PLETON A

TEN

D OF THE

AP

coming of

dinner

r Fragrance

Ruys S

iis agita

ny Pozendin

he ruby

The Sirk

is lady

n aton

ience of Haba

episode o

An ove

Palli

passing of

DOW LA

door of th

A cup

A bille

--

s. Bunn

ster Edw

Dungare

st out fro

The Divan

Exit

he happ

he devil

Husband

hn Galbra

e glory

account

e choir of the

D OF THE

PTE

ING OF

p steered to

o'er the sa

led by, and t

evermore

of the

ther and picture out his future career--how he would be a prop of Israel; how, step by step, he would rise until the Honourable Council enshrouded him; and how, after a life of useful work, he would, like Oliver, desire mo

stled shrilly to announce her coming--a whistle that found a hundred echoes in the forest which fringed the banks, until it died away in fitful cadences in some unknown swamp. And let it be remembered that this is the country of the creeks. Here the Irawadi, whose source no man knoweth, comes down from its cradle of snow, past the tremendous defiles of Bhamo, through the whole length of that strange land from which the veil has only just been lifted, past cities and temples, until at last the mystery of waters spread out with a hundred thirsty throats toward the sea, and puddles its blue field with a muddy yellow far out, even to where the breakers hiss around Cape Negrais. Between the wide necks that stretch out to the sea the water has made for itself countless cuttings, through which it ebbs and flows sluggishly beneath the shadows of a primeval forest. The whistle of the steamer was answered by the dull boom of a signal gun, and the broad bosom of the creek was almost immediately dotte

street, from the end of which the jetty projected into the river. Beyond this rose some larger buildings, the largest of which had been pointed out by the skipper as the courthouse. A little way inland towered the gilded spire of the pagoda, with its umbrella crest that swung slowly round in the breeze. The one street of the township was thoroughly alive. It seemed as if a swarm of butterflies was on the move in the bright sunshine. Everywhere there was the sheen of brilliant colour--red, yellow, electric blue, and that strange tint which is known to milliners as sang de b?uf. The small boats surrounded the steamer, and, regardless of the danger of being swamped, recklessly jammed up against her. With few exceptions their occupants were either women or Chinamen. These lat

h-Sin's oily tongue or the open admiration in Loo-ga-lay's little eyes. They were now so close to the shore that Jackson could distinctly see the faces of the people and the medals on the breasts of the half company of Sikh police that were formed up on the jetty--a tribute of honour to him, as he found out subsequently. Two Europeans stood amid the crowd; in one, dressed in a police uniform, Peregrine recognised Hawkshawe, the district police officer, who, while nominally his second in command, was really to be Jackson's dry nurse i

to land. At length the end of the huge rope touched the bank, somebody jumped into the ooze and lifted it with both arms, somebody else twisted it deftly round a short stumpy pillar, and then, with a drumming of the donkey engine and an insistent hiss-hiss of the paddles, the steamer sidled slowly alongside the jetty until she almost touched

n, I suppose?

e loose rivets in each other's mail. After a few moments spent in desultory conversation, during which Jackson heard and replied t

bye, c

u come with me I'll have th

uk Smalley, American missionary, was introduced. Dr. Smalley performed the feat of shaking hands,

d think we all did--got it nearly

hed forth both hands in protest. "Sir

himself compelled to make and to answer civil speeches, while he was wondering how he could have given offence. The presentations were rapidly brought to an end, and Hawks

t me go after him and explain, if I can, thoug

alley asking you his usual question about your certa

at fearful-smel

saying anything now. I will square matters for you. Smalley is a very good fellow really, and you will get to like him and---- But you must be very hun

a small procession was formed. This was increased to a very respectable size by the time they reached their destination, for most of the inhabitants of the place, having nothing better to do, attached themselves in a semiofficial manner to the party, and there was quite a crowd when, after a final leave-taking, Jackson and his host entered the house. It was a great pleasure to find that there were houses far back from the dreary little to

n down to the courts. Drage, your predecessor, left only three days ago, but his house, which you have t

ral taste that could not be surpassed. The wide windows of the room opened into a veranda, from which there was an outlook over the river. There was a perfect north light, and the soft sea breeze that had travelled so many miles came in cool puffs past the quis-qualis blossoms that twined and thrust themselves through the trellis work of the veranda. He wheeled out a small table and sat down to write home, for the steamer left early the next morning and the mails went with her. The letter was to his father, and, after describing the events of his journey, he went on to explain the feelings which moved him on his entry into the task of governing his fellow-creatures. He was aware that he ought to have first learned to govern himself; but practical work mostly leaves out that little detail upon which the moralist insists. Beyond a certain amount of book knowledge, he knew little or nothing of the people upon whom he was pitchforked by a gazette notification. He had been told that the Burman was incapable of progress, a sluggard, and a fop, and that the Chinaman was the future of Burma. His work was to collect the revenue, to preserve order, and to administer the law. But Jackson was not satisfied with accepting as an axiom the definition of the Burman given to him, nor did he feel that to carry out the mere routine of his work was sufficient. He had read much of th

PTE

NER à

g bowl and a

for monk

clean wh

word i

o my heart

Bucc

and a man must dine even if he is going to make the old East new. He got through his dressing as quickly as possible, and found his pony waiting for him under the portico that pro

; you surely do not want a lamp! Yo

termined that, snake or no snake, he would come back without the lantern, and as he rode took little mental bearings, in order to guide himself home again. On arrival, he sent back the pony with his groom, and Ah-Geelong disappeared into the servants' quarters with his cosmos

hawe, "and have a sherry and bitte

s a streak of burnt sienna winding round the inside; then he poured in the sherry and drank sip by sip with deep satisfaction. "It's the only way to get the true flavour of the bitters," he remarked. This was, of course, utter nonsense; but Hawkshawe fully

er on. I've been writing letters. The mail goes out

many a long year now, and one loses touch. Besides, I never was a good hand at writing

ht it was quite the

ay there; but in this respect the East is a very small place. Finally Hawkshawe got on to the subject of his work, and gave a most interesting account of the robber gangs, or dacoits, that infested the district, concluding by expressing his firm belief

f head centre? It seems improbable, if what I have read and heard of

half in mockery and half in earnest. "For instance, I believe it is really true that the bad characters of the adjoining district of Myobin were all driven here by the mosquitoes. They grow

be to import some of your tiger-s

articular brand of insect life. But, joking apart, the dacoits are a very serious evil here, and I have made little or no headw

way of clearing the fra

lley's undying gratitude as well. But Bah Hmoay is a power in the land in more

s gratitude i

lf. By the way, the mention of Smalley reminds me that I have explained your little mistake of this morning to the reverend Habakkuk, and he is quite prepared to smoke the pipe of peace with you; and this is well,

rounds--and he won't take help on any other. As an educationalist, Smalley should of course be helped, and the same argument would apply to the pagoda schools, over whic

d scoundrel. Try these cigars--they are specially made, and you must be patriotic and adopt your ne

for a Burman cheroot. I shall move up to the height by easy stages, and, if

was smoking, he knew how to enjoy a cigar, and the Havana was very good. The little incident of the curtain and the silken robe came into his mind again, and he caught himself getting curious about it. Hawkshawe was smoking nervously with quick, short puffs; he continually took the cheroot out of his mouth and rolled it between his finger

in saying that Drage did himself

at became of hi

imself, however, and answered shortly: "No; those are matters about whic

orce itself on you some day. You shy at it now. We all did--I did--Thomson, Perkins, Drage did--and yet y

Why should you go down to the level of t

vered me, and as it will cover you and many a better man yet, and you will be as I am." Hawkshawe filled his glass and drank to the dregs. It seemed as if he were toasting the success of his hideous prophecy. "And you will be as I am!" The words hit Jackson like a life sentence. He looked at the man before him, at the promise in the high aquiline features and still,

o Jackson, and that was to get away as quietly as possible. "I don't think I will venture," he replied, "and, at the risk of offending you, I must ask you to excuse me for to-night.

awkshawe, as he accompanied his guest to the door. He there found that Peregrine was goin

oon, and I know my way perfectly. I go to p

fter him. "He knows his way, he says. I wish I knew mine. Mr. Peregrine Jackson strikes me as rather a c

wl, the merr

m with goo

pledged

erry, me

uby light

had done this for years. Every evening, except when he was on active service--and he was keen enough then--he had drunk more than was good for him, and sat drearily through an hour or so before going to sleep. Ordinarily he did not think at all on such occasions; but somehow Jackson's attitude had impressed itself on him, and he was feeling nervous and depressed.

well as reveal the figure. Taller than ordinary, she had a face and form of imperial beauty, and as she stood there, looking at the bowed head before her, it was possible to understand Hawkshawe

of the white past were sighing in his ears. He raised his head wearily

nd, stooping suddenly, kissed him with a fierce little pressure. "Hawk

TER

GRANCE LIM

g earth, and I Am earthy, of its mould. That unseen thing, The crown

a, a T

ds through the patches of sunshine between the leaves, or the melancholy cry of a mule pheasant echoes dismally through the woods. Yet although no beast and hardly a bird may be seen, this void is filled by the ever-present abundance of insects, for here is their paradise. It is true that those grotesque specimens of creation which, like the sons of Belial, wander forth at night, are reserving themselves in a million cracks and crannies for the pleasures of the evening; but the gnat and mosquito are

