether it was best to study a WEDDING BELLS AND A DIRGE. ^ 353 few set sentences in which to present his ardent de- sire. He very wisely abandoned the thought, and trusted himself to the inspiration of the moment. Nellie expected him, but knew nothing of what was coming, although her keen eye could easily discern that Robin Jones was laboring under some embarrass- ment. A gentle knock was heard at the door. Nellie was instantly on her feet, to answer it, and Robin was ush- ered into the very room where his courage had so often failed him. And for fear that it might so prove again, he thought that wiohout delay he would open the sub- ject. " Well, Nellie, you look very cheerful and happy." "I am very happy, Robin, and I have a very good reason for it," said Nellie. "We are going to Druid's Grove. Isn't that glorious 1 ? O, I was so afraid that we would have to go far away. I am as happy as a soaring lark ! How does it affect you, Robin ?" " Well," said the young man, " as far as your father and mother are concerned, it is grand, and it pleases me ever so much. But for a particular reason, which, by your permission, I will tell you, I hope that .you will not leave Riverside." " Why, Robin, you talk strangely !" said Nellie, blush- ing in spite of herself. " Rather strangely for me," said Robin. " My rea- 354 LLANGOBAITH. son may be somewhat selfish. You must judge of its merits and act accordingly. Nellie, for a long time I have loved you most ardently, but owing to my natural timidity, I have not avowed it until this moment. I am aware that I am greatly your inferior, both in intellect and education. I am but a plain farming young man, and in asking for your hand, I am taking a bold step. I am about to take the charge of this farm, which my brother gives me, on terms that are wonderfully favor- able. My earthly prospects are bright, and now in all sincerity and love, I ask Nellie Trevor to be my wife." Nellie did not fall into a delicious trance, nor gently lean upon his bosom and sob, nor sweetly refer him to her father. She did not indulge in a number of other things which we often read of. It was not Miss Tre- vor's style. " Robin, you undervalue yourself, and I don't like it!" she said. "Inferior, indeed! It may be possible that I can do a number of things that you cannot, such as washing and ironing, make bread and talk nonsense. But what about plowing, sowing, reaping, and harvest- ing ? Yes, Robin, I will be your wife. I love you dearly, and " The rest of the sentence, whatever it intended to be, was interrupted by a certain movement on the part of the young man, which seriously interferred with Nellie's utterance. This interruption the young lady promptly WEDDING BELLS AND A DIRGE. 355 resented by an infliction of the same chastisement on Kobin Jones. They were betrothed. Gwennie's pleasing prophecy bad been fulfilled. Nellie Trevor met with a better offer, and Riverside was to be her future home. Her parents were happj over it, and Robin's relatives were delighted. The wedding was quiet. There were no bans published, and it took the community by surprise. Both were general favorites, and showers of blessings were invoked to rest upon their heads. CHAPTER XXXII. CONCLUSION. Mr. and Mrs. Trevor, according to agreement, went to Druid's Grove, where they remained for many years, happy themselves, and conferring happiness on others. Llewelyn Edwards increased in popularity, and was a power in the Calvinistic body as long as he lived. Tears ago he died in good old age, all covered with glory, while weeping thousands followed him to the tomb. Two years later his loving companion joined him in the better land. They had three children. The youngest is to-day a shining light in the ministerial heaven. The sister is the companion of a venerable D. D., and the other brother is enjoying a happy eve- ning of life at Llwyn y Derwydd. Taliesin Roberts became an eminent counselor and attorney, and with his beloved Helen, settled at Car- narvon, where he had large practice and great influence. Morgan Edwards remained at the " shop " until the death of his sister. He then sold his property at Llan- gobaith, and at the earnest request of Llewelyn and Gwennie, made his home at Druid's Grove. Dick Jones, without delay, made extensive repairs at Pren y G6g, where his parents continued to live for CONCLUSION. 