 CAP'N WARREN'S WARDS

 By Joseph C. Lincoln

 Author of "The Depot Master, " "The Woman Haters, " "The Postmaster, " "Cap'n Erie, " "Mr. Pratt, " etc. 

 WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY EDMUND FREDERICK

 A. L. BURT COMPANY PUBLISHERS NEW YORK

 COPYRIGHT 1911, BY D. APPLETON AND COMPANY

 _Published October, 1911_

 Printed in the United States of America

[Illustration: "Captain Warren had risen from his chair and was facingher. " [Page 48]]

CAP'N WARREN'S WARDS

CHAPTER I

"Ostable!" screamed the brakeman, opening the car door and yelling hisloudest, so as to be heard above the rattle of the train and the shriekof the wind; "Ostable!"

The brakeman's cap was soaked through, his hair was plastered down onhis forehead, and, in the yellow light from the car lamps, his wet noseglistened as if varnished. Over his shoulders the shiny ropes of rainwhipped and lashed across the space between the cars. The windowsstreamed as each succeeding gust flung its miniature freshet againstthem. 

The passengers in the car--there were but four of them--did not seemgreatly interested in the brakeman's announcement. The red-faced personin the seat nearest the rear slept soundly, as he had done for thelast hour and a half. He had boarded the train at Brockton, and, afterrequesting the conductor not to "lemme me git by Bayport, Bill, " atfirst favored his fellow travelers with a song and then sank intoslumber. 

The two elderly men sitting together on the right-hand side of the cardroned on in their apparently endless Jeremiad concerning the low priceof cranberries, the scarcity of scallops on the flats, the reasons whythe fish weirs were a failure nowadays, and similar cheerful topics. Andin his seat on the left, Mr. Atwood Graves, junior partner in the NewYork firm of Sylvester, Kuhn and Graves, lawyers, stirred uneasily onthe lumpy plush cushion, looked at his watch, then at the time-table inhis hand, noted that the train was now seventy-two minutes late, andfor at least the fifteenth time mentally cursed the railway company, thewhole of Cape Cod from Sandwich to Provincetown, and the fates which hadbrought him there. 

The train slowed down, in a jerky, hiccoughy sort of way, and crepton till the car in which Mr. Graves was seated was abreast the lightedwindows of a small station, where it stopped. Peering through thewater-streaked pane at the end of his seat, the lawyer saw dimsilhouettes of uncertain outline moving about. They moved with provokingslowness. He felt that it would be joy unspeakable to rush out there andthump them into animation. The fact that the stately Atwood Graves eventhought of such an undignified proceeding is sufficient indication ofhis frame of mind. 

Then, behind the door which the brakeman, after announcing the station, had closed again, sounded a big laugh. The heartiness of it grated onMr. Graves's nerves. What idiot could laugh on such a night as thisaboard a train over an hour late?

The laugh was repeated. Then the door was flung briskly open, and aman entered the car. He was a big man, broad-shouldered, inclined tostoutness, wearing a cloth cap with a visor, and a heavy ulster, thecollar of which was turned up. Through the gap between the open ends ofthe collar bristled a short, grayish beard. The face above the beard andbelow the visor was sunburned, with little wrinkles about the eyes andcurving lines from the nostrils to the corners of the mouth. The upperlip was shaved, and the eyebrows were heavy and grayish black. Cap, face, and ulster were dripping with water. 

The newcomer paused in the doorway for an instant, evidently to add thefinishing touch to a conversation previously begun. 

"Well, I tell you, Ezra, " he called, over his shoulder, "if it's toodeep to wade, maybe I can swim. Fat floats, they tell me, and Abbie saysI'm gettin' fleshier every day. So long. "

He closed the door and, smiling broadly, swung down the aisle. The pairof calamity prophets broke off their lament over the declining fisheriesand greeted him almost jovially. 

"Hello, Cap'n!" cried one. "What's the south shore doin' over here inthis flood?"

"What's the matter, Cap'n?" demanded the other. "Broke loose from yourmoorin's, have you? Did you ever see such a night in your life?"

The man in the ulster shook hands with each of his questioners, removinga pair of wet, heavy leather gloves as he did so. 

"Don't know's I ever did, Dan, " he answered. "Couldn't see much of thisone but its color--and that's black. I come over this mornin' toattend to some business at the court-house--deeds to some cranberry bogproperty I just bought--and Judge Baxter made me go home with him todinner. Stayed at his house all the afternoon, and then his man, EzraHallett, undertook to drive me up here to the depot. Talk about blindpilotin'! Whew! The Judge's horse was a new one, not used to the roads, Ezra's near-sighted, and I couldn't use my glasses 'count of the rain. Let alone that, 'twas darker'n the fore-hold of Noah's ark. Ho, ho!Sometimes we was in the ruts and sometimes we was in the bushes. I toldEz we'd ought to have fetched along a dipsy lead, then maybe we couldget our bearin's by soundin's. 'Couldn't see 'em if we did get 'em, 'says he. 'No, ' says I, 'but we could taste 'em. Man that's driventhrough as much Ostable mud as you have ought to know the taste of everyroad in town. '"

"Well, you caught the train, anyhow, " observed Dan. 

"Yup. If we'd been crippled as _well_ as blind we could have done that. "He seated himself just in front of the pair and glanced across the aisleat Mr. Graves, to find the latter looking intently at him. 

"Pretty tough night, " he remarked, nodding. 

"Yes, " replied the lawyer briefly. He did not encourage conversationwith casual acquaintances. The latest arrival had caught his attentionbecause there was something familiar about him. It seemed to Graves thathe must have seen him before; and yet that was very improbable. Thiswas the attorney's first visit to Cape Cod, and he had already voweddevoutly that it should be his last. He turned a chilling shoulder tothe trio opposite and again consulted the time-table. Denboro was thenext station; then--thank the Lord--South Denboro, his destination. 

Conversation across the aisle was brisk, and its subjects were many andvaried. Mr. Graves became aware, more or less against his will, thatthe person called "Cap'n" was, if not a leader in politics and localaffairs, still one whose opinions counted. Some of those opinions, asgiven, were pointed and dryly descriptive; as, for instance, when acertain town-meeting candidate was compared to a sculpin--"with a bighead that sort of impresses you, till you get close enough to realize it_has_ to be big to make room for so much mouth. " Graves, who was fondof salt water fishing, knew what a sculpin was, and appreciated thecomparison. 

The conductor entered the car and stopped to collect a ticket from hisnew passenger. It was evident that he, too, was acquainted with thelatter. 

"Evening, Cap'n, " he said, politely. "Train's a little late to-night. "

"It is--for to-night's train, " was the prompt response, "but if it keepson at the rate it's travelin' now, it'll be a little early for to-morrowmornin's, won't it?"

The conductor laughed. "Guess you're right, " he said. "This is about aswet a storm as I've run through since I've been on the road. If we getto Provincetown without a washout we'll be lucky. .. . Well, we've madeanother hitch. So far, so good. "

The brakeman swung open the door to shout, "Denboro! Denboro!" theconductor picked up his lantern and hurried away, the locomotivewhistled hoarsely, and the train hiccoughed alongside another littlestation. Mr. Graves, peering through his window, imagined that herethe silhouettes on the platform moved more briskly. They seemed almostexcited. He inferred that Denboro was a bigger and more wide-awakevillage than Ostable. 

But he was mistaken. The reason for the excitement was made plain by theconductor a moment afterwards. That official entered the car, removedhis uniform cap, and rubbed a wet forehead with a wetter hand. 

"Well, gentlemen, " he said, "I've been expecting it, and here it is. Mark me down as a good prophet, will you? There's a washout a milefurther on, and a telegraph pole across the track. It's blowing greatguns and raining pitchforks. It'll be out of the question for us to goforward before daylight, if then. Darn a railroad man's job anyhow!"

Five minutes later Mr. Graves descended the steps of the car, histraveling bag in one hand and an umbrella in the other. As soon asboth feet were securely planted on the platform, he put down the bagto wrestle with the umbrella and the hurricane, which was apparentlyblowing from four directions at once. Feeling his hat leaving his head, he became aware that the umbrella had turned inside out. He threw thewreck violently under the train and stooped to pick up the bag. The bagwas no longer there. 

"It's all right, " said a calm voice behind him. "I've got your satchel, neighbor. Better beat for harbor, hadn't we? Here! this way. "

The bewildered New Yorker felt his arm seized in a firm grip, and he wasrushed across the platform, through a deluge of wind-driven water, andinto a small, hot, close-smelling waiting room. When he pushed his hatclear of his eyes he saw that his rescuer was the big man who boardedthe train at Ostable. He was holding the missing bag and smiling. 

"Dirty weather, hey?" he observed, pleasantly. "Sorry your umbrella hadto go by the board. I see you was carryin' too much canvas and tried torun alongside in time to give you a tow; but you was dismasted just as Igot there. Here's your dunnage, all safe and sound. "

He extended the traveling bag at arm's length. Mr. Graves accepted hisproperty and murmured thanks, not too cordially. His dignity and temperhad gone overboard with the umbrella, and he had not yet recovered them. 

"Well, " went on his companion, "here we are! And I, for one, wanted tobe somewheres else. Caleb, " turning to the station master, who came inat that moment, "any way of my gettin' home to-night?"

"'Fraid not, Cap'n, " was the answer. "I don't know of any. Guess you'llhave to put up at the hotel and wait till mornin'. "

"That's right, " agreed the passenger called "Dan, " who was standingnear. "That's what Jerry and I are goin' to do. "

"Yes, but you and Jerry are bound for Orham. I'm booked for SouthDenboro, and that's only seven miles off. I'd _swim_ the whole sevenrather than put up at Sim Titcomb's hotel. I've been there afore, thankyou! Look here, Caleb, can't I hire a team and drive over?"

"Well, I don't know. S'pose you might ring up Pete Shattuck and ask him. He's pretty particular about his horses, though, and I cal'late he--"

"All right. I'll ring him up. Pete ought to get over some of hisparticularness to oblige me. I've helped _him_ once or twice. "

He was on his way to the ticket office, where the telephone hung on thewall. But Mr. Graves stepped forward and spoke to him. 

"Excuse me, sir, " said the lawyer. "Did I understand you to say you weregoing to South Denboro?"

"Yes. I am, if the powers--and Pete Shattuck--'ll let me. "

"You were going to drive over? May I go with you? I'm very anxious toget to South Denboro to-night. I have some very important businessthere, and I want to complete it and get away to-morrow. I must be backin New York by the morning following. "

The captain looked his questioner over. There was a doubtful look on hisface, and he smiled quizzically. 

"Well, I don't know, Mr. --"

"Graves is my name. "

"I don't know, Mr. Graves. This ain't goin' to be a pleasure cruiseexactly. You might get pretty wet. "

"I don't care. I can get dry again when I get there. Of course I shallshare the expense of the livery. I shall be greatly obliged if I may gowith you. If not, I must try for a rig myself. "

"Oh, if you feel that way about it, why, come ahead and welcome. I wasonly warnin' you, that's all. However, with me aboard for ballast, Iguess we won't blow away. Wait a jiffy till I get after Pete. "

He entered the ticket office and raised a big hand to the little crankof the telephone bell. 

"Let's see, Caleb, " he called; "what's Shattuck's number?"

"Four long and two short, " answered the station master. 

Graves, wondering vaguely what sort of telephone system was in use onCape Cod, heard his prospective pilot ring the instrument for a full twoseconds, repeating the ring four times altogether. This he followed withtwo sharp tinkles. Then came a series of shouted "Hellos!" and, at last, fragments of one-half of a dialogue. 

"That you, Shattuck? Know who this is, don't you? Yes, that's right. .. . Say, how many folks listen every time a bell rings on this line? I'veheard no less'n eight receivers come down so far. .. . Two of 'em went upthen, did you hear 'em?. .. Sartin. .. . I want to hire a team to go overhome with. .. . To-night--Sartin. .. . I don't care. .. . Yes, you will, too. .. . _Yes_, you _will_. .. Send my man back with it to-morrow. .. Idon't care _what_ it is, so it's got four legs and wheels. .. . "

And so on for at least five minutes. Then the captain hung up thereceiver and came back to the waiting room. 

"Bargain's made, Mr. Graves, " he announced. "Pete'll have some sort ofa turn-out alongside soon's he can get it harnessed. If you've got anyextra storm duds in that satchel of yours, I'd advise you to put 'em on. We're goin' to have a rough passage. "

Just how rough it was likely to be, Graves realized when he emerged fromthe station to board the Shattuck buggy. "Pete" himself had driven theequipage over from the livery stable. 

"I wouldn't do this for anybody but you, Cap'n, " he vouchsafed, in whatmight be called a reproachful shout. Shouting was necessary, owing tothe noise of the storm. 

"Wouldn't do what?" replied the captain, looking first at the ancienthorse and then at the battered buggy. 

"Let this horse out a night like this. "

"Humph! I should think night would be the only time you would let himout. .. . There! there! never mind. Get aboard, Mr. Graves. Put yoursatchel on the floor between your feet. Here, let me h'ist that boot foryou. "

The "boot" was a rubber curtain buttoned across the front of the buggy, extending from the dashboard to just below the level of the driver'seyes. The lawyer clambered in behind it, the captain followed, the endof the reins was passed through a slit in the boot, Mr. Shattuck, afterinquiring if they were "all taut, " gave the command, "Gid-dap!" andhorse and buggy moved around the corner of the station, out intodarkness. 

Of the next hour Graves's memories are keen but monotonous, --a strongsmell of stable, arising from the laprobe which had evidently beenrecently used as a horse blanket; the sound of hoofs, in an interminable"jog, jog--splash, splash, " never hurrying; a series of exasperatedhowls from the captain, who was doing his best to make them hurry; thethunderous roar of rain on the buggy top and the shrieking gale whichrocked the vehicle on its springs and sent showers of fine spray drivingin at every crack and crevice between the curtains. 

The view ahead, over the boot, was blackness, bordered by spidery treesand branches whipping in the wind. Occasionally they passed housessitting well back from the road, a lighted window gleaming cozily. Andever, as they moved, the storm seemed to gather force. 

Graves noticed this and, at length, when his nervousness had reachedthe breaking point, screamed a question in his companion's ear. Theyhad attempted no conversation during the ride, the lawyer, whosecontemptuous opinion of the locality and all its inhabitants was now aconviction, feeling that the result would not be worth the effort, andthe captain busy with his driving. 

"It is blowing worse than ever, isn't it?" yelled the nervous Graves. 

"Hey? No, just about the same. It's dead sou'west and we're getting outof the woods, that's all. Up on those bare hills we catch the full forceof it right off the Sound. Be there pretty soon now, if this Old Hundredof a horse would quit walkin' in his sleep and really move. Them lightsahead are South Denboro. "

The lights were clustered at the foot of a long and rather steep hill. Down the declivity bounced and rocked the buggy. The horse's hoofssounded hollow on the planks of a bridge. The road narrowed and becamea village street, bordered and arched by tall trees which groaned andthreshed in the hurricane. The rain, as it beat in over the boot, had, so the lawyer fancied, a salty taste. 

The captain bent down. "Say, Mister, " he shouted, "where was it youwanted to stop? Who is it you're lookin' for?"

"What?"

"I say--Heavens to Betsy! how that wind does screech!--I say where'boutsshall I land you. This is South Denboro. Whose house do you want to goto?"

"I'm looking for one of your leading citizens. Elisha Warren is hisname. "

"What?"

"Elisha Warren. I--"

He was interrupted. There was a sharp crack overhead, followed by atremendous rattle and crash. Then down upon the buggy descended what, to Graves, appeared to be an avalanche of scratching, tearing twigsand branches. They ripped away the boot and laprobe and jammed him backagainst the seat, their sharp points against his breast. The buggy wasjerked forward a few feet and stopped short. 

He heard the clatter of hoofs and shouts of "Whoa!" and "Standstill!" He tried to rise, but the tangle of twigs before him seemedimpenetrable, so he gave it up and remained where he was. Then, after aninterval, came a hail from the darkness. 

"Hi, there! Mr. Graves, ahoy! Hurt, be you?"

"No, " the lawyer's tone was doubtful. "No--o, I--I guess not. That you, Captain?"

"Yes, it's me. Stand still, you foolhead! Quit your hoppin' up anddown!" These commands were evidently addressed to the horse. "Glad youain't hurt. Better get out, hadn't you?"

"I--I'm not sure that I can get out. What on earth has happened?"

"Tree limb carried away. Lucky for us we got the brush end, 'stead ofthe butt. Scooch down and see if you can't wriggle out underneath. Idid. "

Mr. Graves obediently "scooched. " After a struggle he managed to slideunder the tangle of branches and, at length, stood on his feet in theroad beside the buggy. The great limb had fallen across the street, itsheavy end near the walk. As the captain had said, it was fortunate forthe travelers that the "brush" only had struck the carriage. 

Graves found his companion standing at the horse's head, holding thefrightened animal by the bridle. The rain was descending in a flood. 

"Well!" gasped the agitated New Yorker. "I'll be hanged if this isn't--"

"Ain't it? But say, Mr. Graves, _who_ did you say you was comin' tosee?"

"Oh, a person named Elisha Warren. He lives in this forsaken holesomewhere, I believe. If I had known what an experience I must gothrough to reach him, I'd have seen him at the devil. "

From the bulky figure at the horse's head came a chuckle. 

"Humph! Well, Mr. Graves, if the butt of that limb had fetched us, instead of t'other end, I don't know but you _might_ have seen himthere. I'm Elisha Warren, and that's my house over yonder where thelights are. "

CHAPTER II

"This is your room, Mr. Graves, " said Miss Abigail Baker, placingthe lighted lamp on the bureau. "And here's a pair of socks and someslippers. They belong to Elisha--Cap'n Warren, that is--but he's gotmore. Cold water and towels and soap are on the washstand over yonder;but I guess you've had enough _cold_ water for one night. There's plentyhot in the bathroom at the end of the hall. After you change your wetthings, just leave 'em spread out on the floor. I'll come fetch 'em byand by and hang 'em to dry in the kitchen. Come right downstairs whenyou're ready. Anything else you want? No? All right then. You needn'thurry. Supper's waited an hour 'n' a half as 'tis. 'Twon't hurt it towait a spell longer. "

She went away, closing the door after her. The bewildered, wet andshivering New Yorker stared about the room, which, to his surprise, waswarm and cozy. The warmth was furnished, so he presently discovered, by a steam radiator in the corner. Radiators and a bathroom! These weremodern luxuries he would have taken for granted, had Elisha Warren beenthe sort of man he expected to find, the country magnate, the leadingcitizen, fitting brother to the late A. Rodgers Warren, of Fifth Avenueand Wall Street. 

But the Captain Warren who had driven him to South Denboro in the rainwas not that kind of man at all. His manner and his language were as farremoved from those of the late A. Rodgers as the latter's brown stoneresidence was from this big rambling house, with its deep stairs andnarrow halls, its antiquated pictures and hideous, old-fashioned wallpaper; as far removed as Miss Baker, whom the captain had hurriedlyintroduced as "my second cousin keepin' house for me, " was from thedignified butler at the mansion on Fifth Avenue. Patchwork comfortersand feather beds were not, in the lawyer's scheme of things, fitassociates for radiators and up-to-date bathrooms. And certainly thisparticular Warren was not fitted to be elder brother to the New Yorkbroker who had been Sylvester, Kuhn and Graves' client. 

It could not be, it _could_ not. There must be some mistake. In countrytowns there were likely to be several of the same name. There must beanother Elisha Warren. Comforted by this thought, Mr. Graves opened hisvalise, extracted therefrom other and drier articles of wearing apparel, and proceeded to change his clothes. 

Meanwhile, Miss Abigail had descended the stairs to the sitting room. Before a driftwood fire in a big brick fireplace sat Captain Warren inhis shirt-sleeves, a pair of mammoth carpet slippers on his feet, andthe said feet stretched luxuriously out toward the blaze. 

"Abbie, " observed the captain, "this is solid comfort. Every time I goaway from home I get into trouble, don't I? Last trip I took to Boston, I lost thirty dollars, and--"

"Lost it!" interrupted Miss Baker, tartly. "Gave it away, you mean. "

"I didn't _give_ it away. I lent it. Abbie, you ought to know thedifference between a gift and a loan. "

"I do--when there is any difference. But if lendin' Tim Foster ain'tgivin' it away, then I miss my guess. "

"Well, " with another chuckle, "Tim don't feel that way. He swore rightup and down that he wouldn't take a cent--as a gift. I offered to makehim a present of ten dollars, but he looked so shocked that I apologizedafore he could say no. "

"Yes, and then _lent_ him that thirty. Shocked! The only thing thatwould shock that good-for-nothin' is bein' set to work. What possessedyou to be such a soft-head, _I_ don't know. When you get back a copperof that money I'll believe the millennium's struck, that's all. "

"Hum! Well, I'll help you believe it--that is, if I have time afore Idrop dead of heart disease. Abbie, you'd make a good lawyer; you can getup an argument out of a perfect agreement. I said the thirty dollarswas lost, to begin with. But I knew Tim Foster's mother when she usedto think that boy of hers was the eighth wonder of the world. And Ipromised her I'd do what I could for him long's I lived. .. . But it seemsto me we've drifted some off the course, ain't we? What I started to saywas that every time I go away from home I get into trouble. Up to Boston'twas Tim and his 'loan. ' To-night it's about as healthy a sou'westeras I've ever been out in. Dan fetched in the team, has he?"

"Yes. It's in the stable. He says the buggy dash is pretty wellscratched up, and that it's a wonder you and that Graves man wa'n'tkilled. Who is he, anyhow?"

"Land knows, I don't. "

"You don't know! Then what's he doin' here?"

"Changin' his duds, I guess. That's what I'd do if I looked as much likea drowned rat as he did. "

"'Lisha Warren! if you ain't the most _provoking'_ thing! Don't be sounlikely. You know what I mean. What's he come here, to this house, for?"

"Don't know, Abbie. I didn't know he _was_ comin' here till just as wegot down yonder by Emery's corner. I asked him who he was lookin' for, he said 'Elisha Warren, ' and then the tree caved in on us. "

"'Lisha, you--you don't s'pose 'twas a--_sign_, do you?"

"Sign?"

"Yes, a sign, a prophecy-like, a warnin' that somethin' is goin' tohappen. "

The captain put back his head and laughed. 

"Sign somethin' _had_ happened, I should think, " he answered. "What's_goin'_ to happen is that Pete Shattuck'll get his buggy paintedfree-for-nothin', at my expense. How's supper gettin' along? Is itready?"

"Ready? It's been ready for so long that it'll have to be got readyall over again if. .. . Oh! Come right in, Mr. Graves! I hope you're driernow. "

Captain Warren sprang from the chair to greet his visitor, who wasstanding in the doorway. 

"Yes, come right in, Mr. Graves, " he urged, cordially. "Set down by thefire and make yourself comf'table. Abbie'll have somethin' for us to eatin a jiffy. Pull up a chair. "

The lawyer came forward hesitatingly. The doubts which had troubled himever since he entered the house were still in his mind. 

"Thank you, Captain, " he said. "But before I accept more of yourhospitality I feel I should be sure there is no mistake. I have come onimportant business, and--"

"Hold on!" The captain held up a big hand. "Don't you say another word, "he commanded. "There's just one business that interests me this minute, and that's supper. There's no mistake about _that_, anyhow. Did you say'Come ahead, ' Abbie? or was you just going to? Good! Right into thedinin' room, Mr. Graves. "

The dining room was long and low. The woodwork was white, the floorgreen painted boards, with braided rag mats scattered over them. There were old-fashioned pictures on the walls, pictures which broughtshudders to the artistic soul of Atwood Graves. A broad bay windowfilled one side of the apartment, and in this window, on shelves and inwire baskets, were Miss Baker's cherished and carefully tended plants. As for the dining table, it was dark, old-fashioned walnut, as were thechairs. 

"Set right down here, Mr. Graves, " ordered the captain. "I'll tryto keep you supplied with solid cargo, and Abbie'll 'tend to themoistenin'. Hope that teapot is full up, Abbie. Hot tea tastes goodafter you've swallered as much cold rain as Mr. Graves and I have. .. Father-we-thank-thee-for-these-mercies-set-before-us-Amen. .. . How'syour appetite when it comes to clam pie, Mr. Graves?"

Mr. Graves's appetite was good, and the clam pie was good. So, too, were the hot biscuits and the tea and homemade preserves and cake. Conversation during the meal was, for the most part, a monologue by thecaptain. He gave Miss Baker a detailed and exaggerated account of hisadventures in Ostable, on board the train, and during the drive home. The housekeeper listened, fidgeting in her chair. 

"'Lisha Warren, " she interrupted, "how you do talk! Rainin' so hard youhad to hold the reins taut to keep the horse's head out of water so hewouldn't drown! The idea!"

"Fact, " asserted Captain Warren, with a wink at his guest. "And thatwa'n't the worst of it. 'Twas so dark I had to keep feelin' the buggywith my foot to be sure I was in it. Ain't that so, Mr. Graves?. .. Here!Abbie won't like to have you set lookin' at that empty plate. She'salways afraid folks'll notice the gilt's wearin' off. Pass it overquick, and let me cover it with some more pie. "

"Yes, and have some more tea, " urged Miss Abbie. "You mustn't payattention to what he says, Mr. Graves, " she went on. "Some day he'lltell the truth by accident, and then I'll know it's time to send for thedoctor. "

Several times the lawyer attempted to mention the business which hadbrought him to the Cape, and the probability of his having made amistake. But neither host nor housekeeper would listen. 

"When you've been in South Denboro as long as I have, " declared theformer, "you'll understand that the time to talk business is when youcan't think of anything else. Wait till we get into the settin' room. Abbie, those six or eight biscuits I've ate are gettin' lonesome. I'lltake another for sociability, thank you. "

But, at last, when all the biscuits but one were gone, and the cakeplate looked like the Desert of Sahara, the captain pushed back hischair, rose, and led the way into the next room. Miss Baker remained toclear the table. 

"Set down by the fire, Mr. Graves, " urged the captain. "Nothin' likeburnin' wood to look hot and comf'table, is there? It don't always makeyou feel that way--that's why I put in hot water heat--but for looks andsociableness you can't beat a log fire. Smoke, do you?"

"Yes. Occasionally. But, Captain Warren--"

"Here, try that. It's a cigar the Judge gave me over to Ostable. Hesmokes that kind reg'lar, but if you don't like it, throw it away. He ain't here to see you do it, so you won't be fined for contempt ofcourt. I'll stick to a pipe, if you don't mind. Now we're shipshapeand all taut, I cal'late. Let's see, you wanted to talk business, Ibelieve. "

"Yes, I did. But before I begin I should like to be sure you are theElisha Warren I came from New York to interview. Is there another ofthat name in Denboro?"

"Um-hm. There's Warrens a-plenty all through this section of the Cape. Our family blew ashore here a hundred and fifty years ago, or suchmatter. My dad's name was Elisha; so was my grandfather's. Both seacap'ns, and both dead. There's another Elisha livin' over on the shorelane. "

"Indeed. Then perhaps it is he I want. "

"P'raps. He's keeper of the town poorhouse. I can tell you better if yougive me an idea what your business is. "

"I am an attorney. And now let me ask another question, please. Haveyou--had you a brother in business in New York?"

"Hey?" The captain turned and looked his guest squarely in the eye. Hisbrows drew together. 

"I've got a brother in New York, " he answered, slowly. "Did _he_ sendyou here?"

"Was your brother's name A. Rodgers Warren?"

"'A. Rodgers'? No. His name is Abijah Warren, and--Wait! His middle nameis Rodgers, though. Did 'Bije send you to me?"

"A moment, Captain. Was your brother a broker?"

"Yes. His office is--or used to be on Broad Street. What--"

"You have not heard from him for some time?"

"Not for eighteen years. He and I didn't agree as well as we might. Maybe 'twas my fault, maybe 'twas his. I have my own ideas on that. Ifyou're lookin' for 'Bije Warren's brother, Mr. Graves, I guess you'vecome to the right place. But _what_ he sent you to me for, or whathe wants--for he wants somethin', or he wouldn't have sent--I don'tunderstand. "

"Why do you think he wanted something?"

"Because he's 'Bije Warren, and I was brought up with him. When we wasyoung ones together, he went to school and I went to work. He got thefrostin' on the cake, and I got the burnt part next to the pan. He wentto college, and I went to sea. He. .. . However, you mustn't think I findfault with him for that. I sp'iled him as much as anybody, I guess. 'Twas later on that we. .. . Well, never mind that, either. What is it hewants of me, after eighteen years?"

"He wants a good deal of you, Captain Warren. Or _did_ want it. "

"Did? Don't he want it now?"

"I don't know. Captain, I'm surprised that you haven't heard. It seemsthat I am the bearer of bad news. Your brother--"

"Is 'Bije _dead_?"

"He died ten days ago very suddenly. In a way it was a great shock to usall, yet we have known that his heart was weak. He realized it, too. "

"So 'Bije is dead, hey?" Captain Elisha's face was very grave, and hespoke slowly. "Dead! Well, well, well!"

He paused and looked into the fire. Graves saw again that vagueresemblance he had caught on the train, but had forgotten. He knew nowwhy he noticed it. Unlike as the two brothers were, unlike in almostevery way, the trace of family likeness was there. This sunburned, retired captain _was_ the New York financier's elder brother. And thiscertainty made Mr. Graves's errand more difficult, and the cause of itmore inexplicable. 

Captain Elisha cleared his throat. 

"Well, well!" he sighed. "So 'Bije has gone. I s'pose you think it'sodd, maybe, " he went on, "that I ain't more struck down by the news. Ina way, I am, and, in a way, I'm mighty sorry, too. But, to speak truth, he and I have been so apart, and have had nothin' to do with each otherfor so long that--that, well, I've come to feel as if I didn't have abrother. And I know he felt that way. Yes, and _wanted_ to feel so--Iknow that. "

"I wouldn't say that, if I were you, " observed the lawyer, gently. "Ithink you're mistaken there. "

"I ain't mistaken. Why, look here, Mr. Graves! There was a time whenI'd have got down on my knees and crawled from here to New York to help'Bije Warren. I lent him money to start in business. Later on him and Iwent into partnership together on a--a fool South American speculationthat didn't pan out for nothin'. I didn't care for that. I took mychance same as he did, we formed a stock company all amongst ourselves, and I've got my share of the stock somewhere yet. It may come in handyif I ever want to paper the barn. But 'twa'n't business deals of thatkind that parted us, 'twas another matter. Somethin' that he did toother folks who'd trusted us and. .. . Humph! this don't interest you, ofcourse. .. . Well, 'Bije was well off, I know. His wife died way backin the nineties. She was one of them fashionable women, and a hayseedsalt-herrin' of a bachelor brother-in-law stuck down here in thesandheaps didn't interest her much--except as somethin' to forget, Is'pose. I used to see her name in the Boston papers occasionally, givin'parties at Newport and one thing a'nother. I never envied 'em that kindof life. I'm as well fixed as I want to be. Got some money put by fora rainy spell, comf'table house and land, best town on earth to live inand work for; I'm satisfied and always have been. I wouldn't change fornothin'. But I'm nine year older than 'Bije was--and yet I'm left alive. Hum!"

"Your brother had two children by his marriage, " said Graves, after amoment of silence. 

"Hey? Two children? Why, yes, I remember he did. Boy and girl, wa'n'tthey? I never saw em. They've growed up by this time, of course. "

"Yes, the eldest, Caroline, is nearly twenty. The boy, Stephen, is ayear younger. It is concerning those children, Captain Warren, that Ihave come to you. "

Captain Elisha turned in his chair. "Hey?" he queried. "The children?You've come to me about 'Bije's children?"

Graves nodded. "Yes, " he answered, solemnly. "That is what I meant bysaying your brother had not forgotten you or wished to forget you. Inspite of the estrangement, it is evident that his confidence in yourjudgment and integrity was supreme. His children were his idols, CaptainWarren, and he has left them in your charge. "

The captain's pipe fell to the hearth. 

"_What_?" he shouted. "Left his children to--to _me_! Mr. Graves, you're--you're out of your head--or I am!"

"No, I'm perfectly sane. I have a copy of the will here, and--"

He was interrupted by Miss Baker, who appeared at the door of the diningroom. "Did you want me, 'Lisha?" she asked. 

Her employer stared at her in a dazed, uncomprehending way. 

"Want you?" he repeated. "Want you?"

"Yes; I heard you holler, and I thought p'raps you was callin' me. "

"Hey? No, I don't want you, Abbie. .. . Holler! I shouldn't wonder! Ifall I did was holler, I'm surprised at myself. No, no! Run along out andshut the door. Yes, shut it. .. . Now, Mr. Graves, say that over again andsay it slow. "

"I say that your brother has left his two children in your care untilthe youngest shall become of age--twenty-one. I have a copy of his willhere, and--"

"Wait, wait! let me think. Left his children to me!. .. To _me_. Mr. Graves, had 'Bije lost all his money?"

"No. He was not the millionaire that many thought him. Miss Warren andher brother will be obliged to economize somewhat in their mannerof living. But, with care _and_ economy, their income should be quitesufficient, without touching the principal, to--"

"Hold on again; the income, you say. What is that income?"

"Roughly speaking, a mere estimate, about twenty to twenty-five thousandyearly. "

Captain Elisha had stooped to pick up the pipe he had dropped. Hisfingers touched it, but they did not close. Instead he straightened upin his chair as if suffering from an electric shock. 

"Mr. Graves, " he began; "Mr. Graves, are you cra--. No, I asked you thatbefore. But--but twenty _thousand_ a--a year! For mercy sakes, what'sthe principal?"

"In the neighborhood of five hundred thousand, I believe. Of course, wehad no authority to investigate thoroughly. That will be a part of yourduties, but--"

"S-shh! Let me soak this into my brains a little at a time. 'Bije leaveshis children five hundred thousand, half a million, and--and they've gotto _economize_! And I'm. .. . Would you mind readin' me that will?"

The attorney drew a long envelope from his pocket, extracted therefrom afolded document, donned a pair of gold-mounted eyeglasses, and began toread aloud. 

The will was short and very concise. "'I, Abijah Rodgers Warren, beingof sound mind--'"

"You're sartin that part's true, are you?" broke in the captain. 

Graves nodded, rather impatiently, and continued. "'Of sound mind, memory and understanding, do make, publish and declare this to be mylast will and testament, in manner following, that is to say:--

"'First:--I direct my executor hereinafter named to pay my just debtsand funeral expenses as soon as maybe convenient after my decease. '"

"Did he owe much, think likely?" asked Captain Elisha. 

"Apparently not. Very little beyond the usual bills of a household. "

"Yes, yes. Grocer and butcher and baker and suchlike. Well, I guess theywon't have to put in a keeper. Heave ahead. "

"'Second:--I give, devise and bequeath all my estate, both real andpersonal, to my brother, Elisha Warren, if he survive--'"

The captain gasped. "To me?" he cried, in utter amazement. "He leavesit to _me_? 'Bije leaves--say, Mr. Graves, there's some mistake heresomewhere, sure! And besides, you said--"

"Just a minute, Captain Warren, if you please. If you'll be patient andnot interrupt, I'll try to make the whole matter plain. "

"Well, if you can do _that_, you'll have King Solomon and all his wisdombeat a mile, that's all I've got to say. Go on. "

"'To my brother, Elisha Warren, if he survive me, _in trust_, nevertheless, for the following purpose, to wit:--

"'To invest the same and to use the income thereof for the education andmaintenance of my two children, Caroline Edgecombe Warren--'"

"Edgecombe? Named for some of his wife's folks, I presume likely. Excuseme for puttin' my oar in again. Go on. "

"'And Stephen Cole Warren--'"

"_That's_ his wife, sartin. She was a Cole. I swan, I beg your pardon. "

"'Until the elder, Caroline Edgecombe Warren, shall have reached hertwenty-first birthday, when one-half of the principal of said estate, together with one-half of the accumulated interest, shall be given toher, and the trust continued for the education and maintenance of myson, Stephen Cole Warren, until he shall have reached his twenty-firstbirthday, when I direct that the remainder be given to him. 

"'Third:--I appoint as testamentary guardian of my said children my saidbrother, Elisha Warren. 

"'Fourth:--I appoint as sole executor of this, my last will andtestament, my said brother, Elisha Warren. 

"'Fifth:--Imposing implicit trust and confidence in Elisha Warren, my brother, I direct that he be not required to give bond for theperformance of any of the affairs or trusts to which he has been hereinappointed. '

"The remainder, " concluded Graves, refolding the will, "is purelyformal. It is dated May 15th, three years ago. Your brother, CaptainWarren, evidently realized, although no one else seems to have doneso, the precarious state of his health, and prepared, as every carefulperson should, for the great emergency. "

The attorney removed his eyeglasses and rubbed them with hishandkerchief. Captain Elisha sat silent, staring at the fire. After aninterval, Graves spoke again. 

"Of course, Captain, " he went on, "my errand is now plain. I come toacquaint you with your brother's last wishes and to ascertain whether ornot you are willing to accept the trust and responsibility he has laidupon you. As you doubtless know, the state provides a legal rate ofreimbursement for such services as yours will--or may--be. Ahem!"

"May be? You mean I ain't got to do this thing unless I want to?"

"Certainly. You have the right to renounce the various appointments, inwhich case another executor, trustee, and guardian will be appointed. I realize, and I'm sure that your brother's children will realize, yourhesitance in assuming such a responsibility over persons whom you havenever even met. "

"Yes, I guess we'll all realize it; you needn't worry about that. Lookhere, do the children know I'm elected?"

"Yes. Of course, the will has been read to them. "

"Hum! I s'pose likely they was overcome with joy, wa'n't they?"

Graves bit his lip. Remembering the comments of Miss Caroline andher brother when they learned of their uncle's appointment, he haddifficulty in repressing a smile. 

"Well, " he replied, slowly, "of course, one could scarcely expect themto rejoice. They have never seen you. In fact, I doubt if either of themknew their father had a brother, living. "

"Y-e-e-s. That part don't surprise me. But the rest of it does. By themiracles of the prophets! the rest of it does! That 'Bije--'Bije--shouldleave his children and their money to _me_ to take care of is passin'human belief, as our old minister used to say--. .. . Humph! I s'poselikely, Mr. Graves, you'd like to have me say yes or no to the thingwhile you're here, hey?"

Graves nodded. "It would be well to do so, " he said. "The settlementof the estate must be taken in hand as soon as possible. The law sodirects. "

"Yes, I see that. Well, what would you advise my doin'?"

To this direct question the lawyer returned a noncommittal answer. 

"I'm afraid that must be answered by yourself alone, Captain Warren, " hesaid. "Of course, the acceptance of the trust will necessarily involvemuch trouble and inconvenience, especially to one of your--er--settledand--er--conservative--I judge merely from what you have said--yourconservative habits. The estate is large, the investments are, doubtless, many and varied, and the labor of looking into andinvestigating them may require some technical skill and knowledge offinance. Yes. "

"Um-hm. .. . Well, I judge that that kind of skill and knowledge could behired, if a feller felt like payin' fair wages; hey?"

"Oh, yes, yes. Any good lawyer could attend to that, under thesupervision of the executor, certainly. But there are otherinconveniences to a--a--"

"Country jay like me. I understand. Go ahead. "

"I mean that you would probably be required to spend much, or all, ofthe next two or three years in New York. "

"Would, hey? I didn't know but bein' as a guardian has entire charge ofthe children and their money and all--I understand that's what he doeshave--he could direct the children fetched down to where _he_ lived, ifhe wanted to. Am I wrong?"

"No, " the lawyer's hesitancy and annoyance was plainly evident. "No-o. Of course, that _might_ be done. Still, I--"

"You think that wouldn't cause no more rejoicin' than some other thingshave? Yes, yes; I cal'late I understand, Mr. Graves. Well, I guessyou'll have to give me to-night to chew over this. I guess you will. It's come on me so sudden, 'Bije's death and all, that I want to be bymyself and think. I don't want to seem unsociable or lackin' inhospitality. The whole house is yours. Help yourself to it. But when I'mcaught in a clove hitch, I just have to set down and think myself out ofit. I _have_ to. I was built and launched that way, I guess, and maybeyou'll excuse me. "

"Certainly, Captain Warren. You're quite right in wishing to deliberateon so important a matter. And, if you will excuse me in return, Ibelieve I will go to my room. I've had a rather wearing day. "

"And a damp evenin'. Yes, I'll excuse and sympathize with you, too. I'llsee you to your room, and I'll hope you'll have consider'ble more sleepthan I'm likely to get. Abbie!. .. Abbie!. .. Fetch Mr. Graves's lamp, won't you, please?"

It was after two the next morning before Captain Elisha rose from hischair by the fire and entered his bed chamber. Yet, when Atwood Gravescame down to breakfast, he found his host in the sitting room awaitinghim. 

"Afore we tackle Abbie's pancakes and fishballs, Mr. Graves, " said thecaptain, "let's get the rest of that will business off our minds. Thenwe can have the pancakes to take the taste out of our mouths, as youmight say. And let me ask you one more question. This--er--er--Carolineand Stephen, they're used to livin' pretty well--fashionable society, and the like of that, hey?"

"Yes. Their home was on Fifth Avenue, and the family moved in the bestcircles. "

"Hum! I should imagine life on twenty-odd thousand a year must bepretty much all circles, one everlastin' 'turn your partners. ' Well, Mr. Graves, my circles down here are consider'ble smaller, but they suit me. I'm worth twenty-odd thousand myself, not in a year, but in a lifetime. I'm selectman and director in the bank and trustee of the church. When Iholler 'Boo, ' the South Denboro folks--some of them, anyhow--set up andtake notice. I can lead the grand march down in this neighborhood oncein a while, and I cal'late I'm prettier leadin' it than I would be doin'a solitaire jig for two years on the outside edge of New York's bestcircles. And I'm mighty sure I'm more welcome. Now my eyesight's strongenough to see through a two-foot hole after the plug's out, and I cansee that you and 'Bije's children won't shed tears if I say no to thatwill. No offense meant, you know; just common sense, that's all. "

This was plain speaking. Mr. Graves colored, though he didn't mean to, and for once could not answer offhand. 

"So, " continued the captain, "I'll ease your and their minds by sayin'that, the way I feel now, I probably sha'n't accept the trust. I_probably_ sha'n't. But I won't say sure I won't, because--well, because'Bije was my brother; he was that, no matter what our diff'rences mayhave been. And I know--I _know_ that there must be some reason biggerthan 'implicit trust' and the other May-baskets for his appointin' me inhis will. What that reason is I _don't_ know--yet. "

"Then you intend--?"

"I don't know what I intend--in the end. But for a beginnin', I cal'lateto run down to New York some time durin' the next week, take a cruise'round, and sort of look things over. "

CHAPTER III

"It's a box of a place, though, isn't it, " declared Mr. Stephen Warren, contemptuously glancing about the library of the apartment. "A box, byGeorge! I think it's a blooming shame that we have to put up with it, Sis. "

Mr. Warren sprawled in the most comfortable chair in the room, waslooking out through the window, across the wind-swept width of CentralPark West, over the knolls and valleys of the Park itself, now bare offoliage and sprinkled with patches of snow. There was a discontentedlook on his face, and his hands were jammed deep in his trouserspockets. 

His sister, Caroline, sat opposite to him, also looking out at theDecember landscape. She, too, was discontented and unhappy, though shetried not to show it. 

"Why don't you say something, " snapped Stephen, after a moment ofsilence. "_Isn't_ it a box of a place? Now come. "

"Yes, " replied the young lady, without looking at her brother. "Yes, Steve, I suppose it is. But you must remember that we must make thebest of it. I always wondered how people could live in apartments. Now Isuppose I shall have to find out. "

"Well, I maintain that we don't have to. We aren't paupers, even thoughfather wasn't so well fixed as everyone thought. With management andcare, we could have stayed in the old house, I believe, and kept upappearances, at least. What's the use of advertising that we're broke?"

"But, Steve, you know Mr. Graves said--"

"Oh, yes, I know. You swallowed every word Graves said, Caro, as ifhe was the whole book of Proverbs. By George, _I_ don't; I'm fromMissouri. "

Mr. Warren, being in the Sophomore class at Yale, was of the age whenone is constitutionally "from Missouri. " Probably King Solomon, atsixty, had doubts concerning the scope and depth of his wisdom; ateighteen he would have admitted its all-embracing infallibility withouta blush. 

"I tell you, " continued Stephen, "there's no sense in it, Sis. You and Iknow plenty of people whose incomes are no larger than ours. Do they'economize, ' as Graves is continually preaching? They do not, publiclyat least. They may save a bit, here and there, but they do it where itdoesn't show and nobody knows. Take the Blaisdells, for instance. Whenthe Sodality Bank went up, and old Blaisdell died, everybody said thefamily was down and out. They must have lost millions. But did _they_move into 'apartments' and put up a placard, 'Home of the Dead-Brokes. Walk in and Sympathize?' I guess they didn't! They went into mourning, of course, and that let them out of entertaining and all that, but theystayed where they were and kept up the bluff. That's the thing thatcounts in this world--keeping up the bluff. "

"Yes, but everyone knows they are--bluffing, as you call it. "

"What of it? They don't really know, they only suspect. And I met JimBlaisdell yesterday and he shook my hand, after I had held it in frontof his eyes where he couldn't help seeing it, and had the nerve to tellme he hoped things weren't as bad with us as he had heard. "

"I never liked the Blaisdells, " declared Caroline, indignantly. 

"Neither did I. Neither do most people. But Jim is just as much in theswim as he ever was, and he's got his governor's place on the board ofdirectors at the bank, now that it's reorganized, and an office downtown, and he's hand and glove with Von Blarcom and all the rest. They think he's a promising, plucky young man. They'll help his bluffthrough. And are his mother and sister dropped by the people in theirset? I haven't noticed it. "

"Well, Mrs. Corcoran Dunn told me that everyone was talking aboutthe Blaisdells and wondering how long they could keep it up. And thenewspapers have been printing all sorts of things, and hinting thatyoung Mr. Blaisdell's appointment as director, after his father wreckedthe bank, was a scandal. At least, we haven't _that_ to bear up under. Father was honest, if he wasn't rich. "

"Who cares for the newspapers? They're all run by demagogues huntingsensations. What makes me feel the worst about all this is that StockExchange seat of father's. If I were only of age, so that I could godown there on the floor, I tell you it wouldn't be long before you and Iwere back where we belong, Sis. But, no, I'm a kid, so Graves thinks, incharge of a guardian--a _guardian_, by gad!"

He snorted, in manly indignation. Caroline, her pretty face troubled, rose and walked slowly across the room. It was a large room, in spite ofthe fact that it was one of a suite in an apartment hotel, and furnishedrichly. A. Rodgers Warren spent his money with taste, and spent itfreely while he lived. The furniture, the paintings, and bric-a-bracwere of the very best, chosen with care, here and abroad. 

"Oh, dear!" sighed the girl. "I do hope Mr. Graves will be well enoughto call to-day. He expected to. Except for the telephone message tellingus that that _man_ at Denboro--"

"Our dear Uncle Elisha, " put in Stephen, with sarcasm. "Uncle ''Lish!'Heavens! what a name!"

"Hush! He can't help his name. And father's was worse yet--Abijah! Thinkof it!"

"I don't want to think of it. Neither did the governor; that's whyhe dropped it, I suppose. Just what did Graves say? Give me his exactwords. "

"His partner, Mr. Kuhn, telephoned. He said that Mr. Graves had a badcold, having been wet through in a dreadful storm down there in thecountry. The doctor forbade his leaving the house for a day or two, buthe would call on Tuesday--to-day--if he was sufficiently recovered. AndMr. Kuhn said that everything was satisfactory. This Captain Warren--aship captain, I suppose he is--would, in all probability, refuse toaccept the guardianship and the rest of it--"

"Refuse? I should think so. I'm just as certain father was insane whenhe made that will as I am that I'm alive. If I thought he wasn't, I'dnever forgive him. "

"Hush, Steve. You promised me you wouldn't speak in that way. "

"Well, all right, I won't. But, Caro, he _must_ have been insane. If hewasn't, do you suppose he would have put us and the estate in the careof a Down-East jay? It's inconceivable! It's ridiculous! Think of it. Suppose this uncle of ours had accepted. Suppose he had come to townhere and any of our friends had met him. 'This is our guardian, CaptainWarren, of Punkin Centre. ' 'Please to meet ye, ' says Uncle 'Lish. 'How'staters?' Horrors! Say, Caro, you haven't told anyone, Malcolm or hismother, or anyone, have you?"

"Of course not, Steve. You know I wouldn't. "

"Well, don't. They needn't know it, now or at any other time. Graveswill probably get himself appointed, and he's respectable if he is anold fogy. We'll worry along till I'm twenty-one, and then--well, thenI'll handle our business myself. "

Evidently there was no question in his mind as to his ability to handlethis or any business, no matter how involved. He rose from his chair andyawned. 

"It's deadly dull, " he complained. "You don't need me, do you, Caro? Ibelieve I'll go out for a while. That is, unless you really care. "

His sister hesitated before replying. When she spoke, there wasdisappointment in her tone. 

"Why, Steve, " she said, "I did hope you might be here when Mr. Gravescame. He will wish to speak of important matters, and it seems to methat both of us should hear what he has to say. "

Young Warren, who had started for the door, stopped and kickedimpatiently at the corners of the rug. 

"Oh, _well_!" he observed, "if you want me of course I'll stay. But whydoesn't old Graves come, if he is coming. Maybe he's under the weatheryet, " he added, hopefully. "Perhaps he isn't coming at all to-day. Ibelieve I'll call up Kuhn on the 'phone and find out. "

He was on his way to the telephone when the doorbell buzzed. 

"Gad! there he is now, " he exclaimed. "Now I suppose I'll have to stay. We'll hear about dear Uncle 'Lish, won't we? Oh, joy!"

But the staid butler, when he entered the library, did not announce thelawyer's name. 

"Mrs. Corcoran Dunn and Mr. Malcolm, " he said. "Will you see them, MissCaroline?"

The young lady's face lit up. 

"Certainly, Edwards, " she said. "Show them--Oh, Mrs. Dunn, I'm so gladto see you! It was _ever_ so good of you to come. And Malcolm. "

Mrs. M. Corcoran Dunn was tall and, in South Denboro, would have beencalled "fleshy, " in spite of her own and the dressmaker's efforts toconceal the fact. She was elaborately gowned and furred, and somethingabout her creaked when she walked. She rushed into the room, at thebutler's heels, and, greeting Caroline with outstretched hands, kissedher effusively on the cheek. 

"My dear child, " she cried, "how could I stay away? We have spoken ofyou and Stephen _so_ often this morning. We know how lonely you must be, and Malcolm and I decided we _must_ run in on you after lunch. Didn'twe, Malcolm?"

Mr. Malcolm Corcoran Dunn, her son, was a blond young man, with a ratherindolent manner. 

"Sure, Mater!" he said, calmly. "How d'ye do, Caroline? 'Lo, Steve!"

The quartette shook hands. Mrs. Dunn sank creakingly into a chair andgazed about the room. Malcolm strolled to the window and looked out. Stephen followed and stood beside him. 

"My dear, " said Mrs. Dunn, addressing Caroline, "how are you getting on?How are your nerves? Is all the dreadful 'settling' over?"

"Very nearly, thank goodness. "

"That's a mercy. I should certainly have been here yesterday to help youin superintending and arranging and so on, but I was suffering from oneof my 'hearts, ' and you know what _they_ are. "

Everyone who knew Mrs. Corcoran Dunn was acquainted with her "hearts. "The attacks came, so she was accustomed to explain, from an impairedvalve, and "some day"--she usually completed the sentence with upturnedeyes and a resigned upward wave of the hand. 

Her son turned from the window. 

"I say, Mother, " he explained, wearily, "I do wish you wouldn't speak ofyour vital organs in the plural. Anyone would imagine you were a sortof freak, like the two-headed boy at the circus. It's positivelydistressing. "

Stephen laughed. He admired young Dunn immensely. Mrs. Dunn sighed. 

"Don't, Malcolm, dear, " she pleaded. "You sound so unfeeling. One notacquainted with your real kindness of heart--"

"Oh, drop it, " interrupted Malcolm. "Let's omit the heart interest. This isn't a clinic. I say, Steve, how do you like the new flat? It is aflat, isn't it?"

Stephen turned red. His sister colored and bit her lip. Mrs. Dunnhastened to the rescue. 

"Horrors!" she exclaimed. "Malcolm, you really are insufferable. Flat!Caroline, dear, you mustn't mind him. He will have his joke. Malcolm, apologize. "

The command was sharp, and her son obeyed it. 

"Beg your pardon, Steve, " he said. "Yours, too, Caroline. I was onlyjoking. There's a little beast of a bookkeeper down at the office whois forever talking of his 'nice flat in the Bronx. ' It's a standingguy, you know. So far as I can see, these are pretty snug quarters. Andattractively arranged, too. Your taste, Caroline, I'm betting. "

Miss Warren, slightly mollified, bowed assent. 

"I thought so, " continued Malcolm. "No one but you would have knownexactly the right spot for everything. Show us through, won't you?"

But Mrs. Dunn had other plans. 

"Not now, Malcolm, " she put in. "Caroline is tired out, I'm sure. Alittle fresh air will do her good. I was going to suggest that you andshe and Stephen go for a short ride. Yes, really you must, my dear, " sheadded, turning to the girl beside her. "Our car is at the door, it's notat all a bad afternoon, and the outing will be just what you need. "

"Thank you, Mrs. Dunn, " said Caroline, gratefully. "I should like to. Indeed, I should. But we have been expecting a business call from Mr. Graves, father's lawyer, and--"

"Oh, come on, Sis!" interrupted Stephen. "I'm dying to get out of thisjail. Let old Graves wait, if he comes. We won't be long; and, besides, it's not certain that he is coming to-day. Come on!"

"I'm afraid I ought not, Steve. Mr. Graves may come, and--and it seemstoo bad to trouble our friends--"

"It's not trouble, it's pleasure, " urged Mrs. Dunn. "Malcolm will bedelighted. It was his idea. Wasn't it?" turning to her son. 

"Oh, yes! certainly, " replied the young gentleman. "Hope you'll come, Caroline. And you, of course, Steve. The blessed machine's been off itsfeed for a week or more, but Peter says he thinks it's all right again. We'll give it a try-out on the Drive. Hope we have better luck than mylast, " with a laugh. "They nabbed us for speeding, and I had to promiseto be a good boy or to be fined. Said we were hitting it at fifty anhour. We _were_ going some, that's a fact. Ha! ha!"

"But he won't be reckless when you're with him, Caroline, " put in hismother. "You will go? That's so nice! As for Mr. Graves, I'll explainif he comes. Oh, no! _I'm_ not going! I shall remain here in thiscomfortable chair and rest until you return. It's exactly what myphysician orders, and for once I'm going to obey him. My heart, youknow, my poor heart--"

She waved her hand and raised her eyes. Miss Warren expostulated, but tono purpose. Mrs. Corcoran Dunn would _not_ go, but the others must. So, at last, they did. When Caroline and her brother had gone for theirwraps, Mrs. Dunn laid a hand on her son's arm. 

"Now mind, " she whispered, "see if you can find out anything during theride. Something more explicit about the size of their estate and who theguardian is to be. There are all sorts of stories, you know, and we_must_ learn the truth very soon. Don't appear curious, but merelyfriendly. You understand?"

"Sure, Mater, " was the careless answer. "I'll pump. "

The two departed, leaving their lady visitor ensconced in thecomfortable chair. She remained in it for perhaps five minutes. Then sherose and sauntered about the room. She drifted into the drawing-room, returning a moment later and sauntering casually toward the open desk bythe fireplace. There were papers and letters scattered about this desk, and these she turned over, glancing toward the door to be sure no onewas coming. The letters were, for the most part, messages of sympathyfrom friends of the Warren family. Hearing an approaching step, shehastily returned to the chair. 

Edwards, the butler, entered the library and replenished the fire. Mrs. Dunn languidly accosted him. 

"Ah--er--Edwards, " she said, "you are--er--growing familiar with yournew home?"

"Yes, ma'am, " replied Edwards, politely. 

"It must seem--er--small compared to the other. "

"Smaller; yes, ma'am. "

"But very snug and comfortable. "

"Yes, ma 'am. "

"It is fortunate that Miss Warren and her brother have the aid of sucha--an old servant of the family. "

"Thank you, ma'am. "

"Is Miss Caroline managing her own affairs?"

"Apparently so. Yes, ma'am. "

"I presume, however, a guardian has been appointed? With an estate suchas the late Mr. Warren _must_ have left, some responsible person wouldbe, of course, necessary. "

She paused. Edwards, having arranged the logs to his liking, brushed thedust from his hands. 

"I don't know, ma'am, I'm sure, " he said. "Neither Miss Caroline nor Mr. Stephen have spoken with me concerning the family affairs. "

Mrs. Corcoran Dunn straightened, with hauteur. 

"I think that was the doorbell, " she remarked, a trifle sharply. "If itshould be Mr. Graves, the attorney, you may show him into the libraryhere. "

"Yes, ma'am, " said Edwards once more, and departed. 

The lady visitor heard voices in the passage. She listened, but couldhear nothing understandable. Evidently the butler was having an argumentwith someone. It could not be Graves. 

Edwards reappeared, looking troubled. 

"It's a--a gentleman to see Miss Caroline, " he said. "He won't give hisname, ma'am, but says she's expecting him. "

"Expecting him?"

"Yes, ma'am. I told him she was out, but he said he was intendingto stay a while anyway, and would wait. I asked his business, but hewouldn't tell it. "

"That's odd. " Mrs. Dunn was slightly interested. "A tradesman, perhaps;or an agent of the landlord. "

"No-o, ma'am. I don't think he's either of them, ma'am. "

"What sort of a person is he, Edwards?"

The butler's face twitched for an instant with a troubled smile. Then itresumed its customary respectful calm. 

"I hardly know, ma'am. He's an oddish man. He--I think he's from thecountry. "

From behind him came a quiet chuckle. 

"You're right, Commodore, " said a man's voice; "I'm from the country. You guessed it. "

Edwards jumped, startled out of his respectable wits. Mrs. Dunn roseindignantly from her chair. 

"I beg your pardon, ma'am, " said the intruder, appearing in the doorway. "You mustn't think I'm forcin' my way where I ain't wanted. But itseemed to take so long to make the Admiral here understand that I wasgoin' to wait until Caroline came back that I thought I'd save time andbreath by provin' it to him. I didn't know there was any company. Excuseme, ma'am, I won't bother you. I'll just come to anchor out here in theentry. Don't mind me. "

He bowed politely, picked up the large suit-case, plainly bran-new, which he had momentarily placed on the rug at his feet, and, with itin one hand and a big soft felt hat in the other, stepped back into thehall out of sight. The astonished Mrs. Dunn and the paralyzed Edwardsheard a chair crack as if a heavy weight had descended upon it. Evidently he had "come to anchor. "

The lady was the first to recover the power of speech. 

"Why!" she exclaimed, in an alarmed whisper. "Why! I never heard ofsuch brazen impertinence in my life. He must be insane. He is a lunatic, isn't he, Edwards?"

The butler shook his head. "I--I don't know, ma'am, " he stammered. 

"I believe he is. " Mrs. Dunn's presence of mind was returning, and withit her courage. Her florid cheeks flamed a more vivid red, and her eyessnapped. "But whether he is or not, he sha'n't bulldoze me. "

She strode majestically to the door. The visitor was seated in the hall, calmly reading a newspaper. Hat and suit-case were on the floor besidehim. 

"What do you mean by this?" demanded the lady. "Who are you? If you haveany business here, state it at once. "

The man glanced at her, over his spectacles, rose and stood looking downat her. His expression was pleasant, and he was remarkably cool. 

"Yes, ma'am, " he said, gravely. "I'll be glad to tell you who I am, if you'd like to have me. I'd have done it before, but I thought thereweren't any use troublin' you with my affairs. But, just a minute--"he hesitated--"I haven't made any mistake, have I? I understood yoursteward--the feller with the brass buttons, to say that Abijah Warren'schildren lived here. That's so, ain't it? If not, then I _am_ mistaken. "

Mrs. Dunn regarded him with indignation. "You are, " she said coldly. "The family of the late Mr. Rodgers Warren lives here. I presume theslight resemblance in names misled you. Edwards, show the gentlemanout. "

"Just one moment more, ma'am. It was Rodgers Warren's children I waslookin' for. A. Rodgers Warren he called himself, didn't he? Yes. Well, the A stood for Abijah; that was his Christian name. And he lefttwo children, Caroline and Stephen? Good! I thought for a jiffy I'dblundered in where I had no business, but it's all right. You see, ma'am, I'm their uncle from South Denboro, Massachusetts. My name isElisha Warren. "

Mrs. Dunn gasped. Edwards, peering over her shoulder, breathed heavily. 

"You are--their _uncle_?" repeated the lady. 

"Yes, ma'am. I'm 'Bije's brother. Oh, don't worry. It's all right. Anddon't fret yourself about me, either. I'll set right down out hereand read my paper and wait till Caroline or Stephen get home. They'reexpectin' me. Mr. Graves, the lawyer, told 'em I was comin'. "

He calmly seated himself and adjusted his spectacles. Mrs. Dunn staredat him, then at Edwards. After an instant's indecision, she steppedback into the library and walked to the window. She beckoned, with anagitated finger, to the butler, who joined her. 

"Edwards, " she whispered, "did you hear what he said?"

"Yes, ma'am, " replied Edwards, wide-eyed and wondering. 

"Is it true?"

"I don't know, ma'am. "

"Did Mr. Warren have a brother?"

"I didn't know that he had, ma'am. "

"Do you--do you think it likely that he would have a brother like--like_that_?"

"I don't know, ma'am. "

"Was Miss Caroline expecting him?"

"I don't know, ma'am. She--"

"Oh, you don't know anything! You're impossible. Go away!"

"Yes, ma'am, " said Edwards thankfully; and went. Mrs. Corcoran Dunnstood for some minutes by the window, thinking, or trying to think a wayto the truth in this astounding development. Of course the man _might_be a lunatic who had gained his information concerning the Warren familyfrom the papers; but he did not look like a lunatic. On the other hand, he certainly did not look as one would have expected a brother ofRodgers Warren's to look. Oddest of all, if he was such a brother, whyhad neither Caroline or Stephen mentioned his existence? According tohis story, Graves, the Warren lawyer, had warned the children of hiscoming. Caroline had been very reticent concerning her father's will, the amount of his estate, and the like. And Mrs. Dunn had repeatedly, though discreetly, endeavored to find out these important details. Neither hints nor questions had resulted satisfactorily. Was it possiblethat this was the reason, this country uncle? If so--well, if so, herewas a Heaven-sent opportunity for a little genteel and perfectly safedetective work. Mrs. Dunn creakingly crossed the room and spoke. 