One of the two, in whose powerful hand is grasped a long-bladed paddle, is apparently a man of the people. He wears his hair long, and the golden brown of his limbs is covered with tattoo marks in strange devices. The other is a man of God; his yellow robe, his shaven crown, mark th

ese title of the highest respect, "we have now wait

mark, and his companion relapsed into silence. After a f

nd I tell you again she will come. The wire has brought me the news. Two hours! What are two hours to me? I gain two hundred years of eternal

on announced her coming, and the dull boom of the

er to the very edge of the creek. There, concealed by the drooping foliage,

s near," and, parting the screen of lea

I heard him say in Rangoon that he would stamp out all

huckled to himself. As the steamer came near they could hear the hissing of the paddl

ve pulled against the steamer for the jetty. His slanting eyes twi

onder is come here with his new-fangled notions? Back, I say! Our friends have heard the steamer's whistle and will have assembled. Here! give me a paddle too." He seized the spare paddle that was handed to him, and, loosening his rob

silk-cotton tree a few yards away. Then the tree began to give up its fruit. One by one four men came out of the hollow, and half a dozen others dropped lightly from the branches where they had lain concealed. Each as he approached the priest bowed lowly before him. They took their places in a semicircle whose ends were to the right and left of Bah Hmoay. He gazed on them for a moment; they were a strong and likely looking set o

ire, I say--and every creek and jungle holds gallant men only waiting for the signal to rise. Our whole difficulty is money--for when was a Burman rich? I propose, however, to meet this, and to find funds by a bold str

a murmur

lphur match. The Boh put the match to the paper and held it over the water, into which as it burned away the cinders fell; but when the flame got too close to his fingers to be pleasant the chief dropped the little unburned tag of paper into the water, and it went out with a splutter. Then taking the vessel in his hands, he swore to be faithf

is long green cheroot burning in his mouth and his dah tucked away over his shoulder, a grot

e, and the Boh or chief turned to his subaltern w

nk they wil

. "Yes, I think they will be true, and will all be hanged for their faith,

s disciple met him and opened an umbrella over his head, and he walked toward the pagoda or temple meeting with respectful greetings from all. He entered the gates of the pagoda, on either side of which grinned two colossal griffins, and, making his way through a courtyard thronged with worshippers, pas

resignation which, united with th

dy words about Nirvana. Was it fo

hey entered it, and beyond was a large hall, along whose sides a row of Gautamas or images of the Budh was arranged with military precision. The images were alternately of white and black marble, and at the extreme end lay a huge recumbent casting of the Messiah of the East. Small lozenge-shaped cuttings in the wall above let in bars of light, which

ragrance stepped back with a hasty apology. Then he spoke in a low tone for some time, the woman all

honour," she replied. "No,

p something from a recess there returned bearing it in his hands. He held it to the light as he approached, and Ma Mie saw

how l

is words, stepped back with an admiring look. "There is nothing

ragrance glowed with joy. "The new Englishman comes to dine with him to-night," she add

ard the right, and opening it showed Ma Mie a back path that led out of the pago

elf. "When had Hawkshawe any to sell? Those ideas of hers are, however, very expensive, and I had to take away my peace offering from this old gentleman here." He patted the face o

PTE

SMA

rgin knight, in armour bright, 'Twere sad to see him fall. Ah

Am

ne, and seemed to call all good Buddhists to that Nirvana which to them is the end of all things. Everything was calm except the mind of the man who paced the teak planking of the jetty. Jackson was in that temper which would have been horrible doubt to an older man, but which to him in his youthful confidence in his own power was absolute certainty. He had shaken off the momentary terror of Hawkshawe's prophecy, "And you will be as I am!" That would never be; his young heart swelled with pride as he drew himself up in the consciousness of his strength. He did not seek aid in prayer. He had never sought it, except in dim infancy. Since his mother's death, in his childhood, he had known no care but that of his father, and the older man had brought up his son in his own creed, which was, to summarize it, man. And Peregrine drunk it all in eagerly and was an apt pupil. He held himself apart from all beliefs--Calvary, Mecca, the groves of Gya, were all one to him in that they all aimed at the good of mankind, in that they had all accomplished untold good. He was aware of the rewards offered to the faithful--the harp and crown of the Christian, the sensual paradise of the Moslem, the merging into the deity of the Buddhist--and none of these tempted. He had looked with scorn on the professor of a faith who calculated on the advantages that would accrue to him from his fidelity; he despised the human being who sold good works for a price and speculated in futurity like a stock broker making a time barga

love thee;

or heave

ause who lo

st ete

e affected him so powerfully. He determined to see this beautiful saint--for of course she was beautiful--and stepping cautiously down the road approached the open window through which the song poured. Standing back amid the yellow and purple leaves of a croton, he peered in, and saw a long narrow hall filled with rows of empty benches. At the head of the room, and close to the window, was a low dais, and upon this the organ was placed. The singer was seated with her back turned toward him; but the light from a shaded lamp lit up the sunny gol

want?" she gasped, with an

; but picking himself up, went on, "I have only arrived here to-day. My name is Jackson, and the house I want to find is the one that was occupied by Mr. Drage; perhap

e smiled as if she was thinking of something that amused her. "This," she continued with a little wave of the hand, "is the school, and we live next door. If you will kindly come in by that door to your left you can help me to shut the musical box, and then I will take you right away to my husband, and he will see you t

ed to himself, "if marriages are really made in heaven, why they don't assort people better." There was, however, no more time for regretful reflection, for the door was opened by his involuntary hostess, and they walked up to the dais together. As Jackson closed the organ Mrs.

asure at being ordered about in this unceremonious m

have some refreshment, but Peregrine noticed an impatient look in his hostess's face and declined. Smalley determined to lead Peregrine back himself, notwithstanding

e could not help throwing a shade of regret into the las

t you will in future be able to find it often." She made a demure little courtesy a

e little animal in her lap. "Flirt," she said, "I guess he's perfectly luv-ly. There, you can go down now. I want to think." And sh

-day," and the missionary, pulling a chair near his wife, rubbed the palms o

the face. "I don't think I've gi

bakkuk timidly, and began to repeat the

f cour

if only his personal appearance were more prepossessing. She had truly and honestly tried to do her duty as his wife, but the chains of her bondage were beginning to gall. Mentally she was far Smalley's inferior. She could not live in the clear ether, in the pure air of his thoughts, and she was always unconsciously dragging him down while making many an honest effort to rise to his level. She had lived so quietly for so long a tim

it still anyhow, like any other mortal? Do read, or d

e began to realize that his wife had said she was in pain. He looked at her softly from his calm blue eyes, and then, putting forth his hand, laid it gently on hers. Ruys received the caress passively. Then Habakkuk was emb

think you had better read a

PTE

AGITAT

r her, a

to a pen

Pl

e behind the tinkling bead screen before the open window watched their passage down the moonlit road. The result was that for the first few hundred yards of their walk there was very little talk, for Peregrine's silence discouraged all the missionary

sked Peregrine, moved out

night, anyhow. Each one with the little lantern God has given h

all came so suddenly, and I had no idea the sight was so perfectly beautiful,

a lecture on the subject of health, summing up with these words, "I am speaking as a medical man now, Mr. Jackson; you must remember to take care of No. 1--that is, of yourself. This is a most treacherous climate, and I have know

y?" and Jackson held th

nk me for showing you the way a few yards. Good-night! I

ds with his guide, who turned and shuffled off into the moonlight. When Jackson had got abou

called out as h

about the flannel and t

long devoted himself to making his master comfortable for the night, and as the slippered Galahad sat in an easy-chair trying to collect himself and gather together the fragments of resolve to at

ou doing, A

almost lit up the room with the shining row of teeth he displayed. It was impossible to be ang

im the vision of the dimly lighted school hall and that golden head bending slightly over the music. He had never been in love, and he gave himself up for the moment to the fascination of dreaming over the face he had seen. This was what inspired the knights of old. He stretched out his strong right arm and almost felt that he held a lance in rest. What would he not give to know that this peerless woman was his own? How he w

r, and endows it with a living faculty to hear and to answer. Surely this spontaneous appealing to a higher power is something more than the mere force of habit. It springs from the heart pure as the snows of Everest, genuine and true. And this is the instinct which is not taken into account in the mathematical rea

hat tempted until he saw the light of the morning star pale in the east and a pink flush steal into the sky; and then, being utterly wearied, he lay down and slept a dreamful sleep. It seemed to him that he was standing beside his own body and watching a dark stream trickle slowly, slowly from

PTE

OZENDINE

Myself will

der's web, with

Pl

ing on his mind. He sat at his desk amid a heap of files, over which his head just appeared, and eve

ter, and seven hundred convictions! Sshoo!" And he flung a file across the room at th

Pozendine was great in the land. When it was to see Hawkshawe, Anthony's thin legs trembled under him, and he went with an outside assumption of dignity but a great fear in his heart, and when he returned there was generally an explosion of some kind. Hawkshawe had already sent for him four times to-day, and Anthony's temper was in shreds. He had just taken a fair sheet of foolscap, folded it lengthwise, and written in a clerkly hand across the half margin near the top "Memo. for

tone, as he stood in an easy attitude before Antho

ing," he said. "Go 'way," and t

and look about! Here you, Mr. Rozario, you joined office a last-grade clerk two years ago, you're a last-grade cler

eizing a file in his hand, walked slowly out with becoming d

y heard the strident tones of Hawkshawe's voice echoing along the long passa

rio to no one in particular. "P

bitually yellow tinge. There were two blue lines to mark his lips, and his hands shivered over his papers as he stood a

of the district office or head clerk o

looked at another, and then, as if by one impulse,

ead clerk of the district of

clerk," hazard

Who? Who? And now Mr. Hawkshawe he sends for me to look over Mr. Drage's report on police. 'Pozendine,' he says, 'you're a damfool'--call me, Anthony Pozendine, head clerk of the district, damfool! 'Sir,' I said, 'that's Mr. Drage's order,' and he say, 'You ought to have been able to tell Mr. Drage what to write.' 'See,' he say, 'now that Mr. Drage has gone on leave nothing can be done about this, and it will give beastly trouble--and now be off with you, infernal idiot!' Damfool and infernal idiot! I will report to commissioner at onc

ars. Pozendine nodded his head. "Ah, ha! Mr. Hawkshawe, you call me damfool--I will brand you dam' blag

expressed his thoughts. "Pozendine will get sack, and I will become chief clerk." He then placidly put up a me

*

shawe, flinging himself into a chair, pulled out a long brown-l

ecent sort of fellow--all nerves, though, I expect, but most

ke poison. Why don't you get rid of the brute? He's been too long here. Is a sort of power i

oing to commit. Still, as you say, he has too much power; but that can b

u. However, I didn't come to talk to you about this, but to ask you if you think it wise to have so much m

There is a strong

r, commands them. He's the best man in the service.

there is

h Hmoay has been so quiet of late that I'm afraid misc

rt of it here, and send it out as it is wanted, exposing it to the danger of being stuck u

, and will send them up then. With fifty men Serfer

ell, so

ween his finger and thumb the gray envelope he had taken from the messenger who brough

we's tone. "Excuse me," and he tore open the envelope. It was an invitation to dine, and as he put it down Hawkshawe made a further re

th, apologized awkwardly. "Didn't mean to offend you, old chap--beg pardon

ght out to the end. He would face the trouble and he would conquer. He felt that the love that had sprung into being, like Pallas, full armed, could only be conquered by grappling it by the throat. He could not run from himself, and he would not if he could. So he wrote a few lines accepting the invitation, and then, deliberately tearing Ruys's letter up into the

it, Mr. P

kshawe--abuse--damfool--and, placing his complaint on the table befo

of the four pages of foolscap, a

abuse is true, you have perhaps a little cause of complaint; but as for th

ill go into court and swea

. "Send Mr. Iyer here,"