357 many more years, happy in the society of their children, amid peace and plenty. He, himself, remained at Glan 'r Afon as long as he lived, while Robin carried on the farm. At an advanced age the two brothers, with their companions, passed away, leaving a large property to their children and relatives. Morris Williams, after having been a widower for many year?, received in return for his own the warm affection of Grace Lloyd, with whom he lived many happy years. Mrs. Parry, of Thrush Grove, remained a widow un- til Arthur became of age, and was married. She then was united in marriage to Mr. John Williams, of Ty Mawr, a gentleman mentioned in another part of our story. Dick Roland remained in the service of Arthur, and at last married Jane Jones. They would have entered into this state much sooner, but it was hard for Dick to make Jane believe that he was really in earnest. At last, still having some doubt, she consented to go with him to church, and to her perfect delight she found that for once he was not joking. The coachman's mar- ried life was happy. Thej remained in a neat cottage on the place as long as they lived Miss Thomas, of Bala, was married to one of the Professors at the Institute, and was noted through life for her deeds of charity. 358 LLANGOBAITH. In about four years after the departure of Evan Pugh from Biverside, the following appeared in the Carnar- von Herald, copied from a London paper : " A shocking case of suicide took place yesterday at Orosvenor Square. For some years, a lady calling her- self Mrs. McKnight, had occupied rooms in the house No. 50. Where she came from, and under what cir- cumstances, no one knew. She seemed to have abund- ance of money, and her rent was regularly advanced. Not long after she had occupied these rooms, she was joined by a gentleman who was thought to be her hus- band. He was not at all communicative, and gave evi- dence of a troubled mind. It was plain that their do- mestic relation was not happy. Boisterous language on the part of the woman, was frequently heard, and she was often under the influence of liquor. For the last few weeks her husband, if husband he was, had not been seen. It is thought that her constant violence and drunkenness had driven him away in despair. Yes- terday morning a lady of an adjoining room, who was on familiar terms with Mrs. McKnight, went into her apartment, and beheld a most shocking sight. On the floor, with her face in a pool of blood, lay the woman, with her throat cut from ear to ear. In her hand was a razor' and on a stand near by a brandy bottle nearly empty. On the lady's person were found papers and correspond- ence which clearly prove that her real name was Mrs. CONCLUSION. 359 Evan Pugh, and that she had long resided at Riverside, in North Wales. What may have been the reason for hiding under a false name, we cannot just now tell ; but the once proud mistress of a beautiful country residence, came to a terrible and disgraceful end." TESTIMONIALS. From Kev. Leieis Meredith, of Bockford, III. DEAB BEOTHEB JONES : Thanks for the privilege of reading your MS. of " Llangobaith. " It is a unique work. I know of nothing like it in the English lan- guage. It will do more than any book I am acquainted with to interest English readers in Wales and its people. The story in itself is one of thrilling interest ; but besides that, it portrays so many Welsh scenes, habits, customs and features of life, similar to what is found in fiber's Egyptian romances, and in Sir Walter Scott's novels, that it must add much to the ease with which many may become acquainted with our old historic land Ear- nestly hoping it may have a successful run, I am very truly yours, LEWIS MEREDITH. From Rev. Dr. Janet, Pattor of Bethetda Welth Congregational Church, Utica, N. r. KEV. FBASMCS W. JONES : I heartily thank you for lending me the MS. of " Llangobaith." It is a wonderful story. It stirred my whole soul, and made me laugh and cry. Your characters are so natural and lif elike. You manifest full acquaintance with North Wales ; its scenery, histo- ry, legends, ancient practice and preaching. The story has a good moral and religious tendency. Whoever begins to read it will continue to the end. I am greatly in love with it, and can conscientiously recommend it to all parents who love interesting books which they and their children can read to edification. I hope there will be a call for one hundred thousand copies. Yours truly, B. G. JONES. From Rev. H. W. Bennett, Pastor of tke AuiA Street M. E. Church, Plica, ff. Y. I have been permitted to read the MS. of " Llangobaith," by Rev. Erasmus W. Jones, and find it a book which, when once 362 TESTIMONIALS. taken up, will be hard to lay down till the last page is finished. It is a work of rare merit. The spirit of it is true and elevating. Its perusal will afford much pleasure and instruction. H. \V. BENNETT. From Benjamin F. />wix, of I'tin,, N. Y. REV. E. \V. JONES : Dear Friend I read every word of " Llangobaith, " and thor- oughly enjoyed it from first to last. I read several chapters to my aged mother, and it would have done you goo