"Mr. Warren, " she said, "I feel guilty in keeping you out there. Won'tyou come into the library?"

"Why, thank you, ma'am, I'm all right. Don't you trouble about me. Goright on with your readin' or sewin' or knittin' or whatever you wasdoin' and--"

"I was not reading, " replied Mrs. Dunn, with a slight shudder. "Come in, please. I wish you to. "

Captain Elisha folded his paper and put it in his pocket. Entering thelibrary, he stood quietly waiting. 

"Won't you sit down?" asked his impromptu hostess, trying hard to begracious. 

"Thank you, " said the captain. He sank into an armchair and lookedcuriously about him. 

"So you are the late Mr. Warren's brother?" asked the lady, making herfirst lead in the game. 

"Yes, ma'am. His older brother. 'Bije was ten year younger'n I am, Mrs. --er--"

"Dunn. I am an old friend of the family. "

"That's good. I'm glad to hear they've got friends. When you're insickness or trouble or sorrer, friendship counts for consider'ble. Howare the young folks--Caroline and Stephen--pretty smart, hey?"

"_Smart_? Why, they are intelligent, naturally. I--"

"No, no. I mean are they pretty well?"

"Very well, indeed, considering the shock of their recent bereavement. "

"Yes, yes. Of course. And they've moved, too. Movin's an awful job. Theysay three movin's are as bad as a fire, but I cal'late I'd rather burnup a set of carpets than _pull_ 'em up, 'specially if they was insured. 'Tain't half so much strain on your religion. I remember the last timewe took up our carpets at home, Abbie--she's my second cousin, keepin'house for me--said if gettin' down on my knees has that effect on meshe'd never ask me to go to prayer-meetin' again. Ho! ho!"

He chuckled. Mrs. Dunn elevated her nose and looked out of the window. Then she led another small trump. 

"You say that Miss Caroline and her brother expect you, " she said. "Yousurprise me. Are you sure?"

"Oh, yes, ma'am. I'm sure. When Mr. Graves came down to see me, lastweek 'twas, I told him to say I'd be up pretty soon to look the groundover. This is a pretty fine place the young folks have got here, " headded, gazing admiringly at the paintings and bookcases. 

"Yes, " assented the lady, condescendingly. "For an apartment it isreally quite livable. "

"Livable!" Captain Elisha's astonishment got the better of hispoliteness for the moment. "Um! Yes, I should say a body _might_ manageto worry along in it. Was the place where they used to live any finerthan this?"

"Certainly!"

"You don't tell me! No wonder they talked about economi--Humph!"

"What were you about to say, Mr. Warren?"

"Oh, nothin', nothin'! Talkin' to myself is a habit I've got. Abbie--mysecond cousin; I guess I told you about her--says it's a sure sign thata person's rich or out of his head, one or t'other. I ain't rich, so--"He chuckled once more. 

"Mr. Graves came to see you at your home, did he?"

"Yes, ma'am. At South Denboro. And he certainly did have a roughpassage. Ho! ho! Probably you heard about it, bein' so friendly with thefamily. "

"Ahem! Doubtless he would have mentioned it, but he has been ill. "

"Sho! I'm sorry to hear that. I was afraid he'd catch cold. "

"Yes. I hope Mr. Graves's errand was successful?"

"Well, sort of so-so. "

"Yes. He came to see you in connection with your brother's estate--somelegacy, perhaps?"

She did not look at the captain when she asked this question. Therefore, she did not notice the glance which he gave her. When he answered, itwas in the same deliberate, provokingly deliberate, manner. 

"Um-hm. Somethin' of that kind, Mrs. Dunn. I can't help thinkin', " hewent on, "how nice it is that Caroline and Steve have such a good friendas you to help 'em. Your husband and 'Bije was chums, I s'pose?"

"No, not exactly. The friendship was on my side of the family. "

"So? Want to know! Your husband dead, ma'am?"

Mrs. Dunn changed the subject. Her husband, Mr. Corcoran Dunn--once MikeDunn, contractor and Tammany politician--was buried in Calvary Cemetery. She mourned him, after a fashion, but she preferred not to talk abouthim. 

"Yes, " she answered shortly. "It--it looks as if it might snow, doesn'tit?"

"I shouldn't wonder. Have you any children, ma'am?"

"One--a son. " The widow's tone was frigid. 

"So? He must be a comfort to you. I s'pose likely he's a friend of mynephew and niece, too. "

"Certainly. "

"That's good. Young folks ought to have young friends. You live in thisneighborhood, ma'am?"

The lady did not answer. She gazed haughtily at the trees in the Park. Captain Elisha rubbed a smile from his lips with his hand and remainedsilent. The tall clock ticked loud. 

There came the sound of laughter from the passage outside. The halldoor opened. A moment later, Caroline, followed by her brother and youngDunn, entered the library. 

The girl's cheeks were rosy from the cold wind. Her hair, beneath thefur auto cap, had blown in brown, rippled disorder across her forehead. She was smiling. 

"Oh, Mrs. Dunn!" she cried. "I'm so glad I acceptedyour--Malcolm's--invitation. We had a glorious ride! I--"

She stopped short. Captain Warren had risen from his chair and wasfacing her. Mrs. Dunn also rose. 

"Caroline, " she said, nervously, "this"--pausing on the word--"gentlemanis here to see you. He says he is--"

The captain interrupted her. Stepping forward he seized his niece'shands in his. "Well, well!" he exclaimed admiringly. "'Bije's girl, thatI ain't seen since you was a little mite of a baby! Caroline, I'm yourUncle Elisha. "

"Good _Lord_!" groaned Stephen Warren. 

CHAPTER IV

If the captain heard Stephen's fervent ejaculation, he paid no attentionto it. Dropping his niece's hand, he extended his own toward his nephew. 

"And this is Stephen?" he said. "Well, Steve, you and me have never metafore, I b'lieve. But that's our misfortune, not our fault, hey? How areyou? Pretty smart?"

The boy's face was flaming. He mumbled something to the effect that hewas all right enough, and turned away without accepting the profferedhand. Captain Elisha glanced quickly at him, then at his sister. 

"Well, Caroline, " he said, pleasantly, "I s'pose you've been expectin'me. Mr. Graves told you I was comin', didn't he?"

Miss Warren, also, was flushed with embarrassment and mortifiedsurprise. 

"No, " she stammered. "He has been ill. "

"Sho! you don't say! Mrs. Dunn--your friend here--said he was laid upwith a cold, but I didn't realize 'twas as bad as that. So you didn'tknow I was comin' at all. "

"No. We--we have not heard from you since he returned. "

"That's too bad. I hope I sha'n't put you out any, droppin' in onyou this way. You mustn't treat me as comp'ny, you know. If 'tain'tconvenient, if your spare room ain't ready so soon after movin', oranything of that kind, I can go to a hotel somewheres for a day or so. Hadn't I better, don't you think?"

Caroline hesitated. If only they might have been spared this publichumiliation. If the Dunns had not been there. It was bad enough tohave this dreadful country uncle come at all; but to have him come now, before they were prepared, before any explanations had been made! Whatshould she do?

Her brother, fidgeting at her elbow, not daring to look at MalcolmDunn, who, he knew, was thoroughly enjoying the scene, could stand it nolonger. 

"Caro, " he snapped, "what are you waiting for? Don't you _know_ that therooms are not ready? Of course they're not! We're sorry, and all that, but Graves didn't tell us and we weren't prepared. Certainly he'll haveto go to the hotel, for--for the present. "

He ventured to raise his eyes and glare indignantly at the captain. Finding the latter looking intently at him, he dropped them again andjammed his clenched fists into his pockets. 

Captain Elisha pulled thoughtfully at his beard. 

"Humph!" he grunted. "Humph! then I cal'late maybe--" He took a steptoward the door, stopped, turned back, and said, with calm decision, "Iguess I'd better stay. You won't mind me, Caroline--you and Stephen. You_mustn't_. As I said, I ain't comp'ny. I'm one of the family, your pa'sbrother, and I've come some consider'ble ways to see you two young folksand talk with you. I've come because your pa asked me to. I'm used toroughin' it, been to sea a good many v'yages, and if a feather bed ain'thandy I can get my forty winks on the floor. So that's settled, and youmustn't have me on your conscience. That's sense, ain't it, Mrs. Dunn?"

Mrs. Corcoran Dunn did not deign a reply. Caroline answered for her. 

"Very well, " she said, coldly. Stepping to the desk she rang a bell. Thebutler appeared in the doorway. 

"Edwards, " said Miss Warren, "this gentleman, " indicating the captain, "is to be our guest, for the present. You may show him to his room--theblue room, I think. If it is not ready, see that it is made so. "

"Yes, Miss Caroline, " replied Edwards. Retiring to the hall, he returnedwith the suit-case. 

"Will you wish to go to your room at once, sir?" he asked. 

"Why, I guess I might as well, Commodore, " answered Captain Elisha, smiling. "Little soap and water won't do no harm. Fact is, I feel's if'twas a prescription to be recommended. You needn't tote that valise, though, " he added. "'Tain't heavy, and I've lugged it so fur alreadysence I got off the car that I feel kind of lonesome without it. "

The butler, not knowing exactly how to answer, grinned sheepishly. Captain Elisha turned to Mrs. Dunn and her son. 

"Well, good afternoon, ma'am, " he said. "I'm real glad to have made youracquaintance. Yours, too, sir, " with a nod toward Malcolm. "Your mothertold me what a friend of the young folks you was, and, as I'm sortof actin' pilot for 'em just now, in a way of speakin', any friend oftheirs ought to be a friend of mine. Hope to see you often, Mr. Dunn. "

The young man addressed smiled, with amusement not at all concealed, andlanguidly admitted that he was "charmed. "

"Your first visit to the city?" he inquired, in a tone which causedStephen to writhe inwardly. 

"No-o. No, not exactly. I used to come here pretty frequent, back inmy sea-goin' days, when my ship was in port. I sailed for Osgood andColton, down on South Street, for a spell. They were my owners. Youdon't remember the firm, I s'pose?"

"No. The privilege has been denied me. You find some changes inNew York, don't you--er--Captain? You are a captain, or a bos'n, oradmiral--something of that sort, I presume?"

"Malcolm!" said his mother, sharply. 

"Oh, no offense intended. My sea terms are rather mixed. The captainwill excuse me. "

"Sartin! Cap'n's what they all call me, mostly. Your son ain't ever beento sea, except as passenger, I cal'late, ma'am?"

"Certainly not, " snapped Mrs. Dunn. 

"Of course, of course. Well, 'tain't a life I'd want a boy of mineto take up, nowadays. But it did have some advantages. I don't knowanything better than a v'yage afore the mast to learn a young fellerwhat's healthy for him to unlearn. Good day, ma'am. Good day, Mr. Dunn. I mustn't keep the Commodore waitin' here with that valise. I'll beout pretty soon, Caroline; just as soon as I've got the upper layerof railroad dust off my face and hands. You'll be surprised to see howlight-complected I really am when that's over. All right! Heave ahead, Commodore!"

He departed, preceded by Edwards and the suit-case. Stephen Warren threwhimself violently into a chair by the window. Young Dunn laughed aloud. His mother flashed an indignant glance at him, and then hurried toCaroline. 

"You poor dear!" she exclaimed, putting an arm about the girl'sshoulder. "Don't mind us, please don't! Malcolm and I understand. Thatis, we know how you feel and--"

"Oh, but you _don't_ know, Mrs. Dunn, " cried Caroline, almost in tears. "You don't understand! It's so much worse than you think. I--I--Oh, whydid father do it? How could he be so inconsiderate?"

"There! there!" purred the friend of the family. "You mustn't, you know. You really mustn't. Who is this man? This uncle? Where does he comefrom? Why does he force himself upon you in this way? I didn't know yourpoor father had a brother. "

"Neither did we, " growled Stephen, savagely. Malcolm laughed again. 

"What does it all mean, dear?" begged Mrs. Dunn. "You are in trouble, I'm sure. Don't you think we--Malcolm and I--might be able to help you?We should so love to do it. If you feel that you _can_ confide in us;if it isn't a secret--"

She paused expectantly, patting the girl's shoulder. But Caroline hadheard young Dunn's laugh, and was offended and hurt. Her eyes flashed asshe answered. 

"It's nothing, " she said. "He has come to see us on a matter ofbusiness, I believe. I am nervous and--foolish, I suppose. Mr. Graveswill see us soon, and then everything will be arranged. Thank you forcalling, Mrs. Dunn, and for the ride. "

It was a very plain hint, but Mrs. Dunn did not choose to understand itas such. 

"You're sure you hadn't better tell me the whole story, dear?" sheurged. "I am old enough, almost, to be your mother, and perhaps myadvice might. .. . No? Very well. You know best but--You understand thatit is something other than mere curiosity which leads me to ask. "

"Of course, I understand, " said the girl hastily. "Thank you very much. Perhaps, by and by, I can tell you everything. But we must see Mr. Graves first. I--oh, _don't_ ask me more now, Mrs. Dunn. "

The widow of so astute a politician as Mike Dunn had been in his daycould have scarcely failed to profit by his teachings. Moreover, shepossessed talent of her own. With a final pat and a kiss, she preparedfor departure. 

"Good-by, then, " she said, "or rather, _au revoir_. We shall look into-morrow. Come, Malcolm. "

"I say, Mal!" cried Stephen, rising hurriedly. "You won't tell anyoneabout--"

"Steve!" interrupted his sister. 

Malcolm, about to utter a languid sarcasm, caught his mother's look, andremained silent. Another meaning glance, and his manner changed. 

"All right, Steve, old man, " he said. "Good-by and good luck. Caroline, awfully glad we had the spin this afternoon. We must have more. Justwhat you and Steve need. At your service any time. If there is anythingI can do in any way to--er--you understand--call on me, won't you?Ready, Mater?"

The pair were shown out by Edwards. On the way home in the car Mrs. Corcoran Dunn lectured her son severely. 

"Have you no common sense?" she demanded. "Couldn't you see that thegirl would have told me everything if you hadn't laughed, like anidiot?"

The young man laughed again. 

"By Jove!" he exclaimed, "it was enough to make a wooden Indian laugh. The old jay with the barnacles telling us about the advantages of asailor's life. And Steve's face! Ho! ho!"

His mother snorted disgust. "If you had brains, " she declared, "youwould have understood what he meant by saying that the sea was the placeto learn what to unlearn. He was hitting at you. Was it necessary toinsult him the first time you and he exchanged a word?"

"Insult him? _Him?_ Ha, ha! Why, Mater, what's the matter with you? Doyou imagine that a hayseed like that would recognize an insult withoutan introduction? And, besides, what difference does it make? You don'tintend putting him on your calling list, do you?"

"I intend cultivating him for the present. "

"_Cultivating_ him?"

"Yes--for the present. He is Rodgers Warren's brother. That lawyer, Graves, traveled miles to see him. What does that mean? That, in someimportant way, he is connected with the estate and those two children. If the estate is worth anything, and we have reason to believe it is, you and I must know it. If it isn't, it is even more important that weshould know, before we waste more time. If Caroline is an heiress, ifshe inherits even a moderate fortune--"

She shrugged her shoulders by way of finish to the sentence. 

Malcolm whistled. 

"But to think of that old Down-Easter being related to the Warrenfamily!" he mused. "It seems impossible. "

"Nothing is impossible, " observed his mother. Then, with a shudder, "Younever met your father's relatives. I have. "

 * * * * *

When Captain Elisha emerged from his room, after a wash and a changeof linen, he found the library untenanted. He strolled about, his handsbehind him, inspecting the pictures with critical interest. Caroline, dressed for dinner, found him thus engaged. He turned at the sound ofher step. 

"Why, hello!" he cried, with hearty enthusiasm. "All rigged up forinspection, ain't you?"

"Inspection?"

"Oh, that's just sailor's lingo. Means you've got your Sunday uniformon, that's all. My! my! how nice you look! But ain't black pretty oldfor such a young girl?"

"I am in mourning, " replied his niece, coldly. 

"There! there! of course you are. Tut! tut! How could I forget it. Yousee, I've been so many years feelin' as if I didn't have a brother thatI've sort of got used to his bein' gone. "

"I have not. " Her eyes filled as she said it. The captain was greatlymoved. 

"I'm a blunderin' old fool, my dear, " he said. "I beg your pardon. Dotry to forgive me, won't you? And, perhaps--perhaps I can make up yourloss to you, just a little mite. I'd like to. I'll try to, if--"

He laid a hand on her shoulder. She avoided him and, moving away, seatedherself in a chair at the opposite side of the desk. The avoidance wasso obvious as to be almost brutal. Captain Elisha looked very grave foran instant. Then he changed the subject. 

"I was lookin' at your oil paintin's, " he said. "They're pretty fine, ain't they? Any of them your work, Caroline?"

"_My_ work?" The girl's astonishment was so great that she turned tostare at her questioner. "_My_ work?" she repeated. "Are you joking? Youcan't think that I painted them. "

"I didn't know but you might. That one over there, with the trees andfolks dancin'--sort of picnic scene, I judge--that looks as if you mighthave done it. "

"That is a Corot. "

"'Tis, hey? I want to know! A--a--what did you call it?"

"A Corot. He was a famous French artist. That was father's favoritepicture. "

"Sho! Well, I like it fust-rate myself. Did 'Bije--did your father knowthis Mr. Corot well?"

"Know him? Certainly not. Why should you think such a thing as that?"

"Well, he bought the picture of him, and so I s'pose likely he knew him. There was a young feller come to South Denboro three or four yearago and offered to paint a picture of our place for fifteen dollars. Abbie--that's Abbie Baker, she's one of our folks, you know, your thirdcousin, Caroline; keepin' house for me, she is--Abbie wanted me to havehim do the job, but I wa'n't very particular about it, so it never cometo nothin'. He done two or three places, though, and I swan 'twas nicework! He painted Sam Cahoon's old ramshackle house and barn, and you'dhardly know it, 'twas so fixed up and fine, in the picture. White paintand green grass and everything just like real. He left out the placeswhere the pickets was off the fence and the blinds hangin' on one hinge. I told Abbie, I says, 'Abbie, that painter's made Sam's place lookalmost respectable, and if that ain't a miracle, I don't know what is. I would think Sam would blush every time he sees that picture. ' Ho, ho!Abbie seemed to cal'late that Sam Cahoon's blushin' would be the biggestmiracle of the two. Ho! ho! You'd like Abbie; she's got lots of commonsense. "

He chuckled at the reminiscence and rubbed his knee. His niece made noreply. Captain Elisha glanced at the Corot once more and asked anotherquestion. 

"I presume likely, " he said, "that that picture cost consider'ble morethan fifteen, hey?"

"Father paid twenty-two thousand dollars for it, " was the crushinganswer. 

The captain looked at her, opened his mouth to speak, shut it again, and, rising, walked across the room. Adjusting his glasses, he inspectedthe Corot in silence for a few minutes. Then he drew a long breath. 

"Well!" he sighed. "_Well_. " Then, after an interval, "Was this the onlyone he ever painted?"

"The only one? The only picture Corot painted? Of course not! There aremany more. "

"Did--did this Corot feller get as much for every job as he did forthis?"

"I presume so. I know father considered this one a bargain. "

"Did, hey? Humph! I ought to know enough by this time not to believe allI hear, but I kind of had an idea that picture paintin' was starvationwork. I've read about artists committin' suicide, and livin' in attics, and such. Whew! About two such bargain sale jobs as this, andI'd guarantee not to starve--and to live as nigh the ground as asecond-floor bedroom anyhow. How about this next one? This feller in adory--coddin', I guess he is. Did--did Mr. Corot do him?"

"No. That is by a well-known American artist. It is a good piece ofwork, but not like the other. It is worth much less. Perhaps fivethousand. "

"So? Well, even for that I'd undertake to buy consider'ble many dories, and hire fellers to fish from 'em, too. Humph! I guess I'm out ofsoundin's. When I thought fifteen dollars was a high price for paintin'a view of a house I was slightly mistaken. Next time I'll offer thepaintin' feller the house and ask him what he considers a fair boot, besides. Sam Cahoon's a better speculator than I thought he was. Hello, Commodore! what's worryin' you now?"

Edwards appeared to announce that dinner was served. Caroline roseand led the way to the dining room. Captain Elisha followed, lookingcuriously about him as he did so. Stephen, who had been sulkily dressingin his own room, entered immediately after. 

The captain surveyed the dining room with interest. Like the othersof the suite, it was sumptuously and tastefully furnished. He took thechair indicated by the solemn Edwards, and the meal began. 

The butler's sense of humor was not acute, but it was with considerabledifficulty that he restrained his smiles during the next half hour. Amore appreciative observer would have noticed and enjoyed the subtlerpoints. Stephen's glare of disgust at his uncle when the latter tuckedhis napkin in the opening of his waistcoat; Caroline's embarrassmentwhen the captain complimented the soup, declaring that it was almostas good as one of Abbie's chowders; the visitor's obvious uneasiness atbeing waited upon attentively, and the like. These Edwards missed, buthe could not help appreciating Captain Elisha's conversation. 

Caroline said little during dinner. Her brother glowered at his plateand was silent. But the captain talked and talked. 

"Maybe you think I didn't have a time findin' your new lodgin's, "he said. "I come over on the cars, somethin' I don't usually do whenthere's anything afloat to carry me. But I had an errand or two to doin Boston, so I stopped over night at the hotel there and got the nineo'clock train. I landed here in New York all shipshape and on time, andstarted in to hunt you up. "

"How did you get our address?" asked his niece. "Mr. Graves couldn'thave given it to you, for we only decided on this apartment a few daysago. "

"Ho! ho!" chuckled Captain Elisha, rolling in his chair, like a ship ina cross sea. "Ho! ho! You remind me of Abbie, Caroline. That's what shesaid. 'I never heard of such a crazy cruise, ' she says. 'Startin' offto visit folks when you haven't the least idea where they live!' 'Oh, yes, I have, ' I says, 'I know where they live; they live in New York. 'Well, you ought to have seen her face. Abbie's a good woman--nonebetter--but she generally don't notice a joke until she trips over it. I get consider'ble fun out of Abbie, take her by the large. 'New York!'she says. 'Did anybody ever hear the beat of that? Do you cal'late NewYork's like South Denboro, where everybody knows everybody else? Whatare you plannin' to do? run up the fust man, woman or child you meet andask 'em to tell you where 'Bijah Warren lives? Or are you goin' to trotfrom Dan to Beersheby, trustin' to meet your nephew and niece on theway? I never in my born days!'

"Well, " went on the captain, "I told her that the last suggestionweren't such a bad one, but there was one little objection to it. Considerin' that I hadn't ever laid eyes on Steve and that I hadn't seenyou since you was a baby, the chances was against my recognizin' youif we did meet. Ho, ho, ho! Finally I hinted that I might look in thedirectory, and she got more reconciled to my startin'. Honest, I dobelieve she'd have insisted on takin' me by the hand and leadin' me toyou, if I hadn't told her that. 

[Illustration: "The captain talked and talked. "]

"So I did look in the directory and got the number on Fifth Avenue whereyou used to be. I asked a policeman the nighest way to get there, andhe said take a bus. Last time I was in New York I rode in one of thoseFifth Avenue omnibuses, and I never got such a jouncin' in my life. The pavement then was round cobble stones, like some of the roadsin Nantucket. I remember I tried to ask a feller that set next to mesomethin' or other, and I swan to man I couldn't get nothin' out of mymouth but rattles. 'Metropolitan Museum, ' sounded like puttin' in a tonof coal. I thought I was comin' apart, or my works was out of order, orsomethin', but when the feller tried to answer he rattled just as bad, so I realized 'twas the reg'lar disease and felt some better. I nevershall forget a fleshy woman--somethin' like that Mrs. Dunn friend ofyours, Caroline--that set opposite me. It give me the crawls to look ather, her chins shook around so. Ho! ho! she had no less'n three of 'em, and they all shook different ways. Ho! ho! ho! If I'd been in the habitof wearin' false hair or teeth or anything that wa'n't growed to orbuttoned on me I'd never have risked a trip in one of those omnibuses. 

"So when the police officer prescribed one for me this v'yage, I wassome dubious. I'm older'n I was ten year ago, and I wa'n't sure that I'dhold together. I cal'lated walkin' was better for my health. So I foundFifth Avenue and started to walk. And the farther I walked the heavierthat blessed satchel of mine got. It weighed maybe ten or twelve poundsat the corner of 42nd Street, but when I got as far as the open squarewhere the gilt woman is hurryin' to keep from bein' run over by Gen'ralSherman on horseback--that statue, you know--I wouldn't have let thatblessed bag go for less'n two ton, if I was sellin' it by weight. SoI leaned up against an electric light pole to rest and sort of get mybearin's. Then I noticed what I'd ought to have seen afore, that thestreet wa'n't paved with cobbles, as it used to be, but was smooth asa stretch of state road down home. So I figgered that a bus was a saferisk, after all. I waited ten minutes or more for one to come, andfinally I asked a woman who was in tow of an astrakhan-trimmed dog atthe end of a chain, if the omnibuses had stopped runnin'. When I fustsee the dog leadin' her I thought she was blind, but I guess shewas deef and dumb instead. Anyhow, all she said was 'Ugh!' not veryenthusiastic, at that, and went along. Ho! ho! So then I asked a man, and he pointed to a bus right in front of me. You see, I was lookin' forthe horses, same as they used to be, and this was an automobile. 

"I blushed, I guess, just to show that there was some red underneaththe green, and climbed aboard the omnibus. I rode along for a spell, admirin' as much of the scenery as I could see between the women's hats, then I told the skipper of the thing that I wanted to make port at 82ndStreet. He said 'Ugh, ' apparently suff'rin' from the same complaint thedog woman had, and we went on and on. At last I got kind of anxious andasked him again. 

"'Eighty-second!' says he, ugly. 'This is Ninety-first. '

"'Good land!' says I. 'I wanted Eighty-second. '

"'Why didn't you say so?' says he, lookin' as if I'd stole his mother'sspoons. 

"'I did, ' says I. 

"'You _did_?' he snarls. 'You did not! If you did, wouldn't I have heardyou?'

"Well, any answer I'd be likely to make to that would have meant moreargument, and the bus was sailin' right along at the time, so I piledout and did some more walkin', the other way. At last I reached your oldnumber, Stevie, and--Hey? Did you speak?"

"Don't call me 'Stevie, '" growled his nephew, rebelliously. 

"Beg your pardon. I keep forgettin' that you're almost grown up. Well, as I was sayin', I got to the house where you used to live, and 'twasshut tight. Nobody there. Ho! ho! I felt a good deal like old BeriahDoane must have on his last 'vacation. ' You see, Beriah is one of ourSouth Denboro notorieties; he's famous in his way. He works and loafsby spells until cranberry pickin' time in the fall; then he picks steadyand earns thirty or forty dollars all at once. Soon's he's paid off, hestarts for Boston on a 'vacation, ' an alcoholic one. Well, last fallhis married sister was visitin' him, and she, bein' strong for goodTemplarism, was determined he shouldn't vacate in his regular way. Soshe telegraphed her husband's brother in Brockton to meet Beriah there, go with him to Boston, and see that he behaved himself and stayed sober. Beriah heard of it, and when his train gets as far as Tremont what doeshe do but get off quiet and change cars for New Bedford. He hadn't beenthere for nine years, but he had pleasant memories of his last visit. And when he does get to New Bedford, chucklin' over the way he'sbefooled his sister and her folks, I'm blessed if he didn't find thatthe town had gone no-license, and every saloon was shut up! Ho! ho! ho!Well, I felt about the way he did, I guess, when I stood on the stepsof your Fifth Avenue house and realized you'd gone away. I wouldn't havehad Abbie see me there for somethin'. Ho! ho!"

He leaned back in his chair and laughed aloud. Caroline smiled faintly. Stephen threw down his napkin and sprang to his feet. 

"Sis, " he cried, "I'm going to my room. By gad! I can't--"

Catching a warning glance from his sister, he did not finish hissentence, but stood sulkily beside his chair. Captain Elisha looked athim, then at the girl, and stopped laughing. He folded his napkin withcare, and rose. 

"That's about all of it, " he said, shortly. "I asked around at two orthree of the neighbors' houses, and the last one I asked knew whereyou'd moved and told me how to get here. "

When the trio were again in the library, the captain spoke once more. 

"I'm 'fraid I've talked too much, " he said, gravely. "I didn't realizehow I was runnin' on. Thought I was home, I guess, with the fellers ofmy own age down at the postoffice, instead of bein' an old countryman, tirin' out you two young city folks with my yarns. I beg your pardon. Now you mustn't mind me. I see you're expectin' company or goin' callin'somewheres, so I'll just go to my bedroom and write Abbie a line. She'llbe kind of anxious to know if I got here safe and sound and found you. Don't worry about me, I'll be comf'table and busy. "

He turned to go. Caroline looked at him in surprise. "We are notexpecting callers, " she said. "And certainly we are not going outto-night. Why should you think such a thing?"

It was her uncle's turn to show surprise. 

"Why, " he said, with a glance at Stephen, "I see that you're all dressedup, and so I thought, naturally--"

He paused. 

Young Warren grunted contemptuously. 

"We dressed for dinner, that is all, " said Caroline. 

"You--you mean you put these clothes on every night?"

"Certainly. "

Captain Elisha was plainly very much astonished. 

"Well, " he observed, slowly. "I--guess I've made another mistake. Hum!Good night. "

"Good night, " said Stephen, quickly. Caroline, however, seemedembarrassed. 

"Captain Warren, " she said, "I thought possibly you might wish to talkbusiness with my brother and me. We--we understand that you have comeon business connected with father's will. It seems to me that the soonerwe--we--"

"Get it over the better, hey? Well, maybe you're right. It's an oddbusiness for an old salt like me to be mixed up in, that's a fact. If ithadn't been so odd, if I hadn't thought there must be some reason, somepartic'lar reason, I--well, I guess I'd have stayed to home where Ibelong. You mustn't think, " he added, seriously, "that I don't realizeI'm as out of place amongst you and your rich friends as a live fish ina barrel of sawdust. That's all right; you needn't trouble to say no. But you must understand that, realizin' it, I'm not exactly imposin'myself on you for pleasure or--well, from choice. I'm so built that Ican't shirk when my conscience tells me I shouldn't, that's all. I'mkind of tired to-night, and I guess you are. To-morrow mornin', if it'sagreeable to all hands, we will have a little business talk. I'll haveto see Lawyer Graves pretty soon, and have a gen'ral look at your pa'saffairs. Then, if everything is all right and I feel my duty's done, I'll probably go back to the Cape and leave you to him, or somebody elseable to look out for you. Until then I'm afraid, " with a smile which hada trace of bitterness in it; "I'm afraid you'll have to do the best youcan with me. I'll try to be no more of a nuisance than I can help. Goodnight. "

When the two young people were left alone, Caroline turned to herbrother. 

"Steve, " she said, "I'm afraid you were a little rude. I'm afraid youhurt his feelings. "

The boy stared at her in wonder. "Hurt his feelings!" he exclaimed. "_His_ feelings! Well, by Jove! Caro, you're a wonder! Did you expect meto throw my arms around his neck? If he had had any feelings at all, ifhe was the slightest part of a gentleman, do you suppose he would comehere and disgrace us as he is doing? Who invited him? Did we? I guessnot!"

"But he is father's brother, and father asked him to come. "

"No, he didn't. He asked him--heaven knows why--to look out for ourmoney affairs. That's bad enough; but he didn't ask him to _live_ withus. He sha'n't! by gad, he sha'n't! _You_ may be as sweet to him as youlike, but I'll make it my business to give him the cold shoulder everychance I get. I'll freeze him out, that's what I'll do--freeze him out. Why, Caro! be sensible. Think what his staying here means. Can we takehim about with us? Can our friends meet _him_ as--as our uncle? He's gotto be made to go. Hasn't he now? Hasn't he?"

The girl was silent for a moment. Then she covered her face with herhands. "Oh, yes!" she sobbed. "Oh, yes, he must! he _Must_! _Why_ didfather do it?"

CHAPTER V

The Warren breakfast hour was nine o'clock. At a quarter to nineCaroline, entering the library, found Stephen seated by the fire readingthe morning paper. 

"Good morning, " she said. Then, looking about the room, asked, "Has--has_he_ been here?"

Her brother shook his head. "You mean Uncle 'Lish?" he asked, cheerfully. "No, he hasn't. At least, I haven't seen him and I haven'tmade any inquiries. I shall manage to survive if he never appears. Letsleeping relatives lie, that's my motto. "

He laughed at his own joke and turned the page of the paper. The butlerentered. 

"Breakfast is served, Miss Caroline, " he announced. 

"Has Captain Warren come from his room?" asked the young lady. 

"No, Miss Caroline. That is, I haven't seen him. "

Stephen tossed the paper on the floor and rose. 

"I wonder--" he began. Then, with a broad grin, "A sudden thoughtstrikes me, Sis. He has undoubtedly blown out the gas. "

"Steve! How can you!"

"Perfectly simple. Absolutely reasonable. Just what might have beenexpected. 'He has gone, but we shall miss him. ' Come on, Caro; I'mhungry. Let the old hayseed sleep. You and I can have a meal in peace. Heavens! you don't care for another experience like last night's, doyou?"

"Edwards, " said Caroline, "you may knock at Captain Warren's door andtell him breakfast is served. "

"Yes, " commanded Stephen, "and tell him not to hurry on our account. Come, Caro, come! You're not pining for his society. Well, wait then!_I_ won't!"

He marched angrily out of the room. His sister hesitated, her wishto follow complicated by a feeling of duty to a guest, no matter howunwelcome. The butler reappeared, looking puzzled. 

"He's not there, miss?" he said. 

"Not there? Not in his room?"

"No, Miss Caroline. I knocked, and he didn't answer, so I looked in andhe wasn't there. His bed's been slept in, but he's gone. "

"Gone? And you haven't seen him?"

"No, miss. I've been up and about since half past seven, and I can'tunderstand where he could have got to. "

The door of the hall opened and shut. Edwards darted from the library. A moment afterwards Captain Elisha strolled in. He was wearing hisovercoat, and his hat was in his hand. 

"Good mornin', Caroline, " he hailed, in his big voice. "Surprised to seeme, are you? Ho! ho! So was the Commodore. He couldn't understand howI got in without ringin'. Well, you see, I'm used to turnin' out prettyearly, and when it got to be most seven o'clock, I couldn't lay to bedany longer, so I got up, dressed, and went for a walk. I fixed the doorlatch so's I could come in quiet. You haven't waited breakfast for me, Ihope. "

"No; it is ready now, however. "

"Ready now, " the captain looked at his watch. "Yes, I should think so. It's way into the forenoon. You _have_ waited for me, haven't you? I'mawfully sorry. "

"No, we have not waited. Our breakfast hour is nine. Pardon me forneglecting to tell you that last evening. "

"Oh, that's all right. Now you trot right out and eat. I've had mine. "

"Had your breakfast?"

"Yes, indeed. When I'm home, Abbie and I usually eat about seven, so Iget sort of sharp-set if I wait after that. I cal'lated you city folkswas late sleepers, and I wouldn't want to make any trouble, so I founda little eatin' house down below here a ways and had a cup of coffee andsome bread and butter and mush. Then I went cruisin' round in CentralPark a spell. This _is_ Central Park over across here, ain't it?"

"Yes. " The girl was too astonished to say more. 

"I thought 'twas. I'd been through part of it afore, but 'twas yearsago, and it's such a big place and the paths run so criss-cross I gotsort of mixed up, and it took me longer to get out than it did to getin. I had the gen'ral points of the compass, and I guess I could havemade a pretty average straight run for home, but every time I wanted tocut across lots there was a policeman lookin' at me, so I had to stickto the channel. That's what made me so late. Now do go and eat yourbreakfast. I won't feel easy till I see you start. "

Caroline departed, and the captain, after a visit to his own room, wherehe left his coat and hat, returned to the library, picked up the paperwhich his nephew had dropped, and began reading. 

After breakfast came the "business talk. " It was a brief one. CaptainElisha soon discovered that his brother's children knew very littleconcerning their father's affairs. They had always plenty of money, hadbeen indulged in practically every wish, and had never had to think orplan for themselves. As to the size of the estate, they knew nothingmore than Mr. Graves had told them, which was that, instead of theseveral millions which rumor had credited A. Rodgers Warren withpossessing, five hundred thousand dollars would probably be the extentof their inheritance, and that, therefore, they must live economically. As a first step in that direction, they had given up their former homeand moved to the apartment. 

"Yes, yes, " mused the captain, "I see. Mr. Graves didn't know about yourmovin', then? You did it on your own hook, so to speak?"

Stephen answered promptly. 

"Of course we did, " he declared. "Why not?"

"No reason in the world. A good sensible thing to do, I should say. Didn't anybody advise you where to go?"

"Why should we need advice?" Again it was Stephen who replied. "Wearen't kids. We're old enough to decide some things for ourselves, Ishould think. "

"Yes. Sartin. That's right. But I didn't know but p'raps some of yourfriends might have helped along. This Mrs. Dunn now, she kind of hintedto me that she'd--well, done what she could to make you comf'table. "

"She has, " avowed Caroline, warmly. "Mrs. Dunn and Malcolm have provedtheir friendship in a thousand ways. We never can repay them, Stephenand I, never!"

"No. There's some things you can't ever pay, I know that. Mrs. Dunnfound this nice place for you, did she?"

"Why, yes. She and I found it together. "

"So? That was lucky, wa'n't it? Advertised in the newspaper, was it; orwas there a 'To Let' placard up in the window?"

"No, certainly not. Mrs. Dunn knew that we had decided to move, and shehas a cousin who is interested in New York property. She asked him, andhe mentioned this apartment. "

"One of his own, was it?"

"I believe so. Why are you so particular? Don't you like it?"

Her tone was sharp. Stephen, who resented his uncle's questions asimpertinent intrusions upon the family affairs, added one of his own. 

"Isn't it as good as those in--what do you call it--South Denboro?" heasked, maliciously. 

Captain Elisha laughed heartily. 

"Pretty nigh as good, " he said. "I didn't notice any better on the wayto the depot as I drove up. And I doubt if there's many new ones builtsince I left. It's a mighty fine lot of rooms, I think. What's the rent?You'll excuse my askin', things bein' as they are. "

"Twenty-two hundred a year, " answered his niece, coldly. 

The captain looked at her, whistled, broke off the whistle in themiddle, and did a little mental arithmetic. 

"Twenty-two hundred a year!" he repeated. "That's one hundred andeighty odd a month. Say, that cousin of Mrs. Dunn's must want to get hisinvestment back. You mean for just these ten rooms?"

Stephen laughed scornfully. 

"Our guardian has been counting, Caro, " he remarked. 

"Yes. Yes, I counted this mornin' when I got up. I was interested, naturally. "

"Sure! Naturally, of course, " sneered the boy. "Did you think thetwenty-two hundred was the rent of the entire building?"

"Well, I didn't know. I--"

"The rent, " interrupted Caroline, with dignity, "was twenty-fourhundred, but, thanks to Mrs. Dunn, who explained to her cousin that wewere friends of hers, it was reduced. "

"We being in reduced circumstances, " observed her brother in supremedisgust. "Pity the poor orphans! By gad!"

"That was real nice of Mrs. Dunn, " declared Captain Elisha, heartily. "She's pretty well-off herself, I s'pose--hey, Caroline?"

"I presume so. "

"Yes, yes. About how much is she wuth, think?"

"I don't know. I never inquired. "

"No. Well, down our way, " with a chuckle, "we don't have to inquire. Askanybody you meet what his next door neighbor's wuth, and he'll tell youwithin a hundred, and how he got it, and how much he owes, and how hegets along with his wife. Ho! ho! Speakin' of wives, is this Mr. Dunnmarried?"

He looked at his niece as he asked the question. There was no reason whyCaroline should blush; she knew it, and hated herself for doing it. 

"No, " she answered, resentfully, "he is not. "

"Um-hm. What's his business?"

"He is connected with a produce exchange house, I believe. "

"One of the firm?"

"I don't know. In New York we are not as well posted, or as curious, concerning our friends' private affairs as your townspeople seem to be. "

"I guess that's so. I imagine New Yorkers are too busy gettin' itthemselves to bother whether their neighbors have got it or not. Well, "he went on, rising, "I guess I've kept you young folks from your workor--or play, or whatever you was going to do, long enough for this once. I think I'll go out for a spell. I've got an errand or two I want to do. What time do you have dinner?"

"We lunch at half past one, " answered Caroline. 

"We dine at seven. "

"Oh, yes, yes! I keep forgettin' that supper's dinner. Well, I presumelikely I'll be back for luncheon. If I ain't, don't wait for me. I'll behome afore supper--there I go again!--afore dinner, anyhow. Good-by. "

Five minutes later he was at the street corner, inquiring of a policeman"the handiest way to get to Pine Street. " Following the directionsgiven, he boarded a train at the nearest subway station, emerged at WallStreet, inquired once more, located the street he was looking for, and, consulting a card which he took from a big stained leather pocket-book, walked on, peering at the numbers of the buildings he passed. 

The offices of Sylvester, Kuhn, and Graves, were on the sixteenth floorof a new and gorgeously appointed sky-scraper. When Captain Elishaentered the firm's reception room, he was accosted by a wide-awake andextremely self-possessed office boy. 

"Who'd you want to see?" asked the boy, briskly. 

The captain removed his hat and wiped his forehead with hishandkerchief. 

"Hold on a jiffy, Sonny, " he panted. "Just give me a minute to sort ofget myself together, as you might say. I rode up in one of those expresselevators of yours, and I kind of feel as if my boots had got tangled upwith my necktie. When that elevator feller cast off from the cellar, Ibegun to shut up like a spyglass. Whew! Say, Son, is Mr. Graves in?"

"No, " replied the boy, grinning. 

"Hum! Still in the sick bay, is he--hey?"

"He's to home. Got a cold. "

"Yup. It's too bad. Mr. --er--Sylvester, is he in?"

"Naw, he ain't. And Mr. Kuhn's busy. Won't one of the clerks do? What doyou want to see the firm about?"

"Well, Son, I had reasons of my own. However, I guess I won't disturbMr. Kuhn, if he's busy's you say. Here! you tell him, or Mr. Sylvesterwhen he comes, that Cap'n Warren, Cap'n Elisha Warren of SouthDenboro--better write it down--called and will be back about half pasttwelve or thereabouts. Got it, have you? Hum! is that Elisha? You don'ttell me! I've been spellin' it for sixty years, more or less, and neverrealized it had such possibilities. Lend me your pencil. There! you giveMr. Sylvester that and tell him I'll see him later. So long, Son. "

He departed, smiling. The indignant office boy threw the card on thetable. 

Captain Elisha strolled down Pine Street, looking about him withinterest. It had been years since he visited this locality, and thechanges were many. Soon, however, he began to recognize familiarlandmarks. He was approaching the water front, and there were fewer newbuildings. When he reached South Street he was thoroughly at home. 

The docks were crowded. The river was alive with small craft of allkinds. Steamers and schooners were plenty, but the captain missed theold square-riggers, the clipper ships and barks, such as he had sailedin as cabin boy, as foremast hand, and, later, commanded on many seas. 

At length, however, he saw four masts towering above the roof of afreight house. They were not schooner rigged, those masts. The yardswere set square across, and along them were furled royals and uppertopsails. Here, at last, was a craft worth looking at. Captain Elishacrossed the street, hurried past the covered freight house, and saw amagnificent great ship lying beside a broad open wharf. Down the wharfhe walked, joyfully, as one who greets an old friend. 

The wharf was practically deserted. An ancient watchman was dozing ina sort of sentry box, but he did not wake. There was a pile offoreign-looking crates and boxes at the further end of the pier, evidently the last bit of cargo waiting to be carted away. The captaininspected the pile, recognized the goods as Chinese and Japanese, thenread the name on the big ship's stern. She was the _Empress of theOcean_, and her home port was Liverpool. 

Captain Elisha, as a free-born Yankee skipper, had an inherited andcherished contempt for British "lime-juicers, " but he could not helpadmiring this one. To begin with, her size and tonnage were enormous. Also, she was four-masted, instead of the usual three, and her hull andlower spars were of steel instead of wood. A steel sailing vessel wassomething of a novelty to the captain, and he was seized with a desireto go aboard and inspect. 

The ladder from ship to wharf was down, of course, and getting on boardwas an easy matter. When he reached the deck and looked about him, thegreat size of the ship was still more apparent. The bulwarks were ashigh as a short man's head. She was decked over aft, and, as the captainsaid afterwards, "her cabins had nigh as many stories as a house. "From the roof of the "first story, " level with the bulwarks, extendeda series of bridges, which could be hoisted or lowered, and by means ofwhich her officers could walk from stern to bow without descending tothe deck. There was a good-sized engine house forward, beyond the galleyand forecastle. Evidently the work of hoisting anchors and canvas wasdone by steam. 

The captain strolled about, looking her over. The number of improvementssince his seagoing days was astonishing. He was standing by the wheel, near the companion way, wishing that he might inspect the officers'quarters, but not liking to do so without an invitation, when two menemerged from the cabin. 

One of the pair was evidently the Japanese steward of the ship. Theother was a tall, clean-cut young fellow, whose general appearance andlack of sunburn showed quite plainly that he was not a seafaring manby profession. The steward caught sight of Captain Elisha, and, walkingover, accosted him. 

"Want to see skipper, sir?" he asked, in broken English. "He ashore. "

"No, Doctor, " replied the captain, cheerfully. "I don't want to seehim. I've got no business aboard. It's been some time since I trod thequarter-deck of a square-rigger, and I couldn't resist the temptationof tryin' how the planks felt under my feet. This is consider'ble of aclipper you've got here, " he added. 

"Yes, sir, " replied the steward grinning. 

"Where you from?" asked Captain Elisha. 

"Singapore, sir. "

"Cargo all out?"

"Yes, sir. "

"Waitin' for another one?"

"Yes, sir. We load for Manila bimeby. "

"Manila, hey? Have a good passage across?"

"Yes, sir. She good ship. "

"Shouldn't wonder. How d'ye do, sir, " to the young man, who was standingnear. "Hope you won't think I'm crowdin' in where I don't belong. I wasjust tellin' the doctor here that it had been some time since I trod aquarter-deck, and I thought I'd see if I'd forgot the feel. "

"Have you?" asked the young man, smiling. 

"Guess not. Seems kind of nat'ral. I never handled such a whale of acraft as this, though. Didn't have many of 'em in my day. Come over inher, did you?"

"No, " with a shake of the head. "No such luck. I'm a land lubber, justscouting round, that's all. She's a bully vessel, isn't she?"

"Looks so. Tell you better after I've seen what she could do in afull-sail breeze. All hands ashore, Doctor?"

"Yes, sir, " replied the steward. 

"Crew paid off and spendin' their money, I s'pose. Well, if it ain'tagainst orders, I'd kind of like to look around a little mite. May I?"

The steward merely grinned. His companion answered for him. 

"Certainly you may, " he said. "I'm a friend of one of the consignees, and I'd be glad to show you the ship, if you like. Shall we begin withthe cabins?"

Captain Elisha, delighted with the opportunity, expressed his thanks, and the tour of inspection began. The steward remained on deck, but thecaptain and his new acquaintance strolled through the officers' quarterstogether. 

"Jerushy!" exclaimed the former, as he viewed the main cabin. "Say, youcould pretty nigh have a dance here, couldn't you? A small one. Thisreminds me of the cabin aboard the _Sea Gull_, first vessel I went mateof--it's so diff'rent. Aboard her we had to walk sittin' down. Therewa'n't room in the cabin for more'n one to stand up at a time. But shecould sail, just the same--and carry it, too. I've seen her off the Hornwith studdin' sails set, when craft twice her length and tonnage hadeverything furled above the tops'l yard. Hi hum! you mustn't mind an oldsalt runnin' on this way. I've been out of the pickle tub a good while, but I cal'late the brine ain't all out of my system. "

His guide's eyes snapped. 

"I understand, " he said, laughing. "I've never been at sea, on a longvoyage, in my life, but I can understand just how you feel. It's inmy blood, I guess. I come of a salt water line. My people were fromBelfast, Maine, and every man of them went to sea. "

"Belfast, hey? They turned out some A No. 1 sailors in Belfast. I sailedunder a Cap'n Pearson from there once--James Pearson, his name was. "

"He was my great uncle. I was named for him. My name is James Pearson, also. "

"_What_?" Captain Elisha was hugely delighted. "Mr. Pearson, shakehands. I want to tell you that your Uncle Jim was a seaman of the kindyou dream about, but seldom meet. I was his second mate three v'yages. My name's Elisha Warren. "

Mr. Pearson shook hands and laughed, good-humoredly. 

"Glad to meet you, Captain Warren, " he said. "And I'm glad you knewUncle Jim. As a youngster, he was my idol. He could spin yarns that wereworth listening to. "

"I bet you! He'd seen things wuth yarnin' about. So you ain't a sailor, hey? Livin' in New York?"

The young man nodded. "Yes, " he said. Then, with a dry smile, "If youcall occupying a hall bedroom and eating at a third-rate boarding-housetable living. However, it's my own fault. I've been a newspaper mansince I left college. But I threw up my job six months ago. Since thenI've been free-lancing. "

"Have, hey?" The captain was too polite to ask further questions, but hehad not the slightest idea what "free-lancing" might be. Pearson divinedhis perplexity and explained. 

"I've had a feeling, " he said, "that I might write magazine articles andstories--yes, possibly a novel or two. It's a serious disease, butthe only way to find out whether it's chronic or not is to experiment. That's what I'm doing now. The thing I'm at work on may turn out to bea sea story. So I spend some time around the wharves and aboard the fewsailing ships in port, picking up material. "

Captain Elisha patted him on the back. 

"Now don't you get discouraged, " he said. "I used to have an idea thatnovel writin' and picture paintin' was poverty jobs for men with healthyappetites, but I've changed my mind. I don't know's you'll believe it, but I've just found out, for a fact, that some painters get twenty-twothousand dollars for one picture. For _one_, mind you. And a little miteof a thing, too, that couldn't have cost scarcely anything to paint. Maybe novels sell for just as much. _I_ don't know. "

His companion laughed heartily. "I'm afraid not, Captain, " he said. "Few, at any rate. I should be satisfied with considerably less, tobegin with. Are you living here in town?"

"Well--we-ll, I don't know. I ain't exactly livin', and I ain't exactlyboardin', but--Say! ain't that the doctor callin' you?"

It was the steward, and there was an anxious ring in his voice. Pearsonexcused himself and hurried out of the cabin. Captain Elisha lingeredfor a final look about. Then he followed leisurely, becoming aware, ashe reached the open air, of loud voices in angry dialogue. 

Entrances to the _Empress of the Ocean's_ cabins were on the main deck, and also on the raised half-deck at the stern, near the wheel, thebinnacle and the officers' corned-beef tubs, swinging in their frames. From this upper deck two flights of steps led down to the main deckbelow. At the top of one of these flights stood young Pearson, cool andalert. Behind him half crouched the Japanese steward, evidently verymuch frightened. At the foot of the steps were grouped three roughlooking men, foreigners and sailors without doubt, and partiallyintoxicated. The three men were an ugly lot, and they were all yellingand jabbering together in a foreign lingo. As the captain emergedfrom the passage to the open deck, he heard Pearson reply in the samelanguage. 

"What's the matter?" he asked. 

Pearson answered without turning his head. 

"Drunken sailors, " he explained. "Part of the crew here. They've beenuptown, got full, and come back to square a grudge they seem to haveagainst the steward. I'm telling them they'd better give up and goashore, if they know when they're well off. "

The three fellows by the ladder's foot were consulting together. On thewharf were half a dozen loungers, collected by the prospect of a row. 

"If I can hold them off for a few minutes, " went on Pearson, "we'll beall right. The wharf watchman has gone for the police. Here! drop it!What are you up to?"

One of the sailors had drawn a knife. The other two reached for theirbelts behind, evidently intending to follow suit. From the loafers onthe wharf came shouts of encouragement. 

"Do the dude up, Pedro! Give him what's comin' to him. "

The trio formed for a rush. The steward, with a shrill scream, fled tothe cabin. Pearson did not move; he even smiled. The next moment he waspushed to one side, and Captain Elisha stood at the top of the steps. 

"Here!" he said, sternly. "What's all this?"

The three sailors, astonished at this unexpected addition to theirenemies forces, hesitated. Pearson laid his hand on the captain's arm. 

"Be careful, " he said. "They're dangerous. "

"Dangerous? Them? I've seen their kind afore. Here, you!" turning to thethree below. "What do you mean by this? Put down that knife, you lubber!Do you want to be put in irons? Over the side with you, you swabs! Git!"

He began descending the ladder. Whether the sailors were merely toosurprised to resist, or because they recognized the authority of thedeep sea in Captain Elisha's voice and face is a question. At any rate, as he descended they backed away. 

"Mutiny on board a ship of mine?" roared the captain. "What do you meanby it? Why, I'll have you tied up and put on bread and water. Over theside with you! Mutiny on board of _me_! Lively! Tumble up there!"

With every order came a stride forward and a correspondingly backwardmovement on the part of the three. The performance would have beenridiculous if Pearson had not feared that it might become tragic. He wasdescending the steps to his new acquaintance's aid, when there rose achorus of shouts from the wharf. 

"The cops! the cops! Look out!"

That was the finishing touch. The next moment the three "mutineers" wereover the side and running as fast as their alcoholic condition wouldpermit down the wharf. 

"Well, by George!" exclaimed Pearson. 

Captain Elisha seemed to be coming out of a dream. He stood still, drewhis hand across his forehead, and then began to laugh. 

"Well!" he stammered. "Well, I snum! I--I--Mr. Pearson, I wonder what onearth you must think of me. I declare the sight of that gang set me backabout twenty years. They--they must have thought I was the new skipper!Did you hear me tell 'em they couldn't mutiny aboard of me? Ho! ho!Well, I am an old idiot!"

Pearson stuck his fist into the palm of his other hand. "I've got it!"he cried. "I knew your name was familiar. Why, you're the mate thathandled the mutinous crew aboard Uncle Jim's bark, the _Pacer_, offMauritius, in the typhoon, when he was hurt and in the cabin. I've heardhim tell it a dozen times. Well, this _is_ a lucky day for me!"

Captain Elisha was evidently pleased. "So he told you that, did he?" hebegan. "That _was_ a time and a half, I--"

He was interrupted. Over the rail appeared a blue helmet, and an instantlater a big and very pompous police officer leaped to the deck. He wasfollowed by the wharf watchman, who looked frightened. 

"Where's the other one of them?" demanded the policeman. "Oh, it's you, is it? Well, you're too old to be gettin' drunk and fightin'. Come alongnow, peaceable, and let's have no words about it. "

He advanced and laid a hand on the captain's arm. 

"You're under arrest, " he announced. "Will you come along quiet?"

"I'm under arrest?" repeated Captain Elisha. "Under--My soul and body!Why, I ain't done anything. "

"Yes, I know. Nobody's done nothin'. Come on, or shall I--Hello, Mr. Pearson, sir! How d'you do?"

Pearson had stepped forward. 

"Slattery, " he said, "you've made a mistake. Let me tell you aboutit. " He drew the officer aside and whispered in his ear. After a ratherlengthy conversation, the guardian of the peace turned to the watchman. 

"What d'you mean by tellin' all them lies?" he demanded. 

"Lies?" repeated the astonished watchman. "I never told no lies. "

"You did. You said this gentleman, " indicating the nervous andapprehensive Captain Elisha, "was fightin' and murderin'. I ask yourpardon, sir. 'Twas this bloke's foolishness. G'wan ashore! You make mesick. Good day, Mr. Pearson. "

He departed, driving his new victim before him and tongue-lashing himall the way. The captain drew a long breath. 

"Say, Mr. Pearson, " he declared, "a minute or so ago you said this wasa lucky day for you. I cal'late it's a luckier one for me. If it hadn'tbeen for you I'd been took up. Yes, sir, took up and carted off to thelockup. Whew! that would have looked well in the papers, wouldn't it?And my niece and nephew. .. . Jerushy! I'm mightily obliged to you. Howdid you handle that policeman so easily?"

Pearson laughed. "Oh, " he replied, "a newspaper training andacquaintance has its advantages. Slattery knows me, and I know him. "

"Well, I thank you, I do so. "

"You needn't. I wouldn't have missed meeting you and seeing you handlethose fellows for a good deal. And besides, you're not going to escapeso easy. You must lunch with me. "

The captain started, hastily pulled out his watch, and looked at it. 

"Quarter to one!" he cried. "And I said I'd be back at that lawyer'soffice at half-past twelve. No, no, Mr. Pearson, I can't go to lunchwith you, but I do wish you'd come and see me some time. My addressfor--for a spell, anyhow--is Central Park West, " giving the number, "andthe name is Warren, same as mine. Will you come some evenin'? I'd betickled to death to see you. "

The young man was evidently delighted. 

"Will I?" he exclaimed. "Indeed I will. I warn you, Captain Warren, thatI shall probably keep you busy spinning sea yarns. "

"Nothin' I like better, though I'm afraid my yarns'll be pretty dullalongside of your Uncle Jim's. "

"I'll risk it. Good-by and good luck. I shall see you very soon. "

"That's right; do. So long. "

CHAPTER VI

The boy, Captain Elisha's acquaintance of the morning, was out, regalinghimself with crullers and milk at a pushcart on Broad Street, when thecaptain returned to the officers of Sylvester, Kuhn and Graves. Theclerk who had taken his place was very respectful. 

"Captain Warren, " he said, "Mr. Sylvester was sorry to miss you. Hewaited until half past twelve and left word for us to telephone if youcame. Our Mr. Graves is still ill, and the matter of your brother'sestate must be discussed without further delay. Please sit down and Iwill telephone. "

The captain seated himself on the leather-covered bench, and the clerkentered the inner office. He returned, a few moments later, to say:

"Mr. Sylvester is at the Central Club. He wished me to ask if you couldconveniently join him there. "

Captain Elisha pondered. "Why, yes, " he replied, slowly, "I s'pose Icould. I don't know why I couldn't. Where is this--er--club of his?"

"On Fifth Avenue, near Fifty-second Street. I'll send one of our boyswith you if you like. "

"No, no! I can pilot myself, I guess. I ain't so old I can't ask myway. Though--" with a reminiscent chuckle--"if the folks I ask are allsufferin' from that 'Ugh' disease, I sha'n't make much headway. "

"What disease?" asked the puzzled clerk. 

"Oh, nothin'. I was just thinkin' out loud, that's all. Mr. Sylvesterwants to see me right off, does he?"

"Yes, he said he would wait if I 'phoned him you were coming. "

"Um-hm. Well, you can tell him I've left the dock, bound in hisdirection. Say, that young chap that was here when I called the fusttime--studyin' to be a lawyer, is he?"

"Who? Tim? No, indeed. He's only the office boy. Why did you ask?"

"Oh, I was just wonderin'. I had a notion he might be in trainin' for ajudgeship, he was so high and mighty. Ho! ho! He's got talent, that boyhas. Nobody but a born genius could have made as many mistakes in onename as he did when he undertook to spell Elisha. Well, sir, I'm muchobliged to you. Good day. "

The Central Club is a ponderous institution occupying a becominglygorgeous building on the Avenue. The captain found his way to its doorwithout much trouble. A brass-buttoned attendant answered his ring andsuperciliously inquired his business. Captain Elisha, not being greatlyin awe of either buttons or brief authority, calmly hailed the attendantas "Gen'ral" and informed him that he was there to see Mr. Sylvester, ifthe latter was "on deck anywheres. "

"Tell him it's Cap'n Warren, Major, " he added cheerfully; "he'sexpectin' me. "

The attendant brusquely ushered the visitor into a leather-upholsteredreception room and left him. The captain amused himself by looking atthe prints and framed letters and autographs on the walls. Then a round, red, pleasant-faced man entered. 

"Pardon me, " he said, "is this Captain Warren?"

"Yes, sir, " was the reply. "That's my name. This is Mr. Sylvester, ain'tit? Glad to know you, sir. "

"Thanks. Sorry to have made you travel way up here, Captain. I waiteduntil twelve-thirty, but as you didn't come then, I gave you up. Hope Ihaven't inconvenienced you. "

"No, no. Not a mite. Might just as well be here as anywhere. Don't thinkanother thing about it. "

"Have you lunched, Captain Warren?"

"No, come to think of it, I ain't. I've been kind of busy this forenoon, and a little thing like dinner--luncheon, I mean--slipped my mind. Though 'tain't often I have those slips, I'm free to say. Ho! ho!Abbie--she's my second cousin, my housekeeper--says I'm an unsartincritter, but there's two things about me she can always count on, one'sthat my clothes have always got a button loose somewheres, and t'other'smy appetite. "

He laughed, and Sylvester laughed with him. 

"Well, " observed the lawyer, "I'm not sure that I couldn't qualify onboth of those counts. At any rate I'm sure of my appetite. I had a lunchengagement with an acquaintance of mine, but he hasn't appeared, so youmust take his place. We'll lunch together. "

"Well, now, I'd like to fust-rate, and it's real kind of you, Mr. Sylvester; but I don't know's I'd better. Your friend may heave insight, after all, and I'd be in the way. "

"Not a bit of it. And I said 'acquaintance, ' not 'friend. ' Of course youwill! You must. We can talk business while we're eating, if you like. "

"All right. And I'm ever so much obliged to you. Is there an eatin'house near here?"

"Oh, we'll eat right here at the club. Come. "

He led the way, and Captain Elisha followed. The Central Club has alarge, exclusive, and wealthy membership, and its quarters correspond. The captain gazed about him at the marble floors and pillars, thepaintings and busts, with interest. After checking his hat and coat, asthey entered the elevator he asked a question. 

"Which floor is your club on, Mr. Sylvester?" he asked. 

"Floor? Why, the dining room is on the fourth, if that's what you mean. "

"No, I meant how many rooms do you rent?"

"We occupy the entire building. It is our own, and a comparatively newone. We built it three years ago. "

"You mean this whole shebang is just one _club_?"

"Certainly. "

"Hum! I see. Well, I--"

"What were you going to say?"