Anthony, but said nothing. "Mr. Iyer," said Jackson, "Mr. Pozendine here says you are prepared

the Madrassee's face assumed an

have written he

lding up a deprecating

awkshawe call

but I didn't hear

ened, sir," said A

o be frightened, Mr. Iye

I be frightened? I am an honest man, of a

up as he asked, "Didn't

ince long time. He one big liar," and the Madrassee shook a finger at Pozendine. "Mr. Hawkshawe take bribe! No, not Mr. Hawkshawe, but Mr. Pozendine. He take

ad given way, and with a scream he flung hi

have twenty-four yea

*

s word to see if Jackson would go for a ride, he f

found nothing to

egrine; "I want to

. It didn't happen in your time, you know. You'll get all t

ow what ha

r Fouché? Ar

I must thin

Jove!" he exclaimed, "I very nearly made an ass of myself over that police guard. Anyhow, if this comes off, no more of it; but Ma Mie is getting dangerous. My nerve is not what it used to be, but--I must get rid of her at a

nd galloped into the gray mi

*

ipally fruit, could be recognised as Mr. Iyer; the other, who crouched on a coil of rope, was Anthony Pozendine. Neither spoke to the other, but in their eyes was a sullen hatred which showed wha

There is only one chance--let us join together in Rangoon and tell all about Hawkshawe. We know true thin

ed all day as if there never had been any enmity between them, planning the coup which was to get them back t

TER

BY BRA

ield as white

honour clean

n my fellows,

onest--but all

Pl

sture Ma Mie again raised the soft outline of her arm, and with lips half parted gazed upon the red glow of the rubies with a childish delight. They were standing near a window of Hawkshawe's house, at the very window from which the light streamed o

ghtly in the air, and as it fell back like a star he caught it deftly. "The stones are of the purest water, Ma Mie, but I alone have the right to clasp them on you. Let me do so now." He fastened the jewel once more on her. "Now," he said, "they look perfect--now that I have put them on you myself, and you can feel that they have come from me. Is it not so?" He drew her toward himself, while all the ti

and you will get well. You want rest, and you are tired. Is it not so? You said so that night." The woman seemed to know of the evil that hung over her, and was making a desperate fight. All the pleasure that had brightened her face left it, and left it in a moment haggard and wan. She had expected this crisis a hundred times, and a hundred times nothing had come. Still, the fee

he meantime you must wait for me at your home. You have money. This"--he touched the bracelet on the shuddering arm--"and other things. Besides, I will see that you have more. I intend to go in about a month, and it would be

are fools, and all men liars! Do you think my heart is a stone? Have I not been faithful? Ah, Hawkshawe, do not send me away! See, I will follow you as a slave to the uttermost par

stache, "I must end this somehow.--Look here, Ma M

e, and you are mine. You say you are going for a short time and that you will come back to me. You lie, and you know it! You never mean to come back. To think that you should perjure yourself at such

! I will giv

a tinkling crash on the polished wood of the floor. Hawkshawe paled to an ashy gray. He raised his hand as if to strike the proud face before him, but his eyes sank as he met Ma Mie's fearless gaze, and hi

ped the jewel into his pocket, and, going to a side-table, poured himself out a glass of brandy, and then another and another, and while he stood near the tabl

with drink. But he is mine, and---- Oh, the shame of it! I love him!

TER

RKAR'S

eaten the S

hen shall I

e? Nay, mine

ve us sprea

a traitor h

er fell in th

f the

fternoon, and her face appeared to flit before him and his heart bowed down to the vision; but he set his teeth and put away the thoughts that came whether he would or not. Was he not measuring the strength of his soul or will, as he would have called it, against the strength of his passion? He was going to pit the ideal against the real, and to his strong young heart the struggle could have but one issue. He knew--none better--that he was running a desp

ading a yellow-back; but it is Armorel of Lyonesse, and books like that make one feel good,

the volume fr

oman who would have made any man

k? I should certainly not like

t the gray deep of her eyes was pure and unruffled. "I would rather," she

k that men are

he was, to what an abyss he sank! Did not Armorel fling herself away on him? Is it not a terrible thing for a man to bind a pure woman to him, knowing that

is never hap

in the sense that a woman wishes to be loved." She be

you, at any rate, have nothing to complain of." Not a muscle of her face moved as she folded the book, held half open in her hand, and placed it in a small wickerwork basket that stood on a table near her.

feeling v

and asked if it was not an off day with the mission schools. "Yes, and that's the worst of it. It means that on Monday one has

giving these people the Gospel before they have been put in a state to understand it. How can they un

uk. "Mr. Jackson, I was once as you are, searchi

peech in the garden. I have had my tea-table set out there, and it looks

s, bite, and, waving the remnants in the air, resumed his speech. "Wal, as I was saying, I was searching for a light. I had not then received my call to the ministry, and while hunting for food for the soul was compelled to shift round considerable for food for the body. I had taken my medical degrees, but the Lord was good to the folk of Derringerville, and they flourished and were strong. Hence I concluded to betake me down south, and near the Sierra Blanca found an ideal spot for a doctor. There were thousands of typhoid microbes in every square inch of air--in fact, it was where typhoid had its office--but the inhabitants were spry. At first they died rather than call me in, but Elder Bullin, a real smart man he was, convoked the estates one day, and then a deputation waited on me--there was Calvin Snipe, Dacotah Dick, and the elder himself. They drank the half bottle of whisky I had left, and then put the matter squarely to me. I was to be paid a thumping good salar

with a tail of policemen behind him. He halted the men with a quick order, and, dismounting, walked rapidly across the lawn toward the tea drinkers, accompanied by one who appeared from his dress

s Serferez Ali, my inspector, who will tell you all about it--and great news, too, with the bad. I think we have that scoundrel Bah Hmoay redhanded at last. I heard you were here, and sto

disaster; he found voice, however, to ask if the whole of th

oment to lose. Stay"--he bent and whispered a few words in Jackson's ear, and then with a hasty good-bye turned and went off. When Hawkshawe had gone Jackson turned to the inspector and asked

as there were not enough men to attend to these duties. The Babu sat down to write to you about it, and I determined with the few men I had to double my precautions. There was a bright moon that night, and during the day I had the trees near the treasury gate cut down, so that men might not steal upon us unawares. At eleven that night, after going my rounds, I sat down to my meal with Hashim Khan, a fellow-countryman of mine from the Punjab. As we sat down before the fire a shot was fired, and Hashim fell forward on his face a dead man. Then I heard the sentries coming back, and I knew the dacoits had attacked the treasury. There were nine men besides myself, and we answered the fire of the dacoits; but presently the woodwork of the building blazed up, and we, bei

Smalley caught him as he was falling. "He is

PTE

ADY'S

gathered a b

her own t

ade of t

others who had joined in the assault on the sub-treasury, and who, if caught, would have paid for their crime with their lives; but these ten formed the regular gang, and now eight of them were taken alive and two were hunted men. Old Serferez Ali recovered from his wound, which was after all but slight, took Hawkshawe's place on the track, and vowed by the prophet's head that Hashim's death should be revenged tenfold, for was not Hashim of Gugar Khan his father's nephew's cousin on the sister's side? Moreover, he was a friend, and it was not the law that would avenge his death, but Serferez Ali himself, who had learned many ways of doing this. Serferez swore that they should not hang until he had satisfied himself; the law could then work its will on what remained of them, and the grim old man, hollow-eyed and gaunt, was relentless in his pursuit. Information came to him somehow, and it was only the impassable jungles that saved the criminals from his vengeance. Hawkshawe was puzzled and annoyed at Jackson's letter recalling him to headquarters. He had been working spl

t! they have found

osure, but Ma Mie stooped and, picking it up, handed it to him. It contained a few lines from Peregrine telling him to keep up heart; that he, Jackson, was sure the charges were trumped up and would fall to the ground. The letter closed with an earnest assurance of sympathy and a brief intimation that his successor, Phipson, had already arrived, and was of necessity staying with Jackson, there being no other house available for him. The blow had fallen at last, and fallen just

he clung to his wrist and wrenched the weapo

atment only added to the agony, though it was difficult to say who felt it most, honest young Phipson, with his soft heart, or the proud and guilty man whose place he had taken. When it was

," said Mrs. Smalley; and Habakkuk thought that if he we

ould gain no admittance; perhaps it would be wiser to leave hi

d Phipson, and they all understood

he had founded at Dagon, which had flourished in so remarkable a man

Jackson. "Why, we couldn

n idea that might never come to anything, and he and Phipson strolled off together t

surely do not think that Dr. Smal

ork takes him there, and he feels a

ill go also to aid and help him." Their eyes me

were to stay here and look after what is left. There is much to do, you know

traight on, when Mrs. Smalley deliberately turned into a bypath, and he followed her, admiring the perfect outline of her figure and the easy grace of her walk. "Isn't this an odd place?" she said, as on taking a turn they came upon what was evidently the ruin of an old

st have been just such a monster who guarded Castle Dolorous

t came and blew on a silver bug

d the fair lady gave him a g

What did she give?" and as Ruys said this she loosened with

, and the knight wore it as a charm against al

ure a knight in a tweed suit--can you? How would a gage look on that?" and with a sudden

se to him as she did this, and a mad longing came over the man to clasp her to him, to ask her to put her white arms round his neck and say she loved him, to tell her she

ember, it is to be an amulet

her eyes fell before him, and she half turned her face away to hide the pink flush that came into her cheek. There was a mom

Mrs. Smalley, although I am afr

leave a place which was so dangerous to both. They walked back together

on't tell my husband; it is a mere trifle. See, there are Mr. Ph

ly shut the door, deliberately proceeded to have a good cry. It was a sheer case of nerves with her, and the nerves had given way. She had played with edged tools and now found that they could cut, and began to realize that she was almost if not quite in love with this impassive youth. The woman was a curious mixture of good and bad. She laid herself out to do a wrong thing, and took a keen pl

kkuk, "left about t

his knee. Habakkuk put down the paper he was reading and stroked the

at you said abou

hy

want you to go at once

woman, what i

"Oh, you men--you men! W

PTE

TONE

e back? Well, th

ays all

a: A T

on, Hawkshawe had sent up a long memorial, full, as memorials always are, of points that did not bear on the question. He clutched at any straw to save himself, and there was without doubt a good record of good work done by him. Practically, however, he was already condemned, and the governor had made up his mind almost as soon as he heard of the case. He was a man whose muscular morality could

ruption part of the affair," he said to a confidential friend--in other words, to his wife. "There's no real proof except the statements of those di

," said the lady. "I have no p

will be inferred that a long connection with the seamy side of mankind had more or less blunted the fine edge of his susceptibilities, and

o feel that every one around him knew of his fall, to know that they knew him guilty, to know that they who crouched before him formerly were laughing over their opium pipes at his downfall. The very servants knew it. He saw this in their faces. These thoughts drove him faster and faster on his course, and he vainly tried to flee from himself in the stupor of drink. And then the time came when drink did not produce forgetfulness. But Ma Mie clung to him with the affection of a dog. She endured his abuse and his blows, for Hawkshawe had reached a stage when he was no longer restrained from violence because the object was a woman. The poor creature tried to keep him from his besetting vice; she brought out all her little arts which were once wont to please and to beguile, but to no purpose. Hawkshawe insisted on having her about him, but it was not to console; it was because he wanted some one upon whom to work off the fits of semi-madness that came on him. Hi

the woman who was with Hawkshaw

s empty, but from the open window he saw her figure as it flitted down the road, and a wailing sob reached his ears. "By God, she sha

*

Phipson fiddled; he did not play the violin, but his fiddling was very sweet and good to hear. He finished his little air with a flourish,

g's voice raised in expostulation. The next moment Ma Mie burst into the room. She held in her hand a bundle of papers, w

ty dlunk." But both Peregrine and Phipson felt that he would attempt no more violence, and, ordering the Chinaman to stand back, helped him to rise, which he did slowly, and then glared round him with his restless, fiery eyes. "Where is my wife?" he asked, and then they saw for the first time that Ma Mie had gone. The thought that she had escaped him seemed to rouse him to fury again. "Devil!" he shrieked, and made a dash for the door. Peregrine and Phipson were before him, however. "For God's sake, sit still and pull yourself together, Hawkshawe!" said Phipson. He looked at them and, throwing his head back, laughed, and his voice was as the howl of a beast. "Sit still! How can I sit still? There is something broken in my head; there are the fires of hell in my heart. A devil is ever leaning over my shoulder, and---- Ma Mie, you traitress, where are you? Let me pass," he shouted, "or I will---- Ugh! there it is!" He turned and, glancing over his shoulder, saw Ah-

d Peregrine, and she came. She held in her hands a small inlaid casket, which she placed on the shining woodwork of the table. Her eyes were tearless, but her voice trembled as she spoke. "See," she said, "what was my husband is lying dead above, and dead in dishonour. I have come to make his memory clean and to restore----" With a quick movement of her hands she opened the casket and scattered it

and she passed out into the da

PTE

E OF HABAKK

pass the na

unto the

oweth the h

y pathway c

of the

Habakkuk he had just thrown aside a lucrative practice as a physician to enter the ministry with a view to going on the Eastern mission. This in itself was sufficient to attract an emotional woman, and there was something also in the innate nobleness of soul within his ungainly frame that drew her toward him. She had one of her "good" fits on. Here was something so very different from the smart young men of her set who worshipped the almighty dollar, and dreamed of the almighty dollar, whose one idea was to amass a fortune, and to whom a business operation which successfully brought a friend perhaps to ruin was a creditable thing. She felt that marriage with such an one was a moral abasement, and so she signalled, in that silent way that women know, to the strong and loving nature that was hovering near her, and he came at her call. Something within him, he knew not what, prompted him to speak, and he simply told her of his love, and turned to go. It never for one moment crossed him that he would meet anything but a refusal, and when she softly called him back and put her hand in his, he was unable at first to realize that his apparently absurd ambition had been crowned with success

hold yourself up? There!" and she straightened him; "if yo

haplain to the Pazobin Volunteers. There are six men

ing dacoits," and she came close up to him. Habakkuk for once plucked up courage, and, putting his arm round his wife's waist, kissed her, and to his surprise the caress was returned. He could hardl

he end of the world. He was off in a momen

eached there she looked around as if expecting some one. "I wonder if he will come?" she said, and almost as the words escaped her Peregrine walked quickly across the side and came straight up to her. "I only got your not

lked up here to meet you. Dr. Smalley will be back soo

tempts at escape had helped him. He had seen the struggle, and as he now stood over her his eyes were fearless with the strong light of power and resolve. Her knight--he had sworn to be her knight, and w

etermined to meet him here and ask him never to see her again, and now that the opportunity which she herself had foolishly made had come she

are my sister; I will look to you for help and co

! How can I be your sister? Oh, what shall I do? What shall I do?" And she burst into hysterical sobs, and th

"My queen! my queen!" he said, and kisse

cast eyes and trembling limbs before him, he sp

ure with sad, dreamy eyes, and then with a white face a

*

expected, and like an inspiration the motives of his wife in forcing him to leave the place flashed upon him. After all, the temptation had been resisted, and who was he to judge. He thought of the lesson his Master had taught in a case of terrible reality, and was he, a priest of the Gospel, to stop at less than this? He kneeled down on the turf, and, holding up his arms to heaven, prayed. "God," he cried, "thou hast hunted me like a dee

, but simply rose, and

TER

SODE OF

Prophe

l die,"

ife of the

Military

an on; "Li he go too." Yes, this was true, too true. All business, really paying business, had gone since Pozendine and Iyer were swept away with other refuse, and there was nothing to be done with Mr. Pillay, who reigned in their place. Profits had come down to zero, for Mr. Pillay was that rara avis of his class--an honest man. Li Fong's approaches toward him had resulted in Li's being treated with indignity, and, what was worse, in attracting the particular attention of Jackson toward the Chinaman. And when the special attention of a district officer is drawn to a person like Li, it is better for him or her to move on, and our sleek friend, fully aware of this, was on the eve of his departure. But he was going heavily laden. He had sold his shop, and was for this night a care-taker only. Honest Yen Chow, of Myobin, was the purchaser. Yen would come to-morrow, and then Li was free as air. He smoked his cigarette comfortably through, and dozed off slowly. When he awoke he found that the township was going to bed. It was not a bad idea, thought Li. He would do the same. He turned down the burner of the little k

ciousness of physical pain, and behold!

swept the jewels into a bag. Then he turned savagely on the Chinaman. "Beast!" he said, "and you were going away with the earnings of honest men!" Then, changing his voice: "What! and you wouldn't even come and say good-bye to an old friend--to poor old Father Fragrance! It was very wrong of you, Li Fong, very wrong." Moung Sen here pricked Li with the dah, and a shiver went over the limbs of the bound man. Bah Hmoay then spoke again. "To think that you can't even speak, Li Fong, that your w

*

throat slit from ear to ear, and on the wall of the room, scratched in charcoal, the respectful compliments o

the dacoit had disappeared with the destruction of his gang, when here came a fresh atrocity--an atrocity out-Herodin

tled and kept as a curiosity. Had he lived a h

y high up," gr

come on urgent business

said Phipson, and Serfe

clew to the hiding place of the dacoits,

the shade of disappointment that passed over Serferez Ali's face as he said he would come, and, being a generous young fellow, guessed its meaning. It was

e inspector. "By sunset the heads of t

ssed down the drive with rapid strides, and regained the police barracks with all speed. Here he picked out half a dozen

l give up my share. You can all cut your names after this and go back to the grants the Sirkar is giving on the Chenab without fear of th

u here and look after the boat," whispered Serferez to the youngest of the men. "And, fool! don't sit in the boat, but hide here--here in the bushes, and keep your eyes and ears open. Shoot the first Burman who comes near it dead. Don't waste time in asking questions. Remember this, or you will never see the white hills again, I swear by the Prophet's head!" and he tapped his sword hilt significantly. After this no word was spoken, but the five men with Serferez at their head made their way in Indian file through the forest. Sometimes they were able to walk, but most frequently they had to resort to the tedious process of crawling through the jungle on all fours. They dared not use their dahs to cut the underwood, for the slightest sound m

their rifles, but at a glance from their chief put them down again. "Alive," he whispered; "you two go round and then rush them; they will come stra

th a dower

ath a dow

or the scent

the gleam

of the pelf," echoed

h the grace

e is crook

olice carbine, and a bullet whistle

bore him on his knees, however, and had Bah Hmoay been allowed a moment's more time Serferez would have slept in paradise. But the opportunity was not to be lost; without a second's hesitation the dacoit chief sprang off, and, cutting down another man with a back-handed sweep of his long dah, dashed into the jungle and wa

ours has cost us a thousand rupees. Still, one remains in the net.--Ho, Moung Se

he bandages that bound him until the muscle

, will he not, my children?" said Serferez.

he Doab died that da

head than for the rest

third, pointing to the man, who st

*

of the Sikh police rolled out somethi

ttempted to escape as the other did, and there was no way but this," an

TER

VERR

raight the r

he Wazir

death are bea

he Wazi

death are fle

race, though th

f the

d you like

is my home

was dying for freedom, and he vowed in his heart that, in so far as he could give her freedom, she should be free. Home--yes, home was the best place for her. He would never see it again, but she would be uncaged. He was not rich in the world's goods, and what he had he gave freely to the cause for which he laboured; but he held his hand back now, and during the past year the cause had suffered in this respect. But this little wrong was necessary to lighten a stricken heart. And while he thus laboured his wife saw it all with a woman's quickness, and in

olhouse of Dagon. But he saw nothing in her hesitation. Finally she left him and went to her daily duties; but as she walked down the grassy lane that led to the school she thought

nd Ruys gave to him and walked on. The beggar picked out the coin from the calabash and pois

secret and his. I will strike there--there!"--and he pointed to the retreating figure--"and this will make him live with a heart wound. For a whole year have I waited and worked and pl

er and anon calling out, "Alms, in the name of the Buddh!" So he sat until about the hour of sunset, when the womanfolk of the place gathered to the temple, and then he saw one whose stately step and carriage were unmistakable. I

alone. Where

ere, and there is no harm in liste

dacoit as he rose, flung his saffron robe loose

ve all others, with a price on his head, was walking beside her, going to her own house. The old fox was noosed at last, and it was wit

I have brought to rest here a while. I knew him i

ak, I will not be in hearing," and she went out of the door a

here?" said Ma Mie; "you w

ate, will not

why

ce I know of; if I am lost, so is he--I have but to speak a word;

the fierce light that came into them, and pre

t revenge," and she looked at

, but that is not enough. I want him to live with a wound on his heart from which he will never recover. I will kill him afterward if it suits me, and now--stoop--see here," and the dacoit rapidly whispered to Ma Mie words that made her start back and say, "No! no!" "But I say yes--think of it--it is a vengeance worthy of

price," said Ma

he dacoit. "Then y

replied; "a

e dacoit rose and tot

old Mah Kit, "the night air is chilly

oung yet, young yet. There is devilment abroad. What

er five minutes. I would have put my dagger in his hea

iletto in little crosses on the wood flooring. An hour

be back on the third day from this. If he comes, make

Ma Kit. I know now. Oh, yes, I know many things that

r touches here at ten to-night, and it

was not there--he had gone to the district the night before, and Phipson with him. Then she bethought her of the native deputy magistrate; but he was a Burman, and she doubted him. Finally she thought of old Serferez Ali, and, seeking him out, poured the information into the old man's ears. It was not the reward she wanted, it was revenge; but not revenge upon Jacks

add five hundred rupees to the government reward i

listen, on your head! Bear this telegram, and let it be despatched at once. I want the police steamer at Myo to-night; and you, sergeant, be ready with twenty picked men at the quay to-morrow morning at se