"Nothin'. I was wonderin' what fool thing I'd ask next. I'm more used tolodge rooms than I am to clubs, I guess. I'd like to take home a pictureof this place to Theophilus Kenney. Theoph's been raisin' hob becausethe Odd Fellows built on to their buildin'. He said one room was enoughfor any society. 'Twould be, if we was all his kind of society. Theoph'sso small he could keep house in a closet. He's always hollerin'in meetin' about his soul. I asked the minister if it didn't seemridic'lous for Kenney to make such a big noise over such a little thing. This where we get off?"

The dining room was a large and ornate apartment. Captain Elisha, whenhe first entered it, seemed about to ask another question, but chokedit off and remained silent. Sylvester chose a table in a retired corner, and they sat down. 

"Now, Captain Warren, " said the host, "what will you eat?"

Captain Elisha shook his head. 

"You do the orderin', " he replied dryly; "I'll just set and be thankful, like the hen that found the china doorknob. Anything that suits you willdo me, I guess. "

The lawyer, who seemed to be thoroughly enjoying his companion, gavehis orders, and the waiter brought first a bit of caviar on toast. IfSylvester expected this delicacy to produce astonished comments, he wasdisappointed. 

"Well, well!" exclaimed Captain Elisha. "I declare, you take me back along ways, Mr. Sylvester. Caviar! Well, well! Why, I haven't ate thissince I used to go to Cronstadt. At the American consul's house there wehad it often enough. Has a kind of homey taste even yet. That consul wasa good feller. He and I were great friends. 

"I met him a long spell after that, when I was down in Mexico, " hewent on. "He'd made money and was down on a vacation. My ship was atAcapulco, and he and I used to go gunnin' together, after wild geeseand such. Ho! ho! I remember there was a big, pompous critter of anEnglishman there. Mind you, I'm not talkin' against the English. Some ofthe best men I ever met were English, and I've stood back to back witha British mate on a Genoa wharf when half of Italy was hoppin' aroundmakin' proclamations that they was goin' to swallow us alive. And, somehow or 'nother, they didn't. Took with prophetic indigestion, maybe. 

"However, this Englishman at Acapulco was diff'rent. He was so swelledwith importance that his back hollered in like Cape Cod Bay on the map. His front bent out to correspond, though, so I cal'late he averaged upall right. Well, he heard about what a good--that I was pretty luckywhen it come to shootin' wild geese, and I'm blessed if he didn't sendme orders to get him one for a dinner he was goin' to give. Didn'task--_ordered_ me to do it, you understand. And him nothin' but aconsignee, with no more control over me than the average femaleSunday-school teacher has over a class of boys. Not so much, becauseshe's supposed to have official authority, and he wa'n't. _And_ hedidn't invite me to the dinner. 

"Well, the next time my friend, the ex-consul, and I went out gunnin', I told him of the Englishman's 'orders. ' He was mad. 'What are you goin'to do about it?' he asks. 'Don't know yet, ' says I, 'we'll see. ' By andby we come in sight of one of them long-legged cranes, big birds youknow, standin' fishin' at the edge of some reeds. I up with my gun andshot it. The consul chap looked at me as if I was crazy. 'What in theworld did you kill that fish-basket on stilts for?' he says. 'Son, 'says I, 'your eyesight is bad. That's a British-American goose. Chop offabout three feet of neck and a couple of fathom of hind legs and pickand clean what's left, and I shouldn't wonder if 'twould make a gooddinner for a mutual friend of ours--good _enough_, anyhow. ' Well, sir!that ex-consul set plump down in the mud and laughed and laughed. Ho, ho! Oh, dear me!"

"Did you send it to the Englishman?" asked Sylvester. 

"Oh, yes, I sent it. And, after a good while and in a roundabout way, Iheard that the whole dinner party vowed 'twas the best wild goosethey ever ate. So I ain't sure just who the joke was on. However, I'msatisfied with my end. Well, there! I guess you must think I'm prettytalky on short acquaintance, Mr. Sylvester. You'll have to excuse me;that caviar set me to thinkin' about old times. "

His host was shaking all over. "Go ahead, Captain, " he cried. "Got anymore as good as that?"

But Captain Elisha merely smiled and shook his head. 

"Don't get me started on Mexico, " he observed. "I'm liable to yarnall the rest of the afternoon. Let's see, we was goin' to talk over mybrother's business a little mite, wa'n't we?"

"Why, yes, we should. Now, Captain Warren, just how much do you knowabout your late brother's affairs?"

"Except what Mr. Graves told me, nothin' of importance. And, afore we goany further, let me ask a question. Do _you_ know why 'Bije made me hisexecutor and guardian and all the rest of it?"

"I do not. Graves drew his will, and so, of course, we knew of yourexistence and your appointment. Your brother forbade our mentioning it, but we did not know, until after his death, that his own children wereunaware they had an uncle. It seems strange, doesn't it?"

"It does to me; _so_ strange that I can't see two lengths ahead. Ical'late Mr. Graves told you how I felt about it?"

"Yes. That is, he said you were very much surprised. "

"That's puttin' it mild enough. And did he tell you that 'Bije and Ihadn't seen each other, or even written, in eighteen years?"

"Yes. "

"Um-hm. Well, when you consider _that_, can you wonder I was set allaback? And the more I think of it, the foggier it gets. Why, Mr. Sylvester, it's one of them situations that are impossible, that youcan prove fifty ways _can't_ happen. And yet, it has--it sartinly has. Now tell me: Are you, or your firm, well acquainted with my brother'saffairs?"

"Not well, no. The late Mr. Warren was a close-mouthed man, rathersecretive, in fact. "

"Humph! that bein' one of the p'ints where he was different from hisnighest relation, hey?"

"I'm not so sure. Have you questioned the children?"

"Caroline and Steve? Yes, I've questioned 'em more than they think Ihave, maybe. And they know--well, leavin' out about the price of oilpaintin's and the way to dress and that it's more or less of a disgraceto economize on twenty thousand a year, their worldly knowledge ain'ttoo extensive. "

"Do you like them?"

"I guess so. Just now ain't the fairest time to judge 'em. You seethey're sufferin' from the joyful shock of their country relationdroppin' in, and--"

He paused and rubbed his chin. His lips were smiling, but his eyes werenot. Sylvester noted their expression, and guessed many things. 

"They haven't been disagreeable, I hope?" he asked. 

"No-o. No, I wouldn't want to say that. They're young and--and, well, I ain't the kind they've been used to. Caroline's a nice girl. She is, sure. All she needs is to grow a little older and have the right kind ofadvice and--and friends. "

"How about the boy?" Mr. Sylvester had met young Warren, and his eyestwinkled as he spoke. 

"Steve? Well, " there was an answering twinkle in Captain Elisha's eye;"well, Steve needs to grow, too; though I wouldn't presume to tell himso. When a feller's undertakin' to give advice to one of the seven wisemen, he has to be diplomatic, as you might say. "

The lawyer put back his head and laughed uproariously. 

"Ha! ha!" he crowed. "That's good! Then, from your questioning of thechildren, you've learned--?"

"Not such an awful lot. I think I've learned that--hum! that a goodguardian might be a handy thing to have in the house. A reg'lar legalguardian, I mean. Otherwise--"

"Otherwise?"

"Otherwise there might be too many disinterested volunteer substitutesfor the job. Maybe I'm wrong, but I doubt it. "

"Have you made up your mind to be that guardian?"

"Not yet. I haven't made up my mind to anything yet. Now, Mr. Sylvester, while we're waitin' for what comes next--you've ordered enough grubto victual a ship--s'pose you just run over what your firm knows about'Bije. That is, if I ain't askin' too much. "

"Not at all. That's what I'm here for. You have a right to know. But Iwarn you my information isn't worth much. "

He went on, briefly and with the conciseness of the legal mind, to tellof A. Rodgers Warren, his business and his estate. He had been a brokerwith a seat on the Stock Exchange. 

"That seat is worth consider'ble, ain't it?" interrupted the captain. 

"Between eighty and one hundred thousand dollars. "

"Yup. Well, it reminds me of a picture I saw once in one of the comicpapers. An old feller from the backwoods somewheres--good deal like me, he was, and just about as green--was pictured standin' along withhis city nephew in the gallery of the Exchange. And the nephew says, 'Uncle, ' says he, 'do you realize that a seat down there's wuthseventy-five thousand dollars?' 'Gosh!' says the old man, 'no wondermost of 'em are standin' up. ' Ho! ho! Is that seat of 'Bije's part ofthe five hundred thousand you figger he's left?"

"Yes, in a way it is. To be truthful, Captain Warren, we're not sure asto the amount of your brother's tangible assets. Graves made a hurriedexamination of the stocks, bonds, and memoranda, and estimated thetotal, that's all. "

"I see. Well, heave ahead. "

The lawyer went on. The dead broker's office had been on Broad Street. A small office, with but two clerks. One of the clerks was retained, and the office, having been leased for a year by its former tenant, was still open pending the settlement of the estate. A. Rodgers Warrenpersonally was a man who looked older than he really was, a good liver, and popular among his companions. 

"What sort of fellers were his companions?" asked Captain Elisha. 

"You mean his friends in society, or his companions downtown in WallStreet?"

"The Wall Street ones. I guess I can find out something about thesociety ones. Anyhow, I can try. These Wall Streeters that 'Bije chummedwith--a quiet lot, was they?"

Sylvester hesitated. "Why--why--not particularly so, " he admitted. "Nothing crooked about them, of course. You see, a stock-broker's lifeis a nerve-racking, rather exciting one, and--"

"And 'Bije and his chums were excited, too, hey? All right, you needn'tgo any further. He was a good husband while his wife lived, wa'n't he?"

"Yes. Frankly, Captain Warren, so far as I know, your brother's personalhabits were good. There was nothing against his character. "

"I'm mighty glad to hear it. Mighty glad. Is there anything else you cantell me?"

"No. Our next move, provided you decide to accept the trust, theexecutorship, and the rest, is to get together--you and Graves, if he iswell enough; you and I if he is not--and begin a careful examination ofthe stocks, bonds, assets, and debts of the estate. This must be donefirst of all. "

"Graves hinted there wa'n't any debts, to amount to anything. "

"So far as we can see, there are none, except a few trifling bills. "

"Yes, yes. Hum!" Captain Elisha put down his coffee spoon and seemed tobe thinking. He shook his head. 

"You appear to be puzzled about something, " observed the lawyer, who waswatching him intently. 

"I am. I was puzzled afore I left home, and I'm just as puzzled now. "

"What puzzles you? if I may ask. "

"Everything. And, if you'll excuse my sayin' so, Mr. Sylvester, I guessit puzzles you, too. "

He returned his host's look. The latter pushed back his chair, preparatory to rising. 

"It is all so perfectly simple, on the face of it, Captain Warren, " hesaid. "Your brother realized that he must die, that his children andtheir money must be taken care of; you were his nearest relative;his trust in your honesty and judgment caused him to overlook theestrangement between you. That's the case, isn't it?"

"Yes. That's the case, on the face of it, as you say. But you've forgotto mention one item. "

"What's that?"

"'Bije himself. You knew him pretty well, I can see that. So did I. AndI guess that's why we're both puzzled. "

Captain Elisha folded his napkin with care and stood up. Sylvester rose, also. 

"Come downstairs, " he said. "We can enjoy our cigars more comfortablythere, and go on with our talk. That is, unless you're in a greathurry. "

"No, I ain't in any special hurry. So I get up to Caroline's in seasonfor supper--er, dinner, I mean--I don't care. But I don't want to keepyou. You're a busy man. "

"This is business. This way, Captain. "

The big lounging room of the club, on the first floor, Fifth Avenueside, was almost empty when they entered it. The lawyer drew two bigchairs near the open fire, rang the bell, and ordered cigars. Afterthe cigars were lighted and the fragrant clouds of tobacco smoke wererising, he reopened the conversation. And now, in an easy, diplomaticway, he took his turn at questioning. 

It was pretty thorough pumping, managed with the skill of an experiencedcross-examiner. Captain Elisha, without realizing that he was doing so, told of his boyhood, his life at sea, his home at South Denboro, hisposition in the village, his work as selectman, as member of the schoolcommittee, and as director in the bank. The tone of the questionerexpressed nothing--he was too well trained for that--but every item ofinformation was tabulated and appraised. 

The tall mahogany-cased clock struck three, then four. The lawyerfinished his cigar and lit another. He offered a fresh one to his guest, but the offer was declined. 

"No, thank you, " observed the captain. "I've been yarnin' away sofast that my breath's been too busy to keep this one goin'. There'sconsider'ble left yet. This is a better smoke than I'm used togettin' at the store down home. I tell Ryder--he's our storekeeper andpostmaster--that he must buy his cigars on the reel and cut 'em off withthe scissors. When the gang of us all got a-goin' mail times, it smellslike a rope-walk burnin' down. Ho! ho! It does, for a fact. Yet I kindof enjoy one of his five-centers, after all. You can get used to mostanything. Maybe it's the home flavor or the society. P'raps they'd tastebetter still if they was made of seaweed. I'll trouble you for a match, Mr. Sylvester. Two of 'em, if you don't mind. "

He whittled one match to a point with his pocket knife, impaled thecigar stump upon it, and relit with the other. 

Meanwhile the room had been filling up. Around each of the big windowsoverlooking the Avenue were gathered groups of men, young and old, smoking, chatting, and gazing idly out. Captain Elisha regarded themcuriously. 

"This ain't a holiday, is it?" he asked, after a while. 

"No. Why?"

"I was just wonderin' if all those fellers hadn't any work to do, that'sall. "

"Who? That crowd?" The lawyer laughed. "Oh, they're doing their regularstunt. You'll find most of them here every afternoon about this time. "

"You don't say. Pay 'em wages for it, do you?"

"Not that I know of. Some of them are brokers, who come up after theExchange closes. Others are business men, active or retired. Some don'thave any business--except what they're doing now. "

"I want to know! Humph! They remind me of the gang in the billiard-roomback home. The billiard-roomers--the chronic ones--don't have anybusiness, either, except to keep the dust from collectin' on the chairs. That and talkin' about hard times. These chaps don't seem to besufferin' from hard times, much. "

"No. Most of the younger set have rich fathers or have inherited money. "

"I see. They let the old man do the worryin'. That's philosophy, anyhow. What are they so interested in outside? Parade goin' by?"

"No. I imagine an unusually pretty girl passed just then. "

"Is that so? Well, well! Say, Mr. Sylvester, the longer I stay inNew York the more I see that the main difference between it and SouthDenboro is size. The billiard-room gang acts just the same way when thedownstairs school teacher goes past. Hello!"

"What is it?"

"That young chap by the mizzen window looks sort of familiar to me. Theone that stood up to shake a day-day to whoever was passin'. Hum! He'smade a hit, ain't he? I expect some unprotected female's heart broke atthat signal. I cal'late I know him. "

"Who? Which one? Oh, that's young Corcoran Dunn. He is a lady-killer, inhis own estimation. How d'ye do, Dunn. "

The young man turning grinning from the window, caught a glimpse of thelawyer as the latter rose to identify him. He strolled over to the fire. 

"Hello, Sylvester, " he hailed, carelessly. "That was a peach. You shouldhave seen her. What? Why, it's the Admiral!"

"How d'ye do, Mr. Dunn, " said Captain Elisha. 

"Have you two met before?" asked Sylvester in astonishment. 

"Yes. I had the pleasure of assisting in the welcoming salute when ourseafarin' friend come aboard. How was that, Captain? Some nautical classto that remark?"

"Yup. You done fust rate, considerin' how recent you shipped. "

"Thanks. Overwhelmed, I'm sure. " Then, with a look of languid amusementat the pair, "What is this--a meeting of the Board of Naval Affairs?Have you bought a yacht, Sylvester?"

"No. " The lawyer's tone was sharp. 

"Humph! Well, take my advice and don't. Yachts are all right, to havea good time on, but they cost like the devil to keep up. An auto is badenough. By the way, Sylvester, did you hear about my running over theIrishman this morning?"

"Running over?" repeated the captain, aghast. "You didn't run overnobody, I hope. "

"Well, I came devilish near it. Ha! ha! You see, the old tarrierwas crossing Saint Nicholas Avenue, with a big market basket fullof provisions--the family dinner, I suppose. By Jove, the householdappetites must be good ones. It was slippery as the mischief, I wasrunning the car, and I tried to go between the fellow and the curb. It would have been a decent bit of steering if I'd made it. But--ha!ha!--by Jove, you know, I didn't. I skidded. The man himself managedto hop out of the way, but his foot slipped, and down he went. Mostridiculous thing you ever saw. And the street! 'Pon my word it was pavedwith eatables. "

Sylvester, plainly annoyed, did not reply. But Captain Elisha's concernwas evident. 

"The poor critter!" he exclaimed. "What did you do?"

"The last I saw of him he was sitting in the mud, looking at the upset. I didn't linger. Peters took the wheel, and we beat it. Lucky the copdidn't spot the license number. Might have cost me fifty. They've had meup for speeding twice before. What are you and the Admiral discussing, Sylvester?"

"We were discussing a business matter, " answered the lawyer, withsignificant emphasis. 

"Business? Why, sure! I forgot that you were Graves's partner. Settlingthe family affairs, hey? Well, I won't butt in. Ta, ta! See you later, Captain. You must go for a spin in that car of mine. I'll call for yousome day. I'll show you something they don't do on Cape Cod. Regards toCaro and Steve. "

He moved off, feeling that his invitation would have met with hismother's approval. She had announced that the country uncle was to be"cultivated. "

Captain Elisha's cigar had gone out. He did not attempt to relight it. 

"Whew!" he whistled. "Well, when I go for a 'spin, ' as he calls it, with_him_, I cal'late my head'll be spinnin' so I won't be responsible formy actions. Whew!"

Sylvester looked curiously at him. 

"So you met him before?" he asked. 

"Yes. He was at the rooms when I fust landed. Or his mother was therethen. He came a little later with Caroline and Stephen. "

"I see. "

"Yes. Know him and his ma pretty well, do you?"

"Slightly. I've met them, at mutual acquaintances' homes and abouttown. "

"Pretty well fixed, I s'pose, ain't they?"

"I presume so. I don't know. "

"Um. He's a sociable young feller, ain't he? Don't stand on anyceremony, hey? Caro and Steve think a lot of him and his mother. "

"Yes. Graves has told me the Dunns were very intimate with the Warrens. In fact, just before your brother's death, I remember hearing a rumorthat the two families might be even closer connected. "

"You mean--er--Caroline and--er--him?"

"There was such a rumor. Probably nothing in it. There is no engagement, I am very sure. "

"Yes, yes, I see. Well, Mr. Sylvester, I must be trottin' on. I'llthink the whole business over for another day or so and then give you mydecision, one way or the other. "

"You can't give it now?"

"No-o. I guess I'd better not. However, I think--"

"Yes. "

"Well, I think I may take the job. Take it on trial, anyhow. "

"Good! I'm glad of it. "

"You _are_?"

"I certainly am. And I'm very glad indeed to have made youracquaintance, Captain Warren. Good afternoon. I shall hope to see youagain soon. "

Captain Elisha left the Central Club in a surprised frame of mind. Whatsurprised him was that a man of such thorough city training and habitsas the senior partner of the law firm should express pleasure at theidea of his accepting the charge of A. Rodgers Warren's heirs andestate. Mr. Graves had shown no such feeling. 

If he had heard Sylvester's report to Kuhn, at the office next day, hemight have been even more surprised and pleased. 

"He's a brick, Kuhn, " declared the senior partner. "A countryman, ofcourse, but a keen, able, honest man, and, I think, a mighty good judgeof character. If I was as sure of his ability to judge investments andfinancial affairs, I should be certain the Warren children couldn't bein better hands. And no doubt we can help him when it comes to that. He'll probably handle the girl and boy in his own way, and his outsidegreenness may jar them a little. But it'll do them good to be jarred attheir age. He's all right, and I hope he accepts the whole trust. "

"Well, " exclaimed Mr. Kuhn; "you surprise me. Graves seemed to be--"

"Graves suffers from the absolute lack of a sense of humor. His paththrough life is about three feet wide and bordered with rock-ribbedconventionality. If a man has a joke in his system, Graves doesn'tunderstand it and is suspicious. I tell, you, Kuhn, there's more honestcommon sense and ability in the right hand of this Down-East salt thanthere ever was in Rodgers Warren's whole body. "

CHAPTER VII

During the next day Caroline Warren and her brother saw little of theiruncle. Not that they complained of this or sought his society. Thepolicy of avoidance and what Stephen called "freezing out" had begun, and the young people kept to themselves as much as possible. Atbreakfast Caroline was coldly polite, and her brother cold, althoughhis politeness was not overdone. However, Captain Elisha did not seem tonotice. He was preoccupied, said but little, and spent the forenoon inwriting a second letter to Miss Abigail. In it he told of his experienceon board the _Empress of the Ocean_ and of the luncheon at the CentralClub. But he said nothing concerning his nephew and niece further thanthe statement that he was still getting acquainted, and that Carolinewas a real nice looking girl. 

"I suppose you wonder what I've decided about taking the guardianship, "he added, just at the close. "Well, Abbie, I'm about in the position ofLuther Sylvester when he fell off the dock at Orham. The tide was out, and he went into the soft mud, all under. When the folks who saw himtumble got to the edge and looked over, they saw a round, black thingsticking out of the mire, and, judging 'twas Lute's head, they asked himhow he felt. 'I don't know yet, ' sputters Lute, 'whether I'm drowned orsmothered, but I'm somewheres betwixt and between. ' That's me, Abbie, onthat guardian business. I'm still betwixt and between. But before thisday's over I'll be drowned or smothered, and I'll let you know whichnext time I write. "

After lunch he took a stroll in the Park and passed up and down thepaths, thinking, thinking. Returning, he found that Caroline and Stephenhad gone for an auto ride with the Dunns and would not be home fordinner. So he ate that meal in solitary state, waited upon by Edwards. 

That evening, as he sat smoking in the library, the butler appeared toannounce a caller. 

"Someone to see you, sir, " said Edwards. "Here's his card, sir. "

"Eh? Someone to see _me_? Guess you've made a mistake, haven't you, Commodore? I don't know anybody who'd be likely to come visitin' me herein New York. Why, yes! Well, I declare! Tell him to walk right in. Mr. Pearson, I'm glad to see you. This is real neighborly. "

The caller was young Pearson, the captain's acquaintance of the previousforenoon. They shook hands heartily. 

"Perhaps you didn't think I should accept that invitation of yours, Captain Warren, " observed Pearson. "I told you I meant it when I saidyes. And calling within thirty-six hours is pretty good proof, isn'tit?"

"Suits me fust-rate. I'm mighty glad you came. Set right down. Lonesomeat the boardin' house, was it?"

Pearson made a grimace. "Lonesome!" he repeated. "Ugh! Let's talk ofsomething else. Were you in time for your appointment yesterday noon?"

"Why, yes; I was and I wasn't. Say, won't you have a cigar? That'sright. And I s'pose, bein' as this is New York, I'd ought to ask you totake somethin' to lay the dust, hey? I ain't made any inquiries myself, but I shouldn't wonder if the Commodore--the feller that let youin--could find somethin' in the spare room closet or somewheres, if Iask him. "

The young man laughed. "If you mean a drink, " he said, "I don't care forit, thank you. "

"What? You ain't a teetotaler, are you?"

"No, not exactly. But--"

"But you can get along without it, hey? So can I; generally do, fur'sthat goes. But _I'm_ from South Denboro. I thought here in New York--"

"Oh, there are many people, even here in New York, who are not convincedthat alcohol is a food. "

"You don't tell me! Well, I'm livin' and learnin' every day. Judgin'from stories and the yarns in the Boston newspapers, folks up our wayhave the idea that this town is a sort of annex to the bad place. Allright, then we won't trouble the Commodore. I notice you're lookin' overmy quarters. What do you think of 'em?"

Pearson had, in spite of himself, been glancing about the room. Itsluxury and the evident signs of taste and wealth surprised him greatly. 

"Astonish you to find me livin' in a place like this, hey?"

"Why, why, yes, it does, somewhat. I didn't realize you were such anaristocrat, Captain Warren. If I had, I might have been a little morecareful of my dress in making my first call. "

"Dress? Oh, you mean you'd have put on your Sunday clothes. Well, I'mglad you didn't. You see, _I_ haven't got on my regimentals, and ifyou'd been on dress parade I might have felt bashful. Ho, ho! I don'twonder you are surprised. This is a pretty swell neighborhood, ain'tit?"

"Yes, it is. "

"These--er--apartments, now. 'Bout as good as any in town, are they?"

"Pretty nearly. There are few better--much better. "

"I thought so. You wouldn't call livin' in 'em economizin' to anyconsider'ble extent, would you?"

"No, " with a laugh; "no, _I_ shouldn't, but my ideas of economyare--well, different. They have to be. Are you ecomomizing, Captain?"

Captain Elisha laughed and rubbed his knee. 

"No, " he chuckled, "_I_ ain't, but my nephew and niece are. These aretheir rooms. "

"Oh, you're visiting?"

"No, I don't know's you'd call it visitin'. I don't know what you wouldcall it. I'm here, that's about all you can say. "

He paused and remained silent. His friend was silent, also, not knowingexactly what remark to make. 

"How's the novel comin' on?" asked the captain, a minute later. 

"Oh, slowly. I'm not at all sure it will ever be finished. I getdiscouraged sometimes. "

"No use in doin' that. What sort of a yarn is it goin' to be? Give me agen'ral idea of the course you're tryin' to steer. That is, if it ain'ta secret. "

"It isn't. But there's mighty little worth telling. When I began Ithought I had a good scheme, but it seems pretty weak and dish-waterynow. "

"Most things do while their bein' done, if you really care about doin''em well. Heave ahead! You said 'twas a sea yarn, and I'm a sort ofspecialist when it comes to salt water. Maybe I might prescribe just theright tonic, though 'tain't very likely. "

Pearson began to outline the plot of his novel, speaking slowly atfirst, but becoming more interested as he continued. Captain Elishalistened meditatively, puffing solemnly at his cigar, and interruptingbut seldom. 

"I think that's a pretty good idea, " he observed, at length. "Yes, sir, that sounds promisin', to me. This cap'n of yours now, he's a goodfeller. Don't get him too good, though; that wouldn't be natural. Anddon't get him too bad, neither. I know it's the fashion, judgin' by thesea yarns I've read lately, to have a Yankee skipper sort of a crossbetween a prize fighter and a murderer. Fust day out of port he beginsby pickin' out the most sickly fo'mast hand aboard, mashes him up, andthen takes the next invalid. I got a book about that kind of a skipperout of our library down home a spell ago, and the librarian said 'twasawful popular. A strong story, she said, and true to life. Well, 'twasstrong--you could pretty nigh smell it--but as for bein' true to life, I had my doubts. I've been to sea, command of a vessel, for a good manyyears, and sometimes I'd go weeks, whole weeks, without jumpin' up anddown on a single sailor. Fact! Got my exercise other ways, I presumelikely. 

"I tell you, " he went on, "the main trouble with that tale of yours, asI see it, is that you're talkin' about things you ain't ever seen. Nowthere's plenty you have seen, I wouldn't wonder. Let's see, you was bornin Belfast, you said. Live there long, did you?"

"Yes, until I went away to school. "

"Your father, he went to sea, did he?"

"Yes. But his ship was lost, with all hands, when I was a baby. "

"But your Uncle Jim wa'n't lost. You remember him well; you said so. Tell me something you remember. "

Before the young man was aware of it, he was telling of his UncleJim, of the latter's return from voyages, of his own home life, of hismother, and of the village where he spent his boyhood. Then, led on bythe captain's questioning, he continued with his years at college, hisexperiences as reporter and city editor. Without being conscious thathe was doing so, he gave his host a pretty full sketch of himself, hisstory, and his ambitions. 

"Mr. Pearson, " said Captain Elisha, earnestly, "don't you worry aboutthat yarn of yours. If you'll take the advice of an old feller who knowsabsolutely nothin' about such things, keep on rememberin' about yourUncle Jim. He was a man, every inch of him, and a seaman, too. Put lotsof him into this hero of yours, and you won't go fur wrong. And when itcomes to handlin' a ship, why--well, if you _want_ to come to me, I'lltry and help you out best I can. "

Pearson was delighted. 

"You _will_?" he cried. "Splendid! It's mighty good of you. May I springsome of my stuff on you as I write it?"

"Sartin you may. Any time, I'll be tickled to death. I'll be tickled tohave you call, too; that is, if callin' on an old salt like me won't betoo tirin'. "

The answer was emphatic and reassuring. 

"Thank you, " said Captain Elisha. "I'm much obliged. Come often, do. I--well, the fact is, I'm likely to get sort of lonesome myself, I'mafraid. Yes, I shouldn't wonder if I did. "

He sighed, tossed away the stump of his cigar, and added, "Now, I want to ask you somethin'. You newspaper fellers are supposed toknow about all there is to know of everything under the sun. Do you knowmuch about the Stock Exchange?"

Pearson smiled. 

"All I can afford to know, " he said. 

"Humph! That's a pretty good answer. Knowledge is power, they say, but--but I cal'late knowledge of the Stock Exchange is poverty, with agood many folks. "

"I think you're right, Captain. It's none of my business, but--were youplanning to tackle Wall Street?"

Captain Elisha glanced, under his brows, at his new friend, and his eyestwinkled. 

"Didn't know but I might, " he replied, solemnly. "Ain't gotany--er--tips, any sure things you want to put me on to, have you?"

"I have not. My experience of Wall Street 'sure things' leads me tobelieve that they're sure--but only for the other fellow. "

"Hum! I know a chap down home that made money in stocks. He made it soeasy that, as the boys say, 'twas almost a shame to take the money. And'twas the makin' of him, too. "

Pearson was embarrassed and troubled. If this big-hearted, simple-mindedcountryman had come to New York to buck the stock market, it was timeto sound a warning. But had he, on such short acquaintance, the right towarn? The captain was shrewd in his own way. Might not the warning seempresumptuous?

"So--this--this friend of yours was a successful speculator, was he?" heasked. "He was lucky. "

"Think so? Well, maybe. His name was Elkanah Chase, and his dad was oldman 'Rastus Chase, who made consider'ble in cranberries and one thingor 'nother. The old man brought Elkanah up to be what he called agentleman. Ho! ho! Hi hum! I ain't sure what 'Rastus's idea ofa gentleman was, but if he cal'lated to have his son a tramp ingo-to-meetin' clothes, he got his wish. When the old man died, he willedthe boy fifteen thousand dollars. Well, fifteen thousand dollars is afortune to some folks--if they ain't economizin' in New York--but toElkanah 'twas just about enough to make him realize his poverty. So, to make it bigger, he got one of them 'tips' from a college friend downhere in Wall Street, and put the heft of ten thousand into it. _And_, Iswan, if it didn't double his money!"

Captain Elisha's visitor shook his head. He did not even smile. 

"He was extremely fortunate, " he said. "I give you my word, CaptainWarren, that the majority of first speculators don't turn out that way. I hope he was wise enough to keep his profits. "

The captain rubbed his chin. 

"Jim--" he began. "Excuse me, I should have said Mr. Pearson, but I'vegot sort of in the habit of callin' folks by their first names. Livin'where you know everybody so well gets you into those habits. "

"Jim suits me. I hope you'll cultivate the habit. "

"Do you? Well, I will. Now, Jim, referrin' to what I was goin' to say, you, bein' a newspaper man, ought to know everything, but it's prettyplain you don't know Elkanah Chase. Keep his profits! Why, when a felleris all but convinced that he knows it all, one little bit of evidencelike that speculation settles it for him conclusive. Elkanah, realizin'that Wall Street was his apple pie, opened his mouth to swaller it atone gulp. He put his profits and every other cent he had into anothersure thing tip. "

"And won again?"

"No. He lost all that and some more that he borrowed. "

"But I thought you said it was the making of him!"

"It was. He had to take a job over at the overalls factory in Ostable. As a fifteen thousand dollar gentleman, he was pretty average of a mess, but they tell me he makes middlin' good overalls. Elkanah convinced methat Wall Street has its good points. "

He chuckled. Pearson, relieved, laughed in sympathy. "Has he paid backthe money he borrowed?" he inquired. 

"No-o! I guess the creditors'll have to take it out in overalls. However, it's a satisfaction to some of 'em to watch Chase really work. I know that gives me _my_ money's worth. "

"Oh, ho! You are one of the creditors! Captain Warren, I'm surprised. Isized you up as a shrewder judge of investments. "

Captain Elisha colored. "I judged that one correct, " he answered. "IfI hadn't thought 'twould have turned out that way I never would haveplunged. You see, old man Chase was a friend of mine, and--However, " headded, hastily changing the subject, "we've strayed some off the course. When I mentioned the Stock Exchange I did it because my brother was amember of it, and I cal'late you might have known him. "

Pearson was astonished. "Your brother was a member of the Exchange?" herepeated. 

"Um-hm. Never would have guessed it, would you? I s'pose you cal'lateall the stock I knew about was on the hoof. Well, I have been acquaintedwith other breeds in my time. My brother's name was Abijah Warren--A. Rodgers Warren, he called himself. "

The effect of this announcement was instantaneous and electric. Theyoung man sat back in his chair. 

"A. Rodgers Warren was your brother?" he cried. 

"Um-hm. Seems to stagger you some. Contrast between us as big as allthat comes to?"

"But--but, Captain Warren--Your brother--Tell me, is Miss CarolineWarren your niece?"

"She is. And Steve is my nephew. 'Tain't possible you're acquainted withthem?"

Pearson rose to his feet. "Is--They used to live on the Avenue, " hesaid. "But you said you were visiting. Captain Warren, is this yourniece's apartment?"

"Yes, hers and Steve's. Why, what's the matter? Ain't goin', are you?"

"I think perhaps I had better. It is getting late. "

"Late! It's only the shank of the evenin'. Jim, I ain't so blind that Ican't see through an open window. It ain't the lateness that makes youwant to leave so sudden. Is there some trouble between you and Caroline?Course, it's none of my business, and you needn't tell me unless youwant to. "

The answer was prompt enough. 

"No, " replied Pearson. "No. I assure you there is nothing of that kind. I--I met Miss Warren. In fact, at one time we were well acquainted. Ihave the very highest opinion of her. But I think it is best to--"

"Just a minute now. No trouble with Steve? He's a boy and at an age whenhe's pretty well satisfied with himself and you have to make allowance. "

"No. Steve and I were quite friendly. I'm sorry to cut my visit short, but it is late and I _must_ go. "

He was moving toward the door. Captain Elisha looked at him intently. 

"Well, if you must, " he said. "But I hope you'll come again soon. Willyou?"

"I hope I may. I give you my word, Captain, that I appreciate yourinvitation, and I do want to know you better. "

"Same here. I don't often take sudden fancies, Jim, but I knew youruncle, and I'd bet consider'ble on any member of his family. And I _was_kind of interested in that novel of yours. You haven't said you'd comeagain. Will you?"

Pearson was much embarrassed. 

"I should like to come, immensely, " he said, with an earnestnessunmistakable; "but--but, to be honest, Captain Warren, there is areason, one which I may tell you sometime, but can't now--neither MissWarren nor her brother have any part in it--which makes me reluctant tovisit you here. Won't you come and see me at the boarding house? Here'sthe address. _Will_ you come?"

"Sartin! I figured on doin' it, if you gave me the chance. "

"Thank you, you'll be welcome. Of course it is _only_ a boarding house, and not a very good one. My own room is--well, different from this. "

"Yup. Maybe that's why I expect to feel at home in it. Good night, Jim. Thank you for callin'. Shall I ring for the Commodore to pilot you out?"

"No, I can find my way. I--Someone is coming. "

From the hall came the clang of the elevator door and the sound ofvoices. Before the captain or his friend could move, Caroline, Stephen, Mrs. Corcoran Dunn, and Malcolm entered. Caroline was the first to reachthe library. Her entrance brought her face to face with Pearson. 

"I beg your pardon, " she began. "I did not know there was anyone here. "

"It's only a friend of mine, Caroline, " explained her uncle, quickly. "Just callin' on me, he was. "

"Good evening, Miss Warren, " said Pearson, quietly. 

The girl looked at him for an instant. Then her expression changed, and, with a smile, she extended her hand. 

"Why, Mr. Pearson!" she exclaimed. "I'm very glad to see you. You mustexcuse me for not recognizing you at once. Steve, you remember Mr. Pearson. "

Stephen also extended a hand. 

"Sure!" he said. "Glad to see you again, Pearson. Haven't met you for anage. How are you?"

Pearson shook both the hands. He was embarrassed and hesitated in hisreply. 

"It _has_ been some time since we met, " he said. "This is an unexpectedpleasure. Ah, Mr. Dunn, good evening. "

"It is Mr. Pearson, the financial writer of the _Planet_, Malcolm, "said Caroline. "You used to know him, I think. "

"Don't remember, I'm sure. Yes, I do. Met you at the University Club, didn't I?"

"Yes. I was formerly a member. "

"And let me present you to Mrs. Corcoran Dunn, " went on the girl. "Mr. Pearson used to know father well. "

Mrs. Dunn inspected the visitor through her lorgnette, and condescendedto admit that she was "delighted. "

"I'm very glad you called, " continued Caroline. "We were just in time, weren't we? Do sit down. And if you will wait a minute until we removeour wraps--Steve ring for Edwards, please. "

"I'm afraid I can't wait, Miss Warren. I dropped in to see your uncle, at his invitation, and, as a matter of fact, I didn't know--"

"To see our _uncle_!" interrupted Stephen, in amazement. "Who?"

"Your uncle, Captain Warren here, " explained Pearson, surprised in histurn. "He and I made each other's acquaintance yesterday, and he askedme to call. "

"You--you called to see _him_?" repeated Stephen. "Why, what in theworld--?"

"I took the liberty of askin' him, Caroline, " observed Captain Elishaquietly, and ignoring the last speaker. "I didn't know you knew him, and I used to sail along with _his_ uncle, so he seemed almost like ownfolks. "

"Oh!" Caroline's manner changed. "I presume it was a business call, " shesaid slowly. "I beg pardon for interrupting. We had not seen you sincefather's death, Mr. Pearson, and I assumed that you had called upon mybrother and me. Excuse me. Mrs. Dunn, we will go into the drawing-room. "

She led the way toward the apartment. Captain Elisha was about to speak. Pearson, however, explained for him. 

"Miss Warren, " he said, "if by a business call you mean one in theinterest of the _Planet_, I assure you that you are mistaken. I am nolonger connected with any paper. I met Captain Warren, under ratherunusual circumstances. We discovered that we had mutual friends andmutual interests. He asked me to call on him, and I did so. I did notknow, until five minutes ago, that he was your uncle or that you andyour brother lived here. I beg you won't leave the room on my account. Iwas about to go when you came. Good evening. "

He bowed and stepped toward the hall. Captain Elisha laid a hand on hisarm and detained him. 

"Just a minute, " he said. "Caroline, I want you and Steve to know thatwhat Mr. Pearson says is exactly true. I ain't the kind to talk to thenewspapers about the private affairs of my relations, and, if I'many judge of character, Mr. Pearson, knowin' you as it seems he does, wouldn't be the kind to listen. That's all. Now, Jim, if you must go. "

He and his guest were at the door. Caroline and Mrs. Dunn were at theopposite side of the room. Suddenly the girl halted, turned, and, movingacross to where her uncle and the young man were standing, once moreextended her hand. 

"Mr. Pearson, " she said, impulsively, "again I ask your pardon. I shouldhave known. I am very sorry I spoke as I did. Will you forgive me?"

Pearson colored. His embarrassment was more evident than before. 

"There is no occasion for apology, Miss Warren, " he said. "I don'twonder you thought I had come in my former capacity as reporter. "

"Yes, you do. You _must_ have wondered. I am very glad you called to seemy--my guardian, and I hope you will continue to do so. Father used tospeak so highly of you, and I'm sure he valued your friendship. Stephenand I wish to consider his friends ours. Please believe that you arewelcome here at any time. "

Pearson's reply was brief. 

"Thank you, Miss Warren, " he said. "You are very kind. Good evening. "

In the hall, as they waited for the elevator, Captain Elisha, happierthan at any time since his arrival in New York, clapped his friend onthe shoulder. 

"Jim, " he said, "I was beginnin' to doubt my judgment of things andfolks. Now I feel better. That niece of mine has got the right stuff inher. After _that_ invitation, you will come and see us once in a while. That makes it easier, hey?"

Pearson shook his head. "I'm not sure, Captain, " he observed, slowly, "that it doesn't make it harder. I shall look for you at the boardinghouse very soon. Don't disappoint me. Good night. "

The captain's last remark that evening was made to Edwards, whom he metjust outside the door of his bedroom. 

"Commodore, " he said, "a barn full of rats is a nuisance, ain't it?"

"Sir?" stammered the astonished butler. 

"I say a barn full of rats is a nuisance. "

"Why--why, yes, sir. I should think it might be, sir. "

"Yup. Well, I know a worse one. It's a house full of mysteries. By, by, Son. Pleasant dreams. "

He sat up until late, meditating profoundly. Then, taking from itsenvelope the letter yet unsealed, which he had written to Miss AbigailBaker, he added this postscript:

 "Eleven o'clock. I have decided, Abbie, to accept the guardianship and the rest of it, for a spell, anyhow. Shall notify the lawyers in the morning. Necessity is one thing, and pleasure is another. I doubt if I find the job pleasant, but I guess it is necessary. Anyhow, it looks that way to me. "

CHAPTER VIII

Announcement of Captain Elisha's decision followed quickly. Sylvester, Kuhn, and Graves received the telephone message stating it, andthe senior partner was unqualifiedly delighted. Kuhn accepted hisassociate's opinion with some reservation. "It is an odd piece ofbusiness, the whole of it, " he declared. "I shall be curious to see howit works out. " As for Mr. Graves, when the information was conveyedto him by messenger, he expressed disgust and dismay. "Ridiculous!" hesaid. "Doctor, I simply must be up and about within the next few days. It is necessary that a sane, conservative man be at the office. Farbe it from me to say a word against Sylvester, as a lawyer, but he issubject to impressions. I imagine this Cape Codder made him laugh, and, therefore, in his opinion, is all right. I'm glad I'm not a joker. "

The captain said that he would be down later on to talk things over. Meanwhile, if the "papers and such" could be gotten together, it would"sort of help along. " Sylvester explained that there were certain legaland formal ceremonies pertaining to the acceptance of the trust to begone through with, and these must have precedence. "All right, " answeredthe captain. "Let's have 'em all out at once and get the ache and agonyover. I'll see you by and by. "

When Mrs. Corcoran Dunn made her daily visit to the Warren apartmentthat afternoon, she found Caroline alone and almost in tears. CaptainElisha had broken the news at the table during luncheon, after whichhe went downtown. Stephen, having raved, protested, and made himselfgenerally disagreeable and his sister correspondingly miserable, haddeparted for the club. It was a time for confidences, and the wily Mrs. Dunn realized that fact. She soothed, comforted, and within half anhour, had learned the whole story. Caroline told her all, the strangewill, the disclosure concerning the country uncle, and the inexplicableclauses begging the latter to accept the executorship, the trust, andthe charge of her brother and herself. Incidentally she mentioned thata possible five hundred thousand was the extreme limit of the family'specuniary resources. 

"Now you know everything, " sobbed Caroline. "Oh, Mrs. Dunn, _you_ won'tdesert us, will you?"

The widow's reply was a triumph, of its kind. In it were expressedsorrow, indignation, pity, and unswerving loyalty. Desert them? Desertthe young people, toward whom she had come to feel almost like a mother?Never!

"You may depend on Malcolm and me, my dear, " she declared. "We are notfair-weather friends. And, after all, it is not so very bad. Affairsmight be very much worse. "

"Worse! Oh, Mrs. Dunn, how could they be? Think of it! Stephen and I aredependent upon him for everything. We must ask him for every penny. Andwhatever he says to do we _must_ do. We're obliged to. Just think! if hedecides to take us back with him to--South Denboro, or whatever dreadfulplace he comes from, we shall have to go--and live there. "

"But he won't, my dear. He won't. It will take some time to settle yourfather's affairs, and the business will have to be transacted here inNew York. "

"I know. I suppose that's true. But that doesn't make it any easier. If he stops here he will stay with us. And what shall we do? We can'tintroduce him to our friends, or, at least, to any except our best, ourunderstanding friends, like you and Malcolm. "

"Why, I'm not sure. He is rather--well--er--countryfied, but I believehe has a good heart. He is not rude or unkind or anything of that sort, is he?"

"No. No-o. He's not that, at all. In fact, he means to be kind in hisway. But it's such a different way from ours. He is not used to society;he wouldn't understand that certain things and ways were absolutelyessential. I suppose it isn't his fault exactly, but that doesn't help. And how can we tell him?"

"I don't know that you can tell him, but you might hint. Diplomacy, mydear, is one of the necessary elements of life. Whatever else youdo remember to be diplomatic. My poor husband used to have a petproverb--he was interested in politics, my dear, and some of his sayingswere a trifle grotesque but very much to the point. He used to say thatone could get rid of more flies with molasses than with a club. And Ithink he was right. Now let me consider. Let's look the situation rightin the face. Of course your guardian, as a companion, as an associatefor us, for our kind of people, is, to be quite frank, impossible. "

"Yes. Yes, I'm sure he is. "

"Yes. But he _is_ your guardian. Therefore, we can't get rid of himwith--well, with a club. He must be endured and made as endurable aspossible. And it certainly will not do to offend him. "

"Steve says we must do what he calls freezing him out--make him feelthat we do not want him here. "

"Hum! Well, Stephen is a nice boy--Malcolm adores him--but he isn't adiplomat. If we should--what is it?--freeze out your uncle--"

"Please call him something else. "

"Well, we'll call him the encumbrance on the estate; that's legal, I believe, and expresses it nicely. If we should freeze out theencumbrance, we _might_ freeze him to his village, and he _might_ insiston your going with him, which wouldn't do at _all_, my dear. For onething, Malcolm would probably insist on going, also, and I, for one, don't yearn for rural simplicity. Ha! ha! Oh, you mustn't mind me. I'monly a doting mamma, dearie, and I have my air castles like everyoneelse. So, freezing out won't do. No, you and Steve must be polite to ourencumbrance. "

"I shall not get on my knees to him and beg. That I sha'n't do. "

"No one expects you to. If anyone begs it should be he. Condescend tojust a little. Make him feel his place. Correct him when he goes too farwrong, and ignore him when he gets assertive. As for getting rid of himat times when it may be necessary--well, I think you may safely leavethat to me. "

"To you? Oh, Mrs. Dunn, we couldn't think of dragging you into it. It isbad enough that we should be disgraced; but you must not be. "

"My dear child, I _think_ my position in society is sufficientlyestablished to warrant a risk or two. If _I_ am seen in companywith--with the encumbrance, people will merely say, 'Oh, it's anotherof her eccentricities!' that's all. Now, don't worry, and don't fret allthat pretty color from your cheeks. Always remember this: it is butfor a year or a trifle over. Then you will be of age and can send yourencumbrance to the right-about in a hurry. "

Caroline, under the spell of this convincing eloquence, began to cheerup. She even smiled. 

"Well, " she said, "I will try to be diplomatic. I really will. ButStephen--I'm not sure what dreadful thing _he_ will do. "

"He will return to college soon. I will take upon myself the convincingof the encumbrance to that effect. And while he is at home, Malcolm willtake charge of him. He will be delighted to do it. "

"Mrs. Dunn, how can we ever thank you sufficiently? What should we dowithout you and Malcolm?"

"I _hope_, my dear, that you will never have to do without me; not formany years, at any rate. Of course, there is always my poor heart, but--we won't worry, will we?"

So, with a kiss and an embrace, this affecting interview ended. 

There was another that evening between Mrs. Dunn and her son, which wasnot devoid of interest. Malcolm listened to the information which hismother gave him, and commented upon it in characteristic fashion. 

"Humph!" he observed, "two hundred and fifty thousand, instead of thetwo million you figured on, Mater! Two hundred and fifty thousand isn'tso much, in these days. "

"No, " replied his parent, sharply, "it isn't so much, but it isn't solittle, either. "

"I suppose one can get along on it. "

"Yes, one can. In fact, I know of two who are managing with a good dealless. Don't be any more of a fool than you can help, Malcolm. The sumitself isn't small, and, besides, the Warrens are a family of standing. To be connected with them is worth a good deal. There are infinitepossibilities in it. Oh, if only I might live to see the day whentradespeople meant something other than nuisances to be dodged, I_think_ I could die contented. "

"Caro's a decent sort of a girl, " commented Malcolm, reflectively. 

"She's a bright girl and an attractive one. Just now she is in a mood toturn to us, to you. But, for Heaven's sake, be careful! She is delicateand sensitive and requires managing. She likes you. If only you weren'tsuch a blunderer!"

"Much obliged, Mater. You're free with your compliments this evening. What's the trouble? Another 'heart'?"

"No. My heart I can trust, up to certain limits. But I'm afraid of yourhead, just as I always was of your father's. And here's one more bit ofadvice: Be careful how you treat that country uncle. "

"The Admiral! Ho! ho! He's a card. "

"He may be the trump that will lose us the trick. Treat him civilly;yes, even cordially, if you can. And _don't_ insult him as you did thefirst time you and he met. "

The young man crossed his legs, and grunted in resignation. 

"Well, " he said, "it's going to be a confounded bore, but, at the verylongest, it'll last but a year. Then Caro will be her own mistress. "

"Yes. But there are three hundred and sixty-five days in a year;remember that. "

"All right, Mater. You can bet on me. The old hayseed and I will bebosom pals. Wait and see. "

The formalities at the lawyers' took some time. Captain Elisha wasabsent from the apartment the better part of the following two days. Theevenings, however, he spent with his niece and nephew, and, if at allsensitive to sudden changes of the temperature, he must have noticedthat the atmosphere of the library was less frigid. Caroline was notcommunicative, did not make conversation, nor was she in the leastfamiliar; but she answered his questions, did not leave the room when heentered, and seemed inclined to accept his society with resignation, if not with enthusiasm. Even Stephen was less sarcastic and bitter. Attimes, when his new guardian did or said something which offended hishighly cultivated sense of the proprieties, he seemed inclined to burstout with a sneer; but a quick "ahem!" or a warning glance from hissister caused him to remain silent and vent his indignation by kickinga footstool or barking a violent order at the unresisting Edwards. Caroline and her brother had had a heart to heart talk, and, as aresult, the all-wise young gentleman promised to make no more troublethan he could help. 

"Though, by gad, Caro, " he declared, "it's only for you I do it! If Ihad my way the old butt-in should understand exactly what I think ofhim. "

On Thursday, after luncheon, as Captain Elisha sat in his own room, reading a book he had taken from the library, there came a knock at thedoor. 

"Come ahead in!" ordered the captain. Caroline entered. Her uncle roseand put down the book. 

"Oh!" he exclaimed, "is it you? Excuse me. I thought 'twas theCommodore--Edwards, I mean. If I'd known you was comin' callin', Caroline, I shouldn't have been quite so bossy. Guess I'd have openedthe door for you, instead of lettin' you do it yourself. "

"Thank you, " answered his niece. "I came to see you on--I suppose youmight call it business. At any rate, it is a financial matter. I sha'n'tdetain you long. "

Captain Elisha was a trifle disappointed. 

"Oh, " he said, "on business, was it? I hoped--I didn't know but you'dcome just out of sociability. However, I'm mighty glad to see you, Caroline, no matter what it's for. That's a real becomin' dress you'vegot on, " he added, inspecting her admiringly. "I declare, you lookprettier every time I see you. You favor your pa consider'ble; I can seeit more and more. 'Bije had about all the good looks there was in ourfamily, " with a chuckle. "Set down, do. "

The girl seated herself in a rocker, and looked at him for a momentwithout speaking. She seemed to have something on her mind, and not toknow exactly how to express it. 

"Captain Warren, " she began, "I--I came to ask a favor. I am obligedto ask it, because you are our--" she almost choked over the hatedword--"our guardian, and I can no longer act on my own responsibility. Iwish to ask you for some money. "

Captain Elisha nodded gravely. 

"I see, " he said. "Well, Caroline, I don't believe you'll find me veryclose-fisted. I think I told you and Steve that you was to do just asyou'd been in the habit of doin'. Of course I _am_ your guardian now, and I shall be held responsible for whatever expense comes to theestate. Itvis quite a responsibility, and I so understand it. As I saidto you when I told you I'd decided to take the job on trial, _while_ Ihave it it'll be my pride to see that you or your brother don't loseanything. I intend, if the Almighty spares me so long and I keep on withthe trust, to turn over, when my term's out, at least as much to you andSteve as your father left. That's all. Excuse me for mentioning itagain. Now, how much do you want? Is your reg'lar allowance too small?Remember, I don't know much about such things here in New York, and youmust be frank and aboveboard and tell me if you have any complaints. "

"I have no complaints. My allowance is sufficient. It is the same thatfather used to give me, and it is all I need. But this is a matteroutside my personal needs. "

"Um-hm. Somethin' to do with the household expenses, hey?"

"No. It is--is a matter of--well, of charity. It may amount to severalhundred dollars. "

"Yes, yes. I see. Charity, hey? Church?"

"No. One of the maids, Annie, has trouble at home, and I wanted to helpher. "

The captain nodded once more. 

"Annie, " he repeated, "that's the rosy-faced one? The Irish one?"

"Yes. Her father was seriously injured the other day and cannot work. His hip is broken, and the doctor's bill will be large. They are verypoor, and I thought perhaps--" She hesitated, faltered, and then saidhaughtily: "Father was very sympathetic and liked to have me do suchthings. "

"Sho! sho! Sartin! Course he did. I like it, too. I'm glad you came tome just as you did, Caroline. How much do you want to start with?"

"I don't know, exactly. I thought I might ask our own doctor to attendto the case, and might send them some delicacies and food. "

"Good idea! Go right ahead, Caroline. "

"Thank you. I have been over to see them, and they need help--theyreally do. "

"I presume likely. How'd the accident happen? Anybody's fault, was it?"

Caroline's eyes snapped. "Indeed it was!" she said, indignantly. "Itwas a wet morning, after a rain, and the pavement was slippery. Mr. Moriarty, Annie's father, was not working that day--they were makingsome repairs at the factory where he is employed, I believe--and he hadgone out to do the family marketing. He was crossing the street when anautomobile, recklessly driven, so everyone says, drove directly down onhim. He tried to jump out of the way and succeeded--otherwise he mighthave been killed; but he fell and broke his hip. He is an old man, andthe case is serious. "

"Dear! dear! you don't tell me! Poor old chap! The auto feller--did hehelp? Seems to me he ought to be the one to be spendin' the money. 'Twashis fault. "

"Help! Indeed he didn't! He and the man with him merely laughed, asif it was a good joke, put on speed, and disappeared as quickly aspossible. "

"Why, the mean swab! Did this Mr. Moriarty or the folks around get thelicense number of the auto?"

"No. All they know is that it was a big yellow car with two men in it. "

"Hey? A yellow car?"

"Yes. Somewhat similar to the one Malcolm--Mr. Dunn drives. "

"So, so! Hum! Where did it happen?"

"On Saint Nicholas Avenue, near One Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Street. "

"Eh? Saint Nicholas Avenue, you say?"

"Yes. " Caroline rose and turned to go. "Thank you, Captain Warren, " shesaid. "I will tell Doctor Henry to take the case at once. "

The captain did not answer immediately. With his chin in his hand he wasgazing at the floor. 

"Good afternoon, " said Caroline. 

Her uncle looked up. 

"Er--Wait just a minute, Caroline, " he said. "I guess maybe, if youdon't mind, I'd like to think this over a little afore you go too far. You have your doctor go right ahead and see to the old man, and youorder the things to eat and whatever's necessary. But afore you giveAnnie or her father any money, I'd kind of like to figger a littlemite. "

His niece stopped short, turned and stared at him. 

"Oh!" she said, slowly and icily, "I see. Please don't trouble yourself. I should have known. However, my allowance is my own, and I presume I ampermitted to do what I please with that. "

"Caroline, don't be hasty. I ain't sayin' no about the money. Far fromit. I only--"

"I understand--thoroughly. Don't trouble to 'figure, ' as you call it. Oh! _Why_ did I humiliate myself? I should have known!"

"Caroline, please--"

But the girl had gone, closing the door after her. Captain Elisha shookhis head, heaved a deep sigh, and then, sinking back into his chair, relapsed into meditation. Soon afterward he put on his hat and coat andwent out. 

Half an hour later he entered the office of a firm of commission brokerson lower Broad Street, and inquired if a gentleman by the name of Mr. Malcolm Dunn was connected with that establishment. On being answered inthe affirmative, he asked if Mr. Dunn were in. Yes, he was. 

"Well, " said Captain Elisha, "I'd like to speak to him a minute or so. Just tell him my name's Warren, if you don't mind, young feller. "

The clerk objected to being addressed as "young feller, " and showed hisdisapproval by the haughty and indifferent manner in which he departedon the errand. However, he did so depart, and returned followed byMalcolm himself. The latter, who had been misled by the name intosupposing his caller to be Stephen Warren, was much astonished when hesaw the captain seated outside the railing. 

"Good afternoon, " said Captain Elisha, rising and extending his hand:"How are you to-day, sir? Pretty smart?"

The young man answered briefly that he was all right. He added he wasglad to see his visitor, a statement more polite than truthful. 

"Well, what's up?" he inquired, condescendingly. "Nothing wrong withCaro or Steve, I hope. "

"No, they're fust-rate, thank you. "

"What's doing, then? Is it pleasure or business?"

"Well, a little of both, maybe. It's always a pleasure to see you, ofcourse; and I have got a little mite of business on hand. "

Malcolm smiled, in his languid fashion. If he suspected sarcasm inthe first part of the captain's reply, it did not trouble him. Hisself-sufficiency was proof against anything of that sort. 

"Business, " he repeated. "Well, that's what I'm here for. Thinking ofcornering the--er--potato market, were you?"

"No-o. Cranberries would be more in my line, and I cal'late you fellersdon't deal in that kind of sass. I had a private matter I wanted to talkover with you, Mr. Dunn; that is, if you ain't too busy. "

Malcolm looked at him with an amused curiosity. As he had expressed itin the conversation with his mother, this old fellow certainly was a"card. " He seated himself on the arm of the oak settle from which thecaptain had risen and, lazily swinging a polished shoe, admitted that hewas always busy but never too busy to oblige. 

"What's on your mind, Captain?" he drawled. 

Captain Elisha glanced about him somewhat uneasily. 

"I--I don't know as I made it quite clear, " he said, "that it was sortof private; somethin' just between us, you understand. "

Malcolm hesitated. Sliding from the settle, and impatiently commandingthe clerk to open the gate in the railing, he led his caller through themain office and into a small room beyond. On the glass pane of the doorwas lettered, "Mr. Dunn--Private. " A roll-top desk in the corner andthree chairs were the furniture. Malcolm, after closing the door, sprawled in the swing chair before the desk, threw one leg over adrawer, which he pulled out for that purpose, and motioned his companionto occupy one of the other chairs. 

Captain Elisha took the offered chair and dropped his hat on the floorbeside it. Then he inspected the room and its furnishings with interest. Dunn drew out a pocket case, extracted a cigarette, lit it, and waitedfor him to speak. 

"Well, " observed the young man, after a moment, "what's the trouble, Admiral? Better get it off your chest, hadn't you? We're private enoughhere. "

The captain answered the last question. "Yes, " he said, "this is niceand private. Got a stateroom all to yourself; name on the door, andeverything complete. You must be one of the officers of the craft. "

"Yes. "

"Um-hm. I sort of expected to find your name on the door outside, butthere 'twas, 'Smith, Haynes & Co. ' I presume likely you're the 'Co. '"

"_I_ 'presume likely, '" with mocking impatience. "What about thatprivate matter?"

Captain Elisha did not appear to hear him. His eyes were fixed onseveral photographs stuck in the rail of Mr. Dunn's desk. The photoswere those of young ladies. 

"Friends of yours?" inquired the captain, nodding toward thephotographs. 

"No. " Dunn took the photos from the rack and threw them into a pigeonhole. "Look here, " he said, pointedly, "I wouldn't hurry you for theworld, but--"

He paused. Captain Elisha did not take the hint. His mind was evidentlystill busy with the vanished photographs. 

"Just fancy pictures, I s'pose, hey?" he commented. 

"Doubtless. Any other little points I can give you?"

"I guess not. I thought they was fancy; looked so to me. Well, aboutthat private matter. Mr. Dunn, I come to see you about an automobile. "

"An automobile!" The young man was so astonished that he actuallyremoved his feet from the desk. Then he burst into a laugh. "Anautomobile?" he repeated. "Captain, has the influence of the metropolismade you a sport already? Do you want to buy a car?"

"Buy one?" It was Captain Elisha's turn to show irritation. "Buy oneof them things? Me? I wouldn't buy one of 'em, or run one of 'em, forsomethin', _I_ tell you! No, I don't want to buy one. "

"Why not? Sell you mine for a price. "

"Not if I see you fust, thank you. No, Mr. Dunn, 'tain't that. Butone of the hired help up to our place--Caroline's place, I mean--is introuble on account of one of the dratted machines. They're poor folks, of course, and they need money to help 'em through the doctorin' andnursin' and while the old man's out of work. Caroline was for givin' itto 'em right off, she's a good-hearted girl; but I said--that is, I kindof coaxed her out of it. I thought I'd ask some questions first. "

"So you came to me to ask them?" Malcolm smiled contentedly. Evidentlythe cares and complications of guardianship were already proving toointricate for the unsophisticated countryman. He wished advice, andhad come to him for it, possibly at Caroline's suggestion. Affairswere shaping themselves well. Here was an opportunity to act thedisinterested friend, as per maternal instructions. 

"So you wanted to ask questions, did you, Captain?" he repeated. "Well, fire away. Anything I can do to help you or Caroline will be a pleasure, of course. Smoke?"

He offered the cigarette case. The captain eyed it dubiously and shookhis head. 

"No, " he said; "no, thank you, I commenced smokin' at the butt end, I guess. Begun with a pipe, and them things would seem sort ofkindergarten, I'm afraid. No offense meant, you understand. It's allaccordin' to what you've been used to. Well, about the questions. Here'sthe first one: Don't it seem to you that the right one to pay for thedoctorin' and nursin' and such of Mr. Moriarty--that's Annie's pa--oughtto be the feller who hurt him? That feller, instead of Caroline?"

"Sure thing! If you know who did it, he's your mark. "

"He could be held responsible, couldn't he?"