TER

IDA

e! They brou

me knigh

our my knig

for lov

Ba

glass, but it is only water. Under the water lies three feet of mud, and beyond, like a huge dismasted hulk, rises the solid outline of the forest. The fields are divided by narrow embankments, and, as it is impossible to gallop through the quagmire, they resign themselves to circumstan

we crawl throu

b, the road is to the

nto the dark archway of foliage. Through its deep gloom they race, and the ho

ght that flashes past them. The old boar peers after the horsemen with his bloodshot eyes, the white foam hissi

l of rage from the napless yellow pariah dog, roused from his sleep in the middle of the road. He was nearly killed, and he protests

its stride under him, and he knew by the ominous way in which the poor animal seized the bit bet

eep whistle of a steamer reached their ears,

'Tis the steamer!

med to know it. Brave hearts! They had won a race for life, and ten minutes later kind hands were rubbi

ked her silver mane--"there is none like thee in the land. By the Prophet'

he time,

to the broad moonlight. "We reach Pazobin at sev

as it shone out of the moonlight almost sca

y, Ja

t is

a nap, and you'd better do the same." This was the poli

I can't sleep; I must

friend as he paced slowly up and down the small quarterdeck. "He mu

tarted on at once. Phipson had persuaded Peregrine to rest. "Look here," he said, "this is all Tommy rot! You've got to rest. Have some grub first, th

Jackson fell into a deep sleep. He was aroused

s the

uck us fast into a sandbank, and we can only get off with the next tide. There's

porarily transferred to the steamer, three or four policemen took their places, and the long canoe danced back to the village. It was fully an hour before it returned, bringing with it two other canoes, and, leaving the police tug with strict orders to come on with the next tide, Jackson and his men embarked in the boats, and,

n!" shouted Phipson.

ading boat, steered by Jackson, turned promptly round, and with a little white sparkle of fo

forks of flame from the mission school sprang up to the sky, and a dense cloud of smoke rolled westward with the breeze. Still

, take six men with you, and make for the boats. We will drive on to you. By Go

ut was already off, and Jackson and

, and in a moment the police had rushed forward and were engaged hand to hand with the dacoits. Some one sprang straight at Jackson, but his hand seemed to lift itself up of its own accord, and a second after a huddled mass lay before the smoking barrel of his revolver. The issue was not

at, and there was a hot pursuit. The dacoits realized, however, that it was no use, and, evidently resolving to die fighting, ra

his companion. Almost as the words were spoken Phipson's boat

son's boat. Peregrine laughed, and the next moment the naick uttered a cry of horror, for a red tongue of fl

d into the jungle. There was but half an acre of ground, and

in the uncertain light, where the jungle was so tangled that there was barely room to use a sword, there was a short but desperate fight. "Come on, Jackson, we have the lot here! Where on earth are you?" shouted Ph

anther. A projecting branch saved him from the downward sweep of the long dah, the revo

hook off his assailant like a rat, and, throwing him heav

im like a flash of lightning, and the

f the policemen as he held a rudely imp

," said Bishen. "Two were killed by your honour,

is the

" said Bishen, and a chill

the matter? Sp

ed, and the sahib, he was standing, fell back in the boat

at his head. When Phipson reached his friend he found him unconscious, and sadly the two boats rowed back to the village. As they approached

nk it was worth it, even for this.

A cheer went up from those on shore, and Smalley came forward with outstretched h

ok hands wi

r. Jackson?

provised couch of greatcoats. They stood round him in a sad group while Smalley with gentle hands examined the wound, and the silence was only once broken when a great sob burst from honest Se

m here," he whispered, "and all my appliances are under that blazing roof. God works ve

u speak? Oh, husband,

adly, and then his wife bent low to hide

upreme strength which comes to person

o die? I am young yet; my work is not

softly. There was a shivering of the limb

PTE

ING OF T

threads, the

woe, the t

ra

o lies there. Come to us when you can. We will give you a warm welcome. It's a b

ups of gorgeous colour on the gleaming water. Phipson stood and watched, and answered the wave of the white handkerchief from the stern; stood and watched until the convoy of boats became but little black specks, and the Woon entered a curve of golden water that reflected back the glories of the sunset and was lost to view. In the fore part of the ship, beside his belongings, sat Serferez Ali, who had cut his name, and was going back to enjoy his wel

to die here? Nay, nay! We are going back to the land where women bring forth men. But we saw the assassin hang before we went--hang-like the dog

man sought his seat again, keeping one eye on a he

throw its white radiance across the river, and murmured to h

vertheless, except for their cursed engines, the khalsa wou

the work so well begun by him; and as for the other, she had gone through the furnace and had come out pure gold. From his post by the man at the wheel Skipper Jack watched the pair. He was a man whom the ordinary cares of the world troubled not, but on the present occasion serious misfortune had assailed him, and he was out of temper. His tobacco had run out, and he had sunk to the degradation of filling his pipe

. "Blowed if the parson ain't a-spooning

IDOW

ge, and loe! ye da

a larke for ye p

ette yr lan

ollowe on

issue to

ynge of y

nge, 'twas soe s

if it alle b

ter thynges

zes than a

uthe she see

was breakynge, I

ord Mag

DOW LA

PTE

R OF THE T

f the Methodist meeting-house in Rigaum one Sabbath morning after service, th

between their fingers, as they knelt apparently absorbed in prayer. Mrs. Lamport stood on the steps of the chapel entrance, leaning lightly on the end of her parasol, a neat figure dressed in white, with a coquettish knot of red ribbons in her high straw hat. The flash of these ribbons in the sunlight caught the eye of Elder Bullin as he stepped forth, smug and clean shaven, his two daughters following demurely in his footsteps. A scowl passed over the old man's features, and he

y, for the most part, were of mixed descent. She had come suddenly into their midst about a year ago, and all that they knew of her was that she boarded with the Bunnys, and was supposed

t to be denied that she was diligent in her attendance at chapel, that no word of hers had given offence--yet the w

and looked inquiringly at the widow, for she had pleaded a

?" asked Mrs. Bu

; "I have come to m

Mr. Bunny's house. Mrs. Bunny discreetly induced her husband to take a longer road, and as for those of the congregation who overheard the words spoken, they remained almost struck dumb with ast

fter the retreating pair. Sarkies prided himself somewhat on being a lady-killer, and it had been his intenti

s about to rebuke the speaker for having his thoughts on earthly matters on the Lord's Day when the oath, softly spoken though it was, reached him. He turned sharply. "Young man," said he

ed his eldest daug

Bullin," stammered Sar

inued the elder. "I will bring your scan

the elder's words attracted a crowd, and their united attention was t

y smile as he pushed his hat slightly on one side of h

n Miss Bullin b

but Lizzie was not to be appeased. She wore her he

, and the elder was moved

d, "or I'll Jimmy you--Jimm

is trembling daughters to his brow

al actors in it had gone, all thought of Halsa Lamport, for the present, vanished from the minds of

PTE

P OF

nest of cocoa palms. To the right a Jain temple raised its gold-tipped cupola, and the chimes of the bell which called together the Christian worsh

they were before, except that it was a virtual triumph for the heathen, a

ds, "And we pray Thee, O Merciful Father! to teach us to forgive our enemies; but to send down the lightning of th

es, the hereditary office hands of the Indian government. The church and the congregation were the remains of a wave of religious enthusiasm that had passed

d to call him, left to return home, matters were apparently on a firm basis; but in a few years the zeal he inspired died away, and the light burned but in a few places, one of wh

ted all who came under its influence, Galbraith was enabled to hold his flock together when the

ould grow here except cocoa palms. There was an everlasting haze of soft dust in the air. The people were accustomed to it, but on a stranger the effect was suffocating. One felt choked in this spot where no pure air ever penetrated the wall of palms. It was never really cool, but a damp pall of dust hung over everything. On the morning we

stuck into a pair of slippers which clicked under his feet. He placed the tea things down on the sm

's tea

d for the milk and sugar. There was none. "Boy

milk and sugar with my morning tea. I must really speak to him--perhaps it is a judgment on me for employing a follower of the Scarlet Woman." He stirred the tea

the goat he had forgotten to milk. The goat was there, in the veranda, a

er at last. "But thou art accursed among

, giving the goat a parting kick, ran back into the

one to his mouth, and then taking up the basin in his disengaged hand hastened into the portico. H

" began

ssa

milk and sugar. Negligent in these little matters

hrough his oily locks, and burst

t having his servant's religious belief

ss to Father

ped himself to a fresh cu

or remained sitting in his easy-chair. He would have liked to smoke; i

en look at his flowers; but after staring for a few minutes

TER

LLET

was distinctly visible on the dusty surface. A picture on the wall before him had slipped from its moorings, and hung in a helpless sort of way from a brass-headed nail. The pastor

ary. Galbraith followed the glance, and although he smiled a little, and parried the speech, Mrs. Bunny's words set him thinking seriously. And now the little episode of the milk and sugar and the untidy room brought Mrs. Bunny's words b

special care of Elder Bullin. It was on such mornings that the elder was in his element. He insisted on a verbatim repetition by heart of a chapter of the Bible by every member of his small class, and in case of failure--three mistakes only were allowed--he painted in glowing colours the horrors of eternal torment that awaited the culprit, when his earthly life closed. He would go so far as to d

as of those who judge of great things by comparing them with little things. He had found that small vices were extremely hard, sometimes impossible, to get rid of, notwithstanding the most assiduous application to the Deity. He almost despaired at times of one of the primal doctrines of his sect--th

ion was almost a deadly sin, and then would come a long f

moment after his face became grave. "The sparrow was not allowed to fall this time, at any rate," he said, as he put down the pipe and lifted up a small Bible. He turned to the chapter whence he had taken his text, and read it attentively to the end. He went on to the next chapter. It was that in which St. Paul lectures the Corinthians on their conjugal duties. John Galbraith read this slowly, his eyebrows now and then contracting into a slight fro

ed on what to say. What he did say was this. He wrote to Halsa Lamport asking for an interview that day as he had that to tell her which was of the greatest importance to himself. The note was very brief, and c

He was feverishly eager now for the time to come when

, Manuel, take this note to Mr. Bunny's house, and give it t

anuel was not fond of walking. He tried to put off the evil hour by

-master

lbraith; "take the n

, sar," said Manuel, "and

l have some another day.