"Certainly. "

"Um-hm. So I thought. And if he was a right-minded chap, he'd be glad tohelp the poor critter, providin' he knew what damage he'd done; wouldn'tyou think so?"

Malcolm nodded sagely, opened his mouth to speak, and then closed itagain. A sudden recollection came to him, an alarming recollection. Heturned in his chair and looked at his visitor. Captain Elisha met hisgaze frankly. 

"Where did this accident happen?" asked Mr. Dunn, his condescendingsmile absent. 

"At the corner of Saint Nicholas Avenue and One Hundred andTwenty-Eighth Street. It happened last Friday mornin', a week ago. And the car that hit him was a yellow one. "

Malcolm did not answer. His pale face grew paler, and then flushed abrilliant red. The captain seemed to feel sorry for him. 

"Naturally, " he went on, "when I heard about it, I remembered what youtold Mr. Sylvester and me at the club that afternoon. I understand how'twas, of course. You never thought you'd done any real harm and justwent on, thinkin' 'twas a good joke, much as anything. If you'd knownyou'd really hurt the poor old man, you'd have stopped to see him. Iunderstand that. But--"

"Look here!" interrupted Dunn, sharply, "did Caroline send you to me?"

"Caroline? No, no! She don't know 'twas your automobile at all. I neversaid a word to her, 'tain't likely. But afore she spent any of hermoney, I thought you'd ought to know, because I was sure you wouldn'tlet her. That's the way I'd feel, and I felt 'twas no more'n honest togive you the chance. I come on my own hook; she didn't know anythingabout it. "

Malcolm drummed on the desk with nervous fingers. The flush remained onhis face, his cigarette had gone out, and he threw the stump savagelyinto the wastepaper basket. Captain Elisha remained silent. At lengththe young man spoke. 

"Well, " he growled, pettishly, "how much will it take to square thingswith the gang? How much damages do they want?"

"Damages? Oh, there won't be any claim for damages, I guess. That is, nolawsuit, or anything of that kind. The Moriartys don't know you did it, and there's no reason why they should. I thought maybe I'd see to 'emand do whatever was necessary; then you could settle with me, and thewhole business would be just between us two. Outside the doctor's billsand food and nursin' and such, all the extry will be just the old man'swages for the time he's away from the factory. 'Twon't be very heavy. "

More reflection and finger tattoo by his companion. Then:

"All right! I'm in it, I can see that; and it's up to me to get out aseasy as I can. I don't want any newspaper publicity. Go ahead! I'll paythe freight. "

Captain Elisha arose and picked up his hat. 

"That's fust-rate, " he said, with emphasis. "I felt sure you'd see itjust as I did. There's one thing I would like to say, " he added: "thatis, that you mustn't think I was stingy about helpin' 'em myself. But itwa'n't really my affair; and when Caroline spoke of spendin' her moneyand Steve's, I didn't feel I'd ought to let her. You see, I don't knowas you know it yet, Mr. Dunn, but my brother 'Bije left me in charge ofhis whole estate, and, now that I've decided to take the responsibility, I've got a sort of pride in not wastin' any of his children'sinheritance. Good day, Mr. Dunn. I'm much obliged to you. "

He opened the office door. Malcolm, frowning heavily, suddenly asked afinal question. 

"Say!" he demanded, "you'll not tell Caroline or Steve a word of this, mind!"

The captain seemed surprised. 

"I guess you didn't catch what I said, Mr. Dunn, " he observed, mildly. "I told you this whole business would be just between you and me. "

CHAPTER IX

Captain Elisha was very far from considering himself a Solomon. As hewould have said he had lived long enough with himself to know what a lothe didn't know. Nevertheless, deep down in his inner consciousness, hecherished a belief in his judgment of human nature. This judgment wasnot of the snap variety; he took his time in forming it. People andtheir habits, their opinions and characters, were to him interestingproblems. He liked to study them and to reach conclusions founded uponreason, observation, and common sense. Having reached such a conclusion, it disturbed him when the subjects of the problem suddenly upset thewhole process of reasoning and apparently proved him wrong by behaviorexactly contrary to that which he had expected. 

He had been pretty well satisfied with the result of his visit toyoung Dunn at the latter's office. Malcolm had surrendered, perhapsnot gracefully or unconditionally, but he had surrendered, and thecondition--secrecy--was one which the captain himself had suggested. Captain Elisha's mental attitude toward the son of the late Tammanyleader had been a sort of good-natured but alert tolerance. He judgedthe young man to be a product of rearing and environment. He had knownspoiled youths at the Cape and, in their surroundings, they behaved muchas Malcolm did in his. The same disrespect to their elders, the samecock-sureness, and the same careless indifference concerning the effectwhich their actions might have upon other people--these were natural andnothing but years and the hard knocks of experience could bring about achange. Elkanah Chase, country swell and pampered heir to the cranberrygrower's few thousands, and Malcolm Dunn, idol of his set at theMetropolitan Club, were not so very different, except in externals. Thesimilarity confirmed his opinion that New York was merely South Denboromany thousand times magnified. 

He knew how young Chase had behaved after an interview not unlike thatjust described. In Elkanah's case several broken windows and propertydestroyed on a revel the night before the Fourth had caused the trouble. In Malcolm's it was an automobile. Both had listened to reason and hadknuckled under rather than face possible lawsuits and certain publicity. Chase, however, had sulkily refused to speak to him for a month, andregained affability merely because he wished to borrow money. Accordingto the captain's deduction, Dunn should have acted in similar fashion. But he didn't; that was the odd part of it. 

For Malcolm, when he next called, in company with his mother, at theWarren apartment, was not in the least sulky. Neither was he overeffusive, which would have argued fear and a desire to conciliate. Possibly there was a bit more respect in his greeting of the newguardian and a trifle less condescension, but not much. He still hailedCaptain Elisha as "Admiral, " and was as mockingly careless as ever inhis remarks concerning the latter's newness in the big city. In fact, hewas so little changed that the captain was perplexed. A chap who couldtake a licking when he deserved it, and not hold malice, must have goodin him, unless, of course, he was hiding the malice for a purpose. Andif that purpose was the wish to appear friendly, then the manner ofhiding it proved Malcolm Dunn to possess more brains than Captain Elishahad given him credit for. 

One thing seemed sure, the Dunns were not openly hostile. And Carolinewas. Since the interview in the library, when the girl had, as sheconsidered it, humiliated herself by asking her guardian for money tohelp the Moriartys, she had scarcely spoken to him. Stephen, taking hiscue from his sister, was morose and silent, also. Captain Elisha foundit hard to forgive his dead brother for bringing all this trouble uponhim. 

His lawyers, so Sylvester informed him, were setting about gettingRodgers Warren's tangible assets together. The task was likely to be along one. The late broker's affairs were in a muddled state, the bookswere anything but clear, some of the investments were foreign, and, atthe very earliest, months must elapse before the executor and trusteecould know, for certain, just how large a property he was in charge of. 

He found some solace and forgetfulness of the unpleasant life he wasleading in helping the stricken Moriarty family. Annie, the maid at theapartment, he swore to secrecy. She must not tell Miss Caroline of hisvisits to her parents' home. Doctor Henry, also, though he could notunderstand why, promised silence. Caroline herself had engaged hisservices in the case, and he was faithful. But the patient was moreseriously hurt than at first appeared, and consultations with aspecialist were necessary. 

"Goin' to be a pretty expensive job, ain't it, Doctor?" asked thecaptain of the physician. 

"Rather, I'm afraid. "

"All right. If expense is necessary, don't be afraid of it. You do justwhat you'd ought to, and send the bill to me. "

"But Miss Warren insisted upon my sending it to her. She said it was aprivate matter, and one with which you, as her guardian, had nothing todo. "

"I know. Caroline intends to use her own allowance, I s'pose. Well, let her think she will, if 'twill please her. But when it comes tothe settlement, call on me. Give her any reason you want to; saya--er--wealthy friend of the family come to life all at once andcouldn't sleep nights unless he paid the costs. "

"But there isn't any such friend, is there, Captain Warren? Other thanyourself, I mean?"

Captain Elisha grinned in appreciation of a private joke. "There issomebody else, " he admitted, "who'll pay a share, anyhow. I don'tknow's he's what you call a bosom friend, and, as for his sleepin'nights--well, I never heard he couldn't do that, after he went to bed. But, anyhow, you saw wood, or bones, or whatever you have to do, andleave the rest to me. And don't tell Caroline or anybody else a word. "

The Moriartys lived in a four-room flat on the East Side, uptown, andhis visits there gave the captain a glimpse of another sort of NewYork life, as different from that of Central Park West as could well beimagined. The old man, Patrick, his wife, Margaret, the unmarried son, Dennis, who worked in the gas house, and five other children of variousages were hived somehow in those four small rooms and Captain Elishamarveled greatly thereat. 

"For the land sakes, ma'am, " he asked of the nurse, "how do they do it?Where do they put 'em nights? That--that closet in there's the pantryand woodshed and kitchen and dinin' room; and that one's the settin'room and parlor; and them two dry-goods boxes with doors to 'em arebedrooms. There's eight livin' critters to stow away when it's time toturn in, and one whole bed's took up by the patient. _Where_ do theyput the rest? Hang 'em up on nails?"

The nurse laughed. "Goodness knows!" she said. "He should have beentaken to the hospital. In fact, the doctor and I at first insisted uponhis removal there. He would have been much better off. But neither henor his wife would hear of it. She said he would die sure without hishome comforts. "

"Humph! I should think more likely he'd die with 'em, or under 'em. Iwatch that fleshy wife of his with fear and tremblin'. Every time shegoes nigh the bed I expect her to trip over a young one and fall. And ifshe fell on that poor rack-o'-bones, " with a wave of the hand toward theinvalid, "'twould be the final smash--like a brick chimney fallin' on alath hencoop. "

At that moment the "brick chimney" herself entered the rooms and thenurse accosted her. 

"Captain Warren here, " she said, "was asking where you all foundsleeping quarters. "

Mrs. Moriarty smiled broadly. "Sure, 'tis aisy, " she explained. "Whenthe ould man is laid up we're all happy to be a bit uncomfortable. Notthat we are, neither. You see, sor, me and Nora and Rosy sleep in theother bed; and Dinnie has a bit of a shakedown in the parlor; and Honorais in the kitchen; and--"

"There! there!" Captain Elisha interrupted hastily, "don't tell me anymore. I'd rather _guess_ that the baby bunks in the cookstove oven thanknow it for sartin. How did the grapes I sent you go?" turning to thesick man. 

"Aw, sor! they were foine. God bless you, sor! Mary be kind to you, sor!Sure the angels'll watch over you every day you live and breathe!"

Captain Elisha bolted for the parlor, the sufferer firing a gatlingfusillade of blessings after him. Mrs. Moriarty continued thebombardment, as she escorted him to the door of the flat. 

"There! there!" protested the captain. "Just belay! cut it short, there's a good woman! I'll admit I'm a saint and would wear a haloinstead of a hat if 'twa'n't so unfashionable. Good day. If you needanything you ain't got, tell the nurse. "

The grateful Irish woman did not intend to let him escape so easily. 

"Aw, sor, " she went on, "it's all right for you to make fun. I'm thejokin' kind, sor, meself. Whin the flats where we used to be got afireand Pat had to lug me down the fire escape in his arms, they tell meI was laughin' fit to kill; that is, when I wasn't screechin' for fearhe'd drop me. And him, poor soul, never seein' the joke, but puffin' andgroanin' that his back was in two pieces. Ha, ha! Oh, dear! And himin two pieces now for sure and all! Aw, sor, it's all right for you tolaugh it off, but what would we do without you? You and Miss Caroline, God bless her!"

"Caroline? She doesn't come here, does she?"

"Indade she does. Sure, she's the perfect little lady! Hardly a daypasses--or a week, anyhow--that she doesn't drop in to see how the ouldman's gettin' on. "

"Humph! Well, see that you don't tell her about me. "

Mrs. Moriarty held up both hands in righteous protestation. _She_ tell?Might the tongue of her wither between her teeth before it let slip aword, and so on. Captain Elisha waved her to silence. 

"All right! all right!" he exclaimed. "So long! Take good care of yourhusband, and, and--for Heaven's sake, walk careful and don't step on anyof the children. "

Mrs. Moriarty's tongue did not wither; at all events, it was livelyenough when he next met her. The captain's secret was not divulged, andhe continued his visits to the flat, taking care, however, to ascertainhis niece's whereabouts beforehand. It was not altogether a desire toavoid making his charitable deeds public which influenced him. He had ahabit of not letting his right hand know what his left was about insuch cases, and he detested a Pharisaical philanthropist. But therewas another reason why Caroline must not learn of his interest in theMoriartys. If she did learn it, she would believe him to be helping themon his own responsibility; or, if not, that he was using money belongingto the estate. Of course he would, and honestly must, deny the lattercharge, and, therefore, the first would, to her mind, be proven. Heintended that Malcolm Dunn should pay the larger share of the bills, aswas right and proper. But he could not tell Caroline that, because shemust not know of the young man's responsibility for the accident. Hecould not give Malcolm the credit, and he felt that he ought not to takeit himself. It was a delicate situation. 

He was lonely, and the days seemed long. Reading the paper, walking inthe park, occasionally dropping in at the lawyers' offices, or visitingthe shops and other places of interest about town made up the monotonousroutine. He breakfasted early, waited upon by Edwards, got lunch at therestaurant nearest to wherever he happened to be at noon, and returnedto the apartment for dinner. His niece and nephew dined with him, butwhen he attempted conversation they answered in monosyllables or not atall. Every evening he wrote a letter to Abbie, and the mail each morningbrought him one from her. The Dunns came frequently and seemed disposedto be friendly, but he kept out of their way as much as possible. 

Pearson he had not seen since the latter's call. This was adisappointment, for he fancied the young fellow and believed he shouldlike him even better on closer acquaintance. He would have returned thevisit, but somehow or other the card with the boarding-house street andnumber had been lost or mislaid, and the long list of "James Pearsons"in the directory discouraged him. He speculated much concerningthe mystery at which the would-be novelist hinted as preventing hisaccepting Caroline's invitation. Evidently Pearson had once knownRodgers Warren well, and had been esteemed and respected by the latter. Caroline, too, had known him, and was frankly pleased to meet him again. Whatever the trouble might be, she, evidently, was ignorant of it. Thecaptain wondered and pondered, but reached no satisfactory conclusion. It seemed the irony of fate that the one congenial person--Sylvesterexcepted--whom he had met during his stay in the big city should bescratched from his small list of acquaintances. 

With Sylvester he held many familiar and enjoyable chats. Thegood-natured, democratic senior member of the law firm liked to haveCaptain Elisha drop in for advice or to spin yarns. Graves, who waswell again, regarded the new guardian with respect of a kind, but withdistinct disapproval. The captain was, in his opinion, altogether tooflippant and jolly. There was nothing humorous in the situation, asGraves saw it, and to laugh when one's brother's estate is in a tangle, indicated unfitness, if nothing worse. Kuhn was a sharp, quick-movingman, who had no time for frivolity if it delayed business. 

It was after a long interview with Sylvester that Captain Elisha decidedto send Stephen back to college. When he broke the news there wasrebellion, brief but lively. Stephen had no desire to continue hisstudies; he wished to become a stock broker at once, and, as soon as hewas of age, take his father's seat on the Exchange. 

"Stevie, " said Captain Elisha, "one of these days, when you get to beas old as I am or before, you'll realize that an education is worthsomethin'. "

"Ugh!" grunted the boy, in supreme disgust. "What do you know aboutthat?"

"Why, not much, maybe, but enough. "

"Yes?" sarcastically. "What college did you attend?"

"Me? Why, none, more's the pity. What learnin' there was in our familyyour dad had. Maybe that's why he was what he was, so fur as money andposition and society and so on went, and I'm what _I_ am. "

"Oh, rubbish! What difference does it make to Malcolm Dunn--now--hisgoing through college?"

"Well, he went, didn't he?"

Stephen grinned. Malcolm had told him some particulars concerning hisuniversity career and its termination. 

"He went--part way, " he answered. 

"Ya-as. Well, you've gone part way, so fur. And now you'll go the rest. "

"I'd like to know why. "

"For one reason, because I'm your guardian and I say so. "

Stephen was furiously angry. His father's indulgence and his sister'stolerance had, in most cases, made his will law in the household. To beordered about in this way by an ignorant interloper, as he consideredhis uncle, was too much. 

"By gad, " he shouted, "we'll see!"

"No, we've seen. You run along now and pack your trunk. And takemy advice and study hard. You'll be behindhand in your work, so Mr. Sylvester tells me, but you're smart, and you can catch up. Make usproud of you; that's what you can do. "

His nephew glanced at him. Captain Elisha was smiling kindly, but therewas no sign of change of purpose in his look. 

Stephen ground his teeth. 

"Oh, " he snarled, "if it wasn't for the disgrace! If things weren't asthey are, I'd--"

"S-s-s-h! I know; but they are. Maybe I wish they wa'n't 'most as muchas you do, but they are. I don't blame you for feelin' mad now; but I'mright and I know it. And some day you'll know it, and thank me. "

"When I do, I'll be insane. "

"No, you'll be older, that's all. Now pack your trunk--or get theCommodore to pack it for you. "

 * * * * *

News from the Moriarty sick room continued favorable for a time. Then, with alarming suddenness, a change came. The broken hip was mendingslowly, but poor Pat's age was against him, and the shock and longillness were too much for his system to fight. Dr. Henry shook hishead dubiously when the captain asked questions. And, one morning atbreakfast, Edwards informed him that the old man was dead. Annie hadbeen summoned by telephone at midnight and had gone home. 

Captain Elisha, though not greatly surprised, was shocked and grieved. It seemed such a needless tragedy, almost like murder, although therewas no malice in it. And the thought of the fatherless children and thepoverty of the stricken family made him shudder. Death at any time, amidany surroundings, is terrible; when the dead hands have earned the breadfor many mouths it is appalling. 

The captain dreaded visiting the flat, but because he felt it to be aduty he went immediately. And the misery and wailing and dismay he foundthere were worse than his anticipations. He did his best to comfort andcheer. Mrs. Moriarty alternately called upon the saints to bless him andbegged to know what she would do now that they were all sure to starve. Luckily, the family priest, a kind-hearted, quiet man who faced similarscenes almost every day of his life, was there, and Captain Elisha had along talk with him. With Dennis, the oldest son, and Annie, the maidat the Warrens', he also consulted. Money for their immediate needs, he told them, he would provide. And the funeral expenses must notworry them. Afterward--well, plans for the future could be discussed atanother time. But upon Dennis and Annie he tried to impress a sense oftheir responsibility. 

"It's up to you, Boy, " he said to the former. "Annie's job's sure, Iguess, as long as she wants it, and she can give her mother somethin'every month. But you're the man of the house now, and you've got tosteer the ship and keep it afloat. That means work, and hard work, lots of it, too. You can do it, if you've got the grit. If I can finda better place and more pay for you, I will, but you mustn't depend onthat. It's up to you, I tell you, and you've got to show what's in you. If you get stuck and need advice, come to me. "

He handed the priest a sum of money to cover immediate contingencies, and departed. His letter to Abbie that afternoon was so blue that thehousekeeper felt sure he was "coming down" with some disease or other. He had been riding in that awful subway, where the air--so the paperssaid--was not fit to breathe, and just as like as not he'd caughtconsumption. His great-uncle on his mother's side died of it, so it "runin the family. " Either he must come home or she should come to him, oneor the other. 

But before evening his blueness had disappeared. He had just returnedto his room, after stepping into the hall to drop his letter in the mailchute, when his niece knocked at the door. He was surprised to see her, for she had not spoken to him, except in brief reply to questions, sincetheir misunderstanding in that very room. He looked at her wonderingly, not knowing what to say or what to expect; but she spoke first. 

"Captain Warren, " she began, hurriedly, "the last time I came toyou--the last time I came here, I came to ask a favor, and you--Ithought you--"

She was evidently embarrassed and confused. Her guardian wasembarrassed, also, but he tried to be hospitable. 

"Yes, Caroline, " he said, gravely, "I know what you mean. Won'tyou--won't you sit down?"

To his surprise, she accepted the invitation, taking the same chair shehad taken on the occasion of their former interview. But there was alook in her eyes he had never seen there before; at least, not when shewas addressing him. 

She went on, speaking hastily, as though determined to head off anyquestioning on his part. 

"Captain Warren, " she began once more, "the time I came to you in thisroom you were, so I thought, unreasonable and unkind. I asked you formoney to help a poor family in trouble, and you refused to give it tome. "

"No, Caroline, " he interrupted, "I didn't refuse, you only thought Idid. "

She held up her hand. "Please let me go on, " she begged. "I thought yourefused, and I couldn't understand why. I was hurt and angry. I knewthat father never would have refused me under such circumstances, andyou were his brother. But since then, only to-day, I have learned that Iwas wrong. I have learned--"

She paused. The captain was silent. He was beginning to hope, to believeonce more in his judgment of character; and yet, with his hope andgrowing joy, there was a trifle of anxiety. 

"I have learned, " went on his niece, "that I was mistaken. I can'tunderstand yet why you wished to wait before saying yes, but I do knowthat it must have been neither because you were unkind nor ungenerous. I have just come from those poor people, and they have told meeverything. "

Captain Elisha started. "What did they tell you?" he asked, quickly. "Who told you?"

"Annie and her mother. They told me what you had done and were doing forthem. How kind you had been all through the illness and to-day. Oh, Iknow you made them promise not to tell me; and you made the doctor andnurse promise, too. But I knew _someone_ had helped, and Annie droppeda hint. Then I suspected, and now I know. Those poor people!"

The captain, who had been looking at the floor, and frowning a bit, suddenly glanced up to find his niece's eyes fixed upon him, and theywere filled with tears. 

"Will you forgive me?" she asked, rising from her chair, and comingimpulsively toward him. "I'm sorry I misjudged you and treated you so. You must be a very good man. Please forgive me. "

He took her hand, which was swallowed up in his big one. His eyes weremoist, also. 

"Lord love you, dearie, " he said, "there's nothin' to forgive. Irealized that I must have seemed like a mean, stingy old scamp. Yet Ididn't mean to be. I only wanted to look into this thing just a little. Just as a matter of business, you know. And I. .. . Caroline, did thatdoctor tell you anything more?"

"Any more?" she repeated in bewilderment. "He told me that you were thekindest man he had ever seen. "

"Yes, yes. Well, maybe his eyesight's poor. What I mean is did he tellyou anything about anybody else bein' in this with me?"

"Anybody else? What do you mean?"

"Oh, nothin', nothin'. I joked with him a spell ago about a wealthyrelation of the Moriarty tribe turnin' up. 'Twas only a joke, of course. And yet, Caroline, I--I think I'd ought to say--"

He hesitated. What could he say? Even a hint might lead to embarrassingquestions and he had promised Dunn. 

"What ought you to say?" asked his niece. 

"Why, nothin', I guess. I'm glad you understand matters a little betterand I don't intend for the estate nor you to pay these Moriarty bills. Just get 'em off your mind. Forget 'em. I'll see that everything'sattended to. And, later on, if you and me can, by puttin' our headstogether, help those folks to earnin' a better livin', why, we will, hey?"

The girl smiled up at him. "I think, " she said, "that you must be onewho likes to hide his light under a bushel. "

"I guess likely a two-quart measure'd be plenty big enough to hide mine. There! there! We won't have any more misunderstandin's, will we? I'm apretty green vegetable and about as out of place here as a lobster ina balloon, but, as I said to you and Steve once before, if you'lljust remember I _am_ green and sort of rough, and maybe make allowancesaccordin', this cruise of ours may not be so unpleasant. Now yourun along and get ready for dinner, or the Commodore'll petrify fromstandin' so long behind your chair. "

She laughed, as she turned to go. "I should hate to have him do that, "she said. "He would make a depressing statue. I shall see you again in afew minutes, at dinner. Thank you--Uncle. "

She left Captain Elisha in a curious state of mind. Against his will hehad been forced to accept thanks and credit which, he believed, did notrightfully belong to him. It was the only thing to do, and yet it seemedalmost like disloyalty to Malcolm Dunn. This troubled him, but thetrouble was, just then, a mere pinhead of blackness against the radianceof his spirit. 

His brother's daughter had, for the first time, called him uncle. 

CHAPTER X

"Captain Warren, " asked Caroline, as they were seated at the breakfasttable next morning, "what are your plans for to-day?"

Captain Elisha put down his coffee cup and pulled his beardreflectively. Contrary to his usual desire since he came to theapartment to live, he was in no hurry to finish the meal. This breakfastand the dinner of the previous evening had been really pleasant. He hadenjoyed them. His niece had not called him uncle again, it is true, andperhaps that was too much to be expected as yet, but she was cheerfuland even familiar. They talked as they ate, and he had not been made tofeel that he was the death's head at the feast. The change was markedand very welcome. The bright winter sunshine streaming through thewindow indicated that the conditions outside were also just what theyshould be. 

"Well, " he replied, with a smile, "I don't know, Caroline, as I've madeany definite plans. Let's see, to-day's Sunday, ain't it? Last letter Igot from Abbie she sailed into me because, as she said, I seemed tohave been 'most everywheres except to meetin'. She figgers New York's aheathen place, anyhow, and she cal'lates I'm gettin' to be a backsliderlike the rest. I didn't know but I might go to church. "

Caroline nodded. "I wondered if you wouldn't like to go, " she said. "Iam going, and I thought perhaps you would go with me. "

Her uncle had again raised his cup to his lips. Now he set it down witha suddenness which caused the statuesque Edwards to bend forward inanticipation of a smash. The captain started to speak, thought better ofit, and stared at his niece so intently that she colored and dropped hereyes. 

"I know, " she faltered, "that I haven't asked you before, but--but--"then, with the impulsiveness which was one of her characteristics, andto her guardian her great charm, she looked him full in the face andadded, "but I hoped you would understand that--that _I_ understood alittle better. I should like to have your company very much. "

Captain Elisha drew a long breath. 

"Thank you, Caroline, " he answered. "I appreciate your askin' me, Isartinly do. And I'd rather go with you than anybody else on earth. But I was cal'latin' to hunt up some little round-the-corner chapel, orBethel, where I'd feel a little bit at home. I guess likely your churchis a pretty big one, ain't it?"

"We attend Saint Denis. It IS a large church, but we have always beenconnected with it. Stephen and I were christened there. But, of course, if you had rather go somewhere else--"

"No, no! I hadn't anywhere in particular to go. I'm a Congregationalistto home, but Abbie says I've spread my creed so wide that it ain'tmore'n an inch deep anywhere, and she shouldn't think 'twould keep meafloat. I tell her I'd rather navigate a broad and shallow channel, where everybody stands by to keep his neighbor off the shoals, than Iwould a narrow and crooked one with self-righteousness off both beamsand perdition underneath. 

"You see, " he added, reflectively, "the way I look at it, it's a prettyuncertain cruise at the best. Course there's all sorts of charts, andevery fleet is sartin it's got the only right one. But I don't know. We're afloat--that much we are sure of--but the port we left and theharbor we're bound for, they're always out of sight in the fog asternand ahead. I know lots of folks who claim to see the harbor, and see itplain; but they don't exactly agree as to what they see. As for me, I'vecome to the conclusion that we must steer as straight a course as wecan, and when we meet a craft in distress, why, do our best to helpher. The rest of it I guess we must leave to the Owner, to the One thatlaunched us. I. .. . Good land!" he exclaimed, coming out of hismeditation with a start, "I'm preachin' a sermon ahead of time. Andthe Commodore's goin' to sleep over it, I do believe. "

The butler, who had been staring vacantly out of the window during thecaptain's soliloquy, straightened at the sound of his nickname, andasked hastily, "Yes, sir? What will you have, sir?" Captain Elishalaughed in huge enjoyment, and his niece joined him. 

"Well, " she said, "will you go with me?"

"I'd like to fust-rate--if you won't be too much ashamed of me. "

"Then it's settled, isn't it? The service begins at a quarter to eleven. We will leave here at half-past ten. "

The captain shaved with extra care that morning, donned spotless linen, including a "stand-up" collar--which he detested--brushed his frock-coatand his hair with great particularity, and gave Edwards his shoes toclean. He would have shined them himself, as he always did at home, buton a former occasion when he asked for the "blackin' kit, " thebutler's shocked and pained expression led to questions and consequentenlightenment. 

He was ready by a quarter after ten, but when his niece knocked at hisdoor she bore a message which surprised and troubled him. 

"Mrs. Dunn called, " she said, "to ask me to go to church with her. Itold her I had invited you to accompany me. Would you mind if she joinedus?"

Her guardian hesitated. "I guess, " he answered, slowly, "it ain't somuch a question of my mindin' her as she mindin' me. Does _she_ want meto go along?"

"She said she should be delighted. "

"I want to know! Now, Caroline, don't you think I'd be sort of in theway? Don't you believe she'd manage to live down her disappointment ifI didn't tag on? You mustn't feel that you've got to be bothered with mebecause you suggested my goin', you know. "

"If I had considered it a bother I should not have invited you. If youdon't wish Mrs. Dunn's company, then you and I will go alone. "

"Oh, land sakes! I wouldn't have you do that for the world! All right, I'll be out in a jiffy. "

He gave his hair a final brush, straightened his tie, turned around oncemore before the mirror, and walked fearfully forth to meet the visitor. For him, the anticipated pleasure of the forenoon had been replaced byuneasy foreboding. 

But Mrs. Corcoran Dunn, as she rose creakingly to greet him, wasextremely gracious. She was gowned and furred and hatted in a mannerwhich caused the captain to make hasty mental estimate as to cost, butshe extended a plump hand, buttoned in a very tight glove, and murmuredher gratification. 

"I'm so glad you are to accompany us, Captain Warren, " she gushed. "Itis a charming winter morning, isn't it?"

Captain Elisha touched the plump glove with his own big finger tips, and admitted that the morning was "fust-rate. " He was relieved from theembarrassment of further conversation just then by Caroline's appearancein the library. She, too, was richly dressed. 

"Are we all ready?" she asked, brightly. "Then we may as well start. "

"I'm afraid we're a trifle early, my dear, " said Mrs. Dunn, "but we canstroll about a bit before we go in. "

The captain looked at the library clock. The time was a quarter toeleven. 

"Early?" he exclaimed, involuntarily. "Why, I thought Caroline said--"

He stopped, suddenly, realizing that he had spoken aloud. His niecedivined his thought and laughed merrily. 

"The service does begin now, " she said, "but no one is ever on time. "

"Oh!" ejaculated her uncle, and did not speak again until they were atthe door of the church. Then Caroline asked him what he was thinking. 

"Nothin' much, " he answered, gazing at the fashionably garbed throngpouring under the carved stone arch of the entrance; "I was justreorganizin' my ideas, that's all. I've always sort of thought a plughat looked lonesome. Now I've decided that I'm wearin' the lonesomekind. "

He marched behind his niece and Mrs. Dunn up the center aisle to theWarren pew. He wrote his housekeeper afterwards that he estimatedthat aisle to be "upwards of two mile long. And my Sunday shoes had aseparate squeak for every inch, " he added. 

Once seated, however, and no longer so conspicuous, his common senseand Yankee independence came to his rescue. He had been in much biggerchurches than this one, while abroad during his seagoing years. He knewthat his clothes were not fashionably cut, and that, to the people abouthim, he must appear odd and, perhaps, even ridiculous. But he rememberedhow odd certain city people appeared while summering at South Denboro. Recollections of pointed comments made by boatmen who had taken thesesummer sojourners on fishing excursions came to his mind. Well, hehad one advantage over such people, at any rate, he knew when he wasridiculous, and they apparently did not. 

So, saved from humiliation by his sense of humor, he looked about himwith interest. When the procession of choir boys came up the aisle, and Mrs. Dunn explained in a condescending whisper what they were, hisanswer surprised her a trifle. "Yes, " whispered the captain in reply, "Iknow. I've seen the choir in Saint Peter's at Rome. "

Only once did he appear greatly astonished. That was when the offeringwas taken and a certain dignified magnate, whose fame as a king offinance is world-wide, officiated as one of the collectors. 

"Heavens and earth!" murmured Captain Elisha, staring wide-eyed atthe unmistakable features so often pictured and cartooned in the dailypapers; "Caroline--Caroline, am I seein' things or is that--is that--"

"That is Mr. ----, " whispered his niece. "He is one of the vestrymenhere. "

"My soul!" still gazing after the Emperor of Wall Street; "_Him_ passin'the plate! Well, " with a grim smile, "whoever picked him out for the jobhas got judgment. If _he_ can't make a body shell out, nobody can. "

He listened to the sermon, the text of which was from the Beatitudes, with outward solemnity, but with a twinkle in his eye. After thebenediction, when Caroline asked how he enjoyed it, the cause of thetwinkle became apparent. 

"Fine!" he declared, with enthusiasm. "He's a smart preacher, ain't he!And he knew his congregation. You might not guess they was meek perhaps, but they certainly did look as if they'd inherited the earth. "

He drew a breath of relief as the trio emerged into the open air. He hadenjoyed the novel experience, in a way, but now he felt rather like onelet out of jail. The quiet luncheon at home with Caroline was a pleasantanticipation. 

But Mrs. Corcoran Dunn smashed his anticipation at a blow. She insistedthat he and his niece lunch with her. 

"You really must, you know, " she declared. "It will be delightful. Justa little family party. "

Captain Elisha looked distressed. "Thank you, ma'am, " he stammered;"it's awful kind of you, but I wouldn't feel right to go puttin' youto all that trouble. Just as much obliged, but I--I've got a letter towrite, you see. "

Mrs. Dunn bore his refusal bravely. 

"Very well, " she said, "but Caroline _must_ come with me. I told MalcolmI should bring her. "

"Sure! Sartin! Caroline can go, of course. "

But Caroline also declined. Having misjudged her guardian in the matterof the Moriarty family, she was in a repentant mood, and had marked thatday on her calendar as one of self-sacrifice. 

"No, Captain Warren, " she said, "I shall not go unless you do. "

"Then the captain will come, of course, " declared Mrs. Dunn, withdecision. "I'm sure he will not be so selfish as to deprive me--andMalcolm--of your company. "

So, because he did not wish to appear selfish, Captain Elisha admittedthat his letter might be written later in the afternoon, accepted theinvitation, and braced his spirit for further martyrdom. 

It was not as bad as he expected. The Dunns occupied a small, brown-stone house on Fifth Avenue, somewhat old-fashioned, but eminentlyrespectable. The paintings and bronzes were as numerous as those in theWarren apartment, and if the taste shown in their selection was not thatof Rodgers Warren, the connoisseur, they made quite as much show, andthe effect upon Captain Elisha was the same. The various mortgages onthe property were not visible, and the tradesmen's bills were securelylocked in Mrs. Dunn's desk. 

The luncheon itself was elaborate, and there was a butler whose majesticdignity and importance made even Edwards seem plebeian by comparison. 

Malcolm was at home when they arrived, irreproachably dressed andlanguidly non-effusive, as usual. Captain Elisha, as he often said, did not "set much store" by clothes; but there was something about thisyoung man which always made him conscious that his own trousers were alittle too short, or his boots too heavy, or something. "I wouldn't_wear_ a necktie like his, " he wrote Abbie, after his first meeting withMalcolm, "but blessed if I don't wish I could _if_ I would!"

Caroline, in the course of conversation during the luncheon, mentionedthe Moriartys and their sorrow. The captain tried to head her off andto change the subject, but with little success. He was uncomfortableand kept glancing under his brows at Malcolm, with whom, under thecircumstances, he could not help sympathizing to an extent. But hissympathy was wasted. The young man did not appear in the slightestdegree nervous. The memory of his recent interview with Captain Elishadid not embarrass him, outwardly at least, half as much as it did thecaptain. He declared that old Pat's death was beastly hard luck, butaccidents were bound to happen. It was a shame, and all that. "Ifthere's anything the mater and I can do, Caroline, call on us, ofcourse. "

"Yes, do, Caroline, " concurred his mother. "However, one must bephilosophic in such cases. It is a mercy that people in their station donot feel grief and loss as we do. Providence, in its wisdom, has limitedtheir susceptibilities as it has their intelligence. Don't you agreewith me, Captain Warren?"

"Sartin!" was the prompt reply. "It's always a comfort to me, when I gofishin', to know that the fish ain't got so much brains as I have. Thehook hurts, I presume likely, but they ain't got the sense to realizewhat a mean trick's been played on 'em. The one that's caught's dead, and them that are left are too busy hustlin' for the next meal to wastemuch time grievin'. That eases my conscience consider'ble. "

Caroline seemed to be the only one who appreciated the sarcasm in thisobservation. She frowned slightly. Mrs. Corcoran Dunn tolerantly smiled, and her son laughed aloud. 

"Say, Admiral, " he commented, "when it comes to philosophy you go someyourself, don't you?"

"Um-hm. I can be as philosophical about other folk's troubles as anybodyI ever see. " Then, with an involuntary chuckle of admiration at theyoung gentleman's coolness, he added, "That is, anybody I ever see aforeI come to New York. "

Malcolm opened his mouth to reply, but closed it again. The captain, noticing his change of purpose and following the direction of his look, saw Mrs. Dunn shake her head in sharp disapproval. He ate the remainderof his salad in silence, but he thought a good deal. 

"And now, " said Mrs. Dunn, rising and leading the way to thedrawing-room, "we must all go for a motor ride. Everyone rides on Sundayafternoon, " she explained, turning to her male guest. 

The distressed look returned to Captain Elisha's face. His niece saw it, understood, and came to his rescue. 

"I think Captain Warren prefers to be excused, " she said, smiling. "Hehas a prejudice against automobiles. "

"No!" drawled Malcolm, the irrepressible. "Not really? Admiral, I'msurprised! In these days, you know!"

"It ain't so much the automobiles, " snapped Captain Elisha, irritationgetting the better of his discretion, "as 'tis the devilish foolsthat--"

"Yes? Oh, all right, Mater. "

"That are careless enough to get in the way of them, " finished thecaptain, with surprising presence of mind. "Still, if Caroline wants togo--"

"I have it!" exclaimed Mrs. Dunn. "The young people shall go, and theothers remain at home. Malcolm shall take you for a spin, Caroline, andCaptain Warren and I will stay here and wait until you return. We'llhave a family chat, Captain, won't we? Because, " with a gay laugh, "in away we _are_ like one family, you see. "

And, somewhat to Miss Warren's surprise, her uncle agreed to thisproposition. He did not answer immediately, but, when he did, it waswith heartiness. 

"Why, yes, " he said, "that's a good idea. That's fust-rate. You youngfolks go, and Mrs. Dunn and I'll wait here till you come back. That'sthe way of the world--young folks on the go, and the old folks at homeby the fire, hey, Mrs. Dunn?"

The lady addressed did not relish being numbered with "old folks, " butshe smiled sweetly, and said she supposed it was. Malcolm telephoned tothe garage and to Edwards at the Warren apartment, ordering the butlerto deliver his mistress's auto cap and cloak to the chauffeur, who wouldcall for them. A few minutes later the yellow car rolled up to the door. 

In the hall Mrs. Dunn whispered a reassuring word to her departingguest. 

"Now enjoy yourself, dear, " she whispered. "Have a nice ride anddon't worry about me. If he--if our encumbrance bores me too much Ishall--well, I shall plead a headache and leave him to his own devices. Besides, he isn't so _very_ dreadful, is he?"

Caroline shook her head. "No, " she answered, "he is a good man. Iunderstand him better than I did and--yes, I like him better, too. "

"Oh!. .. Indeed! Well, good-by, dear. Good-by. "

The yellow car roared as the chauffeur cranked it, then moved off upthe crowded avenue. Mrs. Dunn watched it until it was out of sight. Her brows were drawn together, and she seemed puzzled and just a bitdisconcerted. However, when she returned to the drawing-room, hergracious smile had returned, and her bland condescension was again inevidence. 

Captain Elisha had been standing by the window. She begged him to beseated. He thanked her, but looked dubiously at the Louis XVI chairindicated. She noticed the look. 

"Suppose we go into the library, " she said. "It is much less formal. Andthere is a fire--for us _old_ folks, " with a slight accent on the word. 

The library was more homelike. Not as many books as at the Warrens', buta great deal of gilt in the bindings and much carving on the cases. Thefire was cheery, and the pair sat down before it in big easy chairs. Mrs. Dunn looked intently at the glowing coals. 

Captain Elisha cleared his throat. Mrs. Dunn leaned forward expectantly. The captain coughed and sank back in his chair. 

"Yes?" purred the lady. "You were about to say?"

"Me? Oh, no, I didn't say anything. "

Another period of silence. Mrs. Dunn's foot tapped the rug impatiently. She wished him to begin the conversation, and he would not. At length, in desperation, she began it herself. 

"I suppose you find New York rather different from--er--North--er--"

"From South Denboro? Yes, ma'am. "

"Do you like the city life?"

"Well, I don't know, ma'am. "

"Not as well as you do that of the country, doubtless. "

"Well, you see, I ain't had so much of it. "

"No, of course not. It does so depend upon what one is accustomed to. Now I fancy I should be perfectly desperate in your village. "

One corner of Captain Elisha's mouth curled upward. 

"I shouldn't be surprised, " he admitted. 

"Desperately lonely, I mean. "

"Yes'm. I judged that was what you meant. Still, folks can be lonesomein New York. "

"Perhaps. But really I don't see how. With all the whirl and the crowdsand the glorious excitement. The feeling that one is at the very heart, the center of everything!"

"Yes. If you belong to the machinery, I s'pose it's all right. Butif you've been leanin' over the rail, lookin' on, and get pushed inunexpected, maybe you don't care so much about bein' nigh the center. "

"Then why stay there? Why not get out?"

"If you're caught in the wheels, gettin' out's somethin' of a job. "

"But, as I understand it, Captain Warren--I may be misinformed, for, ofcourse, I haven't been unduly curious concerning your family affairs--as_I_ understand it, you were not obliged to remain among the--amongthe wheels, as you call them. You could have gotten out quite easily, couldn't you?"

"I presume likely I could. But, you see, ma'am, I had a feelin' that I'dought to stay. "

Mrs. Dunn laughed lightly. "Ah me!" she exclaimed; "you felt it yourduty, I suppose. Oh, you New England Puritans!"

She shook her head in playful mockery. Then she added, "But, at allevents, it cannot be so very disagreeable--now. I have no doubt itwas--well, not comfortable for you at first. Steve and Caroline werequite impossible--really quite furious. Your sudden appearance in thecapacity of guardian was too much for them. They were sure you must bea perfect ogre, Captain. I had to use all my eloquence to convince themthey would not be devoured alive. But now--what a change! Why, alreadyCaroline accepts you as--well, almost like an old friend, like myself. In the last few days this change in her attitude is quite marked. What_have_ you done? Are you a wizard? Do tell me!"

This appeal, delivered with eloquence and most engaging play of brow andeye, should have been irresistible. Unfortunately the captain did notappear to have heard it. Leaning forward, his hands clasped between hisknees, he was gazing into the fire. And when he spoke, it was as if hewere thinking aloud. 

"I s'pose 'tis a sort of disease, this duty business, " he mused. "Andmost diseases ain't cheerful visitations. Still a feller ought not togrowl about it in public. I always did hate for a man to be goin' aboutforever complainin' of his sufferin's--whether they was from duty orrheumatiz. "

Mrs. Dunn's lips snapped shut. She pressed them together impatiently. Evidently her questions, and their diplomatic prelude, had beenunheard and wasted. However, she did not intend to be sidetracked ordiscouraged. 

"One should not prate of one's duty, of course, " she agreed. "Not thatyou do--far from it. But, as I was saying, our dear Caroline has--"

"Thank you, ma'am. I hope I don't groan too loud. Do you know, I believeclimate has a bearin' on duty, same as it has on rheumatics. I s'poseyou city folks"--and there was almost contempt in the words--"are sortof Christian Science, and figger it's an 'error'--hey? Somethin' to beforgot. "

The lady resented the interruption, and the contempt nettled her. 

"Not at all!" she retorted. "We city dwellers have our duties, also. "

"Is that a fact? I want to know!"

"Certainly it is a fact, " tartly. "I have my duties and many of them. "

"Um! So? Well, I s'pose you do feel you must dress just so, and livejust so, and do just such and such things. If you call those duties, why--"

"I do. What else are they, pray?"

Mrs. Dunn was finding it difficult to keep her temper. To be catechisedin this contemptuously lofty manner by one to whom she consideredherself so immensely superior, was too much. She forgot the careful planof campaign which she had intended to follow in this interview, and nowinterrupted in her turn. And Captain Elisha, who also was something of astrategist, smiled at the fire. 

"We do have our social duties, our duties to society, " snapped thewidow, hotly. "They are necessary ones. Having been born--or risen to--acertain circle, we recognize the responsibilities attached to it. We_are_ careful with whom we associate; we have to be. As for dress, wedress as others of our friends do. "

"And maybe a little better, if you can, hey?"

"If we can--yes. I presume--" with crushing irony--"dress in SouthDenboro counts but little. "

"You wouldn't say that if you ever went to sewin' circle, " with achuckle. "Still, compared to the folks at your meetin'-house thismorning, our congregation would look like a flock of blackbirdsalongside of a cage full of Birds of Paradise. But most of us--the womenfolks especial--dress as well as we can. "

"As well as you can!" triumphantly. "There! you see? And you live aswell as you can, don't you?"

"If you mean style, why, we don't set as much store by it as you do. "

"Nonsense! We are obliged to be, " with a slight shudder at thevulgarism, "_stylish_. If we should lapse, if we should become shabbyand behind the fashion or live in that way, people would wonder andbelieve it was because we could not afford to do otherwise. "

"Well, s'pose they did, you'd know better yourselves. Can't you beindependent?"

"No. Not unless you are very, very rich; then it might be considered aneccentricity. Independence is a costly luxury, and few can afford it. "

"But suppose you can't afford the other thing?"

"Then we must pretend we can. Oh, you _don't_ understand! So _much_depends upon a proper appearance. Everything depends upon it--one'sfuture, one's children's future--everything. "

"Humph!" with the same irritating smile, "I should think that might meansome plannin'. And plans, the best of 'em, are likely to go wrong. Youtalk about the children in your--in what you call your 'circle. ' How canyou plan what they'll do? You might when they was little, perhaps; butwhen they grow up it's different. "

"It is not. It _can't_ be! And, if they have been properly reared andunderstand their responsibilities, they plan with you. "

"Land sakes! You mean--why, s'pose they take a notion to get married?I'm an old bach, of course, but the average young girl or feller issubject to that sort of ailment, 'cordin' to the records. S'pose oneof your circle's daughters gets to keepin' company with a chap who'soutside the ring? A promisin', nice boy enough, but poor, and a rankoutsider? Mean to say she sha'n't marry him if she wants to. "

"Certainly! That sort of marriage is never a happy one, unless, ofcourse, the girl is wealthy enough not to care. And even then it is notadvisable. All their customs and habits of thought are different. No!Emphatically, no! And the girl, if she is sensible and well reared, as Ihave said, will understand it is impossible. "

"My soul and body! Then you mean to tell me that she _must_ look out forsome chap in her crowd? If she ain't got but just enough to keep insidethe circle--this grand whirlamagig you're tellin' me about--if she'spretendin' up to the limit of her income or over, then it's her duty, and her ma and pa's duty, to set her cap for a man who's nigher thecenter pole in the tent and go right after him? Do you tell me that?That's a note, I must say!"

Mrs. Dunn's foot beat a lively tattoo on the rug. "I don't know what youmean by a 'note, '" she commented, with majestic indignation. "I havenot lived in South Denboro, and perhaps my understanding of Englishis defective. But marriages among cultivated people, _society_ people, intelligent, ambitious people are, or should be, the result of thoughtand planning. Others are impossible!"

"How about this thing we read so much about in novels?--Love, I believethey call it. "

"Love! Love is well enough, but it does not, of itself, pay for properclothes, or a proper establishment, or seats at the opera, or any ofthe practical, necessary things of modern life. You can't keep up apresentable appearance on _love_! If I had a daughter who lacked thebrains to understand what I had taught her, that is, her duty as amember of good society, and talked of making a love match, I would. .. . But there! You can't understand, I suppose. "

She rose and shook the wrinkles from her gown. Captain Elishastraightened in his chair. "Why, yes, ma'am, " he drawled, quietly; "yes, ma'am, I guess I understand fust-rate. "

And suddenly Mrs. Dunn also understood. Her face, which had grown almosttoo red for one attached to a member of polite society, grew redderstill. She turned away and walked to the window. 

"What nonsense we've been talking!" she said, after a moment's silence. "I don't see what led us into this silly discussion. Malcolm and yourniece must be having a delightful ride. I almost wish I had gone withthem. "

She did wish it, devoutly. Captain Elisha still remained by the fire. 

"Automobiles are great things for hustlin' around in, " he observed. "Pity they're such dangerous playthings. Yet I s'pose they're one of thenecessities of up-to-date folks, same as you said, Mrs. Dunn. "

"Surely, " she asked coldly, "you don't condemn automobiles, CaptainWarren? What would you--return to stage coaches?"

"Not a mite! But I was thinkin' of that poor Moriarty man. "

"His death was due to an accident. And accidents, " she turned and lookeddirectly at him, "when they involve financial damages, may be paid for. "

The captain nodded. "Yes, " he said. 

"And when arrangements for such payment is made, _honorable_ people--atleast, in the circle of which you and I have been speaking--consider thematter settled and do not refer to it again, either among themselves--orelsewhere. "

"Yes, ma'am. " He nodded again. She did know; Malcolm, evidently, hadtold her. "Yes, ma'am. That's the way any decent person would feel--andact--if such a thing happened--even if they hailed from South Denboro. "

He pushed back his chair and stood up. She continued to look him over, much as if she were taking a mental inventory of his character, orrevising an old one. 

"I hope, " she said, lightly, but with deliberation, "our little argumentand--er--slight disagreement concerning--er--duty will not make usenemies, Captain Warren. "

"Enemies! Land sakes, no! I respect anybody's havin' opinions and notbein' afraid to give 'em. And I think I can understand some of how youfeel. Maybe if I was anchored here on Fifth Avenue, same as you are, instead of bein' blown in by an unexpected no'theaster, I'd be feelin'the same way. It's all accordin', as I've said so often. Enemies? No, indeed!"

She laughed again. "I'm so glad!" she said. "Malcolm declares he'dbe quite afraid of me--as an enemy. He seems to think I possesssome mysterious and quite diabolical talent for making my un-friendsuncomfortable, and declares he would compromise rather than fight meat any time. Of course it's ridiculous--just one of his jokes--and I'mreally harmless and very much afraid. That's why I want you and me to befriends, Captain Warren. "

"Sure!" Captain Elisha nodded emphatically. "That's what I want, too. "

But that evening, immediately after his return to the apartment, when--Caroline having gone to her own room to remove her wraps--he andthe butler were alone, he characteristically unburdened his mind. 

"Mr. Warren, sir, " said Edwards, "a young gentleman left a note here foryou this afternoon. The elevator man gave it to me, sir. It's on yourdressing table, sir. "

The captain's answer had nothing whatever to do with the note. He hadbeen thinking of other things. 

"Commodore, " he said, "I've got the answer. "

"To the note? Already, sir? I didn't know you'd seen it. "

"I ain't. I've got the answer to the conundrum. It's Mother!"

"Mother, sir? I--I don't know what you mean. "

"I do. The answer's Mother. Sonny don't count, though he may think hedoes. But Mother's the whole team and the dog under the wagon. And, Commodore, we've got to trot some if we want to keep ahead of that team!Don't you forget it!"

He went to his room, leaving the bewildered butler to retire to thekitchen, where he informed the cook that the old man was off his headworse than common to-night. 

"Blessed if he don't think he's a trotting horse!" said Edwards. 

CHAPTER XI

The note on the dining room table proved, to the captain's delight, tobe from James Pearson. It was brief and to the point. 

"Why don't you come and see me?" wrote the young man. "I've beenexpecting you, and you promised to come. Have you forgotten my address?If so, here it is. I expect to be in all day to-morrow. "

The consequence of this was that eleven o'clock the next day foundCaptain Elisha pulling the bell at a brick house in a long brick blockon a West Side street. The block had evidently been, in its time, thehomes of well-to-do people, but now it was rather dingy and gone toseed. Across the street the first floors were, for the most part, smallshops, and in the windows above them doctors' signs alternated withthose of modistes, manicure artists, and milliners. 

The captain had come a roundabout way, stopping in at the Moriartyflat, where he found Mrs. Moriarty in a curious state of woe and tearfulpride. "Oh, what will I do, sir?" she moaned. "When I think he's gone, it seems as if I'd die, too. But, thanks to you and Miss Warren--Marymake it up to her!--my Pat'll have the finest funeral since the Guinnysaloon man was buried. Ah, if he could have lived to see it, he'd havedied content!"

The pull at the boarding-house bell was answered by a rather slatternlymaid, who informed the visitor that she guessed Mr. Pearson was in;he 'most always was around lunch time. So Captain Elisha waited in atypical boarding-house parlor, before a grate with no fire in it andsurrounded by walnut and plush furniture, until Pearson himself camehurrying downstairs. 

"Say, you're a brick, Captain Warren!" he declared, as they shook hands. "I hoped you'd come to-day. Why haven't you before?"

The captain explained his having mislaid the address. 

"Oh, was that it? Then I'm glad I reminded you. Rather a cheeky thing todo, but I've been a reporter, and nerve is necessary in that profession. I began to be afraid living among the blue-bloods had had its effect, and you were getting finicky as to your acquaintances. "

"You didn't believe any such thing. "

"Didn't I? Well, perhaps I didn't. Come up to my room. I think we canjust about squeeze in, if you don't mind sitting close. "

Pearson's room was on the third flight, at the front of the house. Through the window one saw the upper half of the buildings opposite, andabove them a stretch of sky. The bed was a small brass and iron affair, but the rest of the furniture was of good quality, the chairs wereeasy and comfortable, and the walls were thickly hung with photographs, framed drawings, and prints. 

"I put those up to cover the wall paper, " explained the host. "I don'toffer them as an art collection, but as a screen. Sit down. Put yourcoat on the bed. Shall I close the window? I usually keep the upperhalf open to let out the pipe smoke. Otherwise I might not be able tonavigate without fog signals. "

His visitor chuckled, followed directions with his coat and hat, and satdown. Pearson took the chair by the small flat-topped desk. 

"How about that window?" he asked. "Shall I shut it?"

"No, no! We'll be warm enough, I guess. You've got steam heat, I see. "

"You mean you hear. Those pipes make noise enough to wake the dead. Atfirst I thought I couldn't sleep because of the racket they made. Now Idoubt if I could without it. Would you consider a cigar, Captain?"

"Hum! I don't usually stop to consider. But I tell you, Jim--just nowyou said something about a pipe. I've got mine aboard, but I ain't daredto smoke it since I left South Denboro. If you wouldn't mind--"

"Not a bit. Tobacco in this jar on the desk. I keep a temporary supplyin my jacket pocket. Matches? Here you are! What do you think ofmy--er--stateroom?"

"Think it makes nice, snug quarters, " was the prompt answer. 

"Humph! Snug is a good word. Much like living in an omnibus, but itanswers the purpose. I furnished it myself, except for the bed. Theoriginal bureau had pictures of cauliflowers painted on each drawerfront. Mrs. Hepton--my landlady--was convinced that they were roses. Itold her she might be right, but, at all events, looking at them mademe hungry. Perhaps she noticed the effect on my appetite and was willingfor me to substitute. "

The captain laughed. Then, pointing, he asked: "What's that handbill?"

The "handbill" was a fair-sized poster announcing the production at the"Eureka Opera House" of the "Thrilling Comedy-Drama, The Golden Gods. "Pearson looked at it, made a face, and shook his head. 

"That, " he said, "is my combined crusher and comforter. It is theannouncement of the first, and next to the last, performance of a playI wrote in my calf days. The 'Eureka Opera House' is--or was, if the'gods' weren't too much for it--located at Daybury, Illinois. I keepthat bill to prevent my conceit getting away with me. Also, when I getdiscouraged over my novel, it reminds me that, however bad the yarn mayturn out to be, I have committed worse crimes. "

This led to the captain's asking about the novel and how it wasprogressing. His companion admitted having made some progress, morein the line of revision than anything else. He had remodeled his herosomewhat, in accordance with his new friend's suggestions during theirinterview at the Warren apartment, and had introduced other characters, portrait sketches from memory of persons whom he had known in hisboyhood days in the Maine town. He read a few chapters aloud, andCaptain Elisha waxed almost enthusiastic over them. 

Then followed a long discussion over a point of seamanship, the handlingof a bark in a gale. It developed that the young author's knowledgeof saltwater strategy was extensive and correct in the main, thoughsomewhat theoretical. That of his critic was based upon practice andhard experience. He cited this skipper and that as examples, and carriedthem through no'theasters off Hatteras and typhoons in the Indian Ocean. The room, in spite of the open window, grew thick with pipe smoke, andthe argument was punctuated by thumps on the desk and chair arms, andillustrated by diagrams drawn by the captain's forefinger on the sideof the dresser. The effects of oil on breaking rollers, the use of a"sea-anchor" over the side to "hold her to it, " whether or not a manwas justified in abandoning his ship under certain given circumstances, these were debated pro and con. Always Pearson's "Uncle Jim" was heldup as the final authority, the paragon of sea captains, by the visitor, and, while his host pretended to agree, with modest reservations, inthis estimate of his relative, he was more and more certain thathis hero was bound to become a youthful edition of Elisha Warrenhimself--and he thanked the fates which had brought this fine, able, old-school mariner to his door. 

At length, Captain Elisha, having worked "Uncle Jim" into a safe harborafter a hundred mile cruise under jury jig, with all hands watch andwatch at the pumps, leaned forward in triumph to refill his pipe. Havingdone so, his eyes remained fixed upon a photograph standing, partiallyhidden by a leather collar box, upon the dresser. He looked at itintently, then rose and took it in his hand. 

"Well, I swan!" he exclaimed. "Either what my head's been the fullestof lately has struck to my eyesight, or else--why, say, Jim, that'sCaroline, ain't it?"

Pearson colored and seemed embarrassed. "Yes, " he answered, "that isMiss Warren. "

"Humph! Good likeness, too! But what kind of rig has she got on? I'veseen her wear a good many dresses--seems to have a different one forevery day, pretty nigh--but I never saw her in anything like that. Looks sort of outlandish; like one of them foreign girls at Geneva--orLeghorn, say. "

"Yes. That is an Italian peasant costume. Miss Warren wore it at a fancydress ball a year ago. "

"Want to know! I-talian peasant, hey! Fifth Avenue peasant with diamondsin her hair. Becomin' to her, ain't it. "

"I thought so. "

"Yup. She looks pretty _enough_! But she don't need diamonds norhand-organ clothes to make her pretty. "

Then, looking up from the photograph, he asked, "Give you this picture, did she?"

His friend's embarrassment increased. "No, " he answered shortly. Then, after an instant's hesitation. "That ball was given by the Astorbiltsand was one of the most swagger affairs of the season. The _Planet_--thepaper with which I was connected--issues a Sunday supplement ofhalf-tone reproductions of photographs. One page was given up topictures of the ball and the costumes worn there. "

"I see. Astonishin' how folks do like to get their faces into print. I used to know an old woman--Aunt Hepsibah Tucker, her name was--she'sdead now. The pride of Aunt Hepsy's heart was that she took nineteenbottles of 'Balm of Burdock Tea' and the tea folks printed her pictureas a testimonial that she lived through it. Ho, ho! And society big-bugsappear to have the same cravin'. "

"Some of them do. But that of your niece was obtained by our societyreporter from the photographer who took it. Bribery and corruption, ofcourse. Miss Warren would have been at least surprised to see it inour supplement. I fancied she might not care for so much publicity andsuppressed it. "

"Um-hm. Well, I guess you did right. I'll thank you for her. By theway, I told Caroline where I was cal'latin' to go this mornin', and shewished to be remembered to you. "

Pearson seemed pleased, but he made no comment. Captain Elisha blew asmoke ring from his pipe. 

"And say, Jim, " he added, embarrassed in his turn, "I hope you won'tthink I'm interferin' in your affairs, but are you still set againstcomin' up to where I live? I know you said you had a reason, but are yousure it's a good one?"

He waited for an answer but none came. Pearson was gazing out of thewindow. The captain looked at his watch and rose. 

"I guess I'll have to be goin', " he said. "It's after twelve now. "

His host swung around in his chair. "Sit down, Captain, " he said. "I'vebeen doing a lot of thinking since I saw you, and I'm not sure aboutthat reason. I believe I'll ask your advice. It is a delicate matter, and it involves your brother. You may see it as he did, and, if so, ourfriendship ends, I suppose. But I'm going to risk it. 

"Mr. Rodgers Warren and I, " he went on, "were well acquainted duringthe latter part of my newspaper work. I was financial man on the_Planet_, and some articles I wrote took your brother's fancy. At allevents, he wrote me concerning them in highly complimentary terms andasked me to call and see him at his office. I did so and--well, webecame very friendly, so much so that he invited me to his house. Idined there several times, was invited to call often, and--I enjoyedit. You see, I had few friends in the city, outside my journalisticacquaintances, and I suppose I was flattered by Mr. Warren's kindnessand the fancy he seemed to have taken to me. And I liked MissWarren--no one could help that--and I believed she liked me. "

"She does like you, " interrupted his companion, with surprise. "Caroline's a good girl. "

"Yes, she is. However, she isn't in this story, except as a side-issue. At this time my ambitions were for a newspaper career, and I thought Iwas succeeding. And her father's marked interest and the things he saidto me promised more than an ordinary success. He was a well known man onthe street, and influential. So my head began to swell, and I dreamed--alot of foolishness. And then--"

He paused, put down his empty pipe, and sighed. 

"Well, then, " he continued, "came the upset. I judged from what yousaid at our previous conversation, Captain, that you were well enoughacquainted with Wall Street to know that queer operations take placethere. Did you read about the South Shore Trolley business?"

Captain Elisha considered. "Why, yes, " he said, slowly, "seem's if Idid. One of those consolidations with 'holdin' companies' and franchisesand extensions and water by the hogshead. Wa'n't that it? I remembernow; the Boston papers had considerable about it, and I presume likelythe New York ones had more. One of those all-accordin'-to-law swindlesthat sprout same as toadstools in a dark place, but die out if thelight's turned on too sudden. This one didn't come to nothin' but a badsmell, if I remember right. "

"You do. And I suppose I'm responsible for the smell. I got wind ofthe thing, investigated, found out something of what was going on, andprinted a preliminary story in the _Planet_. It caused a sensation. "

He paused once more. Captain Elisha, for the sake of saying something, observed, "I shouldn't wonder. "

"It certainly did. And the morning on which it appeared, Mr. RodgersWarren 'phoned me. He wished to see me at once. I went down to hisoffice. Captain, I dislike to tell you this. Mr. Warren was yourbrother. "

"I know he was. And I'm his executor. Both those reasons make me'specially anxious to have you tell me the truth. Heave ahead now, tooblige me. "

"Well, I found him very polite and cordial, at first. He said that aridiculous and sensational story concerning the Trolley Combine hadappeared in the _Planet_, and he would like to have me contradict it andsuppress further falsehoods of the kind. I told him I couldn't do that, because the story was true. I had written it myself. He was angry, and Icould see that he was holding himself in by main strength. I went on toexplain that it was the duty of an honest paper, as I saw it, to exposesuch trespass upon the people's rights. He asked me if I knew who wasbehind the scheme. I said I knew some of the backers. They were prettybig men, too. Then he informed me that he himself was deeply interested. 

"I was knocked off my feet by that, you can imagine. And, to be frank, Captain, if I had known it at first I'm not sure that I, personally, would have taken the matter up. Yet I might; I can't tell. But now thatI had done it and discovered what I had, I couldn't give it up. I mustgo on and learn more. And I knew enough already to be certain that themore I learned the more I should write and have published. It was one ofthose things which had to be made public--if a fellow had a conscienceabout him and a pride in the decency of his profession. 

"All this was going through my head as I sat there in his privateoffice. And he took my surprise and hesitation as symptoms of waveringand went at me, hard. Of course I knew, he said, that the operation wasabsolutely within the law. I did, but that didn't make it more honest ormoral or just. He went on to say that in large financial deals of thisnature petty scruples must be lost sight of. Good of the business, rights of stockholders, all that sort of stuff; he rang the changes. Allthe papers cared for was sensation; to imperil the fortune of widows andorphans whose savings were invested in the South Shore Stock, for thesake of sensation, was a crime. He should have known better than to saythat to me; it is such an ancient, worn-out platitude. "

"I know. I've been to political meetin's. The widows and orphansare always hangin' on the success of the Republican party--or theDemocratic, whichever way you vote. The amount of tears shed over theirinvestments by fellers you wouldn't trust with a brass five-cent piece, is somethin' amazin'. Go on; I didn't mean to interrupt. "

"Then he switched to a more personal appeal. He said he had taken afancy to me; had liked me from the very beginning. He recognized myunusual genius at first sight and had gone as far as to make plansbearing directly on my future. He was associated with men of wealth andbusiness sagacity. Large deals, of which the Trolley Combine was butone, were on foot. He and his friends needed a representative on thepress--a publicity agent, so to speak. Some of the greatest corporationsemployed men of that kind, and the salaries paid were large and theopportunities afforded greater still. Well, that's true enough. I knowwriters who are doing just that thing and getting rich at it. I supposethey've squared their consciences somehow and are willing to write liesand misleading articles for what there is in it. I can't, that's all;I'm not built that way, and I told him so. 

"It ended in an open break. He reminded me of the favors he had done me. He had treated me almost like a son, had introduced me to his family, entertaining me at his table. Where was my gratitude? That was anotherbad break on his part, for it made me mad. I told him I had not asked tobe adopted or fed by him; if I had supposed his kindness had an ulteriormotive, I would have seen him at the devil before I accepted a favor. Mycareer as a financial visitor was ended. Get out of his office! I got. But the Trolley Combine did not go through. The _Planet_ and the otherpapers kept up the fight and--and the widows and orphans are bankrupt, Ipresume. "

Captain Elisha's pipe had gone out long since. He absently rubbed thewarm bowl between his palms. 

"Humph!" he muttered. "So 'Bije was deep in that business, was he?"

"He was. Very deep indeed, I found out afterwards. And, I declare, Ialmost pitied him at the time. He acted as if his whole fortune wasstaked on the gamble. His hands shook, and the perspiration stood on hisforehead as he talked. I felt as if I had been the means of ruininghim. But of course, I hadn't. He lived for some time after that, and, Iunderstand, died a rich man. "

"Yes. He left what I'd call a heap of money. My nephew and niece don'tseem to think so, but I do. "

"So you see, Captain, why I stopped calling on the Warrens, and why Idid not accept Miss Warren's invitation. "

"I see. .. . I see. .. . And yet I don't know. 'Bije may have took to youfor business reasons, but the children didn't. They liked you foryourself. Caroline as much as said so. And their father never told 'em aword about the row, neither. Of course you couldn't have called when hewas alive, but he's gone, and I'm--well, I'm sort of temporary skipperthere now. And _I_ want you to come. "

"But if Miss Warren did know? She should know, I think. "

"I ain't sure that she should. I guess there's consider'ble in her pa'slife she ain't acquainted with. And she's as straight and honest andupright as a schooner's fo'mast. You did nothin' to be 'shamed of. It'sthe other way 'round, 'cordin' to my notion. But leave her out ofit now. I've sacrificed some few things to take the job I've got atpresent, but I can't afford to sacrifice my friends. I count on you as afriend, and I want you to come and see _me_. Will you?"

"I don't know, Captain Warren. I must think it over a while, I guess. "

"All right--think. But the invitation stands--_my_ invitation. And, ifyou want to shift responsibility, shift it on to me. Some day, if it'llmake you feel better, I'll tell Caroline and Stevie the whole story. ButI want them to know you and the world--and me--a little better first. 'Cordin' to my notion, they need education just along that line. They'vegot teachers in other branches, but. .. . There! I've _got_ to be goin'. There's the dinner bell now. "

The string of Japanese gongs, hung in the lower hall, soundedsonorously. Captain Elisha reached for his coat and hat, but Pearsoncaught his arm. 

"No, you don't!" he declared. "You're going to stay and have lunch withme--here. If you say no, I shall believe it is because you are afraid ofa boarding-house meal. "

His guest protested, but the protests were overruled, and he andhis host went down to the dining room. The captain whispered as theyentered, "Land sakes, Jim, this takes me back home. It's pretty nigh atwin to the dinin' room at the Centre House in South Denboro. "

 * * * * *

All boarding-house dining rooms bear a family likeness, so the commentwas not far wrong. A long table, rows of chairs on each side, ancientand honorable pictures on the walls, the landlady presiding majesticallyover the teapot, the boarders' napkins in rings--all the familiarlandmarks were present. 

Most of the male "regulars" were in business about the city andtherefore lunched elsewhere, but the females were in evidence. Pearsonintroduced his guest. The captain met Mrs. Hepton, the landlady, plump, gray-haired, and graciously hospitable. She did not look at all likea business woman, but appearances are not always to be trusted; Mrs. Hepton had learned not to trust them--also delinquent boarders, too far. He met Miss Sherborne, whose coiffure did not match in spots, but whosevoice, so he learned afterward, had been "cultivated abroad. " MissSherborne gave music lessons. Mrs. Van Winkle Ruggles also claimed hisattention and held it, principally because of the faded richness of herapparel. Mrs. Ruggles was a widow, suffering from financial reverses;the contrast between her present mode of living and the grandeur of thepast formed her principal topic of conversation. 

There were half a dozen others, including an artist whose aversion tobarbers was proclaimed by the luxuriant length of his locks, a quiet oldgentleman who kept the second-hand book store two doors below; his wife, a neat, trim little body; and Mr. And Mrs. C. Dickens, no less. 

Mr. Dickens was bald, an affliction which he tried to conceal bybrushing the hair at the sides of his head across the desert at thetop. He shaved his cheeks and wore a beard and mustache. Mrs. Dickensaddressed him as "C. , " and handed him the sauce bottle, the bread, orwhatever she imagined he desired, as if she were offering sacrifice toan idol. 

She sat next to Captain Elisha and imparted information concerning herlord and master in whispers, during the intervals between offerings. 

"My husband will be pleased to meet you, Captain Warren, " she murmured. "Any friend of Mr. Pearson is certain to be an acquisition. Mr. Pearsonand my husband are congenial spirits; they are members of the sameprofession. "

"I want to know, ma'am. "

"Yes. What is it, 'C. ' dear? Oh, the butter! Margaret--" to thewaitress--"Mr. Dickens wishes another butter-ball. Yes, Captain Warren, Mr. Dickens is an author. Haven't you noticed the--er--resemblance? Itis considered quite remarkable. "

Captain Elisha looked puzzled. "Why, " he said, "I hadn't noticed it'special. Jim's--Mr. Pearson's--eyes and his are some the same color, but--"

"Oh, no! not the resemblance to Mr. Pearson. I didn't mean _that_. Theresemblance to his more famous namesake. Surely you notice it _now_. "

The captain shook his head. "I--I'm afraid I'm thick-headed, ma'am, " headmitted. "I'm out of soundin's. "

"But the nose, and his beard, and his manner. Don't they remind you ofthe English Dickens?"

"O-oh!" Captain Elisha inspected the great man with interest. He hada vague memory of a portrait in a volume of "Pickwick" at home. "Oh, Isee! Yes, yes. "

"Of course you see! Everyone does. Mr. Dickens often says--it is one ofhis favorite jokes--that while other men must choose a profession, hiswas chosen for him by fate. How, with such a name, could he do anythingexcept write?"

"I don't know, ma'am. But names are risky pilots, ain't they? I've runagainst a consider'ble number of Solomons, but there wa'n't one of 'emthat carried more'n a deckload of wisdom. They christened me Elisha, butI can't even prophesy the weather with sartinty enough to bet. However, I daresay in your husband's case it's all right. "

The lady had turned away, and he was afraid he might have offended her. The fear was groundless; she was merely offering another sacrifice, thesugar this time. 

"Yes?" she asked, turning, "you were saying--"

"Why--er--nothin' of account. I cal'late the C. Stands for Charles, then. "

"No-o. Mr. Dickens's Christian name is Cornelius; but don't mention itbefore him, he is very sensitive on that point. "

The Dickenses "tickled" the captain exceedingly, and, after the meal wasover, he spoke of them to Pearson. 

"Say, " he said, "you're in notorious company, ain't you, Jim? What hasCornelius Charles turned out so far, in the way of masterpieces?"

Pearson laughed. "I believe he is employed by a subscription house, "he replied. "Doing hack work on an encyclopedia. A great collection offreaks, aren't they, Captain Warren?"

"Kind of. But that old book-shop man and his wife seem nice folks. And, as for freaks, the average boardin' house, city or country, seemsto draw 'em like flies. I guess most anybody would get queer if theyboarded all the time. "

"Perhaps so. Or, if they weren't queer, they wouldn't board permanentlyfrom choice. There are two or three good fellows who dine and breakfasthere. The food isn't bad, considering the price. "

"No, it ain't. Tasted more like home than any meal I've had for a goodwhile. I'm afraid I never was cut out for swell livin'. "

Mrs. Hepton approached them as they stood in the hall. She wished toknow if Mr. Pearson's friend was thinking of finding lodgings. BecauseMr. Saks--the artist's name--was giving up the second floor back in afortnight, and it was a very pleasant room. "We should be delighted toadd you to our little circle, Captain Warren. "

Pearson told her that his companion was already lodged, and she saidgood-by and left them. The captain smiled broadly. 

"Everything in New York seems to be circles, " he declared. "Well, Jim, you come up and circulate with me, first chance you get. I'm dependin'on you to call, remember. "

The young man was still doubtful. 

"I'll see, " he said. "I can't promise yet--perhaps I will. "

"You will--after you've thought it out to a finish. And come soon. I'mgettin' interested in that second edition of your Uncle Jim, and I wantto keep along with him as fast as you write. Good-by. Much obliged forthe dinner--there I go again!--luncheon, I mean. "

CHAPTER XII

Pearson called. He appeared at the apartment a week after the luncheonat the boarding house and was welcomed by the Captain Elisha, who, hearing his voice, strode into the hall, sent the shocked Edwards to theright-about in a hurry, seized his friend's hand, and ushered him intothe library. Pearson said nothing concerning his change of mind, thecourse of reasoning which led him to make the visit, and the captainasked no questions. He took it for granted that the young fellow'scommon sense had turned the trick, and, the result being what it was, that was sufficient. 

They spent a pleasant afternoon together. Caroline was out, and they hadthe library to themselves. The newest chapters of the novel were readand discussed, and the salty flavor of the talk was as pronounced asever. Pearson left early, but promised to come again very soon. 

When Caroline returned her uncle told her of his visitor. She seemedunfeignedly pleased, but regretted that she had not been there. "He wassuch a friend of father's, " she said, "that seeing him here would bealmost like the old days. And so many of those whom we thought were hisfriends and ours have left us. "

This was true. Rodgers Warren and his children had had manyacquaintances, had been active in church and charitable work, and theirformer home was a center of entertainment and gayety while he lived. Buthis death and the rumors of shrinkage in the family fortune, the givingup of the Fifth Avenue residence, the period of mourning which forbadesocial functions, all these helped to bring about forgetfulness on thepart of the many; and Caroline's supersensitiveness and her firm resolvenot to force her society where it might be unwelcome had been the causesof misunderstanding in others, whose liking and sympathy were genuine. "I don't see what has come over Caroline Warren, " declared a former girlfriend, "she isn't a bit as she used to be. Well, I've done my part. Ifshe doesn't wish to return my call, she needn't. _I_ sha'n't annoy heragain. But I'm sorry, for she was the sweetest girl I knew. "

Stephen had never been very popular, and his absence at college stillfurther reduced the number of young people who might be inclined tocall. Their not calling confirmed Caroline's belief that she andher brother were deliberately shunned because of their change incircumstances, and she grew more sensitive and proudly resentful inconsequence. Naturally she turned for comfort to those who remainedfaithful, the Dunns in particular. They were loyal to her. Therefore, with the intensity of her nature, she became doubly loyal to them. Therector of St. Denis dropped in frequently, and others occasionally, butshe was lonely. She craved the society of those nearer her own age. 

Pearson's coming, then, was psychologically apt. When he made his nextcall upon Captain Elisha, to find the latter out but his niece at home, she welcomed him cordially and insisted upon his waiting until herguardian returned. The conversation was, at first, embarrassing for theex-reporter; she spoke of her father, and Pearson--the memory of hislast interview with the latter fresh in his mind, and painfully awarethat she knew nothing of it--felt guilty and like a hypocrite. But soonthe subject changed, and when the captain entered the library he foundthe pair laughing and chatting like old acquaintances, as, of course, they were. 

Captain Elisha, paying no attention to his friend's shakes of the head, invited his niece to be present at the reading of the latest addition towhat he called "mine and Jim's record-breakin' sea yarn. "

"It's really mine, you understand, Caroline, " he observed, with a wink. "I'm silent partner in the firm--if you can call the one that does allthe talkin' silent--and Jim don't do nothin' but make it up and write itand get the profits. Course, you mustn't mention this to him, 'cause hethinks he's the author, and 'twould hurt his feelin's. "

"He's quite right, " declared Pearson, emphatically. "If the thing isever finished and published he will deserve all the credit. His advicehad already remade it. This uncle of yours, Miss Warren, " he added, turning to her, "is like the admiral Kipling wrote about--he has 'livedmore stories' than ever I could invent. "

The captain, fearful that his niece might take the statement seriously, hastened to protest. 

"He's just foolin', Caroline, " he said. "All I've done is set and talkand talk and talk. I've used up more of his time and the surroundin' airthan you'd believe was possible. When I get next to salt water, even inprint, it's time to muzzle me, same as a dog in July. The yarn is Jim'saltogether, and it's mighty interestin'--to me anyhow. "

"I'm sure it will be to me, also, " declared the young lady. "CaptainWarren has told me all about it, Mr. Pearson, and I'm very eager to hearthe new portion. "

"There!" Captain Elisha slapped his knee. "There, Jim!" he exclaimed, "you hear that? Now you've _got_ to read it. Anchor's apeak! Heave aheadand get under way. "

So, because he could not well refuse, the author reluctantly beganto read. And, as usual, his nautical friend to interrupt and comment. Caroline listened, her eyes twinkling. When the reading and thearguments were at an end, she declared it was all splendid; "Just likebeing at sea one's self, " she said. "I positively refuse to permitanother installment to be submitted unless I am--on deck. That's theproper phrase, isn't it, Captain?"

"Aye, aye, ma'am! Jim, we've shipped a new second mate, and she's goin'to be wuth her salt. You hear _me_!"

She proved to be worth all of that, at least in Pearson's opinion. Hiscalls and the readings and discussions became more and more frequent. Each of the trio enjoyed them greatly, Caroline quite as much as theothers. Here was something new and fresh, something to furnish a realinterest. The story advanced rapidly, the character of the nautical heroshaped itself better and better, and the heroine, also, heretofore asomewhat shadowy and vague young woman, began to live and breathe. She changed surprisingly, not only in mental but in physicalcharacteristics. 

Captain Elisha was first to notice the latter peculiarity. 

"Say, Jim!" he interrupted, one afternoon, "what was that you just readabout Mary? Her hat blowin' off to leeward and her brown hair blowin'after it? Or somethin' of that sort?"

Caroline laughed merrily. The author turned to the passage mentioned. 

"Not exactly, Captain, " he replied, smiling. "I said her hat had blownaway, and her brown curls tossed in the wind. What's wrong with that?Hats do blow away in a sou'wester; I've seen them. "

"Perhaps he thinks she should have been more careful in pinning it on, "suggested the feminine member of the advisory board. 

Captain Elisha shook his head. "No, " he observed calmly, "but why wasshe wearin' that kind of hair? She's pretty young to use a switch, ain'tshe?"

"Switch?" repeated "Mary's" creator, with some indignation. "What areyou talking about? When I first described her, I said that her hair wasluxuriant and one of her chief beauties. "

"That's a fact! So you did. What made her dye it?"

"Dye it? What do you think she is--a chorus girl?"

"If I remember right she's a postmaster's daughter. But why is shewearin' brown hair, if it ain't neither false or dyed? Back in the thirdchapter 'twas _black_, like her eyes. "

Caroline burst into another laugh. Pearson blushed to his forehead. "Well, by George!" he admitted, "you're right. I believe I did have itblack, at first. "

"You sartin did! I ain't got any objections to either color, only itought to stay put, hadn't it? In a town of the size she's livin' in, agirl with changeable hair is likely to be kind of conspicuous. I tellyou! maybe it bleached out in the sun. Ho, ho!"

The writer made a note on the margin of his manuscript and declaredthat his heroine's tresses and eyes should be made to correspond atall stages. They did, but they remained brown. Captain Elisha chuckledinwardly, but offered no further comments. Caroline, whose own hair andeyes were brown, did not refer to the matter at all. 

She and the young man became better acquainted at each succeeding"literary clinic, " as the latter called them. When Rodgers Warren firstintroduced him at their former home he had impressed her favorably, largely because of her desire to like anyone whom her father fancied. She worshiped the dead broker, and his memory to her was sacred. Shewould have forgiven and did forgive any wrong he might have done her, even his brother's appointment as guardian, though that she could notunderstand. Unlike Stephen, who fiercely resented the whole affair andsaid bitter things concerning his parent, she believed he had done whathe considered right. Her feeling against Captain Elisha had been basedupon the latter's acceptance of that appointment when he should haverealized his unfitness. And his living with them and disgracing them inthe eyes of their friends by his uncouth, country ways, made her blindto his good qualities. The Moriarty matter touched her conscience, and she saw more clearly. But she was very far from considering himan equal, or other than what Mrs. Corcoran Dunn termed him, an"encumbrance, " even yet. She forced herself to be kind and tolerant andgave him more of her society, though the church-going experience wasnot repeated, nor did she accompany him on his walks or out-of-doorexcursions. 

If Pearson's introductions had been wholly as a friend of herguardian, her feeling toward him might have been tinged with the samecondescension or aversion, even. But, hallowed as he was by associationwith her father, she welcomed him for the latter's sake. And, as shebecame interested in the novel and found that her suggestions concerningit were considered valuable, she looked forward to his visits and wasdisappointed if, for any reason, they were deferred. Without being awareof it, she began to like the young author, not alone because he wroteentertainingly and flattered her by listening respectfully to hercriticisms, or because her father had liked him, but for himself. 

Captain Elisha was much pleased. 

"I told you, Jim!" he said. "She's just as glad to see you as I am. Nowdon't you see how foolish it was to stay away 'cause you and 'Bije hada spat? Think of all the good times we'd have missed! And we needed afemale aboard your Uncle Jim's craft, to help with 'Mary' and the rest. "

His friend nodded. "She has been a great help, certainly, " he answered. "But I can't help feeling guilty every time I come here. It is too muchlike obtaining her friendship under false pretenses. She should know thewhole thing, I believe. "

"She shall know it, when I think it's time for her to. But I want her toknow you first. Then she'll be able to judge without so much prejudice. I told you I'd take the responsibility. You leave the ship in my chargefor a spell. "

In spite of this confident assertion, the captain also felt a trifleguilty. He realized that selfishness was involved in his keepingPearson's secret from his niece. He was thoroughly enjoying himself withthese two, and he could not bear to risk the breaking up which mightfollow disclosure. 

One evening, while a "clinic" was in progress and the three were deepin consultation, Edwards entered to announce Mrs. Corcoran Dunn andMr. Malcolm. The butler's giving the lady precedence in his announcingshowed that he, too, realized who was ranking officer in that family, even though the captain's "conundrum" had puzzled him. Mrs. Dunn and herson entered at his heels. 

[Illustration: "She and the young man became better acquainted at eachsucceeding 'literary clinic. '"]

The lady took in the group by the table at a glance: Pearson, withthe manuscript in his hands; Captain Elisha leaning back in his chair, frowning at the interruption; Caroline rising to welcome the guests, andcoloring slightly as she did so. All these details Mrs. Dunn noted, madean entry in her mental memorandum-book, and underscored it for futurereference. 

If she discerned unpleasant possibilities in the situation, she didnot allow them to disturb her outward serenity. She kissed Caroline andcalled her "dear child" as fondly as usual, shook hands graciously withCaptain Elisha, and bowed condescending recognition of Pearson. 

"And how is the novel coming on? Do tell me!" she begged. "I'm sure weinterrupted a reading. It's too bad of us, really! But Malcolm insistedupon coming. He has been very busy of late--some dreadful 'corner' orother on the exchange--and has neglected his friends--or thinks he has. I told him I had explained it all to you, Caroline, but he _would_ cometo-night. It is the first call he has made in weeks; so you _see_! Butthere! he doesn't consider running in here a call. "

Call or not, it spoiled the evening for at least two of the company. Pearson left early. Captain Elisha excused himself soon after and wentto his room, leaving the Dunns to chat with Caroline for an hour ormore. Malcolm joked and was languid and cynical. His mother asked a fewcarefully guarded questions. 

"Quite a clever person, this young author friend of yours seems to be, Caroline, " she observed. "Almost brilliant, really. "

"He isn't a friend of mine, exactly, " replied the girl. "He and CaptainWarren are friendly, and father used to know and like him, as I havetold you. The novel is great fun, though! The people in it are coming toseem almost real to me. "

"I daresay! I was a great reader myself once, before my health--myheart, you know--began to trouble me. The doctors now forbid my readinganything the least bit exciting. Has this--er--Mr. Pearson means?"

"I know very little of him, personally, but I think not. He used to beconnected with the _Planet_, and wrote things about Wall Street. Thatwas how father came to know him. "

"Live in an attic, does he?" inquired Malcolm. "That's what all authorsdo, isn't it? Put up in attics and sleep on pallets--whatever theyare--and eat crusts, don't they? Jolly life--if you like it! I preferbucking wheat corners, myself. "

Mrs. Dunn laughed, and Caroline joined her, though not as heartily. 

"How ridiculous you are, Malcolm!" exclaimed his mother. "Mr. Pearsonisn't that kind of an author, I'm sure. But where does he live, Caroline?"

"Somewhere on West 18th Street, I believe. He has rooms there, I think. "

"Oh! Really? And how is this wonderful novel of his progressing? Whendoes he expect to favor us with it?"

"I don't know. But it is progressing very well at present. He haswritten three chapters since last Wednesday. He was reading them to uswhen you came. "

"Indeed! Since last Wednesday? How interesting!"

Malcolm did not seem to find the topic interesting, for he smothered ayawn. His mother changed the subject. On their way home, however, sheagain referred to it. 

"You must make it a point to see her every day, " she declared. "Nomatter what happens, you must do it. "

"Oh, Lord!" groaned her son, "I can't. There's the deuce and all on'Change just now, and the billiard tournament's begun at the Club. Mydays and nights are full up. Once a week is all she should expect, Ithink. "

"No matter what you think or what she expects, you must do as I say. "

"Why?"

"Because I don't like the looks of things. "

"Oh, rubbish! You're always seeing bugaboos. Uncle Hayseed is pacified, isn't he? I've paid the Moriarty crowd off. Beastly big bills they were, too!"

"Humph! Uncle Hayseed, as you call him, is anything but a fool. But heisn't the particular trouble at present. He and I understand each other, I believe, and he will be reasonable. But--there is this Pearson. Idon't like his calling so frequently. "

Malcolm laughed in huge scorn. "Pearson!" he sneered. "Why, he'snothing but a penny-a-liner, without the penny. Surely you're not afraidCaroline will take a fancy to him. She isn't an idiot. "

"She's a young girl, and more romantic than I wish she was. At her agegirls do silly things, sometimes. He called on Wednesday--you heard hersay so--and was there again to-night. I don't like it, I tell you. "

"Her uncle is responsible for--"

"It is more than that. She knew him long before she knew her uncleexisted. Her father introduced him--her _father_. And to her mind, whatever her father did was right. "

"Witness his brilliant selection of an executor. Oh, Mater, you wearyme! I used to know this Pearson when he was a reporter downtown, and. .. . Humph!"

"What is it?"

"Why, nothing, I guess. It seemed as if I remember Warren and Pearson insome sort of mix-up. Some. .. . Humph! I wonder. "

He was silent, thinking. His mother pressed his arm excitedly. 

"If you remember anything that occurred between Rodgers Warren andthis man, anything to this Pearson's disadvantage, it may pay us toinvestigate. What was it?"

"I don't know. But it seemed as if I remembered Warren's . .. Or a friendof his telling me . .. Saying something . .. But it couldn't be ofimportance, because Caroline doesn't know it. "

"I'm not so sure that it may not be important. And, if you recall, onthat day when we first met him at Caroline's, she seemed hurt because hehad not visited them since her father died. Perhaps there _was_ areason. At any rate, I should look into the matter. "

"All right, Mater, just as you say. Really you ought to join a Don'tWorry Club. "

"One member in the family is quite sufficient. And I expect you todevote yourself to Caroline from now on. That girl is lonely, andwhen you get the combination of a lonely romantic young girl and agood-looking and interesting young fellow, even though he is as pooras a church mouse, _anything_ may happen. Add to that the influence ofan unpractical but sharp old Yankee relative and guardian--then thesituation is positively dangerous. "

CHAPTER XIII

An important event was about to take place. At least, it seemedimportant to Captain Elisha, although the person most intimatelyconcerned appeared to have forgotten it entirely. He ventured to remindher of it. 

"Caroline, " he said, "Sunday is your birthday, ain't it?"

His niece looked at him in surprise. "Yes, " she answered, "it is. Howdid you know?"

"Why, I remembered, that's all. Graves, the lawyer man, told me howold you and Stevie were, fust time I met him. And his partner, Mr. Sylvester, gave me the date one day when he was goin' over your pa'swill. You'll be twenty years old Sunday, won't you?"

"Yes. "

It was late in the afternoon, and she had been out since ten o'clockshopping with Mrs. Dunn, lunching downtown with the latter and Malcolm, and motoring for an hour or two. The weather for the season was mild andsunny, and the crisp air had brightened her cheeks, her eyes sparkled, her fur coat and cap were very becoming, and Captain Elisha inspectedher admiringly before making another remark. 

"My! My!" he exclaimed, after an instant's pause. "Twenty years old!Think of it! 'Bije's girl's a young woman now, ain't she? I cal'late hewas proud of you, too. He ought to have been. I presume likely _he_didn't forget your birthday. "

He rose to help her with the heavy coat. As he lifted it from hershoulders, he bent forward and caught a glimpse of her face. 

"There! there!" he said, hastily. "Don't feel bad, dearie. I didn't meanto hurt your feelin's. Excuse me; I was thinkin' out loud, sort of. "

She did not answer at once, but turned away to remove her cap. Then sheanswered, without looking at him. 

"He never forgot them, " she said. 

"Course he didn't. Well, you see I didn't forget, either. "

It was an unfortunate remark, inasmuch as it drew, in her mind, a comparison between her handsome, dignified father and his rude, uncultured brother. The contrast was ever present in her thoughts, andshe did not need to be reminded of it. She made no reply. 

"I was thinkin', " continued the captain, conscious of having made amistake, "that maybe we might celebrate somehow, in a quiet way. "

"No. I am not in the mood for--celebrations. "

"Oh, I didn't mean fireworks and the town band. I just thought--"

"Please don't. I remember other birthdays too well. " They had been greatoccasions, those birthdays of hers, ever since she was a little girl. Onthe eighteenth she made her d�but in society, and the gown she wore onthat memorable evening was laid away upstairs, a cherished memento, tobe kept as long as she lived. Each year Rodgers Warren took infinitepains to please and surprise his idolized daughter. She could not bearto think of another birthday, now that he had been taken from her. 

Her guardian pulled his beard. "Well, " he observed ruefully, "then myweak head's put my foot in it again, as the feller said. If I ain'tcareful I'll be like poor cracked Philander Baker, who lives withhis sister over at Denboro Centre. The doctor told Philander he wasthreatened with softenin' of the brain, and the sister thanked him forthe compliment. You see, Caroline, I wrote on my own hook and askedStevie to come home Saturday and stay till Monday. I kind of thoughtyou'd like to have him here. "

"Oh, I should like _that_! But will he come? Has he written you?"

"Hey? Yes, I cal'late he'll be on deck. He's--er--yes, he's written me. "

He smiled as he answered. As a matter of fact, the correspondencebetween Stephen and himself had been lengthy and voluminous on the partof the former, and brief and business-like on his own. The boy, on hisreturn to college, had found "conditions" awaiting him, and the amountof hard work involved in their clearance was not at all to his taste. He wrote his guardian before the first week was over, asserting that thewhole business was foolishness and a waste of time. He should comehome at once, he said, and he notified the captain that such was hisintention. Captain Elisha replied with promptness and decision. If hecame home he would be sent back, that was all. "I realize you've got ajob ahead of you, Son, " wrote the captain, "but you can do it, if youwill. Fact is, I guess you've got to. So sail in and show us what you'remade of. "

Stephen's answer was a five page declaration of independence. He refusedto be bullied by any living man. He had made arrangements to come to NewYork on the following Monday, and he was coming. As to being sent back, he wished his uncle to understand that it was one thing to order andanother to enforce obedience. To which he received the following note:

 "I can't stop you from coming, Steve, except by going to New Haven and holding you by main strength. That I don't propose to do, for two reasons: first, that it is too much trouble, and second that it ain't necessary. You can come home once in a while to see your sister, but you mustn't do it till I say the word. If you do, I shall take the carfare out of your allowance, likewise board while you are here, and stop that allowance for a month as a sort of fine for mutiny. So you better think it over a spell. And, if I was you, I wouldn't write Caroline that I was coming, or thinking of coming, till I had my mind made up. She believes you are working hard at your lessons. I shouldn't disappoint her, especially as it wouldn't be any use. 

 "Your affectionate uncle, "ELISHA WARREN. "

The result of all this was that Stephen, whose finances were already ina precarious condition, did think it over and decided not to take therisk. Also, conscious that his sister sided with their guardian to theextent of believing the university the best place for him at present, hetore up the long letter of grievance which he had written her, and, inthat which took its place, mentioned merely that he was "grinding likeblazes, " and the only satisfaction he got from it was his removal fromthe society of the "old tyrant from Cape Cod. "

He accepted the tyrant's invitation to return for the week-end andhis sister's birthday with no hesitation whatever; and his letter ofacceptance was so politic as to be almost humble. 

He arrived on an early train Saturday morning. Caroline met him at thestation, and the Dunns' car conveyed them to the latter's residence, where they were to spend the day. The Dunns and Caroline had beentogether almost constantly since the evening when Malcolm and his motherinterrupted the reading of the novel. The former, while professing to beharassed by business cares, sacrificed them to the extent of devoting atleast a part of each twenty-four hours to the young lady's society. She was rarely allowed to be alone with her uncle, a circumstance whichtroubled her much less than it did him. He missed the evenings which hehad enjoyed so much, and the next consultation over the adventuresof Pearson's "Uncle Jim" and his "Mary" seemed flat and uninterestingwithout criticism and advice. 

The author himself noticed the difference. 

"Rot!" he exclaimed, throwing the manuscript aside in disgust. "It'srot, isn't it! If I can't turn out better stuff than that, I'd betterquit. And I thought it was pretty decent, too, until to-night. "

Captain Elisha shook his head. "It don't seem quite so shipshape, somehow, " he admitted, "but I guess likely it's 'cause my head's fullof other things just now. I'm puzzled 'most to death to know what to getfor Caroline's birthday. I want to get her somethin' she'll like, andshe's got pretty nigh everything under the sun. Say, Jim, you've beenworkin' too hard, yourself. Why don't you take to-morrow off and cruisearound the stores helpin' me pick out a present. Come ahead--do!"

They spent the next afternoon in that "cruise, " visiting departmentstores, jewelers, and art shops innumerable. Captain Elisha was hard toplease, and his comments characteristic. 

"I guess you're right, Jim, " he said, "there's no use lookin' atpictures. Let alone that the walls are so covered with 'em now a flycan't scarcely light without steppin' on some kind of scenery--letalone that, my judgment on pictures ain't any good. I cal'late that'sconsidered pretty fine, ain't it?" pointing to a painting in the gallerywhere they then were. 

"Yes, " replied the dealer, much amused. "That is a good specimen of themodern impressionist school. "

"Humph! Cookin' school, I shouldn't wonder. I'd call it a portrait of aplate of scrambled eggs, if 'twa'n't for that green thing that's eithera cow or a church in the offin'. Out of soundin's again, I am! But Iknew she liked pictures, and so. .. . However, let's set sail for ajewelry store. "

The sixth shop of this variety which they visited happened to be one ofthe largest and most fashionable in the city. Here the captain's fancywas taken by a gold chain for the neck, set with tiny emeralds. 

"That's pretty--sort of--ain't it, Jim?" he asked. 

"Yes, " replied his companion, with emphasis, "it is. And I think you'llfind it is expensive, also. "

"That so? How much?" turning to the salesman. 

The latter gave the price of the chain. Captain Elisha whistled. 

"Whew! Jerushy!" he exclaimed. "And it wouldn't much more than go aroundmy wrist, at that. All the same size, are they?"

"No. Some are longer. The longer ones are higher priced, of course. "

"Sartin! They're for fleshy folks, I s'pose. Mrs. Thoph Kenney downhome, she'd have to splice three of 'em together to make the round trip. Thoph's always scared he won't get his money's wuth in a trade, but hecouldn't kick when he got her. To give the minister a dollar and walkoff with two hundred and eighty pounds of wife is showin' some businesssagacity, hey? To do him justice, I will say that _he_ seems to besatisfied; she's the one that does the complainin'. I guess this is themost expensive counter in the store, ain't it, Mister?"

The clerk laughed. "No, indeed, " he said. "These are all moderate pricedgoods. I wonder, " turning to Pearson, "if your friend wouldn't like tosee some of our choice pieces. It is a quiet day here, and I shall beglad to show them. "

He led the way to a set of show cases near the door on the Fifth Avenueside. There before Captain Elisha's dazzled eyes were displayed diamondnecklaces and aigrettes, tiaras and brooches, the figures on their pricetags running high into the thousands. Pearson and the good-natured clerkenjoyed themselves hugely. 

"Jim, " said the captain after a little of this, "is there a policeofficer lookin' this way?"

Pearson laughed. "I guess not, " he answered. "Why? The temptation isn'tgetting too much for your honesty, is it?"

"No, " with a sigh, "but I'm carryin' a forty dollar watch and wearin' aring that cost fifteen. I thought they was some punkins till I begunto look at this stuff. Now they make me feel so mean and poverty-struckthat I expect to be took up for a tramp any minute. Mister, " to theclerk, "you run right along and wrap up that chain I was lookin' at. Hurry! or I'll be ashamed to carry anything so cheap. "

"Think she'll like it, do you, Jim?" he asked, when they were once moreout of doors with the purchase in his inside pocket. 

"She ought, certainly, " replied Pearson. "It's a beautiful thing. "

"Yes. Well, you see, " apologetically, "I wanted to give her somethin'pretty good. 'Bije always did, and I didn't want to fall too fur behind. But, " with a chuckle, "you needn't mention the price to anybody. IfAbbie--my second cousin keepin' house for me, she is--if Abbie heardof it she'd be for puttin' me in an asylum. Abbie's got a hairbreastpin and a tortoise shell comb, but she only wears 'em to theCongregationalist meetin'-house, where she's reasonably sure there ain'tlikely to be any sneak-thieves. She went to a Unitarian sociable once, but she carried 'em in a bag inside her dress. "

Captain Elisha planned to surprise his niece with the gift at breakfaston the morning of her birthday, but, after reflection, decided topostpone the presentation until dinner time. The inevitable Dunns hadtaken upon themselves the duty of caring for the girl and her brotherduring the major part of the day. The yellow car appeared at the doorat ten o'clock and bore the two away. Caroline assured her guardian, however, that they would return in season for the evening meal. 

The captain spent lonely but busy hours until dinner time came. He haddone some scheming on his own hook and, after a long argument withthe cook, re�nforced by a small sum in cash, had prevailed upon thathaughty domestic to fashion a birthday cake of imposing exterior andindigestible make-up. Superintending the icing of this masterpieceoccupied some time. He then worried Edwards into a respectful butstubborn fury by suggesting novelties in the way of table arrangement. Another bestowal of small change quelled the disturbance. Then came, by messenger, a dozen American Beauty roses with Mr. Pearson's cardattached. These the captain decided should be placed in the center ofthe festive board. As a center piece had been previously provided, therewas more argument. The cook took the butler's side in the debate, andthe pair yielded only when Captain Elisha again dived into his pocket. 

"But I warn you, all hands, " he observed, "that this is the last time. My right fist's got a cramp in it this minute, and you couldn't open itagain with a cold chisel. "

At last, however, everything was as it should be, and he sat down in thelibrary to await the coming of the young people. The gold chain in itshandsome leather case, the latter enclosed in the jeweler's box, wascarefully laid beside Caroline's place at the table. The dinner wasready, the cake, candles and all--the captain had insisted upon twentycandles--was ready, also. There was nothing to do but wait--and hewaited. 

Six-thirty was the usual dinner hour. It passed. Seven o'clock struck, then eight, and still Captain Elisha sat alone in the library. The cooksent word that the dinner was ruined. Edwards respectfully asked, "Whatshall I do, sir?" twice, the second time being sent flying with an orderto "Go for'ard and keep your hatches closed!" The nautical phraseologywas lost upon the butler, but the tone and manner of delivery were quiteunderstandable. 

Several times the captain rose from his chair to telephone the Dunnhouse and ask the reason for delay. Each time he decided not to do so. No doubt there were good reasons; Caroline and her brother had beendetained; perhaps the automobile had broken down--the things were alwaysbreaking down just at the most inconvenient times; perhaps. .. . Well, atany rate, he would not 'phone just yet; he would wait a little longer. 

At last the bell rang. Captain Elisha sprang up, smiling, his impatienceand worry forgotten, and, pushing the butler aside, hurried to openthe door himself. He did so and faced, not his niece and nephew, butPearson. 

"Good evening, Captain, " hailed the young man, cheerily. "Didn't expectme, did you? I dropped in for a moment to shake hands with you and tooffer congratulations to Miss Warren. " Then, noticing the expression onhis friend's face, he added, "What's the matter? Anything wrong? Am Iintruding?"

"No, no! Course not. You're as welcome as another egg in a poor man'shen-house. Come right in and take off your things. I'm glad to see you. Only--well, the fact is I thought 'twas Caroline comin' home. She andStevie was to be here over two hours ago, and I can't imagine what'skeepin' 'em. "

He insisted upon his visitor's remaining, although the latter, when heunderstood the situation, was reluctant to do so. 

"Caroline'll be real glad to see you, Jim, I know, " the captain said. "And I want you to stay for my sake. Between pacifyin' the Commodoreand frettin' over what couldn't possibly happen, I was half dead of thefidgets. Stay and cheer me up, there's a good feller. I'd just aboutreached the stage where I had the girl and boy stove to flinders underthat pesky auto. I'd even begun to figger on notifyin' the undertaker. Tell me I'm an old fool and then talk about somethin' else. They'll behere any minute. "

But a good many minutes passed, and still they did not come. Pearson, aware of his companion's growing anxiety, chatted of the novel, of thepeople at the boarding house, of anything and everything he could thinkof likely to divert attention from the one important topic. The answershe received were more and more brief and absent. At last, when Edwardsagain appeared, appealingly mute, at the entrance to the dining room, Captain Elisha, with a sigh which was almost a groan, surrendered. 

"I guess, " he said, reluctantly, "I guess, Jim, there ain't any usewaitin' any longer. Somethin's kept 'em, and they won't be here fordinner. You and I'll set down and eat--though I ain't got the appetite Ical'lated to have. "

Pearson had dined hours before, but he followed his friend, resolved toplease the latter by going through the form of pretending to eat. 

They sat down together. Captain Elisha, with a rueful smile, pointed tothe floral centerpiece. 

"There's your posies, Jim, " he observed. "Look pretty, don't they. Sheain't seen 'em yet, but she'll like 'em when she does. And that overthere, is her present from me. Stevie gave her a box of gloves, and Iexpect, from what Mrs. Dunn hinted, that she and that son of hers gaveher somethin' fine. She'll show us when she gets here. What's this, Commodore? Oysters, hey? Well, they ought to taste like home. They're'Cape Cods'; I wouldn't have anything else. "

"We won't touch the birthday cake, Jim, " he added, a little later. "She's got to cut that herself. "

The soup was only lukewarm, but neither of them commented on the fact. The captain had scarcely tasted of his, when he paused, his spoon inair. 

"Hey?" he exclaimed. "Listen! What's that? By the everlastin', it _is_. Here they are, at _last_!"

He sprang up with such enthusiasm that his chair tipped backwardsagainst the butler's devoted shins. Pearson, almost as much pleased, also rose. 

Captain Elisha paid scant attention to the chair incident. 

"What are you waitin' for?" he demanded, whirling on Edwards, who wasrighting the chair with one hand and rubbing his knee with the other. "Don't you hear 'em at the door? Let 'em in!"

He reached the library first, his friend following more leisurely. Caroline and Stephen had just entered. 

"Well!" he cried, in his quarter-deck voice, his face beaming withrelief and delight, "you _are_ here, ain't you! I begun to think. .. . Why, what's the matter?"

The question was addressed to Stephen, who stood nearest to him. The boydid not deign to reply. With a contemptuous grunt, he turned scornfullyaway from his guardian. 

"What is it, Caroline?" demanded Captain Elisha. "_Has_ anythinghappened?"

The girl looked coldly at him. A new brooch--Mrs. Corcoran Dunn'sbirthday gift--sparkled at her throat. 

"No accident has happened, if that is what you mean, " she said. 

"But--why, yes, that was what I meant. You was so awful late, and youknow you said you'd be home for dinner, so--"

"I changed my mind. Come, Steve. "

She turned to leave the room. Pearson, at that moment, entered it. Stephen saw him first. 

"_What_?" he cried. "Well, of all the nerve! Look, Caro!"

"Jim--Mr. Pearson, I mean--ran in a few minutes ago, " explained CaptainElisha, bewildered and stammering. "He thought of course we'd had dinnerand--and--he just wanted to wish you many happy returns, Caroline. "

Pearson had extended his hand and a "Good evening" was on his lips. Stephen's strange behavior and language caused him to halt. He flushed, awkward, surprised, and indignant. 

Caroline turned and saw him. She started, and her cheeks also grewcrimson. Then, recovering, she looked him full in the face, anddeliberately and disdainfully turned her back. 

"Come, Steve!" she said again, and walked from the room. 

Her brother hesitated, glared at Pearson, and then stalked haughtilyafter her. 

Captain Elisha's bewilderment was supreme. He stared, open-mouthed, after his nephew and niece, and then turned slowly to his friend. 

"What on earth, Jim, " he stammered. "What's it _mean_?"

Pearson shrugged his shoulders. "I think I know what it means, " he said. "I presume that Miss Warren and her brother have learned of my troublewith their father. "

"Hey? No! you don't think _that's_ it. "

"I think there's no doubt of it. "

"But how?"

"I don't know how. What I do know is that I should not have come here. Ifelt it and, if you will remember, I said so. I was a fool. Good night, Captain. "

Hot and furiously angry at his own indecision which had placed him inthis humiliating situation, he was striding towards the hall. CaptainElisha seized his arm. 

"Stay where you are, Jim!" he commanded. "If the trouble's what youthink it is, I'm more to blame than anybody else, and you sha'n't leavethis house till I've done my best to square you. "

"Thank you; but I don't wish to be 'squared. ' I've done nothing to beashamed of, and I have borne as many insults as I can stand. I'm going. "

"No, you ain't. Not yet. I want you to stay. "

At that moment Stephen's voice reached them from the adjoining room. 

"I tell you I shall, Caro!" it proclaimed, fiercely. "Do you supposeI'm going to permit that fellow to come here again--or to go until he ismade to understand what we think of him and why? No, by gad! I'm the manof this family, and I'll tell him a few things. "

Pearson's jaw set grimly. 

"You may let go of my wrist, Captain Warren, " he said; "I'll stay. "

Possibly Stephen's intense desire to prove his manliness made himself-conscious. At any rate, he never appeared more ridiculously boyishthan when, an instant later, he marched into the library and confrontedhis uncle and Pearson. 

"I--I want to say--" he began, majestically; "I want to say--"

He paused, choking, and brandished his fist. 

"I want to say--" he began again. 

"All right, Stevie, " interrupted the captain, dryly, "then I'd say it ifI was you. I guess it's time you did. "

"I want to--to tell that fellow _there_, " with a vicious stab of hisforefinger in the direction of Pearson, "that I consider him an--aningrate--and a scoundrel--and a miserable--"

"Steady!" Captain Elisha's interruption was sharp this time. "Steadynow! Leave out the pet names. What is it you've got to tell?"

"I--my sister and I have found out what a scoundrel he is, that's what!We've learned of the lies he wrote about father. We know that he wasresponsible for all that cowardly, lying stuff in the _Planet_--all thatabout the Trolley Combine. And we don't intend that he shall sneak intothis house again. If he was the least part of a man, he would never havecome. "

"Mr. Warren--" began Pearson, stepping forward. The captain interrupted. 

"Hold on, Jim!" he said. "Just a minute now. You've learned somethin', you say, Stevie. The Dunns told you, I s'pose. "

"Never mind who told me!"

"I don't--much. But I guess we'd better have a clear understandin', allof us. Caroline, will you come in here, please?"

He stepped toward the door. Stephen sprang in front of him. 

"My sister doesn't intend to cheapen herself by entering that man'spresence, " he declared, hotly. "I'll deal with him, myself!"

"All right. But I guess she'd better be here, just the same. Caroline, Iwant you. "

"She sha'n't come!"

"Yes, she shall. Caroline!"

The boy would have detained him, but he pushed him firmly aside andwalked toward the door. Before he reached it, however, his nieceappeared. 

"Well?" she said, coldly. "What is it you want of me?"

"I want you to hear Mr. Pearson's side of this business--andmine--before you do anything you'll be sorry for. "

"I think I've heard quite enough of Mr. Pearson already. Nothing he cansay or do will make me more sorry than I am, or humiliate me more thanthe fact that I have treated him as a friend. "

The icy contempt in her tone was cutting. Pearson's face was white, buthe spoke clearly and with deliberation. 

"Miss Warren, " he said, "I must insist that you listen for anothermoment. I owe you an apology for--"

"Apology!" broke in Stephen, with a scornful laugh. "Apology! Well, bygad! Just hear that, Caro!"

The girl's lip curled. "I do not wish to hear your apology, " she said. 

"But I wish you to hear it. Not for my attitude in the Trolleymatter, nor for what I published in the _Planet_. Nor for my part inthe disagreement with your father. I wrote the truth and nothing more. Iconsidered it right then--I told your father so--and I have not changedmy mind. I should act exactly the same under similar circumstances. "

"You blackguard!" shouted Stephen. Pearson ignored him utterly. 

"I do owe you an apology, " he continued, "for coming here, as I havedone, knowing that you were ignorant of the affair. I believe now thatyou are misinformed as to the facts, but that is immaterial. You shouldhave been told of my trouble with Mr. Warren. I should have insistedupon it. That I did not do so is my fault and I apologize; but for thatonly. Good evening. "

He shook himself free from the captain's grasp, bowed to the trio, andleft the room. An instant later the outer door closed behind him. 

Caroline turned to her brother. "Come, Steve, " she said. 

"Stay right where you are!" Captain Elisha did not request now, hecommanded. "Stevie, stand still. Caroline, I want to talk to you. "

The girl hesitated. She had never been spoken to in that tone before. Her pride had been already deeply wounded by what she had learned thatafternoon; she was fiercely resentful, angry, and rebellious. She wassure she never hated anyone as she did this man who ordered her to stayand listen to him. But--she stayed. 

"Caroline, " said Captain Elisha, after a moment of silence, "I presumelikely--of course I don't know for sartin, but I presume likely it'sMrs. Dunn and that son of hers who've told you what you think you know. "

"It doesn't concern you who told us!" blustered Stephen, pushingforward. He might have been a fly buzzing on the wall for all theattention his uncle paid him. 

"I presume likely the Dunns told you, Caroline, " he repeated, calmly. 

His niece met his gaze stubbornly. 

"Well, " she answered, "and if they did? Wasn't it necessary we shouldknow it? Oh!" with a shudder of disgust, "I wish I could make youunderstand how ashamed I feel--how _wicked_ and ashamed I feel thatI--_I_ should have disgraced father's memory by. .. . Oh, but there! Ican't! Yes; Mrs. Dunn and Malcolm did tell us--many things. Thank Godthat we _have_ friends to tell us the truth!"

"Amen!" quietly. "I'll say amen to that, Caroline, any time. Only I wantyou to be sure those you call friends are real ones and that the truthsthey tell ain't like the bait on a fishhook, put on _for_ bait and justthick enough to cover the barb. "

"Do you mean to insinuate--" screamed the irrepressible nephew, wildat being so completely ignored. His uncle again paid not the slightestattention. 

"But that ain't neither here nor there now, " he went on. "Caroline, Mr. Pearson just told you that his coming to this house without tellin' youfust of his quarrel with 'Bije was his fault. That ain't so. The faultwas mine altogether. He told me the whole story; told me that he hadn'tcalled since it happened, on that very account. And I took the wholeresponsibility and _asked_ him to come. I did! Do you know why?"

If he expected an answer none was given. Caroline's lids droopeddisdainfully. "Steve, " she said, "let us go. "

"Stop! You'll stay here until I finish. I want to say that I didn't tellyou about the Trolley fuss because I wanted you to learn some things foryourself. I wanted you to know Mr. Pearson--to find out what sort of manhe was afore you judged him. Then, when you had known him long enoughto understand he wasn't a liar and a blackguard, and all that Steve hascalled him, I was goin' to tell you the whole truth, not a part of it. And, after that, I was goin' to let you decide for yourself what to do. I'm a lot older than you are; I've mixed with all sorts of folks; I'mpast the stage where I can be fooled by--by false hair or soft soap. Youcan't pour sweet oil over a herrin' and make me believe it's a sardine. I know the Pearson stock. I've sailed over a heap of salt water withone of the family. And I've kept my eyes open since I've run acrost thisparticular member. And I knew your father, too, Caroline Warren. AndI say to you now that, knowin' Jim Pearson and 'Bije Warren--yes, andknowin' the rights and wrongs of that Trolley business quite as well asMalcolm Dunn or anybody else--I say to you that, although 'Bije was mybrother, I'd bet my life that Jim had all the right on his side. There!that's the truth, and no hook underneath it. And some day you'll realizeit, too. "

He had spoken with great vehemence. Now he took a handkerchief from hispocket and wiped his forehead. When he again looked at his niece, hefound her staring intently at him; and her eyes blazed. 

"Have you quite finished--now?" she demanded. "Steve, be quiet!"

"Why, yes, I guess so, pretty nigh. I s'pose there ain't much use to saymore. If I was to tell you that I've tried to do for you and Steve inthis--same as in everything else since I took this job--as if youwere my own children, you wouldn't believe it. If I was to tell you, Caroline, that I'd come to think an awful lot of you, you wouldn'tbelieve that, either. I did hope that since our other misunderstandin'was cleared up, and you found I wa'n't what you thought I was, you'dcome to me and ask questions afore passin' judgment; but perhaps--"

And now she interrupted, bursting out at him in a blast of scorn whichtook his breath away. 

"Oh, stop! stop!" she cried. "Don't say any more. You have insultedfather's memory, and defended the man who slandered him. Isn't thatenough? Why must you go on to prove yourself a greater hypocrite? Welearned, my brother and I, to-day more than the truth concerning your_friend_. We learned that you have lied--yes, lied--and--"

"Steady, Caroline! be careful. I wouldn't say what I might be sorry forlater. "

"Sorry! Captain Warren, you spoke of my misjudging you. I thought I had, and I was sorry. To-day I learned that your attitude in that affair wasa lie like the rest. _You_ did not pay for Mr. Moriarty's accident. Mr. Dunn's money paid those bills. And you allowed the family--and me--tothank _you_ for your generosity. Oh, I'm ashamed to be near you!"

"There! There! Caroline, be still. I--"

"I shall not be still. I have been still altogether too long. You areour guardian. We can't help that, I suppose. Father asked you to bethat, for some reason; but did he ask you to _live_ here where you arenot wanted? To shame us before our friends, ladies and gentlemen so farabove you in every way? And to try to poison our minds against them andsneer at them when they are kind to us and even try to be kind toyou? No, he did not! Oh, I'm sick of it all! your deceit and yourhypocritical speeches and your pretended love for us. _Love_! Oh, if Icould say something that would make you understand how thoroughly wedespise you, and how your presence, ever since you forced it upon Steveand me, has disgraced us! If I only could! I--I--"

She had been near to tears ever since Mrs. Corcoran Dunn, in thekindness of her heart, told her the "truth" that afternoon. But prideand indignation had prevented her giving way. Now, however, she brokedown. 

"Oh--oh, Steve!" she cried, and, turning to her brother, sobbedhysterically on his shoulder. "Oh, Steve, what shall we do?"

Stephen put his arm about her waist. "It's all right, Sis, " he saidsoothingly. "Don't cry before _him_! I guess, " with a glance at hisuncle, "you've said enough to make even him understand--at last. "

Captain Elisha looked gravely at the pair. "I guess you have, " he saidslowly. "I guess you have, Caroline. Anyhow, I can't think offhand ofanything you've left out. I could explain some things, but what's theuse? And, " with a sigh, "you may be right in a way. Perhaps I shouldn'thave come here to live. If you'd only told me plain afore just how youfelt, I'd--maybe I'd--but there! I didn't know--I didn't know. You see, I thought. .. . However, I guess that part of your troubles is over. But, "he added, firmly, "wherever I am, or wherever I go, you must understandthat I'm your guardian, just the same. I considered a long spell afore Itook the place, and I never abandoned a ship yet, once I took command ofher. And I'll stick to this one! Yes, sir! I'll stick to it in spite ofthe devil--or the Dunns, either. Till you and your brother are of ageI'm goin' to look out for you and your interests and your money; andnothin' nor nobody shall stop me. As for forcin' my company on you, though, that well, that's different. I cal'late you won't have to worryany more. Good night. "

He thrust his hands into his pockets and walked slowly from the library. 

CHAPTER XIV

Stephen, the "man of the family, " was the only member of the household, servants excepted, who slept soundly that night. Conscious of havingdone his duty in the affair with Pearson and his guardian, and somewhatfatigued by the disagreeable task of soothing his hysterical sister, hewas slumbering peacefully at nine the next morning when awakened by aseries of raps on his bedroom door. 

"Ah! What? Well, what is it?" he demanded, testily opening his eyes. "Edwards, is that you? What the devil do you mean by making such a row?"

The voice which answered was not the butler's, but Caroline's. 

"Steve! Oh, Steve!" she cried. "Do get up and come out! Come, quick!"

"What's the matter?" inquired the young man, sitting up in bed. "Is thehouse afire?"

"No, no! But do come! I want you. Something has happened. "

"Happened? What is it?"

"I can't tell you here. Please dress and come to me as quick as youcan. "

Stephen, wondering and somewhat alarmed, dressed with unusualpromptitude and obeyed. He found his sister standing by the librarywindow, a letter in her hand. She looked troubled and anxious. 

"Well, Caro, " observed the boy, "here I am. What in the world's up now?"

She turned. 

"Oh, Steve!" she exclaimed, "he's gone!"

"Gone? Who?"

"Captain Warren. He's gone. "

"Gone? Gone where? Caro, you don't mean he's--_dead_?"

"No, he's gone--gone and left us. "

Her brother's expression changed to incredulous joy. 

"What?" he shouted. "You mean he's quit? Cleared out? Left here forgood?"

"Yes. "

"Hurrah! Excuse me while I gloat! Hurrah! We got it through his skullat last! Is it possible? But--but hold on! Perhaps it's too good to betrue. Are you sure? How do you know?"

"He says so. See. "

She handed him the letter. It was addressed to "My dear Caroline" andin it Captain Elisha stated his intentions succinctly. After the plainspeaking of the previous evening he should not, of course, burden themwith his society any longer. He was leaving that morning, and, as soonas he "located permanent moorings somewhere else" would notify his nieceand nephew of his whereabouts. 

 "For, " he added, "as I told you, although I shall not impose my company on you, I am your guardian same as ever. I will see that your allowance comes to you regular, including enough for all household bills and pay for the hired help and so on. If you need any extras at any time let me know and, if they seem to me right and proper, I will send money for them. You will stay where you are, Caroline, and Stevie must go back to college right away. Tell him I say so, and if he does not I shall begin reducing his allowance according as I wrote him. He will understand what I mean. I guess that is all until I send you my address and any other sailing orders that seem necessary to me then. And, Caroline, I want you and Stevie to feel that I am your anchor to windward, and when you get in a tight place, if you ever do, you can depend on me. Last night's talk has no bearing on that whatever. Good-by, then, until my next. 

 "ELISHA WARREN. "

Stephen read this screed to the end, then crumpled it in his fist andthrew it angrily on the floor. 

"The nerve!" he exclaimed. "He seems to think I'm a sailor on one of hisships, to be ordered around as he sees fit. I'll go back to college whenI'm good and ready--not before. "

Caroline shook her head. "Oh, no!" she said. "You must go to-day. He'sright, Steve; it's the thing for you to do. He and I were agreed as tothat. And you wouldn't stay and make it harder for me, would you, dear?"

He growled a reluctant assent. "I suppose I shall have to go, " he said, sullenly. "My allowance is too beastly small to have him cutting it; andthe old shark would do that very thing; he'd take delight in doing it, confound him! Well, he knows what we think of him, that's some comfort. "

She did not answer. He looked at her curiously. 

"Why, hang it all, Caro!" he exclaimed in disgust; "what ails you?Blessed if I sha'n't begin to believe you're sorry he's gone. You act asif you were. "

"No, I'm not. Of course I'm not. I'm--I'm glad. He couldn't stay, ofcourse. But I'm afraid--I can't help feeling that you and I were tooharsh last night. We said things--dreadful things--"

"Be hanged! We didn't say half enough. Oh, don't be a fool, Caro! I wasjust beginning to be proud of your grit. And now you want to take it allback. Honestly, girls are the limit! You don't know your own minds fortwelve consecutive hours. Answer me now! _Are_ you sorry he's gone?"

"No. No, I'm not, really. But I--I feel somehow as if--as if everythingwas on my shoulders. You're going away, and he's gone, and--What is it, Edwards?"

The butler entered, with a small parcel in his hand. 

"I beg your pardon, Miss Caroline, " he said. "I should have given youthis last evening. It was by your place at the table. I think CaptainWarren put it there, miss. "

Caroline took the parcel and looked at it wonderingly. 

"For me?" she repeated. 

"Yes, Miss Caroline. It is marked with your name. And breakfast isserved, when you and Mr. Stephen are ready. "

He bowed and retired. The girl sat turning the little white box in herhands. 

"_He_ left it for me, " she said. "What can it be?"

Her brother snatched it impatiently. 

"Why don't you open it and find out?" he demanded. "Perhaps it's hislatch key. Here! I'll do it myself. "

He cut the cord and removed the cover of the little box. Inside was thejeweler's leather case. He took it out and pressed the spring. The coverflew up. 

"Whew!" he whistled. "It's a present. And rather a decent one, too, bygad! Look, Caro!"

He handed her the open case. She looked at the chain, spread carefullyon the white satin lining. Inside the cover was fitted a card. Sheturned it over and read: "To my niece, Caroline. With wishes for manyhappy returns, and much love, from her Uncle Elisha Warren. "

She sat gazing at the card. Stephen bent down, read the inscription, and then looked up into her face. 

"_What_?" he cried. "I believe--You're not _crying_! Well, I'll behanged! Sis, you _are_ a fool!"

 * * * * *

The weather that morning was fine and clear. James Pearson, standingby the window of his rooms at the boarding house, looking out at thesnow-covered roofs sparkling in the sun, was miserable. When he retiredthe night before it was with a solemn oath to forget Caroline Warrenaltogether; to put her and her father and the young cad, her brother, utterly from his mind, never to be thought of again. As a preliminarystep in this direction, he began, the moment his head touched thepillow, to review, for the fiftieth time, the humiliating scene in thelibrary, to think of things he should have said, and--worse than all--torecall, word for word, the things she had said to him. In this cheerfuloccupation he passed hours before falling asleep. And, when he woke, itwas to begin all over again. 

Why--_why_ had he been so weak as to yield to Captain Elisha's advice?Why had he not acted like a sensible, self-respecting man, done what heknew was right, and persisted in his refusal to visit the Warrens? Why?Because he was an idiot, of course--a hopeless idiot, who had gotexactly what he deserved! Which bit of philosophy did not help make hisreflections less bitter. 