d passed the curve of the street, slackened his pace to a leisurely walk. He remained away for more than an hour, during which time Galbraith paced the little veranda impatiently, wondering whether there would be any reply to his note. It was impossible to think of anything else, and each moment seemed to him an age. At intervals he walked to the gate, and looked down the road, but there was no sign of Manuel. At last he

"Did you give the lette

gray square envelope from his breas

e stretched forth his hand to rec

t was written on that abominable pattern of paper which folds like an envelope, and as a consequence, Galbraith in his excitement tore the

er church, and we ca

ting. He looked furtively around, and then kissing the

PTE

E

with age, and partly coated with a short, thick moss, whose original colour was hidden by the dust lying heavy upon it. The tops of t

couples returning from service, and a few native Christians at Pinto's liquor stall, lounging with the flies among the long-necked glass bottles, there were no people in the street. The middle of the road was six inches deep in fine dust, but on the side where the pavement should have been, was a

braith; don't you think you had

e up, the folds of her dress brushed against him, and her should

said he nervously,

t him from under her dark eye-lashes. "I don't

e appeal for pardon, but he checked himself, and, gla

bottles were used to make that

Mr. Galbraith," replied t

abashed for a few momen

ere going to tell me? Not about the glass bottles, I hope?" an

seemed paralysed. "I--I," he stammered, and then he clutched at

widow lifted her skirts slightly, and daintily tripped across. Jo

his heart, "deliver

, Halsa turned to her companion, and put

s so dusty--what a h

nervously, then he pull

esitating manner as he w

brushed away the dust from one dainty foot, and then

smiled to herself. "He's getti

o much. I'm afraid you have ruined

fore him and rose. He was a little re

ef sacredly, Mrs. Lamport," said he,

w gave a little toss to her he

alsa as she passed through it, "takes us into the custard apple garden, imme

ead its shade over the well. Behind the seat was a thick lentena hedge in full bloom, and the butterflies were playing in a small cloud over the blossoms. Close to them

e end of her parasol among the fallen leaves at her feet. Galbraith remained standing. "Won't you

-day," he said, as he a

f there was rain;" and the widow looked up at the fleecy masses which had flo

me rain. This is about t

Galbraith as she said this and looked at him. T

ourage seemed to possess him. "Halsa," he said--his voice was very low and tender--"will you give me t

heeks like flame. "My dear," he said, and Ha

ould almost hear the beating of his own hear

ay. "Was it this that you meant to tell m

ilent prayer for the blessing which he believed had been vouchsafe

will miss us." She rose and stood near Galbraith, her dress touching him. John s

't--

he drew her toward him. Except his mother, he had never touched lip of woman. He kissed her gently with the ten

"I think that's eno

he could ever have enough

go in now," said

were once more raised to his, when there was a crash in the lente

ce! I'm going

each other, and the wido

have been watching us the whole time. I shoul

mind, darling," he said. "Eddy

ul how easy it

PTE

UNNY D

w to work a horse on a Sunday. The elder held more practical opinions on the subject, and there had almost been an open rupture. Since that time, however, Bunny walked to church on the Sabbath, but was beginning to regret his line of action. He was not a young man, and adipose tissue had increased with his years. It irritated him to see the elder pass him with his pair of katty-war horses. Bunny had only one. The irritation he felt, however, was equalled by the sense of satisfaction that stole over the elder as he passed his opponent engaged in carrying out his convictions. There was a rust

't come in yet?" said Bunny, a

ets of the paper and smiling to herself. She was a cunning li

ir only child, a boy about twelve years of age

e!--Ed-dee!" and Mrs. Bunny

in the hall, a rush up the passa

Mr. Galbraith is kissing A

Bunny, fairly ju

"You old goose, wait till they

ng up his hands. "And what were you doing i

the other. "It was very long

nny took Eddy's right ear between the

and Mrs. Bunny interposed. "Reme

th and Halsa came into the room. Eddy sei

ard at once, leadin

ave asked Halsa to be my w

Mrs. Bunny kissed Halsa, who

ds alternately with

d. "I didn't think of th

gement should be given out at the next meeting of the Cou

. Bunny, and Halsa blushed furiously, w

ve spoken to him," said Bunny; "and, Galbrai

d happily together. When the time came for Galbraith to go, Halsa wa

raised her face to his,

answer Halsa kissed him of her own accord. H

read a chapter of the big leather-covered Bible, which lay on a

f all this should end ba

nny wiped his spectacles carefull

why. Why don't you tell me al

el and met them. You know what a scoundrel Stephen was. He led her an awful life for six years, and then deserted her before that

tephen is

se. But it's half-past t

at night. What if Stephen Lamport should no

and Galbraith. When she rose she felt comforted and refreshed. Sh

man," she murm

PTE

EDWAR

as possible for a man of his class, and was now an assistant accountant in the great firm of Apcoon Brothers, and in receipt of a salary of about two hundred pounds a year. Of a light, volatile character by nature, the strain of having to live under the restraints of the sect to which he belonged was sometimes too much for Sarkies, and he often broke out occasionally, as on the memorable Sunday when the elder fell foul of him, with disastrous results to himself. He was idolized by his mother and his aunt, and was a contributor to the Poet's Corner of the Bombay Bouncer. He had been much touched by the emotion displa

arlee, Jimmee!" screa

ed out of the gate on to the road,

Eddy Bunny attended the High School, where both boys and girls were taught, in different classes, however. Now Sarkies knew that a small sister of Lizzi

lo,

the boy, making a sh

?--drive you

and Eddy

going to get a bug

reply. He hit the horse smartly, and the

give me

here, Eddy, I want you

A

now Florr

plied Eddy; "I'm going to

"Well, look here, Eddy: Lizzie is my

y Halsa? But she wouldn't marry you;

led the reins in an

--chick, slish--and Eddy used th

his?" asked Sarkie

e'd lick me if I

orry, and tell her to give it. I will give you a ru--no, eight annas, if you do thi

," said Eddy, stretching

d the school ga

t; get do

ut a small paw, into which

"the bell is ringing

dy, nodding, turned back in the direction of the school. H

kies!" h

t is

turned out of church--wot fun!" He turned a

had no idea that the elder m

f being overheard. Having relieved his feelings in this manner, he urg

, which hung on a peg in the veranda of the school, a brown paper parcel containing his lunch--egg sandwiches. Clutching th

g him a lozenge which had become

y, and transferred the de

uge bite out of one of his egg sandwiches an

Jim Sarkies is s

of a glass bottle. "She pinched me--awfool, last night, as I lay awake and listened.

. "How did you get caugh

es

muff. I never get

t you'r

I'm going to marry yo

t," she said. "What did

a letter for Lizzie, and I promised to

letter?--gi

d and grimy from contact with a peg-top, a bit of nat

said; "you'll gi

he slipped it into her pocket. There was a silence of about a minut

bowl a little; you girls ar

She don't like you neither. Wouldn't

o marry you when I grow up. Serve Jimmy Sarkies right, too," he added, suddenly brightening up--"a

here,

er! what'

ne else, you know, when I grow up. Ta--t

denly an idea seemed to strike him. "It's Billy Bunder," he said, striki

the school bell.

TER

REE'S

cupations. When the night comes the street lamps shine on strange scenes. In the day all is silent as the grave. At the corner of the street is a small house. A faded sign-board, with the words "Hotel Metropole" in yellow letters on a blue field, explains its character. The landlord is a Parsee, or fire-worshipper, who

ddenly there is a flash of light above them, and as each street lamp is lit, a small halo is formed in the evil night haze now beginning to enve

e figure of a man lying asleep at a small marble-topped table, his head resting on his arms. From a smaller room beyond, the door of which was closed, came the sound of voices, and now and t

over which a well-thumbed pack of cards was scattered in some confusion. The room was littered with the débris from empty pipes and the r

scooped in the dust

ed up to the elbow, showed the tattoo marks on his arms, brought

n row of strong white teeth through the masses of red hair with which the lower portion of his fa

nd, pulling out a jack-knife, began to pare some t

ad at the knife as he finished

the red-haired man, as he picked th

," answered Dungaree Bill, pu

ee--six years ago, I think; but it don't matter. Whole shipload went down. No time to

oof after," laug

a lawyer began to ask questions--curse him!--

d y

t un

e in advance--and stick to it, too." The giant tapped his hand over his waist as

aid he, "there's

were twinkling under the skull

ou for anoth

but let us have

; what sha

let their tails be curled. After t

A hanging lamp was burning in the centre, and Kavasji slept peacefully. Walking with a sl

ind you, Kavasji, l

er of bottles of aerated water. As his back was turned the man at the bar pulled out a small phial containing a colourless liquid, and emptied it int

les the shot," and seizing a glass in each hand he lurched forward to rejoin his friend. Kavasji tested the coins

ked out slowly into the street. As his friend entered the room Dungaree Bill took one of th

. The other nodded, and

ough?" asked th

e, wiping his mouth with t

said he, "f

s; Dungaree cut, and t

tell. The giant's head sank upon his breast, and

e," he said; "you

id the other

and the long, powerful arms

at Dungaree's words, and in his hand held an

elief as he saw Dunga

d hand. He undid the canvas belt from his waist, and felt i

en thought struck him, and he returned. H

is," he said; "he will do som

called for another drink. Kavasji once more turned his back, and with the noiseless rap

ur. "I guess," said he, "Steve Lamport, you are born again." Then turning down a bro

TER

T FROM

the affairs of the tabernacle, and adjudicated on all offences comm

ison with similar institutions in the West. This was the natural shallowness of the East Indian, and his inability to feel or think deeply. In this

time the belief in the direct interposition of the Creator in the smallest matters was intensified almost beyond imagination, and mea

t there was something wrong with himself, and the impulse to throw off the chains of the cheerless belief to which he was bound was at times almost greater than he could endure. It was

that within him that told him that he himself was unable to find the haven of rest,