He went down to breakfast when the bell rang, but his appetite wasmissing, and he replied only in monosyllables to the remarks addressedto him by his fellow boarders. Mrs. Hepton, the landlady, noticed thechange. 

"You not ill, Mr. Pearson, I hope?" she queried. "I do hope you haven'tgot cold, sleeping with your windows wide open, as you say you do. Freshair is a good thing, in moderation, but one should be careful. Don't youthink so, Mr. Carson?"

Mr. Carson was a thin little man, a bachelor, who occupied the smallestroom on the third story. He was a clerk in a department store, and hisboard was generally in arrears. Therefore, when Mrs. Hepton expressed anopinion he made it a point to agree with her. In this instance, however, he merely grunted. 

"I say fresh air in one's sleeping room is a good thing in moderation. Don't you think so, Mr. Carson?" repeated the landlady. 

Mr. Carson rolled up his napkin and inserted it in the ring. His board, as it happened, was paid in full to date. Also, although he had not yetdeclared his intention, he intended changing lodgings at the end of theweek. 

"Humph!" he sniffed, with sarcasm, "it may be. I couldn't get none in_my_ room if I wanted it, so I can't say sure. Morning. "

He departed hurriedly. Mrs. Hepton looked disconcerted. Mrs. Van WinkleRuggles smiled meaningly across the table at Miss Sherborne, who smiledback. 

Mr. Ludlow, the bookseller, quietly observed that he hoped Mr. Pearsonhad not gotten cold. Colds were prevalent at this time of the year. "'These are the days when the Genius of the weather sits in mournfulmeditation on the threshold, ' as Mr. Dickens tells us, " he added. "Ipresume he sits on the sills of open windows, also. "

The wife of the Mr. Dickens there present pricked up her ears. 

"When did you write that, 'C. ' dear?" she asked, turning to her husband. "I remember it perfectly, of course, but I have forgotten, for themoment, in which of your writings it appears. "

The illustrious one's mouth being occupied with a section of scorchinghot waffle, he was spared the necessity of confession. 

"Pardon me, " said Mr. Ludlow. "I was not quoting our Mr. Dickens thistime, but his famous namesake. "

The great "C. " drowned the waffle with a swallow of water. 

"Maria, " he snapped, "don't be so foolish. Ludlow quotesfrom--er--'Bleak House. ' I have written some things--er--similar, butnot that. Why don't you pass the syrup?"

The bookseller, who was under the impression that he had quoted from the"Christmas Carol, " merely smiled and remained silent. 

"My father, the Senator, " began Mrs. Van Winkle Ruggles, "was troubledwith colds during his political career. I remember his saying that theSenate Chamber at the Capitol was extremely draughty. Possibly Mr. Pearson's ailment does come from sleeping in a draught. Not that fatherwas accustomed to _sleep_ during the sessions--Oh, dear, no! not that, of course. How absurd!"

She laughed gayly. Pearson, who seemed to think it time to saysomething, declared that, so far as he knew, he had no cold or anysymptoms of one. 

"Well, " said Mrs. Hepton, with conviction, "something ails you, I know. We can all see it; can't we?" turning to the rest of the company. "Why, you've scarcely spoken since you sat down at the table. And you've eatennext to nothing. Perhaps there is some trouble, something on your mindwhich is worrying you. Oh, I _hope_ not!"

"No doubt it is the preoccupation of genius, " remarked Mrs. Dickens. "I'm sure it must be that. When 'C. ' is engaged with some particularlytrying literary problem he frequently loses all his appetite and doesnot speak for hours together. Isn't it so, dear?"

"C. , " who was painfully conscious that he might have made a miscue inthe matter of the quotation, answered sharply. 

"No, " he said. "Not at all. Don't be silly, Maria. "

Miss Sherborne clasped her hands. "_I_ know!" she exclaimed in mockrapture; "Mr. Pearson is in love!"

This suggestion was received with applause and hilarity. Pearson pushedback his chair and rose. 

"I'm much obliged for this outburst of sympathy, " he observed, dryly. "But, as I say, I'm perfectly well, and the other diagnoses are tooflattering to be true. Good morning. "

Back in his room he seated himself at his desk, took the manuscript ofhis novel from the drawer, and sat moodily staring at it. He was in nomood for work. The very sight of the typewritten page disgusted him. As he now felt, the months spent on the story were time wasted. It wasridiculous for him to attempt such a thing; or to believe that hecould carry it through successfully; or to dream that he would ever beanything better than a literary hack, a cheap edition of "C. " Dickens, minus the latter's colossal self-satisfaction. 

He was still sitting there, twirling an idle pencil between his fingers, when he heard steps outside his door. Someone knocked. 

"Well, what is it?" he asked. 

His landlady answered. 

"Mr. Pearson, " she said, "may I see you?"

He threw down the pencil and, rising, walked to the door and opened it. Mrs. Hepton was waiting in the hall. She seemed excited. 

"Mr. Pearson, " she said, "will you step downstairs with me for a moment?I have a surprise for you. "

"A surprise? What sort of a surprise?"

"Oh, a pleasant one. At least I think it is going to be pleasant for allof us. But I'm not going to tell you what it is. You must come down andsee for yourself. "

She led the way downstairs, the young man following her, wondering whatthe surprise might be, and fairly certain it, nor anything else, couldbe pleasant on that day. 

He supposed, of course, that he must descend to the parlor to reach thesolution of the mystery, but he was mistaken. On the second floor Mrs. Hepton stopped and pointed. 

"It's in there, " she said, pointing. 

"There" was the room formerly occupied by Mr. Saks, the long-hairedartist. Since his departure it had been vacant. Pearson looked at theclosed door and then at the lady. 

"A surprise for me in _there_?" he repeated. "What's the joke, Mrs. Hepton?"

By way of answer she took him by the arm, and, leading him to the door, threw the latter open. 

"Here he is!" she said. 

"Hello, Jim!" hailed Captain Elisha Warren, cheerfully. "Ship ahoy! Gladto see you. "

He was standing in the middle of the room, his hat on the table and hishands in his pockets. 

Pearson was surprised; there was no doubt of that--not so much at thesight of his friend--he had expected to see or hear from the captainbefore the day was over--as at seeing him in that room. He could notunderstand what he was doing there. 

Captain Elisha noted his bewildered expression, and chuckled. 

"Come aboard, Jim!" he commanded. "Come in and inspect. I'll see youlater, Mrs. Hepton, " he added, "and give you my final word. I want tohold officer's council with Mr. Pearson here fust. "

The landlady accepted the broad hint and turned to go. 

"Very well, " she said, "but I do hope for all our sakes that word willbe _yes_, Mr. Warren--Excuse me, it is Captain Warren, isn't it?"

"It used to be, yes, ma'am. And at home it is yet. 'Round here I'velearned to be like a barroom poll-parrot, ready to answer to mosteverything. There!" as the door closed after her; "now we can be moreprivate. Set down, Jim! How are you, anyway?"

Pearson sat down mechanically. "I'm well enough--everything considered, "he replied, slowly. "But what--what are you in here for? I don'tunderstand. "

"You will in a minute. What do you think of this--er--saloon cabin?"with a comprehensive sweep of his arm. 

The room was of fair size, furnished in a nondescript, boarding-housefashion, and with two windows overlooking the little back yard ofthe house and those of the other adjoining it. Each yard contained anassortment of ash cans, and there was an astonishing number of clotheslines, each fluttering a variety of garments peculiarly personal totheir respective owners. 

"Pretty snug, ain't it?" continued the captain. "Not exactly up to thatI've been luxuriatin' in lately, but more fittin' to my build and classthan that was, I shouldn't wonder. No Corot paintin's nor five thousanddollar tintypes of dory codders; but I can manage to worry along withoutthem, if I try hard. Neat but not gaudy, I call it--as the architectfeller said about his plans for the addition to the county jail atOstable. Hey? Ho! Ho!"

Pearson began to get a clue to the situation. 

"Captain Warren, " he demanded, "have you--Do you mean to say you'vetaken this room to _live_ in?"

"No, I ain't said all that yet. I wanted to talk with you a little aforeI said it. But that was my idea, if you and I agreed on sartin matters. "

"You've come here to live! You've left your--your niece's house?"

"Ya-as, I've left. That is, I left the way the Irishman left the stablewhere they kept the mule. He said there was all out doors in front ofhim and only two feet behind. That's about the way 'twas with me. "

"Have your nephew and niece--"

"Um-hm. They hinted that my room was better than my company, and, takeit by and large, I guess they was right for the present, anyhow. I setup till three o'clock thinkin' it over, and then I decided to get outafore breakfast this mornin'. I didn't wait for any good-bys. They'dbeen said, or all I cared to hear"--Captain Elisha's smile disappearedfor an instant--"last evenin'. The dose was sort of bitter, but it hadthe necessary effect. At any rate, I didn't hanker for another one. Iremembered what your landlady told me when I was here afore, about thisstateroom bein' vacated, and I come down to look at it. It suits me wellenough; seems like a decent moorin's for an old salt water derelict likeme; the price is reasonable, and I guess likely I'll take it. I _guess_I will. "

"Why do you guess? By George, I hope you will!"

"Do you? I'm much obliged. I didn't know but after last night, after thescrape I got you into, you might feel--well, sort of as if you'd seenenough of me. "

The young man smiled bitterly. "It wasn't your fault, " he said. "It wasmine entirely. I'm quite old enough to decide matters for myself, and Ishould have decided as my reason, and not my inclinations, told me. Youweren't to blame. "

"Yes, I was. If you're old enough, I'm _too_ old, I cal'late. But I didthink--However, there's no use goin' over that. I ask your pardon, Jim. And you don't hold any grudge?"

"Indeed I don't. I may be a fool--I guess I am--but not that kind. "

"Thanks. Well, there's one objection out of the way, then, only I don'twant you to think that I've hove overboard that 'responsibility' I wasso easy and fresh about takin' on my shoulders. It's there yet; and I'llsee you squared with Caroline afore this v'yage is over, if I live. "

His friend frowned. 

"You needn't mind, " he said. "I prefer that you drop the whole miserablebusiness. "

"Well, maybe, but--Jim, you've taken hold of these electric batteriesthat doctors have sometimes? It's awful easy to grab the handles of oneof those contraptions, but when you want to drop 'em you can't. Theydon't drop easy. I took hold of the handles of 'Bije's affairs, and, though it might be pleasanter to drop 'em, I can't--or I won't. "

"Then you're leaving your nephew and niece doesn't mean that you'vegiven up the guardianship?"

Captain Elisha's jaw set squarely. 

"I don't remember sayin' that it did, " he answered, with decision. Then, his good-nature returning, he added, "And now, Jim, I'd like youropinion of these new quarters that I may take. What do you think of 'em?Come to the window and take a look at the scenery. "

Pearson joined him at the window. The captain waved toward theclothes-lines and grinned. 

"Looks as if there was some kind of jubilee, don't it, " he observed. "Every craft in sight has strung the colors. "

Pearson laughed. Then he said:

"Captain, I think the room will do. It isn't palatial, but one can livein worse quarters, as I know from experience. "

"Yup. Well, Jim, there's just one thing more. Have I disgraced you agood deal, bein' around with you and chummin' in with you the way Ihave? That is, do you _think_ I've disgraced you? Are you ashamed ofme?"

"I? Ashamed of _you_? You're joking!"

"No, I'm serious. Understand now, I'm not apologizin'. My ways are myways, and I think they're just as good as the next feller's, whetherhe's from South Denboro or--well, Broad Street. I've got a habit ofthinkin' for myself and actin' for myself, and when I take off my hatit's to a bigger _man_ than I am and not to a more stylish hat. But, since I've lived here in New York, I've learned that, with a whole lotof folks, hats themselves count more than what's underneath 'em. Ihaven't changed mine, and I ain't goin' to. Now, with that plain andunderstood, do you want me to live here, in the same house with you? Iain't fishin' for compliments. I want an honest answer. "

He got it. Pearson looked him squarely in the eye. 

"I do, " he said. "I like you, and I don't care a damn about your hat. Isthat plain?"

Captain Elisha's reply was delivered over the balusters in the hall. 

"Hi!" he called. "Hi, Mrs. Hepton. "

The landlady had been anxiously waiting. She ran from the dining room tothe foot of the stairs. 

"Yes?" she cried. "What is it?"

"It's a bargain, " said the captain. "I'm ready to engage passage. "

CHAPTER XV

Thus Captain Elisha entered another of New York's "circles, " that whichcentered at Mrs. Hepton's boarding house. Within a week he was as mucha part of it as if he had lived there for years. At lunch, on the dayof his arrival, he made his appearance at the table in company withPearson, and when the landlady exultantly announced that he was to be"one of our little party" thereafter, he received and replied to thewelcoming salutations of his fellow boarders with unruffled serenity. 

"How could I help it?" he asked. "Human nature's liable to temptation, they tell us. The flavor of that luncheon we had last time I was herehas been hangin' 'round the edges of my mouth and tantalizin' my memoryever since. "

"We had a souffle that noon, if I remember correctly, Captain, " observedthe flattered Mrs. Hepton. 

"Did you? Well, I declare! I'd have sworn 'twas a biled-dinner hash. Knew 'twas better than any I ever ate afore, but I'd have bet 'twashash, just the same. Tut! tut! tut! Now, honest, Mrs. Hepton, ain'tthis--er--whatever-you-call-it a close relation--a sort of hash with itscity clothes on, hey?"

The landlady admitted that a souffle was something not unlike a hash. Captain Elisha nodded. 

"I thought so, " he declared. "I was sartin sure I couldn't be mistaken. What is it used to be in the song book? 'You can smash--you can--' Well, I don't remember. Somethin' about your bein' able to smash the vase ifyou wanted to, but the smell of the posies was there yet. "

Mr. Ludlow, the bookseller, supplied the quotation. 

 "'You may break, you may shatter The vase if you will, But the scent of the roses Will cling to it still, '"

he said, smiling. 

"That's it. Much obliged. You can warm up and rechristen the hash if youwill; but the corned beef and cabbage stay right on deck. Ain't that so, Mr. Dickens?"

The illustrious "C. " bowed. 

"Moore?" he observed, with dignity. 

"Yes. That's what _I_ said--'More!' Said it twice, I believe. Glad youagree with me. The hymn says that weakness is sin, but there's no sin inhavin' a weakness for corned-beef hash. "

Miss Sherborne and Mrs. Van Winkle Ruggles were at first inclined tosnub the new boarder, considering him a country boor whose presence intheir select society was almost an insult. The captain did not seem tonotice their hints or sneers, although Pearson grew red and wrathful. 

"Laura, my dear, " said Mrs. Ruggles, addressing the teacher of vocalculture, "don't you feel quite rural to-day? Almost as if you werevisiting the country?"

"I do, indeed, " replied Miss Sherborne. "Refreshing, isn't it? Ha! ha!"

"It is if one cares for such things. I am afraid _I_ don't appreciatethem. They may be well enough in their place, but--"

She finished with a shrug of her shoulders. Captain Elisha smiled. 

"Yes, ma'am, " he said politely, joining in the conversation; "that'swhat the boy said about the cooky crumbs in the bed. You don't care forthe country, I take it, ma'am. "

"I do _not_!"

"So? Well, it's a mercy we don't think alike; even Heaven would becrowded if we did--hey? You didn't come from the country, either?"turning to Miss Sherborne. 

The young lady would have liked to answer with an uncompromisingnegative. Truth and the fact that some of those present were acquaintedwith it compelled her to forego this pleasure. 

"I was born in a--a small town, " she answered coldly. "But I came to thecity as soon as I possibly could. "

"Um-hm. Well, I came when I couldn't possibly stay away. We can agreeon one thing--we're all here. Yes, and on another--that that cakeis fust-rate. I'll take a second piece, if you've no objection, Mrs. Hepton. "

When they were alone once more, in the captain's room, Pearson ventedhis indignation. 

"Why didn't you give them as good as they sent?" he demanded. "Couldn'tyou see they were doing their best to hurt your feelings?"

"Ya-as. I could see it. Didn't need any specs to see that. "

"Then why didn't you answer them as they deserved?"

"Oh, I don't know. What's the use? They've got troubles of their own. One of 'em's a used-to-be, and the other's a never-was. Either diseaseis bad enough without addin' complications. "

Pearson laughed. "I don't get the whole of that, Captain, " he said. "Mrs. Van is the used-to-be, I suppose. But what is it that MissSherborne never was?"

"Married, " was the prompt reply. "Old maiditis is creepin' on her fast. You want to be careful, Jim; a certain kind of female gets desperateabout her stage. "

Pearson laughed again. 

"Oh, get out!" he exclaimed, turning to go. 

"All right! I will, when you and she are together and you give me thesignal. But I tell you honest, I'd hate to do it. Judgin' by the way shesmiles and looks up under her eye-winkers at you, you're in dangerof kidnappin'. So long. I'll see you again after I get my dunnageunpacked. "

The snubbing and sneering came to an abrupt end. Pearson, inconversation with Mrs. Ruggles, casually imparted the information thatCaptain Elisha was the brother of A. Rodgers Warren, late society leaderand wealthy broker. Also, that he had entire charge of the latter'sestate. Thereafter Mrs. Ruggles treated the captain as one whose rankwas equal to her own, and, consequently, higher than anyone's elsein the boarding-house. She made it a point to publicly ask his adviceconcerning "securities" and "investments, " and favored him with manyreminiscences of her distinguished father, the Senator. Miss Sherborne, as usual, followed her lead. Captain Elisha, when Pearson joked him onthe altered behavior of the two ladies, merely grinned. 

"You may thank me for that, Captain, " said the young man. "When I toldMrs. Ruggles who and what you were she almost broke down and sobbed. The fact that she had risked offending one so closely connected with thereal thing on Fifth Avenue and Wall Street was too dreadful. But she'syours devotedly now. There's an 18-karat crown on your head. "

"Yup. I suppose so. Well, I ain't so sot up with pride over wearin'that crown. It used to belong to 'Bije, and I never did care much forsecond-hand things. Rather have a new sou'wester of my own, any day inthe week. When I buy a sou'wester I know what it's made of. "

"Mrs. Ruggles knows what the crown is made of--gold, nicely padded withbonds and preferred stock. "

"Humph! Sometimes I wonder if the paddin's waterproof. As for thegold--well, you can make consider'ble shine with brass when you'redealin' with nigh-sighted folks . .. And children. "

To this indirect reference to Miss Warren and her brother Pearson madeno reply. The pair conversed freely on other subjects, but each avoidedthis one. The novel, too, was laid on the shelf for the present. Itsauthor had not yet mustered sufficient courage to return to it. CaptainElisha once or twice suggested a session with "Cap'n Jim, " but, findinghis suggestions received with more or less indifference, did not pressthem. His mind was busy with other things. A hint dropped by Sylvester, the lawyer, was one of these. It suggested alarming possibilities, andhis skepticism concerning the intrinsic worth of his inherited "crown"was increased by it. 

He paid frequent visits to the offices of Sylvester, Kuhn, and Graves inPine Street. Upon the senior partner, whom he esteemed and trusted notonly as a business adviser but a friend, he depended for informationconcerning happenings at the Warren apartment. 

Caroline sent him regular statements of her weekly expenditures, alsobills for his approval, but she had written him but once, and then onlya brief note. The note brought by a messenger, accompanied apackage containing the chain which he and Pearson selected with suchdeliberation and care at the Fifth Avenue jeweler's. Under the existingcircumstances, the girl wrote, she felt that she did not wish to acceptpresents from him and therefore returned this one. He was alone when thenote and package came and sat by the window of his room, looking out atthe dismal prospect of back yards and clothes-lines, turning the leathercase over and over in his hands. Perhaps this was the most miserableafternoon he had spent since his arrival in the city. He tried tocomfort himself by the exercise of his usual philosophy, but it was coldcomfort. He had no right to expect gratitude, so he told himself, andthe girl undoubtedly felt that she was justified in her treatment ofhim; but it is hard to be misunderstood and misjudged, even by one whoseyouth is, perhaps, an excuse. He forgave Caroline, but he could notforgive those who were responsible for her action. 

After Pearson had departed, on the morning when the conversation dealingwith Mrs. Van Winkle Ruggles and her change of attitude took place, Captain Elisha put on his hat and coat and started for his lawyer'soffice. Sylvester was glad to see him and invited him to lunch. 

"No, thank you, " replied the captain. "I just run down to ask if therewas anything new in the offin'. Last time I see you, you hinted you andyour mates had sighted somethin' or other through the fog, and it mightturn out to be a rock or a lighthouse, you couldn't tell which. Made upyour mind yet?"

Sylvester shook his head. "No, " he said, slowly; "it is still foggy. We're busy investigating, but we're not ready to report. "

"Humph! Well, what's the thing look like? You must be a little nigher toit by now. "

The lawyer tapped his desk with a pencil. "I don't know what it lookslike, " he answered. "That is to say, I don't--I can't believe it is whatit appears, at this distance, to be. If it is, it is the most--"

He paused. Captain Elisha waited for him to go on and, when he did notdo so, asked another question. 

"The most what?" he demanded. "Is it likely to be very bad?"

"Why--why--well, I can't say even that yet. But there! as I told you, I'm not going to permit it to worry me. And you mustn't worry, either. That's why I don't give you any further particulars. There may benothing in it, after all. "

His visitor smiled. "Say, Mr. Sylvester, " he said, "you're like theyoung-ones used to be when I was a boy. There'd be a gang of 'em waitin'by the schoolhouse steps and when the particular victim hove in sightthey'd hail him with, 'Ah, ha! _you're_ goin' to get it!' 'Wait tillteacher sees you!' and so on. Course the victim would want to know whatit meant. All the satisfaction he got from them was, 'That's all right!You'll find out! You just wait!' And the poor feller put in the timeafore the bell rung goin' over all the things he shouldn't have done andhad, and wonderin' which it was this time. You hinted to me a week agothat there was a surprisin' possibility loomin' up in 'Bije's financialaffairs. And ever since then I've been puzzlin' my brains tryin' toguess what could happen. Ain't discovered any more of those Cut Shortbonds, have you?"

The bonds to which he referred were those of a defunct Short Linerailroad. A large number of these bonds had been discovered among A. Rodgers Warren's effects; part of his "tangled assets, " the captain hadtermed them, differentiating from the "tangible" variety. 

"Abbie, my housekeeper, has been writin' me, " he went on, "about havin'the sewin' room papered. She wants my advice concernin' the style ofpaper; says it ought to be pretty and out of the common, but not tooexpensive. I judge what she wants is somethin' that looks like moneybut ain't really wuth more than ten cents a mile. I've been thinkin'I'd send her a bale or so of those bonds; they'd fill the bill in thoserespects, wouldn't they?"

Sylvester laughed. "They certainly would, Captain, " he replied. "No, we haven't unearthed any more of that sort. And, as for this mystery ofours, I'll give you the answer--if it's worth giving at all, in a veryshort time. Meanwhile, you go home and forget it. "

"Well, I'll try. But I guess it sticks out on my face, like a four days'toothache. But I _won't_ worry about that. You know best whether to tellme now or not, and--well, I'm carryin' about all the worry my tonnage'llstand, as 'tis. "

He drew a long breath. Sylvester regarded him sympathetically. 

"You mustn't take your nephew's and niece's treatment too much toheart, " he said. 

"Oh, I don't. That is, I pretend I don't. And I do try not to. But Ikeep thinkin', thinkin', and wonderin' if 'twould have been better if Ihadn't gone there to live at all. Hi hum! a man of my age hadn't oughtto mind what a twenty-year-old girl says, or does; 'specially whenher kind, advisin' friends have shown her how she's been deceived andhypocrit-ted. By the way, speakin' of hypocrites, I suppose there's justas much 'Dunnin'' as ever goin' on up there?"

"Yes. A little more, if anything, I'm afraid. Your niece and Mrs. Dunnand her precious son are together now so constantly that people areexpecting--well, you know what they expect. "

"I can guess. I hope they'll be disapp'inted. "

"So do I, but I must confess I'm fearful. Malcolm himself isn't so wise, but his mother is--"

"A whole Book of Proverbs, hey? I know. She's an able old frigate. Idid think I had her guns spiked, but she turned 'em on me unexpected. Ithought I had her and her boy in a clove hitch. I knew somethin' that Iwas sartin sure they wouldn't want Caroline to know, and she and Malcolmknew I knew it. Her tellin' Caroline of it, _her_ story of it, when Iwasn't there to contradict, was as smart a piece of maneuverin' as everwas. It took the wind out of my sails, because, though I'm just as rightas I ever was, Caroline wouldn't listen to me, nor believe me, now. "

"She'll learn by experience. "

"Yup. But learnin' by experience is a good deal like shippin' greenafore the mast; it'll make an able seaman of you, if it don't kill youfust. When I was a boy there was a man in our town name of NickersonCummin's. He was mate of a ship and smart as a red pepper poultice ona skinned heel. He was a great churchgoer when he was ashore and alwayspreachin' brotherly love and kindness and pattin' us little shavers onthe head, and so on. Most of the grown folks thought he was a sort ofsaint, and I thought he was more than that. I'd have worshiped him, I cal'late, if my Methodist trainin' would have allowed me to worshipanybody who wa'n't named in Scriptur'. If there'd been an apostle or aprophet christened Nickerson I'd have fell on my knees to thisCummin's man, sure. So, when I went to sea as a cabin boy, a tow-headedsnub-nosed little chap of fourteen, I was as happy as a clam athighwater 'cause I was goin' in the ship he was mate of. "

He paused. There was a frown on his face, and his lower jaw was thrustforward grimly. 

"Well?" inquired Sylvester. "What happened?"

"Hey? Oh, excuse me. When I get to thinkin' of that v'yage I simmerinside, like a teakettle on a hot stove. The second day out--seasick andhomesick and so miserable I wished I could die all at once instead ofby lingerin' spasms--I dropped a dish on the cabin floor and broke it. Cummin's was alone with me, eatin' his dinner; and he jumped out ofhis chair when I stooped to pick up the pieces and kicked me under thetable. When I crawled out, he kicked me again and kept it up. When hisfoot got tired he used his fist. 'There!' says he between his teeth, 'Ical'late that'll learn you that crockery costs money. '

"It did. I never broke anything else aboard that ship. Cummin's was abully and a sneak to everybody but the old man, and a toady to him. Henever struck me or anybody else when the skipper was around, but therewas nothin' too mean for him to do when he thought he had a safe chance. And he took pains to let me know that if I ever told a soul at homehe'd kill me. I'd learned by experience, not only about the priceof crockery, but other things, things that a youngster ought not tolearn--how to hate a man so that you can wait years to get even withhim, for one. I'm sorry I learned that, and, " dryly, "so was Cummin's, later. But I did learn, once and for all, not to take folks ontrust, nor to size 'em up by their outside, or the noise they make inprayer-meetin', nor the way they can spread soft soap when they thinkit's necessary. I'd learned that, and I'd learned it early enough to beof use to me, which was a mercy. 

"It was a hard lesson for me, " he added, reflectively; "but I managed tocome out of it without lettin' it bitter my whole life. I don't mind somuch Caroline's bein' down on me. She'll know better some day, I hope;and if she don't--well, I'm only a side-issue in her life, anyhow, hovein by accident, like the section of dog collar in the sassage. But I dohope her learnin' by experience won't come too late to save her from . .. What she'll be awful sorry for by and by. "

"It must, " declared the lawyer, with decision. "You must see to it, Captain Warren. You are her guardian. She is absolutely under yourcharge. She can do nothing of importance unless you consent. "

"Yup. That's so--for one more year; just one, remember! Then she'llbe of age, and I can't say 'Boo!' And her share of 'Bije's money'llbe hers, too. And don't you believe that that fact has slipped SisterDunn's memory. I ain't on deck to head her off now; if she puts Malcolmup to gettin' Caroline to give her word, and Caroline gives it--well, I know my niece. She's honorable, and she'll stick to her promise if itruns her on the rocks. And Her Majesty Dunn knows that, too. Therefore, the cat bein' away, she cal'lates now's the time to make sure of thecheese. "

"But the cat can come back. The song says it did, you know. "

"Um-hm. And got another kick, I shouldn't wonder. However, my claws'llstay sharp for a year or thereabouts, and, if it comes to a shindy, there'll be some tall scratchin' afore I climb a tree. Keep a weathereye on what goes on, won't you?"

"I will. You can depend on me. "

"I do. And say! for goodness' sakes put me out of my misery regardin'that rock or lighthouse on 'Bije's chart, soon's ever you settle whichit is. "

"Certainly! And, remember, don't worry. It may be a lighthouse, ornothing at all. At all events, I'll report very soon. "

CHAPTER XVI

But, in spite of his promise, Sylvester did not report during thefollowing week or the next. Meanwhile, his client tried his best tokeep the new mystery from troubling his thoughts, and succeeded onlypartially. The captain's days and evenings were quiet and monotonous. Heborrowed a book or two from Mrs. Hepton's meager library, read, walkeda good deal, generally along the water front, and wrote daily letters toMiss Baker. He and Pearson were together for at least a portion of eachday. The author, fighting down his dejection and discouragement, sethimself resolutely to work once more on the novel, and his nauticaladviser was called in for frequent consultation. The story, however, progressed but slowly. There was something lacking. Each knew what thatsomething was, but neither named it. 

One evening Pearson entered the room tenanted by his friend to find thelatter seated beside the table, his shoes partially unlaced, and a pairof big slippers ready for putting on. 

"Captain, " said the visitor, "you look so comfortable I hate to disturbyou. "

Captain Elisha, red-faced and panting, desisted from the unlacing andstraightened in his chair. 

"Whew!" he puffed. "Jim, your remarks prove that your experience of theworld ain't as big as it ought to be. When you get to my age and waistmeasure you'll realize that stoopin' over and comfort don't go together. I hope to be comfortable pretty soon; but I sha'n't be till them bootsare off. Set down. The agony'll be over in a minute. "

Pearson declined to sit. "Not yet, " he said. "And you let those shoesalone, until you hear what I've got to say. A newspaper friend of minehas sent me two tickets for the opera to-night. I want you to go withme. "

Captain Elisha was surprised. 

"To the opera?" he repeated. "Why, that's a--a sort of singin' theaterain't it?"

"Yes, you're fond of music; you told me so. And A�da is beautiful. Comeon! it will do us both good. "

"Hum! Well, I don't know. "

"I do. Get ready. "

The captain looked at his caller's evening clothes. 

"What do you mean by gettin' ready?" he asked. "You've got on yourregimentals, open front and all. My uniform is the huntin' case kind;fits in better with church sociables and South Denboro no'theasters. If I wore one of those vests like yours Abbie'd make me put on a redflannel lung-protector to keep from catchin' pneumonia. And she'd think'twas sinful waste besides, runnin' the risk of sp'ilin' a clean biledshirt so quick. Won't I look like an undertaker, sittin' alongside ofyou?"

"Not a bit. If it will ease your mind I'll change to a business suit. "

"I don't care. You know how I feel; we had a little talk about hats aspell ago, you remember. If you're willin' to take me 'just as I am, without a plea, ' as the hymn-tune says, why, I cal'late I'll say yes andgo. Set down and wait while I get on my ceremonials. "

He retired to the curtain alcove, and Pearson heard him rustling about, evidently making a hurried change of raiment. During this process hetalked continuously. 

"Jim, " he said, "I ain't been to the theater but once since I landed inNew York. Then I went to see a play named 'The Heart of a Sailor. ' Ha!ha! that was a great show! Ever take it in, did you?"

"No. I never did. "

"Well, you'd ought to. It's a wonder of it's kind. I learned morethings about life-savin' and 'longshore life from that drayma than you'dbelieve was possible. You'd have got some p'ints for your Cap'n Jim yarnfrom that play; you sartin would! Yes, indeed! Way I happened to go toit was on account of seein' a poster on a fence over nigh where thatMoriarty tribe lived. The poster pictured a bark ashore, on her beamends, in a sea like those off the Horn. On the beach was a whole parcelof life-savers firin' off rockets and blue lights. Keepin' the Fourth ofJuly, I judged they was, for I couldn't see any other reason. The barkwa'n't more'n a hundred foot from 'em, and if all hands on board didn'tknow they was in trouble by that time, then they deserved to drown. Anyhow, they wa'n't likely to appreciate the celebration. Ho! ho! Well, when I run afoul of that poster I felt I hadn't ought to let anythinglike that get away; so I hunted up the theater--it wa'n't but a littleways off--and got a front seat for that very afternoon. "

"Was it up to the advertising?" asked Pearson. 

"_Was_ it? Hi hum! I wish you'd been there. More 'special I wished someof the folks from home had been there, for the whole business wassupposed to happen on the Cape, and they'd have realized how ignorant weare about the place we live in. The hero was a strappin' six-footer, sort of a combination fisherman and parson, seemed so. He wore ileskinsin fair weather and went around preachin' or defyin' folks that provokedhim and makin' love to the daughter of a long-haired old relic thatcalled himself an inventor. .. . Oh, consarn it!"

"What's the matter?"

"Dropped my collar button, as usual. Collar buttons are one of the OldHarry's pet traps. I'll bet their responsible for 'most as many lapsesfrom grace as tangled fishlines. Where. .. . Ow!. .. All right; I found itwith my bare foot, and edge up, of course. "

A series of grunts and short-breathed exclamations followed, indicatingthat the sufferer was struggling with a tight collar. 

"Go on, " commanded Pearson. "Tell me some more about the play. "

"Hey? Oh, the play. Where was I?"

"You were saying that the heroine's father was an inventor. "

"That's what _he_ said he was, though he never furnished any proof. Hisdaughter helped him with his inventions, but if she'd cut his haironce in a while 'twould have been a better way of puttin' in the time, 'cordin' to my notion. And there was a rich squire, who made his moneyby speculatin' in wickedness, and a mortgage, and--I don't know whatall. And those Cape Cod folks! and the houses they lived in! and the waythey talked! Oh, dear! oh, dear! I got my money's wuth that afternoon. "

"What about the wreck? How did that happen?"

"Don't know. It happened 'cause it had to be in the play, I cal'late. The mortgage, or an 'invention' or somethin', was on board the bark andjust naturally took a short cut for home, way I figgered it out. But, Jim, you ought to have seen that hero! He peeled off hisileskin-slicker--he'd kept it on all through the sunshine, but now, when'twas rainin' and rainin' and wreckin' and thunderin', he shed it--andjumped in and saved all hands and the ship's cat. 'Twas great business!No wonder the life-savers set off fireworks! And thunder! Why, say, itnever stopped thunderin' in that storm except when somebody had to makea heroic speech; then it let up and give 'em a chance. Most consideratethunder ever I heard. And the lightnin'! and the way the dust flew fromthe breakers! I was glad I went. .. . There!" appearing fully dressed frombehind the curtains. "I'm ready if you are. Did I talk your head off? Iask your pardon; but that 'Heart of a Sailor' touched mine, I guess. Iknow I was afraid I'd laugh until it stopped beatin'. And all around thepeople were cryin'. It was enough sight damper amongst the seats than inthose cloth waves. "

The pair walked over to Broadway, boarded a street car, and alightedbefore the Metropolitan Opera House. Pearson's seats were good ones, well down in the orchestra. Captain Elisha turned and surveyed the greatinterior and the brilliantly garbed audience. 

"Whew!" he muttered. "This is considerable of a show in itself, Jim. They could put our town hall inside here and the folks on the roofwouldn't be so high as those in that main skys'l gallery up aloft there. Can they see or hear, do you think?"

"Oh, yes. The accepted idea is that they are the real music lovers. _they_ come for the opera itself. Some of the others come because--well, because it is the proper thing. "

"Yes, yes; I see. That's the real article right over our heads, Isuppose. "

"Yes. That's the 'Diamond Horseshoe. '"

"All proper things there, hey?"

"Why--er--yes, I suppose so. What makes you ask?"

"Nothing much. I was thinking 'twas better Abbie wa'n't along on thiscruise. She'd probably want to put an 'im' in front of that 'proper. 'I envy those women, Jim; _they_ didn't have to stop to hunt up collarbuttons, did they. "

He was silent during the first act of the opera. When the curtain fellhis companion asked how he liked it. 

"Good singin', " he replied; "best I ever heard. Do you understand whatthey say?"

"No. But I'm familiar with the story of A�da, of course. It's a favoriteof mine. And the words don't really matter. "

"I suppose not. It's the way they say it. I had an Irishman workin'round my barn once, and Tim Bailey drove down from Bayport to see me. Iwas out and Tim and the Irishman run afoul of each other. Tim stutteredso that he made a noise when he talked like one of these gasolinebicycles goin' by. He watched Mike sweepin' out the horse stall and hesays, 'You're a pup--pup . .. I say you're a pup--. ' He didn't get anyfurther 'cause Mike went for him with the broom. Turned out later thathe was tryin' to compliment that Irishman by sayin' he was a particularsort of feller. These folks on the stage might be sayin' most anythin', and I wouldn't know it. But I sha'n't knock 'em down, for I like theway it's said. When the Almighty give us music he more than made up formakin' us subject to toothache, didn't he. "

Pearson bought a copy of the libretto, and the captain followed theperformance of the next two acts with interest. 

"Say, Jim, " he whispered, with a broad grin, "it's a good thing thisopera idea ain't carried into real life. If you had to sing every wordyou said 'twould be sort of distressin', 'specially if you was in ahurry. A fust-rate solo when you was orderin' the crew to shorten sailwould be a high old brimstone anthem, I'll bet you. And think of thedinner table at our boardin' house! Mrs. Van and C. Dickens both goin'at once, and Marm Hepton serenadin' the waiter girl! Ho! ho! A cat fightwouldn't be a circumstance. "

Between the third and the fourth acts the pair went out into the foyer, where, ascending to the next floor, they made the round of the longcurve behind the boxes, Pearson pointing out to his friend the names ofthe box lessees on the brass plates. 

"There!" he observed, as, the half circle completed, they turned andstrolled back again, "isn't that an imposing list, Captain? Don't youfeel as if you were close to the real thing?"

"Godfreys mighty!" was the solemn reply; "I was just thinkin' I felt asif I'd been readin' one of those muck-rakin' yarns in the magazines!"

The foyer had its usual animated crowd, and among them Pearsonrecognized a critic of his acquaintance. He offered to introduce thecaptain, but the latter declined the honor, saying that he cal'latedhe wouldn't shove his bows in this time. "You heave ahead and see yourfriend, Jim, " he added. "I'll come to anchor by this pillar and watchthe fleet go by. I'll have to write Abbie about all this; she'll want toknow how the female craft was rigged. "

Left alone, he leaned against the pillar and watched the people pass andrepass just behind him. Two young men paused just behind him. He couldnot help overhearing their conversation. 

"I presume you've heard the news?" asked one, casually. 

"Yes, " replied the other, "I have. That is, if you mean the newsconcerning Mal Dunn. The mater learned it this afternoon and sprung itat dinner. No one was greatly surprised. Formal announcement made, andall that sort of thing, I believe. Mal's to be congratulated. "

"His mother is, you mean. She managed the campaign. The old lady is somestrategist, and I'd back her to win under ordinary circumstances. ButI understand these were not ordinary; wise owl of a guardian to becircumvented, or something of that sort. "

"From what I hear the Dunns haven't won so much after all. There wasa big shrinkage when papa died, so they say. Instead of three or fourmillions it panned out to be a good deal less than one. I don't knowmuch about it, because our family and theirs have drifted apart sincethey moved. "

"Humph! I imagine whatever the pan-out it will be welcome. The Dunns aredangerously close to the ragged edge; everybody has been on to that forsome time. And it takes a few ducats to keep Mal going. He's no UncleRussell when it comes to putting by for the rainy day. "

"Well, on the whole, I'm rather sorry for--the other party. Mal is agood enough fellow, and he certainly is a game sport; but--"

They moved on, and Captain Elisha heard no more. But what he had heardwas quite sufficient. He sat through the remainder of the opera insilence and answered all his friend's questions and remarks curtly andabsently. 

As they stepped into the trolley Pearson bought an evening paper, notthe _Planet_, but a dignified sheet which shunned sensationalismand devoted much space to the doings of the safe, sane, andultra-respectable element. Perceiving that his companion, for somereason, did not care to talk, he read as the car moved downtown. Suddenly Captain Elisha was awakened from his reverie by hearing hisfriend utter an exclamation. Looking up, the captain saw that he wasleaning back in the seat, the paper lying unheeded in his lap. 

"What's the matter?" asked the older man, anxiously. 

Pearson started, glanced quickly at his friend, hesitated, and lookeddown again. 

"Nothing--now, " he answered, brusquely. "We get out here. Come. "

He rose, picked up the paper with a hand that shook a little, and ledthe way to the door of the car. Captain Elisha followed, and theystrode up the deserted side street. Pearson walked so rapidly thathis companion was hard pushed to keep pace with him. When they stoodtogether in the dimly lit hall of the boarding house, the captain spokeagain. 

"Well, Jim, " he asked in a low tone, "what is it? You may as well tellme. Maybe I can guess, anyhow. "

The young man reached up and turned the gas full on. In spite of thecold from which they had just come, his face was white. He folded thepaper in his hand, and with his forefinger pointed to its uppermostpage. 

"There it is, " he said. "Read it. "

Captain Elisha took the paper, drew his spectacle case from his pocket, adjusted his glasses and read. The item was among those under the headof "Personal and Social. " It was what he expected. "The engagementis to-day announced of Miss Caroline Warren, daughter of the late A. Rodgers Warren, the well-known broker, to Mr. Malcolm Corcoran Dunn, ofFifth Avenue. Miss Warren, it will be remembered, was one of the mostcharming of our season-before-last's d�butantes and--" etc. 

The captain read the brief item through. 

"Yes, " he said, slowly, "I see. "

Pearson looked at him in amazement. 

"You _see_!" he repeated. "You--Why! _Did you know it_?"

"I've been afraid of it for some time. To-night, when you left me alonethere in the quarter-deck of that opera house, I happened to hear twoyoung chaps talkin' about it. So you might say I knew--Yes. "

"Good heavens! and you can stand there and--What are you going to doabout it?"

"I don't know--yet. "

"Are you going to permit her to marry that--_that_ fellow?"

"Well, I ain't sartin that I can stop her. "

"My God, man! Do you realize--and _she_--your niece--why--"

"There! there! Jim. I realize it all, I cal'late. It's my business torealize it. "

"And it isn't mine. No, of course it isn't; you're right there. "

He turned and strode toward the foot of the stairs. 

"Hold on!" commanded the captain. "Hold on, Jim! Don't you go off ha'fcocked. When I said 'twas my business to realize this thing, I meantjust that and nothin' more. I wa'n't hintin', and you ought to know it. You do know it, don't you?"

The young man paused. "Yes, " he answered, after an instant's strugglewith his feelings; "yes, I do. I beg your pardon, Captain. "

"All right. And here's somethin' else; I just told you I wasn't sartin Icould stop the marriage. That's the truth. But I don't recollect sayin'I'd actually hauled down the colors, not yet. Good night. "

"Good night, Captain. I shouldn't have misunderstood you, of course. But, as you know, I respected and admired your niece. And this thinghas--has--"

"Sort of knocked you on your beam ends, I understand. Well, Jim, " with asigh, "I ain't exactly on an even keel myself. "

They separated, Pearson going to his room. As Captain Elisha was passingthrough the hall on the second floor, he heard someone calling him byname. Turning, he saw his landlady's head, bristling with curl papers, protruding from behind the door at the other end of the passage. 

"Captain Warren, " she asked, "is that you?"

"Yes, ma'am, " replied the captain, turning back. 

"Well, I've got a message for you. A Mr. Sylvester has 'phoned youtwice this evening. He wishes to see you at his office at the earliestpossible moment. He says it is _very_ important. "

CHAPTER XVII

Nine o'clock is an early hour for a New York lawyer of prominence to beat his place of business. Yet, when Captain Elisha asked the office boyof Sylvester, Kuhn and Graves if the senior partner was in, he receivedan affirmative answer. 

"Yes, sir, " said Tim, respectfully. His manner toward the captain hadchanged surprisingly since the latter's first call. "Yes, sir; Mr. Sylvester's in. He expects you. I'll tell him you're here. Sit down andwait, please. "

Captain Elisha sat down, but he did not have to wait long. The boyreturned at once and ushered him into the private office. Sylvesterwelcomed him gravely. 

"You got my message, then, " he said. "I spent hours last evening chasingyou by 'phone. And I was prepared to begin again this morning. "

"So? That's why you're on deck so early? Didn't sleep here, did you?Well, I cal'late I know what you want to talk about. You ain't the onlyone that reads the newspapers. "

"The newspapers? Great heavens! it isn't in the newspapers, is it? Itcan't be!"

He seemed much perturbed. Captain Elisha looked puzzled. 

"Course it is, " he said. "But I heard it afore I saw it. Perhaps youthink I take it pretty easy. Maybe I act as if I did. But you expectedit, and so did I, so we ain't exactly surprised. And, " seriously, "Irealize that it's no joke as well as you do. But we've got a year tofight in, and now we must plan the campaign. I did cal'late to seeCaroline this mornin'. Then, if I heard from her own lips that 'twasactually so, I didn't know's I wouldn't drop in and give SisterCorcoran-Queen-Victoria-Dunn a few plain facts about it not bein' ahealthy investment to hurry matters. You're wantin' to see me headed meoff, and I come here instead. "

The lawyer looked at him in astonishment. 

"See here, Captain Warren, " he demanded, "what do you imagine I askedyou to come here for?"

"Why, to talk about that miserable engagement, sartin. Poor girl! I'vebeen awake ha'f the night thinkin' of the mess she's been led into. Andshe believes she's happy, I suppose. "

Sylvester shook his head. "I see, " he said, slowly. "You would think itthat, naturally. No, Captain, it isn't the engagement. It's more seriousthan that. "

"More serious than--_more_ serious! Why, what on earth? Hey? Mr. Sylvester, has that rock-lighthouse business come to somethin' afterall?"

The lawyer nodded. "It has, " he replied. 

"I want to know! And I'd almost forgot it, not hearin' from you. It'sa rock, too, I judge, by the looks of your face. Humph!. .. Is it verybad?"

"I'm afraid so. "

The captain pulled his beard. "Well, " he said, wearily, after a moment, "I guess likely I can bear it. I've had to bear some things in my time. Anyhow, I'll try. Heave ahead and get it over with. I'm ready. "

Instead of answering, Sylvester pushed an electric button on his desk. The office boy answered the ring. 

"Have Mr. Kuhn and Mr. Graves arrived?" asked the lawyer. 

"Yes, sir. Both of them, sir. "

"Tell them Captain Warren is here, and ask them to join us in the innerroom. Remind Mr. Graves to bring the papers. And, Tim, remember thatnone of us is to be disturbed. Do you understand?"

"Yes, sir, " said Tim and departed. 

Captain Elisha regarded his friend with some dismay. 

"Say!" he exclaimed, "this _must_ be serious, if it takes the skipperand both mates to handle it. "

Sylvester did not smile. "It is, " he answered. "Come. "

He led the way into the room opening from the rear of his own. It wasa large apartment with a long table in the center. Mr. Kuhn, brisk andbusiness-like, was already there. He shook hands with his client. As hedid so, Graves, dignified and precise as ever, entered, carrying a smallportfolio filled with papers. 

"Mornin', Mr. Graves, " said the captain; "glad to see you, even undersuch distressin' circumstances, as the undertaker said to the sick man. Feelin' all right again, I hope. No more colds or nothin' like that?"

"No. Thank you. I am quite well, at present. "

"That's hearty. If you and me don't do any more buggy ridin' in CapeCod typhoons, we'll last a spell yet, hey? What you got there, the deathwarrant?" referring to the portfolio and its contents. 

Mr. Graves evidently did not consider this flippancy worth a reply, forhe made none. 

"Sit down, gentlemen, " said Sylvester. 

The four took chairs at the table. Graves untied and opened theportfolio. Captain Elisha looked at his solemn companions, and his lipstwitched. 

"You'll excuse me, " he observed, "but I feel as if I was goin' tobe tried for piracy on the high seas. Has the court any objection totobacco smoke? I'm puttin' the emphasis strong on the 'tobacco, '" headded, "because this is a cigar you give me yourself, Mr. Sylvester, last time I was down here. "

"No, indeed, " replied the senior partner. "Smoke, if you wish. No onehere has any objection, unless it may be Graves. "

"Oh, Mr. Graves ain't. He and I fired up together that night we fustmet. Hot smoke tasted grateful after all the cold water we'd had pouredonto us in that storm. Graves is all right. He's a sportin' character, like myself. Maybe he'll jine us. Got another cigar in my pocket. "

But the invitation was declined. The "sporting character" might deignto relax amid proper and fitting surroundings, but not in the sacredprecincts of his office. So the captain smoked alone. 

"Well, " he observed, after a few preliminary puffs, "go on! Don't keepme in suspenders, as the feller said. Where did the lightnin' strike, and what's the damage?"

Sylvester took a card from his pocket and referred to a penciledmemorandum on its back. 

"Captain Warren, " he began, slowly, "as you know, and as directed byyou, my partners here and I have been engaged for months in carefullygoing over your brother's effects, estimating values, tabulating andsorting his various properties and securities, separating the good fromthe worthless--and there was, as we saw at a glance, a surprising amountof the latter--"

"Um-hm, " interrupted the captain, "Cut Short bonds and the like of that. I know. Excuse me. Go on. "

"Yes. Precisely. And there were many just as valueless. But we have beengradually getting those out of the way and listing and appraising theremainder. It was a tangle. Your brother's business methods, especiallyof late years, were decidedly unsystematic and slipshod. It may havebeen the condition of his health which prevented his attending to themas he should. Or, " he hesitated slightly, "it may have been that he wassecretly in great trouble and mental distress. At all events, the taskhas been a hard one for us. But, largely owing to Graves and his patientwork, our report was practically ready a month ago. "

He paused. Captain Elisha, who had been listening attentively, nodded. 

"Yes, " he said; "you told me 'twas. What does the whole thing tot up to?What's the final figger, Mr. Graves?"

The junior partner adjusted his eyeglasses to his thin nose. 

"I have them here, " he said. "The list of securities, et cetera, israther long, but--"

"Never mind them now, Graves, " interrupted Kuhn. "The amount, roughlyspeaking, is close to over our original estimate, half a million. "

The captain drew a breath of relief. "Well, " he exclaimed, "that's allright then, ain't it? That's no poorhouse pension. "

Sylvester answered. "Yes, " he said, "that's all right, as far as itgoes. "

"Humph! Well, I cal'late _I_ could make it go to the end of the route;and then have enough left for a return ticket. Say!" with another lookat the solemn faces of the three, "what _is_ the row? If the estate iswuth ha'f a million, what's the matter with it?"

"That is what we are here this morning to discuss, Captain. A month ago, as I said, we considered our report practically ready. Then we suddenlyhappened on the trail of something which, upon investigation, upset allour calculations. If true, it threatened, not to mention its effect uponthe estate, to prove so distressing and painful to us, Rodgers Warren'sfriends and legal advisers, that we decided not to alarm you, hisbrother, by disclosing our suspicions until we were sure there was nomistake. I did drop you a hint, you will remember--"

"I remember. _Now_ we're comin' to the rock!"

"Yes. Captain Warren, I think perhaps I ought to warn you that what mypartners and I are about to say will shock and hurt you. I, personally, knew your brother well and respected him as an honorable business man. Alawyer learns not to put too much trust in human nature, but, I confess, this--this--"

He was evidently greatly disturbed. Captain Elisha, regarding himintently, nodded. 

"I judge it's sort of hard for you to go on, Mr. Sylvester, " he said. "I'll help you all I can. You and Mr. Kuhn and Mr. Graves here havefound out somethin' that ain't exactly straight in 'Bije's doin's? Am Iright?"

"Yes, Captain Warren, you are. "

"Somethin' that don't help his character, hey?"

"Yes. "

"Somethin's he's, done that's--well, to speak plain, that's crooked?"

"I'm afraid there's no doubt of it. "

"Humph!" The captain frowned. His cigar had gone out, and he idlytwisted the stump between his fingers. "Well, " he said, with a sigh, "our family, gen'rally speakin', has always held its head pretty high. Dad was poor, but he prided himself on bein' straight as a plumb line. And, as for mother, she. .. . " Then, looking up quickly, he asked, "Doesanybody outside know about this?"

"No one but ourselves--yet. "

"Yet? Is it goin' to be necessary for anybody else to know it?"

"We hope not. But there is a possibility. "

"I was thinkin' about the children. "

"Of course. So are we all. "

"Um-hm. Poor Caroline! she put her father on a sort of altar and boweddown afore him, as you might say. Any sort of disgrace to his namewould about kill her. As for me, " with another sigh, "I ain't so muchsurprised as you might think. I know that sounds tough to say aboutyour own brother, but I've been afraid all along. You see, 'Bije alwayssteered pretty close to the edge of the channel. He had ideas abouthonesty and fair dealin' in business that didn't jibe with mine. Wesplit on just that, as I told you, Mr. Graves, when you and I fust met. He got some South Denboro folks to invest money along with him; sort ofsavin's account, they figgered it; but I found out he was usin' it tospeculate with. So that's why we had our row. I took pains to see thatthe money was paid back, but he and I never spoke afterwards. Fur as myown money was concerned, I hadn't any kick, but. .. . However, I'm talkin'too much. Go on, Mr. Sylvester, I'm ready to hear whatever you've got tosay. "

"Thank you, Captain. You make it easier for me. It seems that yourbrother's first step toward wealth and success was taken about nineteenyears ago. Then, somehow or other, probably through a combinationof luck and shrewdness, he obtained a grant, a concession from theBrazilian Government, the long term lease of a good-sized tract of landon the upper Amazon. It was very valuable because of its rubber trees. "

"Hey?" Captain Elisha leaned forward. "Say that again!" he commandedsharply. 

Sylvester repeated his statement. "He got the concession by payingtwenty thousand dollars to the government of Brazil, " he continued. "Toraise the twenty thousand he formed a stock company of two hundred andfifty shares at one hundred dollars each. One hundred of these shareswere in his own name. Fifty were in the name of one 'Thomas A. Craven, 'a clerk at that time in his office. Craven was only a dummy, however. Doyou understand what I mean by a dummy?"

"I can guess. Sort of a wooden image that moved when 'Bije pulled thestrings. Like one of these straw directors that clutter up the insurancecompanies, 'cordin' to the papers. Yes, yes; I understand well enough. Go ahead! go ahead!"

"That's it. The fifty shares were in Craven's name, but they weretransferred in blank and in Mr. Warren's safe. Together with his ownhundred, they gave him control and a voting majority. That much we knowby the records. "

"I see. But this rubber con--contraption wa'n't really wuth anything, was it?"

"Worth anything! Captain Warren, I give you my word that it was worthmore than all the rest of the investments that your brother made duringhis lifetime. "

"_No!_" The exclamation was almost a shout. 

"Why, yes, decidedly more. Does that surprise you, Captain?"

Captain Elisha did not answer. He was regarding the lawyer with a dazedexpression. He breathed heavily. 

"What's the matter?" demanded the watchful Kuhn, his gaze fixed upon hisclient's face. "Do you know anything--"

The captain interrupted him. "Go on!" he commanded. "But tell me thisfust: What was the name of this rubber concern of 'Bije's?"

"The Akrae Rubber Company. "

"I see. .. . Yes, yes. .. . Akry, hey!. .. Well, what about it? Tell me therest. "

"For the first year or two this company did nothing. Then, in March, ofthe third year, the property was released by Mr. Warren to persons inPara, who were to develop and operate. The terms of his new lease werevery advantageous. Royalties were to be paid on a sliding scale, and, from the very first, they were large. The Akrae Company paid enormousdividends. "

"Did, hey? I want to know!"

"Yes. In fact, for twelve years the company's royalties averaged $50, 000yearly. "

"Whe-e-w!" Captain Elisha whistled. "Fifty thousand a year!" he repeatedslowly. "'Bije! 'Bije!"

"Yes. And three years ago the Akrae Company sold its lease, sold outcompletely to the Para people, for seven hundred and fifty thousanddollars. "

"Godfreys mighty! Well, " after a moment, "that's what I'd call amiddlin' fair profit on a twenty thousand dollar investment--not tomention the dividends. "

"Captain, " Sylvester leaned forward now; "Captain, " he repeated, "it isthat sale and the dividends which are troubling us. I told you that theAkrae Company was organized with two hundred and fifty shares of stock. Your brother held one hundred in his own name and fifty transferred tohim by his dummy, Craven. What I did not tell you was that there wereanother hundred shares, held by someone, someone who paid ten thousanddollars for them--we know that--and was, therefore, entitled totwo-fifths of every dollar earned by the company during its existence, and two-fifths of the amount received for the sale of the lease. So faras we can find out, this stockholder has never received one cent. "

The effect of this amazing announcement upon the uniniated member of thecouncil was not as great as the lawyers expected it to be. "You don'ttell me!" was his sole comment. 

Graves broke in impatiently: "I think, Captain Warren, " he declared, "that you probably do not realize what this means. Besides proving yourbrother dishonest, it means that this stockholder, whoever he may havebeen--"

"Hey? What's that? Don't you know who he was?"

"No, we do not. The name upon the stub of the transfer book has beenscratched out. "

Captain Elisha looked the speaker in the face, then slowly turned hislook upon the other two faces. 

"Scratched out?" he repeated. "Who scratched it out?"

Graves shrugged his shoulders. 

"Yes, yes, " said the captain. "You don't know, but we're all entitled toguess, hey?. .. Humph!"

"If this person is living, " began Sylvester, "it follows that--"

"Hold on a minute! I don't know much about corporations, ofcourse--that's more in your line than 'tis in mine--but I want toask one question. You say this what-d'ye-call-it--this Akraethingamajig--was sold out, hull, canvas and riggin', to a crowd inBrazil? It's gone out of business then? It's dead?"

"Yes. But--"

"Wait! Ain't it customary, when a sale like this is made, to turn overall the stock, certificates and all? Sometimes you get stock in the newcompany in exchange; I know that. But to complete the trade, wouldn'tthis extry hundred shares be turned in? Or some sharp questionin' doneif 'twa'n't?"

He addressed the query to Sylvester. The latter seemed more troubledthan before. 

"That, " he said with some hesitation, "is one of the delicate points inthis talk of ours, Captain Warren. A certificate for the missing hundredshares _was_ turned in. It was dated at the time of the original issue, made out in the name of one Edward Bradley, and transferred on the backby him to your brother. That is, it was presumably so transferred. "

"Presumably. Pre-sumably? You mean--?"

"I mean that this certificate is--well, let us say, rather queer. Tobegin with, no one knows who this Bradley is, or was. His name appearsnowhere except on that certificate, unless, of course, it did appear onthe stub where the scratching has been done; we doubt that, for reasons. Nobody ever heard of the man; and his transfer to your brother was made, and the certificate signed by him, only three years ago, when the AkraeCompany sold out. It will take too long to go into details; but thanksto the kindness of the Para concern, which has offices in this city--wehave been able to examine this Bradley certificate. Experts haveexamined it, also. And they tell us--"

He paused. 

"Well, what do they tell?" demanded the captain. 

"They tell us that--that, in their opinion, the certificate was neverissued at the time when, by this date, it presumes to have been. It wasmade out no longer ago than five years, probably less. The signature ofBradley on the back is--is--well, I hate to say it, Captain Warren, butthe handwriting on that signature resembles very closely that of yourbrother. "

Captain Elisha was silent for some moments. The others did not speak, but waited. Even Graves, between whom and his client there was little incommon, felt the general sympathy. 

At length the captain raised his head. 

"Well, " he said slowly, "we ain't children. We might as well call thingsby their right names. 'Bije forged that certificate. "

"I'm afraid there is no doubt of it. "

"Dear! dear! dear! Why, they put folks in state's prison for that!"

"Yes. But a dead man is beyond prisons. "

"That's so. Then I don't see--"

"You will. You don't grasp the full meaning of this affair even yet. Ifthe Bradley certificate is a forgery, a fraud from beginning to end, then the presumption is that there was never any such person as Bradley. But _someone_ paid ten thousand dollars for one hundred Akrae shareswhen the company was formed. _That_ certificate has never been turnedin. Some person or persons, somewhere, hold one hundred shares of AkraeRubber Company stock. Think, now! Suppose that someone turns up anddemands all that he has been cheated out of for the past seventeenyears! Think of that!"

"Well . .. I am thinkin' of it. I got the scent of what you was drivin'at five minutes ago. And I don't see that we need to be afraid. He couldhave put 'Bije in jail; but 'Bije is already servin' a longer sentencethan he could give him. So that disgrace ain't bearin' down on us. And, if I understand about such things, his claim is against the AkraeCompany, and that's dead--dead as the man that started it. Maybe hecould put in a keeper, or a receiver, or some such critter, but there'snothin' left to keep or receive. Ain't I right?"

"You are. Or you would be, but for one thing, the really inexplicablething in this whole miserable affair. Your brother, Captain Warren, wasdishonest. He took money that didn't belong to him, and he forged thatcertificate. But he must have intended to make restitution. He must havebeen conscience-stricken and more to be pitied, perhaps, than condemned. No doubt, when he first began to withhold the dividends and use themoney which was not his, he intended merely to borrow. He was alwaysoptimistic and always plunging in desperate and sometimes rather shadyspeculations which, he was sure, would turn out favorably. If theyhad--if, for instance, the South Shore Trolley Combine had been putthrough--You knew of that, did you?"

"I've been told somethin' about it. Go on!"

"Well, it was not put through, so his hopes there were frustrated. Andthat was but one of his schemes. However, when the sale of the Companywas consummated, he did an extraordinary thing. He made out and signedhis personal note, payable to the Akrae Company, for every cent he hadmisappropriated. And we found that note in his safe after his death. That was what first aroused our suspicions. _Now_, Captain Warren, doyou understand?"

Captain Elisha did not understand, that was evident. His look ofwondering amazement traveled from one face to the others about thetable. 

"A _note_!" he repeated. "'Bije put his _note_ in the safe? A notepromisin' to pay all he'd stole! And left it there where it could befound? Why, that's pretty nigh unbelievable, Mr. Sylvester! He mightjust as well have confessed his crookedness and be done with it. "

"Yes. It is unbelievable, but it is true. Graves can show you the note. "

The junior partner produced a slip of paper from the portfolio andregarded it frowningly. 

"Of all the pieces of sheer lunacy, " he observed, "that ever came undermy observation, this is the worst. Here it is, Captain Warren. "

He extended the paper. Captain Elisha waved it aside. 