*

at in hand, at his doorstep. His brownberry was ready, th

ainted wether," whose further touch was contamination. His daughters stood beside him to see him off, and the elder, rapping his s

pping his hand into his waistcoat pocket, he sudde

picked up the case, and, pulling out the glasses, fixed them carefully over his eyes. He then picked up the envelope. It was not addressed, but c

en. As he read, the expression of his countenance changed fr

his unhappy young man, and his portion shall b

m, and was self-complacent enough to imag

aking all round, and then the pastor opened the meeting with a short but fervent prayer. At the conclusion of this, a decorous time was allowed for the members to recover a sitting posture, and Mr. Bunny, rising, begged permission to address the assembly. In a few words he explained that it was above all things desirable that their pastor should be a married man, an

sed his voice in protest. "She walks forth decked in gay colours that are not of the Lord's," he said, "and has not found the perfect peace. Far be it for me to interfere in this matt

he said; "let the

bring to its notice the scandalous conduct of our brother, James Sarkies, who, on the Sabbath before last, profaned the Lord's day by cursing within the precincts of the templ

not judged,'" replied Galbraith. Elder Bullin lif

salvation; are you of yours? Do you know where your

ht more than any there, swept over Galbraith. He controlled himself with an

t he has addressed me for forgiveness in poetry, and mocked me before my face." He laid the offend

ded the paper to the pastor. Galbraith rea

he said, "this was

council judge." The paper trembled in his hand as he spoke, and it was with a

peared on the faces of the members in assembly, and as t

ut to leave the meeting. "I will depart," said he; "the devil ha

raining hands seized him, and he wa

fort in his defence. He hoped, he said, to bring the erring youth back to better ways. But notwithstanding all his persu

eet. The formal letter was then and there written, signed

ing to a close, and this was done with the sa

showing his gratitude for Bunny's sup

PTE

DIVAN E

nt, tossing their heads, echoed his sentiments. Mrs. Sarkies returned a small box full of woolwork, the shop of the Dorcas Society, with a stinging note to Mrs. Bunny, in which she accused that innocent woman of having

t as the congregation were coming out after service, and cut every member dead. It was glorious.

s dreaded the general publicity of the whole scene. Still, however, he came to a satisfactory understanding with Lizzie. When she finally turned and vanished amid the trees, her white dress flitting through the open spaces in a ghostly manner, Sarkies came down with a sigh of relief, and, arranging his somewhat disordered dress, walked slowly toward a cab-stand. Hailing a buggy, and jingling some coin in his pocket, he jumped in and drove rapidly toward the Fort. He had mentally determined to celebrate his success by having an evening at the Divan Exchange, a saloon kept by an enterprising American, who concocted wondrous drinks, where the billiard-table was good, and the ice-creams marvellous. There was quite a crowd of cabs collected at the door, and the place was full when Sarkies entered it. Over the bar was a huge transparency representing the face of a clock, with the legend "No Tick Here" inscribed in

dy which rejoices in the name of maiden's blush, and bore it away with him to the billiard-room upstairs

ad eyes. His blue coat with brass anchor buttons explained his calling. His ducks

you for a light

handed him a small plated

, and, returning the box,

and Sarkies took a

just come in. Pleasant place this." And the stranger watched th

is?" asked Sarkies, a

de on the game, which Sarkies, much to his delight, w

good game--may

--I'm in Apc

to present my card to you," and Mr. Sarkies's new acquaintan

uture never to be without one. He bowed politely over the outstretched hand of his companion, and

chant Marine," he said a

d over his com

strange in my name," h

felt a little alarmed. "Not that, captain," he said; "only I know a person

n for a bit," he said. "I am much interested

r--I mean the Methodist

Captain Lamport;

owing smile Sarkies added, "The p

d poked Sarkies in the ribs; "sly

"name the poison," the captain suggested monkeys, and the monkeys were brought. Then there was more billiards and more betti

ooked, and realized that he was on the open plain in front of the Fort. Instinctively he felt for his watch chain. It was gone. Mr. Sarkies rose to his feet, and the ho

PTE

MAN

a look of freshness. All day long there was the sound of hammering and cleaning up. Halsa and Mrs. Bunny personally superintended the reformation. Galbraith was willing enough to help, but he had no "hands," and was therefore relegated to his study. But with Manuel it was different. For the first time

an, holding up her hands in despair; "why, if it wer

she shrieked, "how sharp those nails are!" and she drew back her fingers smartly and began to examine their tips. To one of them a tack was clinging. Halsa hastily descended, and Mrs. Bunny removed the offending tack. It left a small blue mark on the finger tip. In the meanwhile Manuel remained silent. He had no intention of replying

," replied M

air. Mrs. Bunny had not mentioned the fact, but it was a little weakn

ng very pretty. Her arms were bare up to the elbows, and there was a bright flush on her cheeks. The brown hair, usually neatly braided, had become a little disarranged, and curled in an unruly manner over her forehead. Mrs. Bunny suddenly remembered that there was something

amber. It was not that the things were valuable; fifty pounds might have covered the cost of everything, except the American harmonium, which stood where the fire

nearer to Galbraith. "See how I've hurt my finger;

eptible. The shadow of a smile flickered across his face as he kissed the little fingers tenderly,

der. When she had finished her work she came down, and they all took a final survey of their labour, and were pleased by it. Then Manuel was recalle

all, where the ladies put on their hats, and, escorted by the pastor, returned home. The whole home party of the Bunnys, except

t down the road. He shook his f

ot do!--Iyoo!" He crossed himself fervently, and went on--"Missus come--missus want keep keys--Manuel not a dog--Jesu!" he exclaimed, "there is th

tter of cotton and tags of hangings which lay on the floor, and when this was over made his way to th

istance of Pedro Pinto's son, who attended the school attached to the monastery of St. Vincent de Paul; the other was that there were to be no wines, f

and it seemed as if some unseen hand had set the table, had arranged that oddly pretty pattern of leaves o

emerged last of all, a pile of wraps on his arm, and, after directing the coachman to return at precisely ten o'clock, followed his wife and Halsa Lamport into the house. They all assembled in the cosy little parlour, and in a few minutes Manuel came in. He whispered something to Galbraith, and then slipped out again. He had conveyed thus mysteriously the announcement that dinner was ready. The

Quatorze could not have done it with a better manner. At last it was all over; Mr. Bunny ate his last walnut, and washed it with a better manner. At last it was all and played patience; then there was a little talking, and precisely at ten the carriage came. Mr. Bunny could not be induced to stay a moment later. There was muc

rom one hand to another, and asked, "

el; I am very much

Manuel bowed; "but,

do you mean to sa

ys--missus take account--missus measure out sugar--tea--wo

t him. "But I will

l when in service, but when missus c

r mother was dead," he said; "bu

ed again,

PTE

APPY

porters to move a resolution condemning the pastor's choice, and calling upon him to give up the care of his flock. Mr. Bullin urged that this was vitally necessary for the well-being of the community, but the severity of his action against Sarkies frightened some, Mr. Bunny's influence prevailed over others, and the general liking for Galbraith was so great that his flock began in a few days to extend a portion of their regard for him to his

was forgotten as he looked at her. Very pretty looked Halsa in her dark-gray dress, with hat to match, and when the words were spoken which made her John Galbraith's wife, the whole party adjourned to Mr. Bunny's, all but Sarkies the outcast and the neat-looking stranger, who passed him unobserved, and, getting into his buggy, drove away rapidly. At Mr. Bunny's all was very gay. As a special occasion glasses of ginger wine were served round with the cake, and the bride's health drunk amid much applause. With hearts warmed by the cordial, these emotional people felt that Halsa Galbraith was now one of them, and they one and all shook hands with her heartily. As the time approached for the happy couple to depart on their short honeymoon, order was called, and the guests, having arranged themselves soberly, listened to an exhortation from the Rev. Samuel Boase, the clergyman who officiated

She touched as lightly as possible on her former husband's ill-treatment of her, on his cruelty and neglect, for the man was dead. She told him how, two years back, the Mahi sailed from Cochin for the Mauritius, and from that time was heard of no more, until a solitary survivor came back with a dreadful tale of the sea. He told how the ship had been scuttled, how all the boats were rendered useless except one, into which the captain and two others escaped. Clinging to a spar himself, he had seen a great green wave swamp the boat, and then for him came three days of hideous agony, and at last rescue. Of the death of her husband no doubt ever crossed Halsa's mind. She had seen the newspaper reports of the inquiry into the disaster, and

nes, elder," said the pastor, as he shook the stiff fingers the old man held out. Bullin mu

ress was now in the exceeding neatness of her sober-coloured garments. She was quick and clever at figures, and Galbraith willingly relinquished to her the charge of keeping the accounts of the

band and watched the elder as he slowly walked up the garden toward the gate, his big

eless horror was approa

TER

VIL AT

t, further reading was impossible, and glanced at the clock which ticked in a dreary manner from the wall. It was nearly nine. She rose from her seat, and, after pacing the room for a few moments, stood before the window listening to the soft patter of the rain. The sudden crunching of the gravel outside under a firm tread roused her from the half-dreamy state into which she had fallen. The footsteps were strangely familiar--yet not Galbraith's--still, it could be no one else. In a moment she was in the passage and at the front door. She opened this with a little cry of

so you're glad to see me--

eld tightly over her heart; her face was white as death, and

thought I should come and look you up for old sake's sake, more especially as I have some business with you, and I should like to settle this at once." He stretch

ed him into the study, and, closing the door, stood before him with clenched hands. "Now," she said

ppose you are sorry it was not the truth. I ought to have died, but I was spared for you, don't yo

Halsa; "did you eve

nging parson. I found out some time ago that you were here, and about to change your w

ou no mercy?" mo

--you'll want them badly, if I mistake not,"

d with such awful suddenness. If she could persuade this man to go away with all she had, even for a day, she could de

a hundred now--take it out of the poor-box--and the rest I must have in

there was no use in giving this man money, even if she could lay her hands on the impossible sum he named. She

to me: you shall not have one penny from m

ou damned fool!" he said; "do you know

h!" and she sprang past Lamport, "John, you have come back--save me." She looked at Galbraith's face, and the glance

at he had been in the passage almost as soon as they entered the study. The first few words that reached him rooted him to the spot, and he heard everything that followed. For the first time in his life he felt the wild beast within him awake. His breath came thick and fast, and then through it all a voice seem

man----" his voice failed him. He stood before La

mour for any mischief. He was almost sobered by what had happened, and his malice was ready to suggest the means of inflicting further misery. There seemed no chanc

oman there is my wife--she da

round Halsa's waist, but

ion, the devilish malignity of his last action. Oh, God is very merciful, is he not?" she cried hysterically; "and yet yo

man and the priest, and as her voice ceased the priest had triumphed. The woman looked at him as he sat there, motionless and silent. "Come," she said to Lamport, "let us go--but first this----"

He remembered it was Sunday, that in a few hours it would be time for him to be in church. Of course this was impossible. He felt that he could endure being in the house no longer, and, taking his soft felt hat, walked out into the garden. Which way had she gone? A sob rose to his throat as he thought of this--was he right? He began to doubt, and then it struck him that he would see Bunny. He would tell Bunny a

he said, and led John t

TER

ND AN

king a cloak, and even by the time they reached the gate the steady drizzle had drenched her light dress. She stopped here for a moment, and, turning, looked back at the hou

ay here all night?"

re we going?

eep alongside of me if you can; if not,

spoke no word to each other, but at intervals Lamport swore aloud to himself, and cursed Halsa. He was bitterly disappointed at the failure of his pl