"I don't want to see it--not yet, " he protested. "I want to think. Iwant to get at the reason if I can. Why did he do it?"

"That is what we've been tryin' to find--the reason, " remarked Kuhn, "and we can only guess. Sylvester has told you the guess. Rodgers Warrenintended, or hoped, to make restitution before he died. "

"Yes. Knowin' 'Bije, I can see that. He was weak, that was his maintrouble. He didn't mean to be crooked, but his knees wa'n't strongenough to keep him straight when it come to a hard push. But he made hisnote payable to a Company that was already sold out, so it ain't goodfor nothin'. Now, why--"

Graves struck the table with his open hand. 

"He doesn't understand at all, " he exclaimed, impatiently. "CaptainWarren, listen! That note is made payable to the Akrae Company. Against that company some unknown stockholder has an apparent claimfor two-fifths of all dividends ever paid and two-fifths of the sevenhundred and fifty thousand received for the sale. With accrued interest, that claim amounts to over five hundred thousand dollars. "

"Yes, but--"

"That note binds Rodgers Warren's estate to pay that claim. His ownpersonal estate! And that estate is not worth over four hundred andsixty thousand dollars! If this stockholder should appear and press hisclaim, _your brother's children would be, not only penniless, but thirtythousand dollars in debt_! There! I think that is plain enough!"

He leaned back, grimly satisfied with the effect of his statement. Captain Elisha stared straight before him, unseeingly, the color fadingfrom his cheeks. Then he put both elbows on the table and covered hisface with his hands. 

"You see, Captain, " said Sylvester, gently, "how very serious thesituation is. Graves has put it bluntly, but what he says is literallytrue. If your brother had deliberately planned to hand his children overto the mercy of that missing stockholder, he couldn't have done it morecompletely. "

Slowly the captain raised his head. His expression was a strange one;agitated and shocked, but with a curious look of relief, almost oftriumph. 

"At last!" he said, solemnly. "At last! Now it's _all_ plain!"

"All?" repeated Sylvester. "You mean--?"

"I mean everything, all that's been puzzlin' me and troublin' my headsince the very beginnin'. All of it! _Now_ I know why! Oh, 'Bije! 'Bije!'Bije!"

Kuhn spoke quickly. 

"Captain, " he said, "I believe you know who the owner of that onehundred shares is. Do you?"

Captain Elisha gravely nodded. 

"Yes, " he answered. "I know him. "

"What?"

"You do?"

"Who is it?"

The questions were blurted out together. The captain looked at the threeexcited faces. He hesitated and then, taking the stub of a pencil fromhis pocket, drew toward him a memorandum pad lying on the table andwrote a line upon the uppermost sheet. Tearing off the page, he tossedit to Sylvester. 

"That's the name, " he said. 

CHAPTER XVIII

Two more hours passed before the lawyers and their client rose fromtheir seats about the long table. Even then the consultation was not atan end. Sylvester and the Captain lunched together at the Central Cluband sat in the smoking room until after four, talking earnestly. Whenthey parted, the attorney was grave and troubled. 

"All right, Captain Warren, " he said; "I'll do it. And you may be right. I certainly hope you are. But I must confess I don't look forward to mytask with pleasure. I think I've got the roughest end. "

"It'll be rough, there's no doubt about that. Rough for all hands, Iguess. And I hope you understand, Mr. Sylvester, that there ain't manymen I'd trust to do what I ask you to. I appreciate your doin' it more'nI can tell you. Be as--as gentle as you can, won't you?"

"I will. You can depend upon that. "

"I do. And I sha'n't forget it. Good-by, till the next time. "

They shook hands. Captain Elisha returned to the boarding house, wherehe found a letter awaiting him. It was from Caroline, telling him of herengagement to Malcolm Dunn. She wrote that, while not recognizing hisright to interfere in any way, she felt that perhaps he should knowof her action. He did not go down to supper, and, when Pearson came toinquire the reason, excused himself, pleading a late luncheon and noappetite. He guessed he would turn in early, so he said. It was a poorguess. 

Next morning he went uptown. Edwards, opening the door of the Warrenapartment, was surprised to find who had rung the bell. 

"Mornin', Commodore!" hailed the captain, as casually as if he weremerely returning from a stroll. "Is Miss Caroline aboard ship?"

"Why--why, I don't know, sir. I'll see. "

"That's all right. She's aboard or you wouldn't have to see. You and mesailed together quite a spell, so I know your little habits. I'll waitin the library, Commodore. Tell her there's no particular hurry. "

His niece was expecting him. She had anticipated his visit and wasprepared for it. From the emotion caused by his departure after theeventful birthday, she had entirely recovered, or thought she had. Thesurprise and shock of his leaving and the consequent sense of lonelinessand responsibility overcame her at the time, but Stephen's ridicule andMrs. Corcoran Dunn's congratulations on riddance from the "encumbrance"shamed her and stilled the reproaches of her conscience. Mrs. Dunn, as always, played the diplomat and mingled just the proper quantity ofcomprehending sympathy with the congratulations. 

"I understand exactly how you feel, my dear, " she said. "You have atender heart, and it pains you to hurt anyone's feelings, no matter howmuch they deserve to be hurt. Every time I dismiss an incompetentor dishonest servant I feel that I have done wrong; sometimes I cry, actually shed tears, you know, and yet my reason tells me I am right. You feel that you may have been too harsh with that guardian of yours. You remember what you said to him and forget how hypocritically hebehaved toward you. I can't forgive him that. I may forget how hemisrepresented Malcolm and me to you--that I may even pardon, intime--but to deceive his own brother's children and introduce into theirsociety a creature who had slandered and maligned their father--_that_I never shall forget or forgive. And--you'll excuse my frankness, dear--you should never forget or forgive it, either. You have nothingwith which to reproach yourself. You were a brave girl, and if you arenot proud of yourself, _I_ am proud of you. "

So, when her uncle was announced, Caroline was ready. She entered thelibrary and acknowledged his greeting with a distant bow. He regardedher kindly, but his manner was grave. 

"Well, Caroline, " he began, "I got your letter. "

"Yes, I presumed you did. "

"Um-hm. I got it. It didn't surprise me, what you wrote, because I'dseen the news in the papers; but I was hopin' you'd tell me yourself, and I'm real glad you did. I'm much obliged to you. "

She had not expected him to take this tone, and it embarrassed her. 

"I--I gave you my reasons for writing, " she said. "Although I do notconsider that I am, in any sense, duty bound to refer matters, otherthan financial, to you; and, although my feelings toward you have notchanged--still, you are my guardian, and--and--"

"I understand. So you're really engaged?"

"Yes. "

"Engaged to Mr. Dunn?"

"Yes. "

"And you're cal'latin' to marry him?"

"One might almost take that for granted, " impatiently. 

"Almost--yes. Not always, but generally, I will give in. You're goin' tomarry Malcolm Dunn. Why?"

"Why?" she repeated the question as if she doubted his sanity. 

"Yes. Be as patient with me as you can, Caroline. I ain't askin' thesethings without what seems to me a good reason. Why are you goin' tomarry him?"

"Why because I choose, I suppose. "

"Um-hm. Are you sure of that?"

"Am I sure?" indignantly. "What do you mean?"

"I mean are you sure that it's because you choose, or because _he_ does, or maybe, because his mother does?"

She turned angrily away. "If you came here to insult me--" she began. Heinterrupted her. 

"No, no, " he protested gently. "Insultin' you is the last thing I wantto do. But, as your father did put you in my charge, I want you to bearwith me while we talk this over together. Remember, Caroline, I ain'tbothered you a great deal lately. I shouldn't now if I hadn't thought'twas necessary. So please don't get mad, but answer me this: Do youcare for this man you've promised to marry?"

This was a plain question. It should have been answered without theslightest hesitation. Moreover, the girl had expected him to ask it. Yet, for a moment, she did hesitate. 

"I mean, " continued Captain Elisha, "do you care for him _enough_?Enough to live with him all your life, and see him every day, and be tohim what a true wife ought to be? See him, not with his company mannerson or in his automobile, but at the breakfast table, and when he comeshome tired and cross, maybe. When you've got to be forbearin' andforgivin' and--"

"He is one of my oldest and best friends--" she interrupted. Her unclewent on without waiting for her to end the sentence. 

"I know, " he said. "One of the oldest, that's sure. But friendship, 'cordin' to my notion, is somethin' so small in comparison that ithardly counts in the manifest. Married folks ought to be friends, sartinsure; but they ought to be a whole lot more'n that. I'm an old bach, yousay, and ain't had no experience. That's true; but I've been young, andthere was a time when _I_ made plans. .. . However, she died, and it nevercome to nothin'. But I _know_ what it means to be engaged, the rightkind of engagement. It means that you don't count yourself at all, not abit. You're ready, each of you, to give up all you've got--your wishes, comfort, money and what it'll buy, and your life, if it should come tothat, for that other one. Do you care for Malcolm Dunn like that, Caroline?"

She answered defiantly. 

"Yes, I do, " she said. 

"You do. Well, do you think he feels the same way about you?"

"Yes, " with not quite the same promptness, but still defiantly. 

"You feel sartin of it, do you?"

She stamped her foot. "Yes! yes! _Yes_!" she cried. "Oh, _do_ say whatyou came to say, and end it!"

Her uncle rose to his feet. 

"Why, I guess likely I've said it, " he observed. "When two people carefor each other like that, they _ought_ to be married, and the sooner thebetter. I knew that you'd been lonesome and troubled, maybe; and someof the friends you used to have had kind of dropped away--busy withother affairs, which is natural enough--and, you needin' sympathy andcompanionship, I was sort of worried for fear all this had influencedyou more'n it ought to, and you'd been led into sayin' yes withoutrealizin' what it meant. But you tell me that ain't so; you do realize. So all I can say is that I'm awful glad for you. God bless you, my dear!I hope you'll be as happy as the day is long. "

His niece gazed at him, bewildered and incredulous. This she had _not_expected. 

"Thank you, " she stammered. "I did not know--I thought--"

"Of course you did--of course. Well, then, Caroline, I guess that's all. I won't trouble you any longer. Good-by. "

He turned toward the door, but stopped, hesitated, and turned backagain. 

"There is just one thing more, " he said solemnly. "I don't know's Iought to speak, but--I want to--and I'm goin' to. And I want you tobelieve it! I do want you to!"

He was so earnest, and the look he gave her was so strange, that shebegan to be alarmed. 

"What is it?" she demanded. 

"Why--why, just this, Caroline. This is a tough old world we live in. Things don't always go on in it as we think they'd ought to. Troublecomes to everybody, and when it all looks right sometimes it turns outto be all wrong. If--if there should come a time like that to you andSteve, I want you to remember that you've got me to turn to. No matterwhat you think of me, what folks have made you think of me, justremember that I'm waitin' and ready to help you all I can. Any time I'mready--and glad. Just remember that, won't you, because. .. . Well, there!Good-by, Good-by!"

He hurried away. She stood gazing after him, astonished, a littlefrightened, and not a little disturbed and touched. His emotion was soevident; his attitude toward her engagement was so different from thatwhich she had anticipated; and there was something in his manner whichshe could not understand. He had acted as if he pitied her. Why? Itcould not be because she was to marry Malcolm Dunn. If it were that, sheresented his pity, of course. But it could not be that, because he hadgiven her his blessing. What was it? Was there something else; somethingthat she did not know and he did? Why was he so kind and forbearing andpatient?

All her old doubts and questionings returned. She had resolutely keptthem from her thoughts, but they had been there, in the background, always. When, after the long siege, she had at last yielded and saidyes to Malcolm, she felt that that question, at least, was settled. Shewould marry him. He was one whom she had known all her life, the son ofthe dearest friend she had; he and his mother had been faithful at thetime when she needed friends. As her husband, he would protect her andgive her the affection and companionship she craved. He might appearcareless and indifferent at times, but that was merely his manner. Hadnot Mrs. Dunn told her over and over again what a good son he was, andwhat a kind heart he had, and how he worshiped her? Oh, she ought to bea very happy girl! Of course she was happy. But why had her uncle lookedat her as he did? And what did he mean by hinting that when thingslooked right they sometimes were all wrong? She wished Malcolm was withher then; she needed him. 

She heard the clang of the elevator door. Then the bell rang furiously. She heard Edwards hasten to answer it. Then, to her amazement, she heardher brother's voice. 

"Caroline!" demanded Stephen. "Caroline! Where are you?"

He burst into the room, still wearing his coat and hat, and carrying atraveling bag in his hand. 

"Why, Steve!" she said, going toward him. "Why, Steve! what--"

He was very much excited. 

"Oh!" he exclaimed, "you're all right then! You are all right, aren'tyou?"

"All right? Why shouldn't I be all right? What do you mean? And why areyou here?"

He returned her look of surprise with one of great astonishment. 

"Why am I here?" he repeated. 

"Yes. Why did you come from New Haven?"

"Why, because I got the telegram, of course! You expected me to come, didn't you?"

"_I_ expected you? Telegram? What telegram?"

"Why, the--Good Lord, Caro! what are you talking about? Didn't you knowthey telegraphed me to come home at once? I've pretty nearly broke myneck, and the taxicab man's, getting here from the station. I thoughtyou must be very ill, or something worse. "

"They telegraphed you to come here? Who. .. . Edwards, you may take Mr. Warren's things to his room. "

"But, Sis--"

"Just a moment, Steve. Give Edwards your coat and hat. Yes, and yourbag. That will be all, Edwards. We sha'n't need you. "

When they were alone, she turned again to her brother. 

"Now, Steve, " she said, "sit down and tell me what you mean. Whotelegraphed you?"

"Why, old Sylvester, father's lawyer. I've got the message heresomewhere. No, never mind! I've lost it, I guess. He wired me to comehome as early as possible this morning. Said it was very important. Andyou didn't know anything about it?"

"No, not a thing. What can it mean?"

"_I_ don't know! That's the bell, isn't it? Edwards!"

But the butler was already on his way to the door. A moment later hereturned. 

"Mr. Sylvester, " he announced. 

 * * * * *

Captain Elisha scarcely left his room, except for meals, during theremainder of that day and for two days thereafter. He was unusuallysilent at table and avoided conversation even with Pearson, who wasdepressed and gloomy and made no attempt to force his society uponhis friend. Once, passing the door of the latter's room, he heard thecaptain pacing back and forth as if he were walking the quarter-deck ofone of his old ships. As Pearson stood listening the footsteps ceased;silence, then a deep sigh, and they began again. The young man sighedin sympathy and wearily climbed to his den. The prospect of chimneysand roofs across the way was never more desolate or more pregnant withdiscouragement. 

Several times Captain Elisha descended to the closet where the telephonewas fastened to the wall and held long conversations with someone. Mrs. Hepton, who knew that her newest boarder was anxious and disturbed, andwas very curious to learn the reason, made it a point to be busy nearthat closet while these conversations took place; but, as the captainwas always careful to close the door, she was disappointed. Once themysterious Mr. Sylvester called up and asked for "Captain Warren, " andthe landlady hastened with the summons. 

"I hope it's nothing serious, " she observed, feelingly. 

"Yes, ma'am, " replied the captain, on his way to the stairs. "Muchobliged. "

"It is the same person who was so very anxious to get you the othernight, " she continued, making desperate efforts not to be left behind inthe descent. "I declare he quite frightened me! And--you'll excuseme, Captain Warren, but I take such a real friendly interest in myboarders--you have seemed to me rather--rather upset lately, and I _do_hope it isn't bad news. "

"Well, I tell you, ma'am, " was the unsatisfactory answer, given justbefore the closet door closed; "we'll do the way the poor relationdid when he got word his uncle had willed him one of his suits ofclothes--we'll hope for the best. "

Sylvester had a report to make. 

"The other party has been here, " he said. "He has just gone. "

"The other party? Why--you don't mean--_him_?"

"Yes. "

"Was he alone? Nobody along to look after him?"

"He was alone, for a wonder. He had heard the news, too. Apparently hadjust learned it. "

"He had? I want to know! Who told him?"

"He didn't say. He was very much agitated. Wouldn't say anything exceptto ask if it was true. I think we can guess who told him. "

"Maybe. Well, what did you say?"

"Nothing of importance. I refused to discuss my clients' affairs. "

"Right you are! How did he take that?"

"He went up like a sky-rocket. Said he had a right to know, under thecircumstances. I admitted it, but said I could tell him nothing--yet. Hewent away frantic, and I called you. "

"Um-hm. Well, Mr. Sylvester, suppose you do see him and his boss. See'em and tell 'em some of the truth. Don't tell too much though; not whowas to blame nor how, but just that it looks pretty bad so fur as theestate's concerned. Then say you want to see 'em again and will arrangeanother interview. Don't set any time and place for that until you hearfrom me. Understand?"

"I think so, partially. But--"

"Until you hear from me--that's the important part. And, if you can, convenient, I'd have the fust interview right off; this afternoon, ifit's possible. "

"Captain, what have you got up your sleeve? Why don't you come down hereand talk it over?"

"'Cause I'm stickin' close aboard and waitin' developments. Maybe therewon't be any, but I'm goin' to wait a spell and see. There ain't much upmy sleeve just now but goose-flesh; there's plenty of that. So long. "

A development came that evening. Mrs. Hepton heralded it. 

"Captain, " she said, when he answered her knock, "there's a younggentleman to see you. I think he must be a relative of yours. His nameis Warren. "

Captain Elisha pulled his beard. "A young _gentleman_?" he repeated. 

"Yes. I showed him into the parlor. There will be no one there but youand he, and I thought it would be more comfortable. "

"Um-hm. I see. Well, I guess you'd better send him up. This iscomfortable enough, and there won't be nobody but him and me here, either--and I'll be more sartin of it. "

The landlady, who considered herself snubbed, flounced away. CaptainElisha stepped to the head of the stairs. 

"Come right up, Steve!" he called. 

Stephen came. His uncle ushered him into the room, closed the door, andturned the key. 

"Stevie, " he said, kindly, "I'm glad to see you. Take off your thingsand set down. "

The boy accepted the invitation only to the extent of throwing his haton the table. He did not sit or remove his overcoat. He was pale, hiseyes were swollen and red, his hair was disarranged, and in all respectshe looked unlike his usual blas� and immaculate self. His forehead waswet, showing that he had hurried on his way to the boarding house. 

The captain regarded him pityingly. 

"Set down, Stevie, " he urged. "You're all het up and worn out. "

His nephew paid no attention. Instead he asked a question. 

"You know about it?" he demanded. 

"Yes, Stevie; I know. "

"You do? I--I mean about the--the Akrae Company and--and all?"

"Yes. I know all about all of it. Do set down!"

Stephen struck his closed fist into the palm of his other hand. He woreone glove. What had become of the other he could not have told. 

"You do?" he shouted. "You do? By gad! Then do you know what it means?"

"Yes, I know that, too. Now, Stevie, be a good boy and set down and keepcool. Yes, I want you to. "

He put his hands on his nephew's shoulders and forced him into a chair. 

"Now, just calm yourself, " urged the captain. "There ain't a mite ofuse workin' yourself up this way. I know the whole business, and I can'ttell you--I can't begin to tell you how sorry I feel for you. Yet youmustn't give up the ship because--"

"Mustn't give up!" Stephen was on his feet again. "Why, what are youtalking about? I thought you said you knew! Do you think that losingevery cent you've got in the world is a _joke_? Do you think that--Seehere, do you know who this shareholder is; this fellow who's going torob us of all we own? Who is he?"

"Didn't Mr. Sylvester tell you?"

"He said that there was such a man and that he had the estate cinched. He told us about that note and all the rest. But he wouldn't tell theman's name. Said he had been forbidden to mention it. Do you know him?What sort of fellow is he? Don't you think he could be reasoned with?Hasn't he got any decency--or pity--or--"

He choked, and the tears rushed to his eyes. He wiped them angrily awaywith the back of his glove. 

"It's a crime!" he cried. "Can't he be held off somehow? Who _is_ he? Iwant to know his name. "

Captain Elisha sadly shook his head. "I'm afraid he can't, Stevie, " hesaid. "He's got a legal right to all 'Bije left, and more, too. Itmay be he won't be too hard; perhaps he'll . .. But there, " hastily. "Imustn't say that. We've got to face the situation as 'tis. And Ican't tell you his name because he don't want it mentioned unless it'sabsolutely necessary. And we don't, either. We don't want--any of us--tohave this get into the papers. We mustn't have any disgrace. "

"Disgrace! Good heavens! Isn't there disgrace enough already? Isn'tit enough to know father was a crook as well as an idiot? I've alwaysthought he was insane ever since that crazy will of his came to light;but to steal! and then to leave a paper proving it, so that we've got tolose everything! His children! It's--"

"Now hold on, boy! Your dad didn't mean to take what didn't belong tohim--for good, that is; the note proves that. He did do wrong and usedanother man's money, but--"

"Then why didn't he keep it? If you're going to steal, steal like a man, I say!"

"Steve, Steve! steady now!" The captain's tone was sterner. "Don't speakthat way. You'll be sorry for it later. I tell you I don't condemn yourfather ha'f so much as I pity him. "

"Oh, shut up! You make me sick. You talk just as Caro does. I'll neverforgive him, no matter how much she preaches, and I told her so. Pity!Pity him! How about pity for _me_? I--I--"

His over-wrought nerves gave way, and, throwing himself into the chair, he broke down completely and, forgetting the manhood of which he was sofond of boasting, cried like a baby. Captain Elisha turned away, to hidehis own emotion. 

"It's hard, " he said slowly. "It's awfully hard for you, my boy. I hateto see you suffer this way. " Then, in a lower tone, he added doubtfully. "I wonder if--if--I wonder--"

His nephew heard the word and interrupted. 

"You wonder?" he demanded, hysterically; "you wonder what? What are yougoing to do about it? It's up to you, isn't it? You're our guardian, aren't you?"

"Yes, Stevie, I'm your guardian. "

"Yes, you are! But no one would guess it. When we didn't want you, youwouldn't leave us for a minute. Now, when we need you, when there isn'ta soul for us to turn to, you stay away. You haven't been near us. It'sup to you, I say! and what are you going to do about it? What are yougoing to _do_?"

His uncle held up his hand. 

"S-shh!" he said. "Don't raise your voice like that, son! I can hear youwithout that, and we don't want anybody else to hear. What am I goin' todo? Stevie, I don't know exactly. I ain't made up my mind yet. "

"Well, it's time you did!"

"Yes, I guess likely 'tis. As for my not comin' to see you, you know thereason for that. I'd have come quick enough, but I wa'n't sure I'dbe welcome. And I told your sister only 'tother day that--by the way, Steve, how is she? How is Caroline?"

"She's a fool!" The boy sprang up again and shook his fist. "She's theone I've come here to speak about. If we don't stop her she'll ruin usaltogether. She--she's a damned fool, I tell you!"

"There! there!" the captain's tone was sharp and emphatic. "That'senough of that, " he said. "I don't want to hear you call your sisternames. What do you mean by it?"

"I mean what I say. She _is_ a fool. Do you know what she's done? She'swritten Mal Dunn all about it! I'd have stopped her, but I didn't knowuntil it was too late. She's told him the whole thing. "

"She has? About 'Bije?"

"Well, perhaps she didn't tell him father was a thief, but she did tellthat the estate was gone--that we were flat broke and worse. "

"Hum!" Captain Elisha seemed more gratified than displeased. "Hum!. .. Well, I kind of expected she would. Knowin' her, I kind of expected it. "

"You did?" Stephen glared in wrathful amazement. "You expected it?"

"Yes. What of it?"

"What _of_ it? Why, everything! Can't you see? Mal's our only chance. Ifshe marries him she'll be looked out for and so will I. She needn't havetold him until they were married. The wedding could have been hurriedalong; the Dunns were crazy to have it as soon as possible. Now--"

"Hold on, Steve! Belay! What difference does her tellin' him make? Maybeshe hasn't mentioned it to you, but I had a talk with your sister theother mornin'. She thinks the world of Malcolm, and he does of her. Shetold me so herself. Of _course_ she'd go to him in her trouble. Andhe'll be proud--yes, and glad to know that he can help her. As for theweddin', I don't see that this'll have any effect except to hurry it upa little more, maybe. "

Steve looked at him suspiciously, but there was no trace of sarcasm inthe captain's face or voice. The boy scowled. 

"Ugh!" he grunted. 

"What's the 'ugh' for? See here, you ain't hintin' that young Dunn wascal'latin' to marry Caroline just for her money, are you? Of course youain't! Why, you and he are the thickest sort of chums. You wouldn't chumwith a feller who would play such a trick as that on your own sister. "

Stephen's scowl deepened. He thrust his hands into his pocket, andshifted his feet uneasily. 

"You don't understand, " he said. "People don't do things here as they dowhere you come from. "

"I understand that, all right, " with dry emphasis. "I've been here longenough to understand that. But maybe I don't understand _you_. Heaveahead, and make it plain. "

"Well--well, then--I mean this: I don't know that Mal was after Caro'smoney, but--but he had a right to expect _some_. If he didn't, why, thenher not telling him until after they were married wouldn't have madeany difference. And--and if her tellin' him beforehand _should_ make adifference and he wanted to break the engagement, she's just romanticfool enough to let him. "

"Well?"

"_Well?_ If she doesn't marry him, who's going to take care of her?What's going to become of _me_? We haven't a cent. What kind of aguardian are you? Do you want us to starve?"

He was shouting again. The captain was calm. "Oh, " he said, "I guessit won't reach to the starvation point. I'm a pretty tough old critter, 'cordin' to your estimate, but I shouldn't let my brother's childrenstarve. If the wust comes to the wust, there's always a home and plentyto eat for you both at South Denboro. "

This offer did not appear to comfort the young gentleman greatly. Hisdisgust was evident. 

"South Denboro!" he repeated, scornfully. "Gad!. .. South Denboro!"

"Yup. But we'll let South Denboro alone for now and stick to New York. What is it you expect me to do? What are you drivin' at?"

Stephen shook a forefinger in his guardian's face. 

"I expect you to make her stick to her engagement, " he cried. "And makeher make him stick. She can, can't she? It's been announced, hasn't it?Everybody knows of it! She's got the right--the legal right to hold him, hasn't she?"

His uncle regarded him with a quizzical smile. "Why, ye-es, " heanswered, "I cal'late she has, maybe. Course, there's no danger of hiswantin' to do such a thing, but if he should I presume likely we couldmake it uncomfortable for him, anyhow. What are you hankerin' for, Steve--a breach-of-promise suit? I've always understood those sort ofcases were kind of unpleasant--for everybody but the newspapers. "

The boy was in deadly earnest. "Pleasant!" he repeated. "Is any of thisbusiness pleasant? You make her act like a sensible girl! You're herguardian, and you make her! And, after that, if he tries to hedge, youtell him a few things. You can hold him! Do it! _Do_ it!"

Captain Elisha turned on his heel and began pacing up and down the room. His nephew watched him eagerly. 

"Well, " he demanded, after a moment, "what are we going to do? Are wegoing to make him make good?"

The captain paused. "Steve, " he answered, deliberately, "I ain't sure aswe are. And, as I've said, if he's got a spark of decency, it won't benecessary for us to try. If it should be--if it should be--"

"Well, _if_ it should be?"

"Then we can try, that's all. Maybe you run a course a little differentfrom me, Stevie; you navigate 'cordin' to your ideas, and I do by mine. But in some ways we ain't so fur apart. Son, " with a grim nod, "you resteasy on one thing--the Corcoran Dunn fleet is goin' to show its colors. "

CHAPTER XIX

Caroline sat by the library window, her chin in her hand, drearilywatching the sleet as it beat against the panes, and the tops of thePark trees lashing in the wind. Below, in the street, the trolleyspassed in their never-ending procession, the limousines and cabs whizzedforlornly by, and the few pedestrians pushed dripping umbrellas againstthe gale. A wet, depressing afternoon, as hopeless as her thoughts, andgrowing darker and more miserable hourly. 

Stephen, standing by the fire, kicked the logs together and sent ashower of sparks flying. 

"Oh, say something, Caro, do!" he snapped testily. "Don't sit thereglowering; you give me the horrors. "

She roused from her reverie, turned, and tried to smile. 

"What shall I say?" she asked. 

"I don't know. But say something, for heaven's sake! Talk about theweather, if you can't think of anything more original. "

"The weather isn't a very bright subject just now. "

"I didn't say it was; but it's _a_ subject. I hope to goodness itdoesn't prevent Sylvester's keeping his appointment. He's late, as itis. "

"Is he?" wearily. "I hadn't noticed. "

"Of course you hadn't. You don't notice anything. It doesn't helpmatters to pull a long face and go moping around wiping your eyes. You've got to use philosophy in times like this. It's just as hard forme as it is for you; and I try to make the best of it, don't I?"

She might have reminded him that his philosophy was a very recentacquisition. When the news of their poverty first came he was the onewho raved and sobbed and refused to contemplate anything less direfulthan slow starvation or quick suicide. She had soothed and comfortedthen. Since the previous evening, when he had gone out, in spite of herprotestations, and left her alone, his manner had changed. He was stillnervous and irritable, but no longer threatened self-destruction, andseemed, for some unexplained reason, more hopeful and less desperate. Sylvester had 'phoned, saying that he would call at the apartment attwo, and since Stephen had received the message he had been in a stateof suppressed excitement, scarcely keeping still for five minutes at atime. 

"It is just as hard for me as it is for you, isn't it?" he repeated. 

"Yes, Steve, I suppose it is. "

"You suppose? Don't you know? Oh, do quit thinking about Mal Dunn andpay attention to me. "

She did not answer. He regarded her with disgust. 

"You are thinking of Mal, of course, " he declared. "What's the use? Youknow what _I_ think: you were a fool to write him that letter. "

"Don't, Steve; please don't. "

"Ugh!"

"Don't you know he didn't get the letter? I was so nervous andover-wrought that I misdirected it. "

"Pooh! Has he ever stayed away from you so long before? Or his preciousmother, either? Why doesn't she come to see you? She scarcely missed aday before this happened. Nonsense! I guess he got it all right. "

"Steve, stop! stop! Don't dare speak like that. Do you realize what youare insinuating? You don't believe it! You know you don't! Shame on you!I'm ashamed of my brother! No! not another word of that kind, or I shallleave the room. "

She had risen to her feet. He looked at her determined face and turnedaway. 

"Oh, well, " he muttered, sullenly, "maybe you're right. I don't sayyou're not. Perhaps he didn't get the letter. You sent it to his office, and he may have been called out of town. But his mother--"

"Mrs. Dunn was not well when I last saw her. She may be ill. "

"Perhaps. But if you're so sure about them, why not let it go at that?What's the use of fretting?"

"I was not thinking of them--then. "

As a matter of fact, she had been thinking of her uncle, Elisha Warren. As the time dragged by, she thought of him more and more--not as theuncouth countryman whose unwelcome presence had been forced into herlife; nor as the hypocrite whose insult to her father's memory shenever could forgive or whose double-dealing had been, as she thought, revealed; but as the man who, with the choke in his voice and the tearsin his eyes, bade her remember that, whenever she needed help, he wasready and glad to give it. 

She did not doubt Malcolm's loyalty. Her brother's hints andinsinuations found no echo in her thoughts. In the note which she hadwritten her fianc� she told of the loss of their fortune, though not ofher father's shame. That she could not tell; nor did she ask Malcolm tocome to her--her pride would not permit that. She wrote simply of hergreat trouble and trusted the rest to him. That he had not come wasdue--so she kept repeating to herself--solely to the fact that he hadnot received her letter. She knew that was it--she knew it. And yet--andyet he did not come. 

So, in her loneliness and misery, her guardian's words returned againand again to her memory: "Sometimes when things look all right they turnout to be all wrong. If ever there comes a time like that to you andSteve, remember you've got me to turn to. " The time had come when shemust turn to someone. 

She would never go to him; she vowed it. She would not accept his helpif he came to her. But, if he was sincere, if he meant what he said, why did he not come again to proffer it? Because he was not sincere, of course. That had been proven long before. She despised him. Buthis face, as she last saw it, refused to be banished from her mind. It looked so strong, and yet gentle and loving, like the face of aprotector, one to be trusted through good times and bad. Oh, thiswicked, wicked world, and the shams and sorrows in it! "Malcolm, whydon't you come to me?"

Stephen uttered an exclamation. Looking up, she saw him hurrying towardthe hall. 

"Someone's at the door, " he explained. "It's Sylvester, of course. I'lllet him in. "

It was not the lawyer but a messenger boy with a note. Stephen returnedto the library with the missive in his hand. 

"He couldn't get here, Caro, " he said, excitedly. "Wants us to comeright down to his office. Hurry up! Get your things on. The cab'swaiting. Come! Rush! It may be important. "

The cab, an electric vehicle, made good time, and they soon reached thePine Street offices, where they were ushered at once into the seniorpartner's presence. 

"Step into the other room, " said Mr. Sylvester, "and wait there, please. I'll join you shortly. "

The room was the large one where the momentous conference betweenCaptain Elisha and the three lawyers had so recently taken place. Caroline seated herself in one of the chairs. Stephen walked the floor. 

"Hope he doesn't keep us waiting long, " he fumed. "I thought of coursehe was ready or he wouldn't have sent for us. "

"Ready?" his sister looked at him, questioningly. "Ready for what?" sherepeated, with sudden suspicion. "Steve, do you know what Mr. Sylvesterwishes to see us about?"

Her brother colored and seemed a bit disconcerted. "How should I know?"he muttered. 

"Is it something new about the estate or that man who owns it? You doknow something! I can see it in your face. What is it?"

"Nothing. How should I know what it is?"

"But you do. I believe you do. Look at me! What does Mr. Sylvester wantof us?"

The boy hesitated; then whirled and faced her. "See here, Caro, " hesaid, "maybe I do know something--or I can guess. Now, whatever happens, you've got to be a sensible girl. Certain things have to be dealtwith in a practical way, and we're practical people. Sentiment--andpride--and all that sort of stuff, are well enough, but business isbusiness and an engagement is an engagement. Now it's right up to youand--"

"Steve, what are you talking about?"

"That's all right. I know what I'm talking about. Somebody in thefamily must use common sense, and when it comes to holding a person to apromise, then--Confound it, Sis, we can't starve, can we?"

"What do you mean?" She rose and advanced toward him. "What do you meanby a promise? What have you been doing?"

His confusion increased. He avoided her eyes and moved sullenly towardthe other side of the table. 

"I haven't done anything, " he grumbled, "that is, I've done what anyreasonable fellow would do. I'm not the only one who thinks. .. . Lookhere! We've got a guardian, haven't we?"

"A guardian! a _guardian_! Stephen Warren, have you been to him? Haveyou--Was _that_ where you were last night?"

"Well, I--"

"Answer me!"

"What if I have? Whom else am I to go to? Isn't he--"

"But why did you go to him? What did you say?"

"I said--I said--Never mind what I said. He agrees with me, I can tellyou that. You'll thank your stars I did go, before very long. I. .. . S-sh! Here's Sylvester. "

The door of the room opened. The person who entered, however, was notthe lawyer, but the very man of whom they had been speaking, CaptainElisha himself. He closed the door behind him. 

"Hello, Stevie, " he said, with a nod to the boy. Then, turning to hisniece, he stepped forward and held out his hand. "Caroline, " he began, "I don't doubt you're some surprised to see me here; but I. .. . Why, what's the matter?"

The faces of the pair led him to ask the question. Stephen's was red andhe looked embarrassed and guilty. Caroline's was white, and she glancedfrom her brother to her guardian and back again, with flashing eyes. 

"What's the matter?" repeated the captain. "Steve, " sharply, "have youbeen making a fool of yourself again? What is it?"

"Nothing, " was the sulky answer; "nothing of consequence. Caro is--well, I happened to mention that I called on you last night and--and shedoesn't seem to like it, that's all. As I told her, somebody in thefamily had to use common sense, and you were our guardian and naturally, under the circumstances. .. . Why, I'll leave it to anyone!" with a burstof righteous indignation. "You _are_ our guardian. "

He proclaimed it as if he expected a denial. Captain Elisha frowned. "Humph!" he grunted. "That ain't exactly news, is it, Steve? Seems to mewe've taken up that p'int afore; though, as I remember, you didn't usedto be sot on all hands knowin' it, " with dry sarcasm. "I don't need evenyour common sense to remind me of it just at this minute. Caroline, yourbrother did come to see me last night. I was glad he did. "

She ignored him. "Steve, " she demanded, still facing the young man, "wasthis, too, a part of your plan? Did you bring me here to meet--him?"

"No, I didn't. Sylvester was to come to see us. You know that; hetelephoned. I didn't know--"

The captain interrupted. "There, there, son!" he exclaimed, "let me saya word. No, Caroline, Stevie didn't know I was to meet you here. ButI thought it was necessary that I should. Set down, please. I know youmust be worn out, poor girl. "

"I don't wish to sit. I want to know what my brother called to see youabout. "

"Well, there was some matters he wanted to talk over. "

"What were they? Concerning the estate?"

"Partly that. "

"Partly? What else? Captain Warren, my brother has hinted--he hassaid--What does he mean by holding someone to a promise? Answer metruthfully. "

"I shouldn't answer you any other way, Caroline. Steve seems to beworried about--now you mustn't mind my speakin' plain, Caroline; thetime's come when I've got to--Steve seems to be worried about the youngman you're engaged to. He seems to cal'late that Mr. Dunn may want toslip out of that engagement. "

His niece looked at him. Then she turned to her brother. "You went to_him_ and. .. . Oh, how _could_ you!"

Stephen would not meet her gaze. "Well, " he muttered rebelliously, "whywouldn't I? You know yourself that Mal hasn't been near you since ithappened. If he wasn't after--if he was straight, he would have come, wouldn't he? Mind, I don't say he isn't--perhaps he doesn't know. But, at any rate, something must be done. We had to face possibilities, andyou wouldn't listen to me. I tried--"

"Stop!" she cut him short, imperiously. "Don't make me hate you. Andyou, " turning to her uncle, "did _you_ listen and believe such things?Did you encourage him to believe them? Oh, I know what you think of myfriends! I heard it from your own lips. And I know why you think it. Because they know what you are; because they exposed you and--"

"There, there! Caroline, you needn't go on. I've heard your opinionof my character afore. Never mind me for the minute. And, if you'llremember, _I_ ain't said that I doubted your young man. You told methat you thought the world and all of him and that he did of you. That'senough--or ought to be. But your brother says you wrote him two days agoand he ain't been near you. "

"I misdirected the letter. He didn't receive it. "

"Um-hm. I see. That would explain. "

"Of course it would. That _must_ be the reason. "

"Yes, seem's if it must. "

"It is. What right have you to doubt it? Oh, how can you think suchthings? Can you suppose the man I am to marry is so despicable--so_mean_ as to--as to--I'm ashamed to say it. Why do you presume thatmoney has any part in our engagement? Such trouble as mine only makes itmore binding. Do you suppose if _he_ were poor as--as I am, that I woulddesert _him_? You know I wouldn't. I should be glad--yes, almost happy, because then I could show him--could--"

Her voice failed her. She put her handkerchief to her eyes for aninstant and then snatched it away and faced them, her head erect. Thepride in her face was reflected in Captain Elisha's as he regarded her. 

"No, no, " he said gently, "I never supposed you'd act but in one way, Caroline. I knew _you_. And, as Steve'll tell you, I said to him almostthe same words you've been sayin'. If Malcolm's what he'd ought to be, I said, he'll be glad of the chance to prove how much he cares for yoursister. But Steve appeared to have some misgivin's, and so--"

He paused, turned toward the door, and seemed to be listening. Carolineflashed an indignant glance at her brother. 

"And so?" she asked, scornfully. 

"And so, " continued the captain, with a slight change in his tone, "itseemed to me that his doubts ought to be settled. And, " rising, as therecame a tap at the door, "I cal'late they're goin' to be. "

He walked briskly over and opened the door. Sylvester was standingwithout. 

"Come, have they?" inquired Captain Elisha. 

"Yes. "

"Fetch 'em right in here. Steve, stand over nigher that corner. Thisway, Caroline, if you please. "

He took his niece by the arm and led her to the side of the room notvisible from the doorway. She was too astonished to resist, but asked anagitated question. 

"What is it?" she cried. "Who is coming?"

"Some friends of yours, " was the quiet reply. "Nothin' to be frightenedabout. Steve, stay where you are. "

The boy was greatly excited. "Is it they?" he demanded. "Is it? By gad!Now, Sis, be a sensible girl. If he should try to hedge, you hold him. Hold him! Understand?"

"Steve, be quiet, " ordered the captain. .. . "Ah, Mrs. Dunn, goodafternoon, ma'am. Mr. Dunn, good afternoon, sir. "

For the pair who, followed by Sylvester, now entered the room were Mrs. Corcoran Dunn and Malcolm. 

They were past the sill before Captain Elisha's greeting caused them toturn and see the three already there. Mrs. Dunn, who was in the lead, stopped short in her majestic though creaking march of entrance, and herflorid face turned a brighter crimson. Her son, strolling languidly ather heels, started violently and dropped his hat. The lawyer, bringingup in the rear, closed the door and remained standing near it. Carolineuttered an exclamation of surprise. Her brother drew himself haughtilyerect. Captain Elisha remained unperturbed and smiling. 

"Good afternoon, ma'am, " he repeated. "It's been some time since you andI run across each other. I hope you're feelin' pretty smart. "

Mrs. Dunn had faced some unpleasant situations in her life andhad proved equal to them. Usually, however, she had been preparedbeforehand. For this she had not been prepared--as yet. She had cometo the offices of Sylvester, Kuhn, and Graves, at the senior partner'srequest, to be told, as she supposed, the full and final details ofthe financial disaster threatening the Warren family. If those detailsshould prove the disaster as overwhelming as it appeared, then--well, then, certain disagreeable duties must be performed. But to meet thegirl to whom her son was engaged, and whom she and he had carefullyavoided meeting until the lawyers should acquaint them with the wholetruth--to meet this girl, and her brother, and her guardian, thusunexpectedly and unprepared, was enough to shake the composure and nerveof even such a veteran campaigner as Mrs. M. Corcoran Dunn. 

But of the three to whom the meeting was an absolutesurprise, --Caroline, Malcolm and herself--she was characteristically thefirst to regain outward serenity. For a moment she stood nonplused andspeechless, but only for a moment. Then she hastened, with outstretchedarms, to Caroline and clasped her in affectionate embrace. 

"My dear child!" she cried; "my dear girl! I'm _so_ glad to see you!I've thought of you so much! And I pity you so. Poor Malcolmhas--Malcolm, " sharply, "come here! Don't you see Caroline?"

Malcolm was groping nervously for his hat. He picked it up and obeyedhis mother's summons, though with no great eagerness. 

"How d'ye do, Caroline, " he stammered, confusedly. "I--I--It's a deuceof a surprise to see you down here. The mater and I didn't expect--thatis, we scarcely hoped to meet anyone but Sylvester. He sent for us, youknow. "

He extended his hand. She did not take it. 

"Did you get my letter?" she asked, quickly. Mrs. Dunn answered for him. 

"Yes, dear, he got it, " she said. "The poor fellow was almost crazy. Ibegan to fear for his sanity; I did, indeed. I did not dare trust himout of my sight. Oh, if you could but know how we feel for you and pityyou!"

Pity was not what Caroline wanted just then. The word jarred upon her. She avoided the lady's embrace and once more faced the embarrassedMalcolm. 

"You got my letter?" she cried. "You _did_?"

"Yes--er--yes, I got it, Caroline. I--by Jove, you know--"

He hesitated, stammered, and looked thoroughly uncomfortable. His motherregarded him wrathfully. 

"Well, " she snapped, "why don't you go on? Caroline, dear, you reallymust excuse him. The dear boy is quite overcome. "

Captain Elisha stepped forward. 

"Excuse me for interruptin', ma'am, " he said, addressing the ruffledmatron; "but I know you're sort of surprised to see us all here andmaybe I'd better explain. Mr. Sylvester told me you and your son had anappointment with him for this afternoon. Now there was something we--orI, anyhow--wanted to talk with you about, so I thought we might as wellmake one job of it. Sylvester's a pretty busy man, and I know he hasother things to attend to; so why not let him go ahead and tell you whatyou come to hear, and then we can take up the other part by ourselves. He's told me what you wanted to see him about, and it's somethin' we'reall interested in, bein' as we're one family--or goin' to be prettysoon. So suppose he just tells you now. Ain't that a good idea?"

Mrs. Dunn looked at the speaker, and then at the lawyer, and seemed tohave caught some of her son's embarrassment. 

"I--we did have an appointment with Mr. Sylvester, " she admitted, reluctantly; "but the business was not important. And, " haughtily, "I donot care to discuss it here. "

The captain opened his eyes. "Hey?" he exclaimed. "Not important? Yousurprise me, ma'am. I judged 'twas mighty important. 'Twas about thereal size of your father's estate, Caroline, " turning to the girl. "Ithought Mrs. Dunn and Mr. Malcolm must think 'twas important, for Iunderstand they've been telephonin' and askin' for appointments for thelast two days. Why, yes! and they come way down here in all this stormon purpose to talk it over with him. Am I wrong? Ain't that so, ma'am?"

It was so, and Mrs. Dunn could not well deny it. Therefore, she tookrefuge in a contemptuous silence. The captain nodded. 

"As to discussin' it here, " he went on with bland innocence, "why, we'reall family folks, same as I said, and there ain't any secrets between uson _that_ subject. So suppose we all listen while Mr. Sylvester tellsjust what he'd have told you and Mr. Malcolm. It's pretty hard to hear;but bad news is soon told. Heave ahead, Mr. Sylvester. "

Mrs. Dunn made one more attempt to avoid the crisis she saw wasapproaching. 

"Surely, Caroline, " she said testily, "you don't wish your privateaffairs treated in this public manner. Come, let us go. "

She laid a hand on the girl's arm. Captain Elisha quietly interposed. 

"No, no, " he said. "We'll all stay here. There's nothin' public aboutit. "

Caroline, crimson with mortification, protested indignantly. 

"Mr. Sylvester, " she said, "it is not necessary to--"

"Excuse me;" her uncle's tone was sharper and more stern; "I think itis. Go on, Sylvester. "

The lawyer looked far from comfortable, but he spoke at once and to thepoint. 

"I should have told you and your son just this, Mrs. Dunn, " he said. "I intimated it before, and Miss Warren had already written you theessential facts. A new and unexpected development, the nature of which Iam not at liberty to disclose now or later, makes Abijah Warren's estateabsolutely bankrupt. Not only that, but many thousand dollars in debt. His heirs are left penniless. That is the plain truth, I'm very sorryto say. There is no hope of anything better. You'll forgive me, MissWarren, I hope, for putting it so bluntly; but I thought it best toavoid every possible misunderstanding. "

It was blunt, beyond doubt. Even Captain Elisha winced at the word"penniless. " Stephen muttered under his breath and turned his back. Caroline, swaying, put a hand on the table to steady herself. The Dunnslooked at each other. 

"Thank you, Mr. Sylvester, " said the captain, quietly. "I'll see youagain in a few moments. "

The lawyer bowed and left the room, evidently glad to escape. CaptainElisha turned to Mrs. Dunn. 

"And now, ma'am, " he observed, "that part of the business is over. Thenext part's even more in the family, so I thought we didn't need legaladvice. You see just how matters stand. My niece is a poor girl. Sheneeds somebody to support her and look out for her. She's got thatsomebody, we're all thankful to say. She's engaged to Mr. Malcolm here. And, as you're his ma, Mrs. Dunn, and I'm Caroline's guardian, us oldfolks'll take our affairs in hand; they needn't listen, if they don'twant to. I understand from Steve that Malcolm's been mighty anxious tohave the weddin' day hurried along. I can't say as I blame him. And _I_think the sooner they're married the better. Now, how soon can we makeit, Mrs. Dunn?"

This unexpected and matter-of-fact query was variously received. Mrs. Dunn frowned and flushed. Malcolm frowned, also. Steve nodded emphaticapproval. As for Caroline, she gazed at her guardian in horrifiedamazement. 

"Why!" she cried. "You--you--What do you mean by such--"

"Don't be an idiot, Caro!" cut in her brother. "I told you to besensible. Captain Warren's dead right. "

"Stevie, you stay out of this. " There was no misunderstanding thecaptain's tone. "When I want your opinion I'll ask for it. And, Caroline, I want you to stay out, too. This is my trick at the wheel. Mrs. Dunn, what d'you say? Never mind the young folks. You and me knowthat marriage is business, same as everything else. How soon can we havethe weddin'?"

Mrs. Dunn had, apparently, nothing to say--to him. She addressed hernext remark to Caroline. 

"My dear, " she said, in great agitation, "this is really too dreadful. This--er--guardian of yours appears to think he is in some barbarouscountry--ordering the savages about. Come! Malcolm, take her away. "

"No, " Captain Elisha stepped in front of the door. "She ain't goin'; andI'd rather you wouldn't go yet. Let's settle this up now. I ain't askin'anything unreasonable. Caroline's under my charge, and I've got to planfor her. Your boy's just crazy to marry her; he's been beggin' for herto name the day. Let's name it. It needn't be to-morrow. I cal'lateyou'll want to get out invitations and such. It needn't be next week. But just say about when it can be; then I'll know how to plan. Thatain't much to ask, sartin. "

Much or little, neither Mrs. Dunn nor her son appeared ready to answer. Malcolm fidgeted with his hat and gloves; his mother fanned herself withher handkerchief. Caroline, frantic with humiliation and shame, wouldhave protested again, but her guardian's stern shake of the headsilenced her. 

"Well, Mr. Dunn, " turning to the groom-to-be; "you're one of theinterested parties--what do you say?"

Malcolm ground his heel into the rug. "I don't consider it yourbusiness, " he declared. "You're butting in where--"

"No, no, I ain't. It's my business, and business is just _what_ it is. Your ma knows that. She and I had a real confidential up and down talkon love and marriage, and she's the one that proved to me that marryin'in high society, like yours and the kind Caroline's been circulatin' in, was business and mighty little else. There's a business contract betweenyou and my niece. We want to know how soon it can be carried out, that'sall. "

The young man looked desperately at the door; but the captain's broadshoulders blocked the way towards it. He hesitated, scowled, and then, with a shrug of his shoulders, surrendered. 

"How can I marry?" he demanded sullenly. "Confound it! my salary isn'tlarge enough to pay my own way, decently. "

"Malcolm!" cried his mother, warningly. 

"Well, Mater, what the devil's the use of all this? You know. .. . ByJove! you _ought_ to!"

"Hold on, young feller! I don't understand. Your wages ain't largeenough, you say? What do you mean? You was _goin'_ to be married, wasn'tyou?"

Mrs. Dunn plunged to the rescue, a forlorn hope, but desperate, andfighting to the end. 

"An outrage!" she blurted. "Malcolm, I forbid you to continue thisdisgusting conversation. Caroline, my poor child, I don't blame you forthis, but I call on you to stop it at once. My dear, I--"

She advanced toward the girl with outstretched arms. Caroline recoiled. 

"Don't! don't!" she gasped. Captain Elisha spoke up sharp and stern. 

"Excuse me, ma'am, " he said, "but I'll be obliged if you'll wait aminute. Caroline, don't you say a word. You say--you--" addressingMalcolm, "that you can't support a wife on your wages. You surprise mesome, considerin' the swath you've been cuttin' on 'em--but never mindthat. Maybe they won't keep automobiles and--er--other things I've heardyou was interested in, but if you cut them out and economize a little, same as young married folks I've known have been glad to do, you couldscrape along, couldn't you? Hey? Couldn't you?"

Malcolm's answer was another scornful shrug. "You belong on Cape Cod, "he sneered. "Mater, let's get out of this. "

"Wait! Put it plain now. Do I understand that you cal'late to break theengagement because my niece has lost her money? Is that it?"

Mrs. Dunn realized that the inevitable was upon them. After all, itmight as well be faced now as later. 

"This is ridiculous, " she proclaimed. "Every sane person knows--though_barbarians_ may not--" with a venomous glare at the captain--"that, in engagements of the kind in which my son shared, a certain amountof--er--financial--er--that is, the bride is supposed to have somemoney. It is expected. Of course it is! Love in a cottage is--well--abit _pass�_. My son and I pity your niece from the bottom of our hearts, but--there! under the circumstances the whole affair becomes impossible. Caroline, my dear, I'm dreadfully sorry, dreadfully! I love you like myown child. And poor Malcolm will be heartbroken--but--you _see_. "

She extended her hand in a gesture of utter helplessness. Stephen, who had been fuming and repressing his rage with difficulty during thescene, leaped forward with brandished fist. 

"By gad!" he shouted. "Mal Dunn, you cad--"

His uncle pushed him back with a sweep of his arm. 

"Steve, " he ordered, "I'm runnin' this ship. " He gave a quick glance athis niece, and then added, speaking rapidly and addressing the head ofthe Dunn family, "I see, ma'am. Yes, yes, I see. Well, you've forgot onething, I guess. Caroline's lived in high society, too. And I've been init a spell, myself. And Steve's a boy, but he's got a business head. Ifthere's nothin' in marriage but business, then an engagement is what Ijust called it, a business contract, and it can't be broke without theconsent of both sides. You wanted Caroline's money; maybe she wantsyours now. If she does, and there's such a thing as law, why, perhapsshe can get it. "

"That's the talk!" cried Stephen exultingly. 

"Yup; perhaps she can. She may be a business woman, too, you know. Ifmoney and style and social position's what counts and she wants to forceyou to keep your promise, why, I'm her guardian and she can count on meto back her up. What do you say, Caroline? I'm at your service. I--"

But Caroline interrupted him. 

"Stop!" she cried wildly. "Oh, stop! Do you think--do you suppose Iwould marry him now? _Now_, after I've seen what he is? Oh, " with ashudder of disgust, "when I think what I might have done, I. .. . ThankGod that the money has gone! I'm glad I'm poor! I'm _glad_!"

"Caro, you fool!" shrieked Stephen. She did not heed him. 

"Let me go!" she cried. "Let me get away from him; from this room! Inever want to see him or think of him again. Please! _Please_ let me go!Oh, take me home! Captain Warren, _please_ let me go home!"

Her uncle was at her side in a moment. "Yes, yes, dearie, " he said, "I'll take you home. Don't give way now! I'll--"

He would have taken her arm, but she shrank from him. 

"Not you!" she begged. "Steve!"

The captain's face clouded, but he answered promptly. 

"Of course--Steve, " he agreed. "Steve, take your sister home. Mr. Sylvester's got a carriage waitin', and he'll go with you, I don'tdoubt. Do as I tell you, boy--and behave yourself. Don't wait; go!"

He held the door open until the hysterical girl and her brother haddeparted. Then he turned to the Dunns. 

"Well, ma'am, " he said, dryly. "I don't know's there's anything more tobe said. All the questions seem to be settled. Our acquaintance wa'n'tso awful long, but it was interestin'. Knowin' you has been, as thefeller said, a liberal education. Don't let me keep you any longer. Goodafternoon. "

He stepped away from the door. Malcolm and his mother remained standing, for an instant, where they were when Caroline left. 

The young man looked as if he would enjoy choking someone, the captainpreferably, but said nothing. Then Mrs. Dunn bethought herself of a wayto make their exit less awkward and embarrassing. 

"My heart!" she said, gasping, and with a clutch at her breast. "Mypoor heart! I--I fear I'm going to have one of my attacks. Malcolm, yourarm--quick!"

With an expression of intense but patient suffering, and leaning heavilyupon her son's arm, she moved past Captain Elisha and from the room. 

 * * * * *

That evening the captain stood in the lower hall of the apartment houseat Central Park West, undecided what to do next. He wished more thananything else in the world to go to his niece. He would have gone to herbefore--had been dying to go, to soothe, to comfort, to tell her of hislove--but he was afraid. His conscience troubled him. Perhaps he hadbeen too brutal. Perhaps he shouldn't have acted as he did. Maybeforcing the Dunn fleet to show its colors could have been done morediplomatically. He had wanted her to see those colors for herself, toactually see them. But he might have overdone it. He remembered how sheshrank from him and turned to her brother. She might hate him more thanever now. If so, then the whole scheme under which he was working fellto pieces. 

He was worried about Steve, too. That young man would, naturally, be furious with his sister for what he would consider her romanticfoolishness. He had been warned to behave himself; but would he? CaptainElisha paced up and down the marble floor before the elevator cage andwondered whether his visiting the apartment would be a wise move or afoolish one. 

The elevator descended, the door of the cage opened, and Stephen himselfdarted out. His face was red, he was scowling fiercely, and he strodetoward the street without looking in his guardian's direction. 

The captain caught him as he passed. 

"Here, boy!" he exclaimed; "where's the fire? Where are you bound?"

His nephew, brought thus unexpectedly to a halt, stared at him. 

"Oh, it's you!" he exclaimed. "Humph! I'm bound--I don't know where I'mbound!"

"You don't, hey? Well, you can cruise a long ways on a v'yage like that. What do you mean?"

"Aw, let me alone! I'm going to the club, I guess, or somewhere. Anyhow, I won't stay with her. I told her so. Silly little idiot! By gad, sheunderstands what I think of her conduct. I'll never speak to her again. I told her so. She--"

"Here! Belay! Stop! Who are you talking about?"

"Caro, of course. She--"

"You've run off and left her alone--to-night? Where is she?"

"Upstairs--and crying, I suppose. She doesn't do anything else. It's allshe's good for. Selfish, romantic--"

He got no further, for Captain Elisha sent him reeling with a push andran to the elevator. 

"Eighth floor, " he commanded. 

The door of the apartment was not latched. Stephen, in his rage andhurry, had neglected such trifles. The captain opened it quietly andwalked in. He entered the library. Caroline was lying on the couch, her head buried in the pillows. She did not hear him cross the room. Heleaned over and touched her shoulder. She started, looked, and sat up, gazing at him as though not certain whether he was a dream or reality. 

And he looked at her, at her pretty face, now so white and careworn, ather eyes, at the tear-stains on her cheeks, and his whole heart went outto her. 

"Caroline, dearie, " he faltered, "forgive me for comin' here, won't you?I had to come. I couldn't leave you alone; I couldn't rest, thinkin' ofyou alone in your trouble. I know you must feel harder than ever towardsme for this afternoon's doin's, but I meant it for the best. I _had_ toshow you--don't you see? Can you forgive me? Won't you try to forgivethe old feller that loves you more'n all the world? Won't you try?"

She looked at him, wide-eyed, clasping and unclasping her hands. 

"_I_ forgive _you_?" she repeated, incredulously. 

"Yes. Try to, dearie. Oh, if you would only believe I meant it for yourgood, and nothin' else! If you could only just trust me and come to meand let me help you. I want you, my girl, I want you!"

She leaned forward. "Do you really mean it?" she cried. "How can you?after all I've done? after the way I've treated you? and the things I'vesaid? You must _hate_ me! Everyone does. I hate myself! You can'tforgive me! You can't!"

His answer was to hold out his arms. Another moment and she was in them, clinging to his wet coat, sobbing, holding him fast, and begging him notto leave her, to take her away, that she would work, that she would notbe a burden to him--only take her with him and try to forgive her, forhe was real and honest and the only friend she had. 

And Captain Elisha, soothing her, stroking her hair, and murmuring wordsof love and tenderness, realized that his labor and sacrifice hadnot been in vain, that here was his recompense; she would nevermisunderstand him again; she was his at last. 

And yet, in the midst of his joy, his conscience troubled him more thanever. 

CHAPTER XX

It was April; and May was close at hand. The weather was all that lateApril weather should be, and so often is not. Trees, bushes, and vineswere in bud; the green of the new grass was showing everywhere above thedead brown of the old; a pair of bluebirds were inspecting the hollow ofthe old apple tree, with an eye toward spring housekeeping; the sun waswarm and bright, and the water of the Sound sparkled in the distance. Caroline, sitting by the living-room window, was waiting for her uncleto return from the city. 

In the kitchen Annie Moriarty was preparing dinner. Annie was now cookas well as chamber-maid, for, of all the Warren servants, she was theonly one remaining. Edwards, the "Commodore, " had been dismissed, haddeparted, not without reluctance but philosophically, to seek otheremployment. "Yes, miss, " observed Edwards, when notified that hisservices were no longer required; "I understand. I've been expectingit. I was in a family before that met with financial difficulties, andI know the signs. All I can say is that I hope you and Mr. Stephen willget on all right, miss. If there's anything I can do to help you, by wayof friendship, please let me know. I'd be glad, for old times' sake. Andthe cook wanted me to tell you that, being as she's got another job insight and was paid up to date, she wouldn't wait for notice, but wasleaving immediate. She's gone already, miss. "

The second maid went also. But Annie, Irish and grateful, refused to go. Her mother came to back her in the refusal. 

"Indeed she'll not leave you, Miss Caroline--you nor Captain Warrenneither. Lord love him! Sure, d'ye think we'll ever forget what you andhim done for me and my Pat and the childer? You've got to have somebody, ain't you? And Annie's cookin' ain't so bad that it'll kill yez; andI'll learn her more. Never mind what the wages is, they're big enough. She'll stay! If she didn't, I'd break her back. "

So, when the apartment was given up, and Captain Elisha and his wardsmoved to the little house in Westchester County, Annie came with them. And her cooking, though not by any means equal to that at Delmonico's, had not killed them yet. Mrs. Moriarty came once a week to do thelaundry work. Caroline acted as a sort of inexperienced but willingsupervising housekeeper. 

The house itself had been procured through the kind interest ofSylvester. Keeping the apartment was, under the circumstances, out ofthe question, and Caroline hated it and was only too anxious to give itup. She had no suggestions to make. She would go anywhere, anywherethat her guardian deemed best; but might they not please go at once? Sheexpected that he would suggest South Denboro, and she would have gonethere without a complaint. To get away from the place where she had beenso miserable was her sole wish. And trusting and believing in her uncleas she now did, realizing that he had been right always and had workedfor her interest throughout, and having been shown the falseness andinsincerity of the others whom she had once trusted implicitly, sheclung to him with an appeal almost piteous. Her pride was, for thetime, broken. She was humble and grateful. She surrendered to himunconditionally, and hoped only for his forgiveness and love. 

The captain did not suggest South Denboro. He did, however, tellSylvester that he believed a little place out of the city would be thebetter refuge for the present. 