. She had it almost in her heart to turn back and throw herself at Galbraith's feet, to be his slave, to be anything, rather than parted from him. Then the horror and shame of it all made the hot blood rush in madness to her face. And so, on they went through the dark street, where lamps shone only at long intervals amid the ghostly gloom o

you to keep up w

she burst into a passion of tears. Lamport looked on her for a

rd. He glanced round him for a moment, and as he did so he heard the rumble of carriage wheels and saw the flash of lights as they turned the corner of the dark street, not fifty yards ahead. Quick as lightning Lamport dashed down a narrow side road between two walls, and disappea

ng on the road dea

nt over the prostrate figure, "it is a woman--a European, too; there has been some devil's work here. Hold the light up, Pedro, while I lift her--thanks--Mother," sa

istance of the nun and two others, her companion

one, evidently a youn

had addressed as mother, "she brea

and after much shouting it was opened, and the carriage drove in. They were met at the door by two nuns, and with their assistance the unconscious body of Halsa was carried in. The Padre examined the wound; there was a deep cut on the forehe

*

ed the superior, Mother St. Catherine, to her side and told her her story. "And now," she said with a faint voice, "I am better and must go." Then the good nun spoke to her long and earnestly, and Father St. Francis came. He bore her news that made her chee

TER

ALBRAI

were talking in low tones, and looked up quickly as their ears caught the sound of Bunny's footsteps, which rang with a harsh clang on the stone floor. A whisper had gone forth from the servants' quarters at the manse that something terrible had happened during the night. The attendant who cleaned the church, and who during the service pulled the huge fans which swung in a monotonous manner over the heads of the worshippers, echoed this whisper to the clerk. It is the way news is carried in the East, and it is very rapid. It is impossible to tell how, but the mysterious thing call

ir," replied the clerk, "I have j

ay eyebrows, and the clerk, who was also his

, and you will hear what is the truth." Bunny then turned his back upon the clerk, and in as short a manner as possible described what had

although he had never been able to explain to himself why this judgment should fall on them. And now that it had come, that it was staring him in all its hideous reality in the face, the elder was stirred to the deepest pity and compassion. "God help

e service to-

er. "Mr. Bunny and myself will settle this when

for some years past threatened to dissolve the community, walked arm-in-arm down the

o?" asked

advised this course. In his present state o

m to-day; there are a few things that must be done

he said; "we will see him after the congregation has been dismi

ave no news of his unfortunate wi----?" He s

e; but I shall arrange about that if it can

ering, flung themselves devoutly on their knees and remained absorbed in prayer. Others made a pretence of kneel

that morning, and he begged that the congregation would disperse after a short prayer and the singing of another hymn. The prayer was then offered up by the elder, and the hymn sung. One by one the people arose, after a little decorous silence, and it was not until they had passed out into the church enclosure that the full tide of their curiosity burst. Lizzie and Laura were besieged with questions, but they knew nothing, and the dread of the elder's wrath hurried them away. It became necessary for Mr. Bunny himself to go out and beg the congregation to disperse. He informed them that Galbraith was very ill, and that the kindest thing they could do was to go home.

r, while the elder employed himself in smoot

ned a drawer of his writing-table. They were all there, tied in neat piles, with labels showing what they were. He shuddered as he saw the

He attempted to speak, but was unable to do so; and gathering u

few moments longer. "I will come back again," he said, "in an hour. It is not good

ence meant, and he was burning with impatience for his return. On the table before him was a manuscript of his sermons. He seized it with a laugh, and began to turn over its pages. He had poured his heart into them. How had he not laboured? His was the voice that breathed consolation into many a stricken heart, and now that the time had come for him to need help, there was none there to give it. The Book of Books--it was lying there before him, leather bound, with gold-edged leaves--he knew it by heart; there was

when Bunny returned. Galbraith was r

t a passage

; "you sail with

t much spoken as they drove through the streets. At length they reached the quay, and Bunny w

tter from me awaiting you at the Cape," he sa

let me know if there

ed Bunny, "

lowly the boat moved forward until it entered the broad band-of dazzling light on the waters, where the sun's rays were reflected back in a myriad of flas

k home. But from that day nothi

PTE

ORY DE

ery nerve, and secured at a general meeting a verdict confirming the former sentence of excommunication. It was at this meeting that the elder, amid much confusion, charged Bunny with having got Halsa Lamport out of the way to avoid inquiry. It was with the greatest difficulty that Bunny's friends prevented a physical struggle between the two leaders. Bunny and his following, however, left the church, where the meeting was held, leaving Bullin in possession of the field. It was thought at first that the matter would have gone before the law-courts; but this was somehow prevented, and the Bunny party, throwing off all allegiance to their former church, sought food for the soul from the Rev. Mr. MacGoggin, of the Free Kirk, and sat at his feet for evermore. Bullin, now left with undisputed power, conducted the services himself, and so great was his influence with the new council, practically creatures of his own, that he absolutely prevented any fresh nomination to the pastorship. In a brief period, however, his intolerance and bigotry outraged his own followers. In a few weeks his sermons, or rather lectures, were given to benches where the only audience consisted of his unfortunate dau

in the fashion, and in a few days the whole family were received into the broad bosom of the eternal church. They placed themselves under the guidance of an Irish priest, and, after the first plunge was over, Sarkies began to consider the confessional as a most excellent institution. Presto! a wave of the hand, a benediction, and the sins of the past had joined the past

led to plead his cause, the young man had a somewhat silken tongue, and then he had got to love Lizzie, and love always finds words. So the old, old story was repeated; and Lizzie, flinging over a few of her belongings in a bundle, was assisted by Sarkies over the wall, and, entering the buggy, drove off with her lover. This was done in the middl

re's Jimmie Sarkies bolt

in itself was a terrible disaster, and Eddy boiled with wrath. An opportunity for vengeance was at hand, however, for he had hardly gone a quarter of a mile when he met the elder returning home. The meeting had ended. The little comm

y answer, and passed on. But Eddy was not to be put off in this manner. He followed the old man,

oy!" exclai

Lizzie and Jim Sarkies. I saw them goin

rs to this day, notwithstanding that he is in a fair way to succeed to his father's appointment, and has a small Eddy of his own. When he had finished with the boy a

d. "Answer me, woman! Do

one there. A sudden thought struck him. "To the Catholic Church," he shouted; and the coachman needed no bidding to drive fast. He arriv

e Mr. Bullin?" as

know what you've done with my daught

tation with her husband. If I mistake not, her mother-in-law and another relative accompany

. His face was purple with rage, and h

u need take on so, Mr. Bullin," he said. "Mr

with a half-articulate voice, "I shall have the law on

e said enough. Go to the law. If redress is your due, you will get it the

, and then turning entered his carri

ter across the table to Lau

said; "and mind you--forget from th

d meekly to hide the te

TER

OUNT B

t he pulled up, fairly exhausted, and leaned against the wall on the roadside to rest and regain his breath. The run and the excitement h

minute later!" he said to

crimes. Not that the record troubled him in any way. His only regret was that he had been foiled. He had beg

, "Bill is here; he is looking for you." Lamport started at the warning, but said nothing. He drank his second tumbler quietly, and, after paying his score, slipped out into the street once more. Kavasji had not given this warning with any friendly feeling toward Lamport, but simply for the reason that he wished to get rid of him. It was perfectly true that Bill had been there that evening. He might be back at any moment, and then, if there was recognition, there would perhaps be murder. Kavasji had not forgotten the scene when Bill woke from his drugged sleep and found that he had missed his ship and had been robbed. In order that the matter might be kept quiet, the Parsee had placed Dungaree in funds, knowing that it would mostly come back to him over the counter, and what little loss he might suffer would be well repaid by the absence of a police visitation. Kavasji had suffered much from such inroads. Bill had, however, shown no inclination to get another ship. As long as Kavasji's advance lasted he determined to wait, in the hopes of meeting Lamport, of recovering his lost property and of exacting vengeance. He was perfectly convinced that it was Lamport who had stolen the money. He had done similar things himself, and therefore knew. Moreover, the thought that he, Dungaree Bill, the old and hardened campaigner, should have been taken in in so transparent a manner was gall and wormwood to him, and therefore he swore to himself that he would have vengeance, even to the death of Lamport. So Bill husbanded his resources and waited, and at last the time came when Lamport was

waters against the stone walls. Under the lee of the pier was a small fleet of boats securely fastened one to the other, and heaving in unison with the motion of the sea. The myriad stars of the street lamps twinkled behind him, and the signal lights from the tall masts of the shipping in the harbour shone like beacons overhead. A high wind had arisen, an augury of fair weather, and the now rapidly moving clouds alternately obscured and unveiled the moonlight. From the far distance came the dull boom of the breakers as they beat against the head of the island, and occasionally there was a jarring sound as the sides of the boats grated against each other. Lamport, leaning over the chains of the pier, noticed not one of these things. If he saw, or heard, they had no more effect on him than the flickering of one's fingers before the eyes of a blind horse. Yet Lamport unconsciously began to think of the past. Possibly the danger he had escaped and the hour were not without their influence on him. After all, he had nothing to fear

ly just in time to escape the stroke, which nevertheless inflicted a slight flesh wound. The next moment the knife was dashed from Lamport's hand, and Bill's fi

*

he dead man. He felt for his belt, and regained it with a feeling of i

ns, where it fell with a plash into the water. "And now to follow suit." He ran down the stone steps of the quay, and, carefully re

ttered he to himself as he made a bo

TER

IR OF THE HO

ion can not afford. It was with the consciousness of this feeling that Lizzie Sarki

a new record opened, the Most High would lend an attentive ear to the voice of His people calling from the deep. The church was full. Of those who were spared from the dangers of the past some were here to thank the Godhead for his mercy, and to pray as humble creatures should for the light that never comes. There were others with dead hearts, hearts that had gotten the

. When from behind the high altar the low murmur of the prayers trickled down the aisles and buzzed in her ears, Lizzie's bright eyes wandered round the church up to the gallery, where the choir of dark-robed nuns sat; away into the dim colonnades, over the ghostly sea of heads; to the righ

ernacle! Here all the rough edges were smoothed off, the c

rgin, done in wax, gazed down upon her with lustreless eyes. The tinsel looked l

the aisle, the organ pealed forth, and the joyous v

heaven. She thrilled with a holy fervour as the mu

e altar, and were praying in secret. The organ wailed tremulously. Lizzie s

e anthem--full, clear, and sweet. It seemed as if it w

cum sit h

matron

mam vi

The light shone full on the dark-robed figure, on the upturn

mam vic

ght of a sudden recognition. She turned to h

, "look up! See

E