"Poor Caroline's switched clear around, " he said to the lawyer, "and youcan't blame her much. She cal'lates New York's nothin' but a sham fromstern to stern, manned by liars and swindlers and hypocrites andofficered by thieves. 'Tain't no use to tell her 'tain't, though shemight pretend to believe it, if _I_ told her, for just now the poor girlthinks I'm Solomon and Saint Peter rolled into one. The way she agreesto whatever I say and the way she looks at me and sort of holds on tome, as if I was her only anchor in a gale, I declare it makes me feelmeaner than poorhouse tea--and that's made of blackberry leaves steepedin memories of better things, so I've heard say. _Am_ I a low downscamp, playin' a dirty mean trick on a couple of orphans? What do youthink, Sylvester?"

"You know what I think, Captain Warren, " replied the lawyer. "You'rehandling the whole matter better than any other man could handle it. Noone else would have thought of it, to begin with; and the results so farprove that you're right. "

"Yup. Maybe. I wish you was around to say that to me when I wake upnights and get to thinkin'. However, as I said, Caroline believes NewYork is like a sailors' dance hall, a place for decent folks to steerclear of. And when the feller you've been engaged to is shown up as asneak and your own dad as a crook--well, you can't blame a green handfor holdin' prejudice against the town that raised 'em. She'll get overit; but just now I cal'late some little flat, or, better still, alittle home out where the back yards ain't made of concrete, would bea first-class port for us to make for. Don't know of such a place at areasonable rent, do you?"

"I might find one. And you may be right; your niece might like itbetter, though it will be somewhat of a change. But how about yournephew? He has no objection to the metropolis, I should judge. What willhe say?"

"Nothin', I guess--unless he says it to himself. Steve's goin' back toNew Haven with things on his mind. He and I had a mornin' service, andI was the parson. He listened, because when you ain't got a cent exceptwhat the society allows you, it ain't good orthodoxy to dodge thecharity sermon. Steve'll behave, and what he don't like he'll lump. Ifhe starts to open his mouth his ear'll ache, I cal'late. I talked turkeyto that young man. Ye-es, " with a slight smile, "I'm sort of afraid Ilost patience with Stevie. "

When Caroline first saw the little house, with its shingled sides, thedead vines over the porch, and the dry stalks of last year's flowers inthe yard, her heart sank. With the wind blowing and the bare branchesof the old apple tree scraping the roof and whining dolefully, it lookedbleak and forsaken. It was so different, so unhomelike, and so, to hereyes, small and poverty-stricken. She made believe that she liked it, exclaimed over the view--which, on the particular day, was desolateenough--and declared the Dutch front door was "old-fashioned and dear. "But Captain Elisha, watching her closely, knew that she was only waitingto be alone to give way to wretchedness and tears. He understood, had expected that she would feel thus, but he was disappointed, nevertheless. However, after the front door was passed and they wereinside the house, Caroline looked about her in delighted amazement. Theliving room was small, but bright and warm and cheery. On its walls, hiding the rather vivid paper, were hung some of the best of RodgersWarren's pictures--the Corot, the codfisher, and others. The furnitureand rugs were those which had been in the library of the apartment, those she had been familiar with all her life. The books, many of them, were there, also. And the dining room, except for size, looked likehome. So did the bedrooms; and, in the kitchen, Annie grinned a welcome. 

"But how could you?" asked Caroline. "How could you keep all thesethings, Uncle Elisha? I thought, of course, they must all be sold. Icried when they took them away that day when we were leaving to go tothe hotel. I was sure I should never see them again. And here they allare! How could you do it?"

The captain's grin was as wide as Annie's. "Oh, " he explained, "Icouldn't let 'em all go. Never intended to. That five thousand dollarcodder up there seemed like own folks, pretty nigh. I'd have kept_him_, if we had to live in one room and a trunk. And we ain't got tothat--yet. I tell you, dearie, I thought they'd make you feel more tohome. And they do, don't they?"

The look she gave him was answer sufficient. 

"But the creditors?" she asked. "That man who--they belong to him, don'tthey? I supposed of course they must go with the rest. "

Captain Elisha winked. "There's times, " he answered, "when I believe incheatin' my creditors. This is one of 'em. Never you mind that felleryou mentioned. He's got enough, confound him! He didn't have the face toask for any more. Sylvester looked out for that. Five hundred thousand, droppin' in, as you might say, unexpected, ought to soften anybody'sheart; and I judge even that feller's got some bowels of mercy. "

He changed the subject hastily, but Caroline asked no more questions. She never alluded to the lost estate, never expressed any regrets, nor asked to know who it was that had seized her all. The captain hadexpected her to ask, had been ready with the same answer he had givenStephen, but when he hinted she herself had forbade his continuing. "Don't tell me about it, " she begged. "I don't want to know any more. Father did wrong, but--but I know he did not mean to. He was a good, kind father to me, and I loved him. This man whose money he took had aright to it, and now it is his. He doesn't wish us to know who he is, soSteve says, and I'm glad. I don't want to know, because if I did Imight hate him. And, " with a shudder, "I am trying so hard not to hateanybody. "

Her make-believe liking for the little home became more and more realas spring drew near. She began to take an interest in it, in the flowergarden, in the beds beside the porch, where the peonies and daffodilswere beginning to show green heads above the loam, and in the householdaffairs. And she had plans of her own, not connected with these. Shebroached them to her uncle, and they surprised and delighted him, although he would not give his consent to them entirely. 

"You mustn't think, " she said, "that, because I have been willing tolive on your money since mine went, that I mean to continue doing it. Idon't. I've been thinking a great deal, and I realize that I must earnmy own way just as soon as I can. I'm not fitted for anything now; butI can be and I shall. I've thought perhaps I might learn stenographyor--or something like that. Girls do. "

He looked at her serious face and choked back his laugh. 

"Why, yes, " he admitted, "they do, that's a fact. About four hundredthousand of 'em do, and four hundred thousand more try to and then tryto make business men think that they have. I heard Sylvester sputterin'about a couple in his office t'other day; said they was no good and notworth the seven dollars a week he paid 'em. "

"Seven dollars a _week_!" she repeated. 

"Yes. Course some make three times that and more; but they're theexperienced ones, the good ones. And there's heaps that don't. Whatmakes you so sot on earnin' a livin', Caroline? Ain't you satisfied withthe kind I'm tryin' to give you?"

She regarded him reproachfully. "Please don't say that, " she protested. "You always treat your kindness as a joke, but to me it--it--"

"There! there!" quickly. "Don't let's talk foolish. I see what youmean, dearie. It ain't the livin' but because I'm givin' it to you thattroubles you. I know. Well, _I_ ain't complainin' but I understand yourfeelin's and respect 'em. However, I shouldn't study type-writin', ifI was you. There's too much competition in it to be comfortable, as thefat man said about runnin' races. I've got a suggestion, if you want tolisten to it. "

"I do, indeed. What is it?"

"Why, just this. I've been about everythin' aboard ship, but I've neverbeen a steward. Now I'll say this much for Annie, she tried hard. Shetumbled into general housekeepin' the way Asa Foster said he fell intothe cucumber frame--with a jolt and a jingle; and she's doin' her bestaccordin' to her lights. But sometimes her lights need ile or trimmin'or somethin'. I've had the feelin' that we need a good housekeeperhere. If Annie's intelligence was as broad and liberal as her shoes, wewouldn't; as 'tis, we do. I'll hire you, Caroline, for that job, if yousay so. "

"I? Uncle Elisha, you're joking!"

"No, I ain't. Course I realize you ain't had much experience in runnin'a house, and I hope you understand I don't want to hire you as a cook. But I've had a scheme in the back of my head for a fortni't or more. Somethin' Sylvester said about a young lady cousin of his made methink of it. Seems over here at the female college--you know where Imean--they're teachin' a new course that they've christened DomesticScience. Nigh's I can find out it is about what our great gran'marmslarned at home; that, with up-to-date trimmin's. All about runnin' ahouse, it is; how to superintend servants, and what kind of thingsto have to eat, and how they ought to be cooked, and takin' care ofchildren--Humph! we don't need that, do we?--and, well, everythingthat a home woman, rich or poor, ought to know. At least, she ought to'cordin' to my old-fashioned notions. Sylvester's cousin goes there, andlikes it; and I judge she ain't figgerin' to be anybody's hired help, either. My idea was about this: If you'd like to take this course, Caroline, you could do it afternoons. Mornin's and the days you had off, you could apply your science here at home, on Annie. Truly it wouldsave me hirin' somebody else, and--well, maybe you'd enjoy it, you can'ttell. "

His niece seemed interested. 

"I know of the Domestic Science course, " she said. "Several of myfriends--my former friends, were studying it. But I'm afraid, Uncle, that I don't see where earning my living has any part in it. It seems tome that it means your spending more money for me, paying my tuition. "

"No more'n I'd spend for a competent housekeeper. Honest, Caroline, I'dlike to do it. You think it over a spell. "

She did, visiting the University and making inquiries. What she was toldthere decided her. She took up the course and enjoyed it. It occupiedher mind and prevented her brooding over the past. She might have mademany friends among the other students, but she was careful to treatthem only as acquaintances. Her recent experience with "friends" was toofresh in her mind. She studied hard and applied her knowledge at home. She and Annie made some odd and funny mistakes at first, but they werenot made twice, and Captain Elisha noticed a great improvement in thehousekeeping. Also, Caroline's spirits improved, though more slowly. 

Most evenings they spent together in the living room. She read aloud toher uncle, who smoked his cigar and listened, commenting on the doingsof the story folk with characteristic originality and aptitude. Eachnight, after the reading was over, he wrote his customary note to AbbieBaker at South Denboro. He made one flying trip to that village: "Justto prove to 'em that I'm still alive, " as he explained it. "Some ofthose folks down there at the postoffice must have pretty nigh forgotto gossip about me by this time. They've had me eloped and married anda millionaire and a pauper long ago, I don't doubt. And now they'veprobably forgot me altogether. I'll just run down and stir 'em up. Goodsubjects for yarns are scurce at that postoffice, and they ought to bethankful. "

On his return he told his niece that he found everything much as usual. "Thoph Kenney's raised a beard 'cause shavin's so expensive; and theCome-Outer minister called the place the other denominations are boundfor 'Hades, ' and his congregation are thinkin' of firin' him for turnin'Free-Thinker. That's about all the sensations, " he said. "I couldn'tget around town much on account of Abbie. She kept me in bed most of thetime, while she sewed on buttons and mended. Said she never saw a body'sclothes in such a state in _her_ life. "

A few of the neighbors called occasionally. And there were othercallers. Captain Elisha's unexpected departure from Mrs. Hepton'sboarding house had caused a sensation and much regret to that selectestablishment. The landlady, aided and abetted by Mrs. Van WinkleRuggles, would have given a farewell tea in his honor, but he declined. "Don't you do it, " he said. "I like my tea pretty strong, and farewellsare watery sort of things, the best of 'em. And this ain't a realfarewell, anyhow. "

"'Say _au revoir_, but not good-by, '" sang Miss Sherborne sentimentally. 

"That's it. Everybody knows what good-by means. We'll say the otherthing--as well as we can--and change it to 'Hello' the very first timeany of you come out to see us. "

They were curious to know his reason for leaving. He explained that hisniece was sort of lonesome and needed country air; he was going to livewith her, for the present. Consequently Mrs. Ruggles, on the trail ofaristocracy, was the first to call. Hers was a stately and ceremoniousvisit. They were glad when it was over. Lawton, the bookseller and hiswife, came and were persuaded to remain and dine. Caroline liked them atsight. The most impressive call, however, was that of Mr. And Mrs. "C. "Dickens. The great man made it a point to dress in the style of bygoneyears, and his conversation was a treat. His literary labors werefatiguing and confining, he admitted, and the "little breath of ruralozone" which this trip to Westchester County gave him, was like atonic--yes, as one might say, a tonic prescribed and administered byDame Nature herself. 

"I formerly resided in the country, " he told Caroline. 

"Yes, " put in his wife, "we used to live at Bayonne, New Jersey. Wehad such a pretty house there, that is, half a house; you see it was adouble one, and--"

"Maria, " her husband waved his hand, "why trouble our friends withunnecessary details. "

"But it _was_ a pretty house, 'C. , ' dear, " with a pathetic little sigh. "I've missed it a great deal since, Miss Warren. 'C. ' had a joke aboutit--he's such a joker! He used to call it 'Gad's Hill, Junior. '"

"Named after some of David B. 's folks?" asked Captain Elisha innocently. The answer, delivered by Mr. Dickens, was condescending and explanatory. 

Caroline laughed, actually laughed aloud, when the visit was over. Heruncle was immensely pleased. 

"Hooray!" he cried. "I'll invite 'em up to stay a week. That's the fusttime I've heard you laugh for I don't know when. "

She laughed again. "I can't help it, " she said; "they are so funny. "

The captain chuckled. "Yes, " he said, "and they don't know it. Ical'late a person's skull has got room for just about so much in it andno more. Cornelius Charles's head is so jammed with self-satisfactionthat his sense of humor was crowded out of door long ago. "

One boarder at Mrs. Hepton's did not call, nor did Captain Elisha alludeto him. Caroline noticed the latter fact and understood the reason. Also, when the captain went to the city, as he frequently did, andremained longer than usual, she noticed that his explanations of theway in which he spent his time were sometimes vague and hurried. Sheunderstood and was troubled. Yet she thought a great deal on the subjectbefore she mentioned it. 

On the April afternoon when Caroline sat at the window of the livingroom awaiting her uncle's return she was thinking of that subject. But, at last, her mind was made up. It was a hard thing to do; it washumiliating, in a way; it might--though she sincerely hoped not--bemisconstrued as to motive; but it was right. Captain Elisha had beenso unselfish, so glad to give up every personal inclination in order toplease her, that she would no longer permit her pride to stand in theway of his gratification, even in little things. At least, she wouldspeak to him on the matter. 

He came on a later than his usual train, and at dinner, when she askedwhere he had been, replied, "Oh, to see Sylvester, and--er--around. " Sheasked him no more, but, when they were together in the living room, shemoved her chair over beside his and said without looking at him:

"Uncle Elisha, I know where you've been this afternoon. You've been tosee Mr. Pearson. "

"Hey?" He started, leaned back and regarded her with astonishment andsome alarm. 

"You've been to see Mr. Pearson, " she repeated, "haven't you?"

"Why--why, yes, Caroline, I have--to tell you the truth. I don't see howyou knew, but, " nervously, "I hope you don't feel bad 'cause I did. Igo to see him pretty often. You see, I think a good deal of him--a wholelot of him. _I_ think he's a fine young feller. Course I know you don't, and so I never mention him to you. But I do hope you ain't goin' to askme not to see him. "

She shook her head. "No, " she said. "I would have no right to ask that, even if I wished to. And I do not wish it. Uncle Elisha, if you werealone here, he would come to see you; I know he would. Invite him tocome, please. "

His astonishment was greater than ever. 

"Invite him to come _here_?" he asked. "To see you?"

"No, " hastily; "to see you. This is your home. I have no right to keepyour friends from visiting it. I know you would sacrifice everythingfor me, even them; but I will not be so selfish as to allow it. Ask himhere, please. I really want you to. "

He pulled his beard. "Caroline, " he answered slowly, "I'm much obligedto you. I understand why you're doin' this, and I thank you. But itain't likely that I'll say yes, is it? And do you suppose Jim would comeif I did ask him? He knows you believe he's a--well, all that's bad. Youtold him so, and you sent him away. I will give in that I'd like to havehim here. He's one of the few men friends I've made since I landedin New York. But, under the circumstances--you feelin' as you do--Icouldn't ask him, and he wouldn't come if I did. "

She remained silent for a time. Then she said: "Uncle, I want you totell me the truth about Mr. Pearson and father--just why theyquarreled and the real truth of the whole affair. Don't spare myfeelings; tell me what you believe is the true story. I know you thinkMr. Pearson was right, for you said so. "

The captain was much troubled. 

"I--I don't know's I'd better, dearie, " he answered. "I think I do knowthe truth, but you might think I was hard on 'Bije--on your father. Iain't. And I sympathize with the way he felt, too. But Jim did right, asI see it. He acted just as I'd want a son of mine to do. And. .. . Well, Ical'late we'd better not rake up old times, had we?"

"I want you to tell me. Please do. "

"I don't know's I'd better. You have been told the story different, and--"

"I know I have. That is the reason why I ask you to tell it. Oh, " witha flash of scorn, "I was told many stories, and I want to forget them. And, " sadly, "I can bear whatever you may tell me, even about father. Since I learned that he was a--a--"

"S-sh, Caroline; don't!"

"After that, I can bear anything, I think. This cannot be worse. "

"Worse! No, not! This ain't very bad. I will tell you, dearie. This isjust what happened. "

He told her the exact truth concerning the Trolley Combine, hisbrother's part in it, and Pearson's. She listened without comment. 

"I see, " she said when he had finished. "I think I see. Mr. Pearson feltthat, as a newspaper man, an honest one, he must go on. He knew that thething was wrong and that innocent people might lose money in it. It washis duty to expose it, and he did it, even though it meant the loss ofinfluence and of father's friendship. I see. "

"That was about it, Caroline. I think the hardest part for him was when'Bije called him ungrateful. 'Bije had been mighty kind to him, that's afact. "

"Yes. Father was kind; I know that better than anyone else. But Mr. Pearson was right. Yes, he was right, and brave. "

"So I size it up. And I do sympathize with your father, too. This wa'n'tsuch an awful lot worse than a good many stock deals. And poor 'Bije wasperfectly desp'rate, I guess. If it had gone through he'd have been ableto square accounts with the Rubber Company; and just think what thatwould have meant to him. Poor feller! poor feller!" He sighed. Shereached for his hand and stroked it gently with her own. 

After another interval she said: "How I insulted and wronged him! How hemust despise me!"

"Who? Jim? No, no! he don't do any such thing. He knows you didn'tunderstand, and who was responsible. Jim's got sense, lots of it. "

"But it is my misunderstanding and my insulting treatment of him whichhave kept you two apart--here, at any rate. "

"Don't let that worry you, Caroline. I see him every once in a while, upto the city. "

"It does worry me; and it will, until it is made right. And, " in a lowertone, but with decision, "it shall be. "

She rose and, bending over, kissed him on the forehead. "Good night, Uncle, " she said. 

Captain Elisha was disappointed. "What!" he exclaimed. "Goin' aloft sosoon? We ain't had our readin' yet. Pretty early to turn in, seems tome. Stay a little longer, do. "

"Not to-night, dear. I'm going to my room. Please excuse me this time. "She turned to go and then, turning back again, asked a final question. 

"You're sure, " she said, hesitatingly; "you're quite sure he will notcome here--to you--if you tell him I understand, and--and you ask him?"

"Well, Caroline, I don't know. You see, I was responsible for his comin'before. He had some scruples against it then, but I talked him down. He's sort of proud, Jim is, and he might--might not want to--to--"

"I see. Good night, Uncle. "

The next morning, after breakfast, she came to him again. 

"Uncle Elisha, " she said, "I have written him. "

"What? You've written? Written who?"

"Mr. Pearson. I wrote him, telling him I had learned the true story ofhis disagreement with father and that he was right and I was wrong. Iapologized for my behavior toward him. Now, I think, perhaps, if you askhim, he will come. "

The captain looked at her. He realized the sacrifice of her pride whichwriting that letter must have meant, and that she had done it for him. He was touched and almost sorry she had done it. He took both her handsin his. 

"Dearie, " he said, "you shouldn't have done that. I didn't expect youto. I know you did it just for my sake. I won't say I ain't glad; I am, in one way. But 'twa'n't necessary, and 'twas too much, too hard for youaltogether. "

"Don't say that, " she begged. "Too much! I never can do enough. Comparedto what you have done for me it--it. .. . Oh, please let me do what littleI can. But, Uncle Elisha, promise me one thing; promise that you willnot ask me to meet him, if he should come. That I couldn't do, even foryou. "

CHAPTER XXI

Promises of that kind are easier to make than to keep. The captainpromised promptly enough, but the Fates were against him. He made it hisbusiness to go to town the very next day and called upon his friend. Hefound the young man in a curiously excited and optimistic frame of mind, radically different from that of the past few months. The manuscript ofthe novel was before him on the desk, also plenty of blank paper. His fountain-pen was in his hand, although apparently, he had writtennothing that morning. But he was going to--oh, yes, he was going to! Hewas feeling just in the mood. He had read his manuscript, and it was notso bad; by George, some of the stuff was pretty good! And the endwas not so far off. Five or six chapters more and the thing would befinished. He would have to secure a publisher, of course, but two hadalready expressed an interest; and so on. 

Captain Elisha drew his own conclusions. He judged that his niece'sletter had reached its destination. He did not mention it, however, nordid Pearson. But when the captain hinted at the latter's running out tothe house to see him some time or other, the invitation was accepted. 

"That's fine, Jim, " declared the visitor. "Come any time. I want youto see what a nice little place I've got out there. Don't stand onceremony, come--er--next week, say. " Then, mindful of his promise, headded, "You and I'll have it all to ourselves. I've been cal'latin' tohire a sail-boat for the summer; got my eye on a capable little sloopbelongin' to a feller on the Sound shore. If all goes well I'll closethe deal in a few days. I'll meet you at the depot and we'll have a sailand get dinner at a hotel or somewheres, and then we'll come up to thehouse and take a whack at Cap'n Jim's doin's in the new chapters. Justyou and I together in the settin' room; hey?"

Pearson did not seem so enthusiastic over this programme, although headmitted that it sounded tip-top. 

"How is Miss Warren?" he asked, mentioning the name with a nonchalanceremarkable, considering that he had not done so before for weeks. "Sheis well, I hope?"

"Yes, she's fust-rate, thank you. Very well, everything considered. Shekeeps to herself a good deal. Don't care to meet many folks, and youcan't hardly blame her. "

Pearson admitted that, and the remainder of the call was largely amonologue by Captain Elisha. 

"Well, then, Jim, " said the latter, when he rose to go, "you come upMonday or Tuesday of next week. Will you?"

"Yes. I--I think so. "

"Don't think, do it. Let me know what train you're comin' on, and I'llmeet you at the depot. "

This last remark was what upset calculations. Pearson came on Monday, having written the day before. He did not mail the note himself, buttrusted it to Mrs. Hepton, who was going out to attend evening service. She forgot it until the next day. So it happened that when he alightedfrom the train at the suburban station the captain was not there tomeet him. He waited a while, and then, inquiring the way of the stationagent, walked up to the house by himself. As he turned in at the frontwalk, Caroline came out of the door. They met, face to face. 

It was a most embarrassing situation, particularly for Caroline; yet, with feminine resourcefulness, she dissembled her embarrassment to someextent and acknowledged his stammered, "Good afternoon, Miss Warren, "with a cool, almost cold, "How do you do, Mr. Pearson?" which chilledhis pleasure at seeing her and made him wish devoutly that he had notbeen such a fool as to come. However, there he was, and he hastilyexplained his presence by telling her of the captain's invitation forthat day, how he had expected to meet him at the station, and, notmeeting him, had walked up to the house. 

"Is he in?" he asked. 

No, Captain Elisha was not in. He had gone to see the sail-boat man. Nothearing from his friend, he concluded the latter would not come untilthe next day. 

"He will be so sorry, " said Caroline. 

Pearson was rather thankful than otherwise. The captain's absenceafforded him an opportunity to escape from a place where he was plainlyunwelcome. 

"Oh, never mind, " he said. "It is not important. I can run outanother day. Just tell him I called, Miss Warren, please; that I wroteyesterday, but my letter must have gone astray. Good afternoon. "

He was turning to go, but she stopped him. She had fully made up hermind that, when he came, she would not meet him--remembering how she hadtreated him on the evening of her birthday, she would be ashamed tolook him in the face. Besides, she could not meet him after writing thatletter; it would be too brazen; he would think--all sorts of things. When he visited her uncle she would remain in her room, or go to thecity or somewhere. 

But now she had met him. And he had come in response to her uncle'sinvitation, given because she herself had pleaded that it should be. Tolet him go away would be rude and ridiculous; and how could she explainto the captain?

"You mustn't go, Mr. Pearson, " she said. "You must come in and wait;Captain Warren will be back soon, I'm sure. "

"Thank you; but I think I won't wait. I can come another time. "

"But you must wait. I insist. Uncle Elisha will be dreadfullydisappointed if you don't. There isn't a train for an hour, and he willreturn before that, I am sure. Please come in. "

Pearson was reluctant, but he could think of no reasonable excuse. So heentered the house, removed his overcoat and hat, and seated himself inthe living room to await the captain's return. Caroline excused herself, saying that she had an errand at the shop in the village. She made thaterrand as long as she could, but when she returned he was still there, and Captain Elisha had not appeared. 

The conversation was forced, for a time. Each felt the embarrassment, and Pearson was still resentful of the manner in which she had greetedhim on his arrival. But, as he looked at her, the resentment vanished, and the other feeling, that which he had determined to forget, returned. Captain Elisha had told him how brave she had been through it all, and, contrasting the little house with the former home, remembering the lossof friends and fortune, to say nothing of the unmasking of those whomshe believed were her nearest and dearest, he wondered and admired morethan ever. He understood how very hard it must have been for her towrite that letter to him, a letter in which she justified his courseat the cost of her own father's honor. He longed to tell her that heunderstood and appreciated. 

At last he could not resist the temptation. 

"Miss Warren, " he said, "please excuse my speaking of this, but I must;I must thank you for writing me as you did. It was not necessary, itwas too much to expect, too hard a thing for you to do. It makes me feelguilty. I--"

"Please don't!" she interrupted. "Don't speak in that way. It was right. It was what I should have done long ago. "

"But it was not necessary; I understood. I knew you had heard anotherversion of the story and that you felt I had been ungrateful and mean, to say the least, in my conduct toward your father. I knew that; I havenever blamed you. And you writing as you did--"

"I did it for my uncle's sake, " she broke in, quickly. "You are hisclosest friend. "

"I know, but I appreciate it, nevertheless. I--I wish you would considerme your friend as well as his. I do, sincerely. "

"Thank you. I need friends, I know. I have few now, which is notstrange, " rather bitterly. 

He protested earnestly. "I did not mean it in that way, " he said. "Itis an honor and a great privilege to be one of your friends. I had thathonor and privilege once. May I have it again?"

"Thank you, Mr. Pearson. .. . Now tell me about your novel. I rememberit all so well. And I am very much interested. You must have it nearlycompleted. Tell me about it, please. "

They were deep in the discussion of the novel when Captain Elisha walkedinto the living room. He was surprised, stating his feelings at theirmildest, to find them together, but he did not express his astonishment. Instead, he hailed Pearson delightedly, demanded to know if they haddared tackle Cap'n Jim without the "head doctor's" being on the scene;and insisted upon the author's admitting him to the "clinic" forthwith. Pearson did not take the next train, nor the next. Instead, he stayedfor dinner and well into the evening, and when he did go it was after aprompt acceptance of the captain's invitation to "come again in a mightylittle while. "

Caroline, when she and her uncle were alone after their visitor'sdeparture, made no protest against the invitation having been given. She did not speak of Pearson at all. Captain Elisha also talked of otherthings, principally about the sail-boat, the summer lease of which hehad arranged that afternoon. He declared the sloop to be an "able craftof her tonnage" and that they would have some good times aboard her orhe missed his guess. In his own room, when ready for bed, he favored hisreflection in the glass with a broad smile and a satisfied wink, fromwhich proceeding it may be surmised that the day had not been a bad one, according to his estimate. 

Pearson came again a week later, and thereafter frequently. The sessionswith Cap'n Jim and his associates were once more regular happeningsto be looked forward to and enjoyed by the three. As the weather grewwarmer, the sloop--Captain Elisha had the name she formerly bore paintedout and Caroline substituted--proved to be as great a source of pleasureas her new skipper had prophesied. He and his niece--and occasionallyPearson--sailed and picnicked on the Sound, and Caroline's pallordisappeared under the influence of breeze and sunshine. Her healthimproved, and her spirits, also. She seemed, at times, almost happy, and her uncle seldom saw her, as after the removal to the suburb heso frequently used, with tears in her eyes and the sadness of bittermemories in her expression and manner. Her work at the University grewsteadily more difficult, but she enjoyed it thoroughly and declared thatshe would not give it up for worlds. 

In June two very important events took place. The novel was finished, and Stephen, his Sophomore year at an end, came home from college. Hehad been invited by some classmates to spend a part of his vacation withthem on the Maine coast, and his guardian had consented to his doing so;but the boy himself had something else to propose. On an evening soonafter his return, when, his sister having retired, he was alone with thecaptain, he broached the idea. 

"Say, " he said, "I've been thinking a good deal while I've been awaythis last time. "

"Glad to hear it, I'm sure, " replied his uncle, dryly. 

"Yes. I've been thinking--about a good many things. I'm flat broke; downand out, so far as money is concerned. That's so, isn't it?"

Captain Elisha looked at him keenly for an instant. Then:

"It appears that way, I'm afraid, " he answered. "What made you ask?"

"Nothing. I wasn't asking, really; I was just stating the case. Now, theway I look at it, this college course of mine isn't worth while. You'reputting up for it, and I ought to be much obliged; I am, of course. "

"You're welcome, Stevie. "

"I know; but what's the use of it? I've got to go to work when it'sover. And the kind of work I want to do doesn't need universitytraining. I'm just wasting time; that's what I'm doing. "

"Humph! I ain't so sure about that. But what sort of work do you want todo?"

"I want to be down on the Street, as the governor was. If this RubberCompany business hadn't knocked us out, I intended, as soon as I was ofage, to take that seat of his and start in for myself. Well, that chancehas gone, but I mean to get in some way, though I have to start at thefoot of the ladder. Now why can't I leave college and start now? It willbe two years gained, won't it?"

Captain Elisha seemed pleased, but he shook his head. 

"How do you know you'd like it?" he asked. "You've never tried. "

"No, I never have; but I'll like it all right. I know I shall. It's whatI've wanted to do ever since I was old enough to think of such things. Just let me start in now, right away, and I'll show you. I'll make good;you see if I don't. "

He was very earnest. The captain deliberated before answering. 

"Stevie, " he said, doubtfully, "I rather like to hear you talk thatway; I own up it pleases me. But, as to your givin' up college--that'sdifferent. Let me think it over for a day or two; that is, if you canput off the Maine trip so long as that. "

"Hang the Maine trip! You let me get into business, the business I wantto get into, and I won't ask for a vacation; you can bet on that!"

"All right then. I'll think, and do some questionin' around, and reportsoon's I've decided what's best. "

He laid the stump of his cigar in the ash receiver and rose from hischair. But his nephew had not finished. 

"There was something else I intended to say, " he announced, but withless eagerness. 

"That so? What?"

"Why--why, just this. " He fidgeted with his watch chain, colored andwas evidently uneasy. "I guess--" he hesitated--"I guess that I haven'ttreated you as I ought. "

"I want to know! You guess that, hey? Why?"

"Oh, you know why. I've been thinking since I went back to New Haven. I've had a chance to think. Some of the fellows in the set I used to bethick with up there have learned that I'm broke, and they--they aren'tas friendly as they were. Not all of them, of course, but some. AndI wouldn't chase after them; not much! If they wanted to drop me theycould. You bet I didn't try to hang on! I was pretty sore for a whileand kept to myself and--well, I did a lot of thinking. I guess Caro isright; you've been mighty decent to her and me. "

He paused, but Captain Elisha made no comment. 

"I guess you have, " continued Stephen, soberly. "When you first came, you know, Caroline and I couldn't understand. We thought you werebutting in and weren't our sort, and--and--"

"And a hayseed nuisance generally; I know. Heave ahead, son; youinterest me. "

"Well, we didn't like it. And Mal Dunn and his mother were alwayssympathizing and insinuating, and we believed they were our bestfriends, and all that. So we didn't try to understand you or--or evenmake it livable for you. Then, after the news came that the money hadgone, I acted like a kid, I guess. That business of making Mal stickto the engagement was pretty silly. I was nearly desperate, you see, and--and--you knew it was silly. You never took any stock in it, didyou?"

The captain smiled. 

"Not a heap, " he admitted. 

"No. All you wanted was to show them up. Well, you did it, and I'm gladyou did. But Caro and I have talked it over since I've been home, andwe agree that you've been a great deal better to us than we deserve. Youdidn't _have_ to take care of us at all, any more, after the money went. By gad! considering how we treated you, I don't see why you did. _I_wouldn't. But you did--and you are. You've given us a home, and you'reputting me through college and--and--"

"That's all right, son. Good night. "

"Just a minute. I--I--well, if you let me, I'd like to thank youand--and ask your pardon. "

"Granted, my boy. And never mind the thanks, either. Just keep onthinkin' and actin' as you have to-night, and I'll be satisfied. I wantto see my nephew makin' a man of himself--a real man; and, Steve, youtalk more like a man to-night than I've ever heard you. Stick to it, andyou'll do yet. As for goin' to work, you let me chew on that for a fewdays. "

The next morning he called on Sylvester, who in turn took him to afriend of his, a broker--employing a good-sized staff of clerks. Thethree had a consultation, followed, the day after, by another. Thatevening the captain made a definite proposal to Stephen. It was, briefly, that, while not consenting to the latter's leaving college, hedid consider that a trial of the work in a broker's office might bea good thing. Therefore, if the young man wished, he could enter theemploy of Sylvester's friend and remain during July and August. 

"You'll leave about the first of September, Steve, " he said, "andthat'll give you time for the two weeks vacation that you ought to have. Then you can go back to Yale and pitch in till the next summer, when thesame job'll be ready for you. After you're through college for good, ifwhat you've learned about brokerin' ain't cured you of your likin' forit--if you still want to go ahead with it for your life job, then--well, then we'll see. What do you say?"

Stephen had a good deal to say, principally in the line of objection tocontinuing his studies. Finding these objections unavailing, he agreedto his guardian's proposition. 

"All right, " said the captain; "then you can go to work next Monday. Butyou'll _have_ to work, and be just the same as any other beginner, nobetter and no worse. There'll be no favoritism, and, if you're reallywuth your salt, you won't want any. Show 'em, and me, that you're wuthit. "

The novel, the wonderful tale which Captain Elisha was certain wouldmake its author famous, was finished that very day in June when Stephencame back from New Haven. The question of title remained, and the"clinic, " now re�nforced by Steve--whose dislike for Pearsonhad apparently vanished with others of his former likes anddislikes--considered that at several sessions. At last "The Man at theWheel" was selected, as indicating something of the hero's professionand implying, perhaps, a hint of his character. Then came thefateful task of securing a publisher. And the first to whom it wassubmitted--one of the two firms which had already expressed a desire toread the manuscript--accepted it, at what, for a first novel, werevery fair terms. During the summer there was proof to be read andillustrations to be criticized. Captain Elisha did not wholly approve ofthe artist's productions. 

"Jerushy!" he exclaimed, "look at that mainmast! Look at the rake of it!More like a yacht than a deep-water bark, she is enough sight. And thefust mate's got a uniform cap on, like a purser on a steamboat. Makethat artist feller take that cap off him, Jim. He's got to. I wish hecould have seen some of my mates. They wa'n't Cunarder dudes, but theycould make a crew hop 'round like a sand-flea in a clam bake. "

Or, when the picture happened to be a shore view:

"What kind of a house is that? Did you ever see a house like thatDown-East? I'll leave it to anybody if it don't look like a sugar man'splantation I used to know down Mobile way. All that feller standin'by the door needs is to have his face blacked; then he'd start singin''S'wanee River. ' This ain't 'Uncle Tom's Cabin. ' Bah!"

The advance copy, the first one, was ready early in September, and theauthor, of course, brought it immediately to his friends. They foundthe dedication especially interesting: "To C. W. And E. W. , consultingspecialists at the literary clinics, with grateful acknowledgments. "Probably Captain Elisha was never prouder of anything, even his firstcommand, than of that dedication. 

And the story, when at last it appeared for sale, was almost from thebeginning a success. The reviewers praised it, the reading public--thatfinal court of appeal which makes or unmakes novels--took kindly to it, and discussed and recommended it; and, most important of all, perhaps, it sold and continued to sell. There was something in it, its humanity, its simplicity, its clearly marked characters, which made a hit. Pearsonno longer needed to seek publishers; they sought him. His short storieswere bid for by the magazines, and his prices climbed and climbed. He found himself suddenly planted in the middle of the highway toprosperity, with a clear road ahead of him, provided he continued to dohis best. 

In September Stephen gave up his work at the broker's office, spent theweeks with his friends in Maine, and then returned to Yale. He gave upthe position on the Street with reluctance. He was sure he liked itnow, he declared. It was what he was fitted for, and he meant, more thanever, to take it up permanently as soon as he was free. And his employertold Captain Elisha that the youngster was bright, clever, and apt. "Alittle conceited, needs taking down occasionally, but that is the onlytrouble. He has been spoiled, I should imagine, " he said. 

"Yup, " replied the captain, with emphasis; "your imagination's a goodone. It don't need cultivatin' any. "

The novel being out of the way, and its successor not yet far enoughadvanced in plot or general plan for much discussion, the "literaryclinics" were no longer as frequent. But Pearson's visits to the Warrenhouse were not discontinued. All summer long he had been coming out, once, and usually twice, a week. Captain Elisha had told him not tostand on formality, to come any time, and he did. On most of theseoccasions he found the captain at home; but, if only Caroline was there, he seemed quite contented. She did not remark on the frequency of hisvisits. In fact, she mentioned him less and less in conversation withher uncle. But, as the autumn came and moved towards its prime sheseemed, to the captain's noticing eye, a trifle more grave, a littlemore desirous of being by herself. Sometimes he found her sitting bythe open fire--pleasant in the cool October evenings--and gazing verysoberly at the blaze. She had been in good spirits, more merry andlight-hearted than he had ever seen her, during the latter part ofthe summer; now her old sadness seemed to be returning. It would havetroubled him, this change in her mood, if he had not believed he knewthe cause. 

He was planning a glorious Thanksgiving. At least, it would be gloriousto him, for he intended spending the day, and several days, at his ownhome in South Denboro. Abbie Baker had made him promise to do it, and hehad agreed. He would not leave Caroline, of course; she was going withhim. Steve would be there, though he would not come until ThanksgivingDay itself. Sylvester, also, would be of the party; he seemed delightedat the opportunity. 

"I'm curious to see the place where they raise fellows like you, " thelawyer said. "It must be worth looking at. "

"Graves don't think so, " chuckled the captain. "I invited him, andhe said, 'No, thank you' so quick that the words was all telescopedtogether. And he shivered, too, when he said it; just as if he feltthat sou'west gale whistlin' between his bones even now. I told himI'd pretty nigh guarantee that no more trees would fall on him, but itdidn't have any effect. "

Pearson was asked and had accepted. His going was so far a settled thingthat he had commissioned Captain Elisha to purchase a stateroom for himon the Fall River boat; for of course the captain would not considertheir traveling the entire distance by train. At an interview in theyoung man's room in the boarding house, only three days before the dateset for the start, he had been almost as enthusiastic as the Cape Codderhimself. The pair had planned several side excursions, time and weatherpermitting, among them a trip across the Sound to Setuckit Point, withthe possibility of some late sea-fowl shooting and a long tramp to oneof the life-saving stations, where Pearson hoped to pick up material forhis new book. He was all anticipation and enthusiasm when the captainleft him, and said he would run out to the house the following day, tomake final arrangements. 

That day Sylvester 'phoned, asking Captain Elisha to come to his officeon a matter of business. When, having done so, the captain, returning, alighted at his home station, he was surprised to see Pearson standingon the platform. 

"Why, hello, Jim!" he exclaimed. "What are you doing here? Just come, have you?"

His friend shook his head. "No, Captain Warren, " he said; "I'm justgoing. "

"Goin'? What for? Been up to the house, of course? Caroline told youwhere I'd gone and that I was cal'latin' to hurry back, didn't she?"

"Yes. "

"Well, then, course you ain't goin'! You're goin' to stay to dinner. I've got some things to tell you about that life-savin' station cruise. I've been thinkin' that I know the cap'n and most of the crew on thelightship off back of the Point. How'd you like to go aboard of her? Youcould get some yarns from those fellers that might be wuth hearin'. "

"I have no doubt I should. But I'm afraid I can't go. The fact is, Captain, I've decided not to spend Thanksgiving with you, after all. "

"Hey?" Captain Elisha could scarcely believe he had heard correctly. "You can't go--to South Denboro?"

"No. "

"Why not, for the land sakes?"

"Well, I've decided--I've decided not to. "

"But, Jim! Why, I can't have it so! I'm dreadful disappointed. I'vecounted on your goin'. So has Abbie. She's read your book, and she saysshe's crazy to see the feller that wrote it. She's told the ministerand a whole lot more, and they're all comin' in to look at you. 'Tain'toften we have a celebrated character in our town. You've _got_ to go. "

"Thank you, Captain. I appreciate the invitation and your kindness, but, " with decision, "I can't accept. "

"Can't you come later? Say Thanksgivin' mornin'? Or even the day after?"

"No. "

"But why not? What's the matter with you all of a sudden? Come here! letme look at you. "

He took the young man by the arm and led him, almost by main strength, close to the lighted window of the station. It was late, and theafternoon was gloomy. Here, by the lamplight streaming through thewindow, he could see his face more clearly. He looked at it. 

"Humph!" he grunted, after a moment's scrutiny. "You've made up yourmind; I can see that. Have you told Caroline? Does she know?"

"Yes. You'll have to excuse me, Captain Warren; my train is coming. "

"What did she say?"

Pearson smiled, but there was little mirth in the smile. "I think sheagrees with me that it is best, " he observed. 

"Humph! She does, hey? I want to know! Look here, Jim! have you andshe--"

He got no further, for Pearson broke away, and, with a hurried "Goodnight, " strode up the platform to meet the city-bound train. CaptainElisha watched it go and then walked slowly homeward, his hands in hispockets, troubled and wondering. 

He entered the house by the back door, a remnant of South Denboro habit, and found Annie in the kitchen. 

"Where's Caroline?" he asked. 

"She's in the living room, sir, I think. Mr. Pearson has been here andjust gone. "

"Um-hm. So I heard. Say, Annie, you needn't hurry dinner; I ain't readyfor it yet awhile. "

He hung his coat and hat in the back hall and quietly entered the livingroom. The lamp was not lighted, and the room was dark, but he saw hisniece, a shadowy figure, seated by the window. He crossed to her side. 

"Well, Caroline, " he said, cheerfully, "I'm home again. "

She turned. "I see you are, " she answered. 

"Humph! your eyes must be better than mine then. I can't see anything inhere. It's darker than a nigger's pocket. Suppose we turn on the glim. "

He struck a match as he said it. By its light he saw her face. The matchburned down to his finger tips and then he extinguished it. 

"I don't know but the dark is just as good and more economical, " heobserved. "No use of encouragin' the graspin' ile trust unless it'snecessary. Let's you and me sit here in the dark and talk. No objectionto talkin' to your back country relation, have you?"

"No. "

"That's good. Well, Caroline, I'm goin' to talk plain again. You canorder me to close my hatch any time you feel like it; that's skipper'sprivilege, and you're boss of this craft, you know. Dearie, I just metJim Pearson. He tells me he's decided not to go on this Cape cruise ofours. He said you agreed with him 'twas best he shouldn't go. Do youmind tellin' me why?"

She did not answer. He waited a minute and then continued. 

"Course, I know I ain't got any real right to ask, " he went on; "but Ithink more of you and Jim than I do of anybody else, and so maybe you'llexcuse me. Have you and he had a fallin' out?"

Still she was silent. He sighed. "Well, " he observed, "I see you have, and I don't blame you for not wantin' to talk about it. I'm awful sorry. I'd begun to hope that. .. . However, we'll change the subject. Or wewon't talk at all, if you'd rather not. "

Another pause. Then she laid her hand on his. 

"Uncle, " she said, "you know I always want to talk to you. And, as forthe right to ask, you have the right to ask anything of me at any time. And I should have told you, of my own accord, by and by. Mr. Pearson andI have not quarreled; but I think--I think it best that I should not seehim again. "

"You do? Not see him--any more--at all? Why, Caroline!"

"Not for a long, long time, at least. It would only make it harder--forhim; and it's of no use. "

Captain Elisha sighed again. "I guess I understand, Caroline. I presumelikely I do. He--he asked somethin' of you--and you couldn't say yes tohim. That was it, I suppose. Needn't tell me unless you really want to, you understand, " he added, hastily. 

"But I do. I ought to tell you. I should have told you before, andperhaps, if I had, he would not have . .. Uncle Elisha, Mr. Pearson askedme to be his wife. "

The captain gave no evidence of surprise. 

"Yes, " he replied, gravely, "I judged that was it. And you told him youcouldn't, I suppose. Well, dearie, that's a question nobody ought toanswer but the one. She's the only one that knows what that answershould be, and, when other folks interfere and try to influence, itgenerally means trouble. I'm kind of disappointed; I'll own up to that. I think Jim is a fine, honest, able young man, and he'd make a goodhusband, I'm sure. And, so far as his business, or profession, orwhatever you call it, goes, he's doin' pretty well and sartin to dobetter. Of course, 'twa'n't that that kept you from--"

"Uncle Elisha! Am _I_ so rich that I should--"

"There! there, my girl! I know 'twa'n't that, of course. I was onlythinkin' out loud, that's all--tryin' to find reasons. You didn't carefor him enough, I suppose. Caroline, you don't care for anybody else, doyou? You don't still care for that other feller, that--"

"Uncle!" she sprang up, hurt and indignant. "How can you?" she cried. "How could you ask that? What must you think of me?"

"Please, Caroline, " he protested; "please don't. I beg your pardon. Iwas a fool! I knew better. Don't go. Tell me the real reason. Sit downagain and let's talk this out. Do sit down! that's it. Now tell me; wasit that you couldn't care for Jim enough?"

She hesitated. 

"Was it?" he repeated. 

"I--I like Mr. Pearson very much. I respect and admire him. "

"But you don't love him. I see. Well, " sadly, "there's another one of mydreams gone to smash. However, you did just right, dearie. Feelin' thatway, you couldn't marry him, of course. "

He would have risen now, and she detained him. 

"That was not the reason, " she said, in a low tone. 

"Hey?" he bent toward her. "What?" he cried. "That wa'n't the reason, you say? You do care for him?"

She was silent. 

"Do you?" he repeated, gently. "And yet you sent him away. Why?"

She faltered, tried to speak, and then turned away. He put his arm abouther and stroked her hair. 

"Don't you cry, dearie, " he begged. "I won't bother you any more. Youcan tell me some other time--if you want to. Or you needn't tell meat all. It's all right; only don't cry. 'Cause if you do, " with suddendetermination, "I shall cry, too; and, bein' as I ain't used to theexercise, I may raise such a row that Annie'll send for the constable. You wouldn't want that to happen, I know. "

This unexpected announcement had the desired effect; Caroline laughedhysterically and freed herself from his arm. 

"I mustn't be so silly, " she said. "I had made up my mind to tell youeverything, and I shall. My not caring for Mr. Pearson was not my reasonfor refusing him. The reasons were two--you and Steve. "

"Me and Steve? What in the world have we got to do with it?"

"Everything. He would marry me, poor as I am; and perhaps I--perhapsI should say yes if things were different. Oh, there is no use mydeceiving you, or trying to deceive myself! I know I should say yes, andbe very, very happy. But I can't! and I won't! I _won't_!"

"But why? And where, for mercy's sake, do Steve and I come in?"

"Uncle Elisha, I suppose you think I have been perfectly satisfied tolet you take care of me and of my brother, and give us a home and allthat we needed and more. No doubt you thought me selfish enough to becontented with that and go on as I am--as we are--living on your bounty. You had reason to think so. But I have not been contented with that, norhas Steve. He and I have made our plans, and we shall carry them out. Hewill leave college in two years and go to work in earnest. Before thattime I shall be ready to teach. I have been studying with just that ideain view. "

"Good land! Why, no, you ain't! You've been studyin' to help me andAnnie run this house. "

"That was only part of it--the smallest part. I haven't told you before, Uncle, but one of the Domestic Science teachers at the University is agirl I used to know slightly. She is going to be married next year, and, if all goes well, I may be appointed to her position when she leaves. Ihave a conditional promise already. If I am, why, then, you see, I shallreally be earning my own living; you will not have to give up your ownhome and all your interests there to make me comfortable: you can--"

"Here! here!" Captain Elisha put in, desperately; "don't talk soridiculous, Caroline. I ain't givin' up anything. I never was more happythan I've been right here with you this summer. I'm satisfied. "

"I know, but I am not. And neither is Steve. He and I have planned itall. His salary at first will be small, and so will mine. But togetherwe can earn enough to live somehow and, later on, when he earns more, perhaps we may be able to repay a little of all that you have given us. We shall try. _I_ shall insist upon it. "

"Caroline Warren, is _that_ the reason you sent Jim away? Did you tellhim that? Did you tell him you wouldn't marry him on account of me?"

"No, of course I did not, " indignantly. "I told him--I said I must notthink of marriage; it was impossible. And it is! You _know_ it is, UncleElisha!"

"I don't know any such thing. If you want to make me happy, Caroline, you couldn't find a better way than to be Jim Pearson's wife. And youwould be happy, too; you said so. "

"But I am not thinking of happiness. It is my duty--to you and to my ownself-respect. And not only that, but to Steve. Someone must provide ahome for him. Neither he nor I will permit you to do it a day longerthan is necessary. I am his sister and I shall not leave him. "

"But you won't have to leave him. Steve's future's all fixed. I'veprovided for Steve. "

"What do you mean?"

"What I say. " The captain was very much excited and, for once, completely off his guard. "I've had plans for Steve all along. He'sdoin' fust-rate in that broker's office, learnin' the trade. Next summerhe'll have another whack at it and learn more. When he's out of collegeI'm goin' to turn over your dad's seat on the Stock Exchange to him. Notgive it to him, you know--not right off--but let him try; and then, ifhe makes a good fist at it, he'll have it permanent. Steve's got thebest chance in the world. He couldn't ask much better, seems to me. Youain't got to fret yourself about Steve. "

He paused, almost out of breath. He had been speaking rapidly so as toprevent interruption. Caroline's astonishment was too great for words, just then. Her uncle anxiously awaited her reply. 

"You see, don't you?" he asked. "You understand. Steve's goin' to havethe chance to make a good livin' at the very thing he declares he's seton doin'. I ain't told him, and I don't want you to, but it's what I'veplanned for him and--"

"Wait! wait, Uncle, please! The Stock Exchange seat? Father's seat? Idon't see. .. . I don't understand. "

"Yes, yes!" eagerly; "your pa's seat. I've meant it for Steve. There'sbeen chances enough to sell it, but I wouldn't do that. 'Twas for him, Caroline; and he's goin' to have it. "

"But I don't see how. .. . Why, I thought--"

The door of the dining room opened. Annie appeared on the threshold. 

"Dinner is served, " she announced. 

"Be right there, Annie. Now you see that you ain't got to worry aboutSteve, don't you, Caroline?"

His niece did not answer. By the light from the doorway he saw that shewas gazing at him with a strange expression. She looked as if she wasabout to ask another question. He waited, but she did not ask it. 

"Well, " he said, rising, "we won't talk any more just now. Annie'ssoup's gettin' cold, and she'll be in our wool if we don't have dinner. Afterwards we can have another session. Come, Caroline. "

She also rose, but hesitated. "Uncle Elisha, " she said, "will you excuseme if I don't talk any more to-night? And, if you don't mind, I won'tdine with you. I'm not hungry and--and my head aches. I'll go to myroom, I think. "

"Yes, yes, " he said, hastily, "of course. I'm afraid I've talked toomuch as 'tis. You go up and lie down, and Annie can fetch you some toastand tea or somethin' by and by. But do just answer me this, Caroline, ifyou can: When you told Jim marryin' was out of the question for you, didhe take that as final? Was he contented with that? Didn't he say he waswillin' to wait for you, or anything?"

"Yes, he said he would wait, always. But I told him he must not. And Itold him he must go and not see me again. I couldn't see him as I havebeen doing; Uncle, I couldn't!"

"I know, dearie, I know. But didn't you say anything more? Didn't yougive him _any_ hope?"

"I said, " she hesitated, and added in a whisper, "I said if I shouldever need him or--or change my mind, I would send for him. I shouldn'thave said it. It was weak and wicked of me, but I said it. Please let mego now, Uncle dear. Good night. "

She kissed him and hurried away. He ate his lonely dinnerabsent-mindedly and with little appetite. After it was finished he satin the living room, the lamp still unlighted, smoking and thinking. 

And in her chamber Caroline, too, sat thinking--not altogether of theman she loved and who loved her. She thought of him, of course; butthere was something else, an idea, a suspicion, which over and overagain she dismissed as an utter impossibility, but which returned asoften. 

The Stock Exchange seat had been a part of her father's estate, apart of her own and Steve's inheritance. Sylvester had told her so, distinctly. And such a seat was valuable; she remembered her brotherreading in the paper that one had recently sold for ninety thousanddollars. How could Captain Warren have retained such a costly part ofthe forfeited estate in his possession? For it was in his possession;he was going to give it to her brother when the latter left college. Buthow could he have obtained it? Not by purchase; for, as she knew, he wasnot worth half of ninety thousand dollars. Surely the creditor, the manwho had, as was his right, seized all Rodgers Warren's effects, wouldnot have left that and taken the rest. Not unless he was a curiouslyphilanthropic and eccentric person. Who was he? Who was this mysteriousman her father had defrauded? She had never wished to know before; nowshe did. And the more she pondered, the more plausible her suspicionbecame. It was almost incredible, it seemed preposterous; but, as shewent back, in memory, over the events since her father's death and thedisclosure of his astonishing will, little bits of evidence, littlehappenings and details came to light, trifles in themselves, but allfitting in together, like pieces of an inscription in mosaic, to spellthe truth. 

CHAPTER XXII

November weather on Cape Cod is what Captain Elisha described as"considerable chancey. " "The feller that can guess it two days aheadof time, " he declared, "is wastin' his talents; he could make a livin'prophesyin' most anything, even the market price of cranberries. " WhenCaroline, Sylvester, and the captain reached South Denboro after whatseemed, to the two unused to the leisurely winter schedule of therailroad, an interminable journey from Fall River, the girl thoughtshe had never seen a more gloomy sky or a more forbidding scene. Gray clouds, gray sea, brown bare fields; the village of white orgray-shingled houses set, for the most part, along the winding mainstreet; the elms and silver-leaf poplars waving bare branches in thecutting wind; a picture of the fag end of loneliness and desolation, soit looked to her. She remembered Mr. Graves's opinion of the place, asjokingly reported by Sylvester, and she sympathized with the dignifiedjunior partner. 

But she kept her feelings hidden on her uncle's account. The captainwas probably the happiest individual in the state of Massachusetts thatmorning. He hailed the train's approach to Sandwich as the entrance toOstable County, the promised land, and, from that station on, excitedlypointed out familiar landmarks and bits of scenery and buildings withthe gusto and enthusiasm of a school boy. 

"That's Ostable court-house, " he cried, pointing. "And see--see thatred-roofed house right over there, just past that white church? That'swhere Judge Baxter lives; a mighty good friend of mine, the Judge is. Istopped to his house to dinner the night Graves came. "

A little further on he added, "'Twas about here that I spoke to Gravesfust. I noticed him sittin' right across the aisle from me, with a faceon him sour as a sasser of green tamarind preserves, and I thought I'dbe sociable. 'Tough night, ' I says. 'Umph, ' says he. 'Twa'n't a remarkcal'lated to encourage conversation, so I didn't try again--not till hisumbrella turned inside out on the Denboro platform. Ho! ho! I wish you'dhave seen his face _then_. "

At Denboro he pointed out Pete Shattuck's livery stable, where the horseand buggy came from which had been the means of transporting Graves andhimself to South Denboro. 

"See!" he cried. "See that feller holdin' up the corner of the depotwith his back! the one that's so broad in the beam he has to draw in hisbreath afore he can button his coat. That's Pete. You'd think he was toosleepy to care whether 'twas to-day or next week, wouldn't you? Well, ifyou was a summer boarder and wanted to hire a team, you'd find Pete wasawake and got up early. If a ten-cent piece fell off the shelf in themiddle of the night he'd hear it, though I've known him to sleep whilethe minister's barn burned down. The parson had been preachin' againsthorse-tradin'; maybe that sermon was responsible for some of themorphine influence. "

Sylvester was enjoying himself hugely. Captain Elisha's exuberantcomments were great fun for him. "This is what I came for, " he confidedto Caroline. "I don't care if it rains or snows. I could sit and listento your uncle for a year and never tire. He's a wonder. And I'm crazy tosee that housekeeper of his. If she lives up to her reputation there'llbe no disappointment in my Thanksgiving celebration. "

Dan, the captain's hired man, met them with the carriage at the station, and Miss Baker met them at the door of the Warren home. The exteriorof the big, old-fashioned, rambling house was inviting and homelike, in spite of the gloomy weather, and Caroline cheered up a bit when theyturned in at the gate. Five minutes of Miss Abigail's society, and allgloom disappeared. One could not be gloomy where Miss Abbie was. Hersmile of welcome was so broad that, as her employer said, "it took inall outdoor and some of Punkhorn Neck, " a place which, he hastened toadd, "was forgot durin' creation and has sort of happened of itselfsince. "

Abbie conducted Caroline to her room--old-fashioned, like the rest ofthe house, but cozy, warm, and cheery--and, after helping in the removalof her wraps, seized her by both hands and took a long look at her face. 

"You'll excuse my bein' so familiar on short acquaintance, dearie, " shesaid, "but I've heard so much about you that I feel's if I knew you likeown folks. And you are own folks, ain't you? Course you are! Everyone of'Lisha's letters have had four pages of you to one of anything else. Ibegun to think New York was nothin' but you and a whole lot of ten-storyhouses. He thinks so much of you that I'd be jealous, if I had thatkind of disposition and the time to spare. So I must have a good look atyou. .. . I declare! you're almost prettier than he said. May I kiss you?I'd like to. "

[Illustration: "'I declare! you're almost prettier than he said. May Ikiss you?'"]

She did, and they were friends at once. 

The rest of that day and evening were busy times. Captain Elisha showedhis visitors about the place, the barn, the cows, the pigpen--the pighimself had gone to fulfill the unhappy destiny of pigs, but they wouldmeet him by sections later on, so the captain assured them. The houseand buildings were spotless in paint and whitewash; the yard was rakedclean of every dead leaf and twig; the whole establishment was so neatthat Caroline remarked upon it. 

"It looks as if it had been scoured, " she said. 

"Um-hm, " observed her uncle, with a gratified nod; "that's Abbie. Shehates dirt worse than she does laziness, and that ain't sayin' a little. I tell her she'd sand-soap the weather vane if she could climb up toit; as 'tis, she stays below and superintends Dan while he does it. Ifgodliness wants to stay next to cleanliness when she's around it hasto keep on the jump. I always buy shirts two degrees heavier'n I need, 'cause I know she'll have 'em scrubbed thin in a fortni't. When it comesto _real_ Domestic Science, Caroline, Abbie ain't in the back row of theprimer class, now I tell you. "

Miss Baker had planned that her young guest should sit in state, withfolded hands, in the parlor. She seemed to consider that the properconduct for a former member of New York's best society. She was shockedwhen the girl volunteered to help her about the house. 

"Course I sha'n't let you, " she said. "The idea--and you company! Gotmore help than I know what to do with, as 'tis. 'Lisha was determinedthat I should hire a girl to wash dishes and things while you was here. Nothin' would do but that. So I got Annabel Haven's daughter, Etta G. There's fourteen in that family, and the land knows 'twas an act ofcharity takin' one appetite out of the house. Pay her fifty cents a day, I do, and she's out in the kitchen makin' believe wash windows. Theydon't need washin', but she was lookin' out of 'em most of the time, soI thought she might as well combine business with pleasure. "

But Caroline refused to sit in the parlor and be "company. " She insistedupon helping. Miss Baker protested and declared there was nothing onearth to be done; but her guest insisted that, if there was not, sheherself must sit. As Abbie would have as soon thought of attendingchurch without wearing her jet earrings as she would of sitting downbefore dinner, she gave in, after a while, and permitted Caroline tohelp in arranging the table. 

"Why, you do fust-rate!" she exclaimed, in surprise. "You know whereeverything ought to go, just as if you'd been settin' table all yourlife. And you ain't, because 'Lisha wrote you used to keep hired help, two or three of 'em, all the time. "

Caroline laughed. 

"I've been studying housekeeping for almost a year, " she said. 

"Studyin' it! Why, yes, now I remember 'Lisha wrote you'd been studyin'some kind of science at college. 'Twa'n't settin' table science, Iguess, though. Ha! ha!"

"That was part of it. " She explained the course briefly. Abigaillistened in amazement. 

"And they teach that--at school?" she demanded. "And take money for it?And call it _science_? My land! I guess I was brought up in a scientifichousehold, then. I was the only girl in the family, and mother died whenI was ten years old. "

After dinner she consented to sit for a time, though not until she haddonned her Sunday best, earrings and all. Captain Elisha and Sylvestersat with them, and the big fireplace in the sitting room blazed androared as it had not since its owner left for his long sojourn in thecity. In the evening callers came, the Congregational minister andhis wife, and some of the neighbors. The latter were pleasant countrypeople, another retired sea captain among them, and they all seemed tohave great respect and liking for Captain Elisha and to be very glad towelcome him home. The two captains spun salt water yarns, and the lawyeragain decided that he was getting just what he had come for. They lefta little after nine, and Caroline said good night and went to her room. She was tired, mentally and physically. 

But she did not fall asleep at once. Her mind was still busy with thesuspicion which her uncle's words concerning his future plans for Stevehad aroused. She had thought of little else since she heard them. Thecaptain did not mention the subject again; possibly, on reflection, he decided that he had already said too much. And she asked no morequestions. She determined not to question him--yet. She must thinkfirst, and then ask someone else--Sylvester. He knew the truth and, iftaken by surprise, might be driven into confession, if there should beanything to confess. She was waiting for an opportunity to be alone withhim, and that opportunity had not yet presented itself. 

The captain would have spoken further with her concerning James Pearson. He was eager to do that. But her mind was made up; she had sent herlover away, and it was best for both. She must forget him, if she could. So, when her uncle would have spoken on that subject, she begged him notto; and he, respecting her feelings and believing that to urge would bebad policy, refrained. 

But to forget, she found, was an impossibility. In the excitement of thejourney and the arrival amid new surroundings, she had managed tokeep up a show of good spirits, but now alone once more, with the windsinging mournfully about the gables and rattling the windows, she wassad and so lonely. She thought what her life had once promised to be andwhat it had become. She did not regret the old life, that life she hadknown before her father died; she had been happy in it while he lived, but miserable after his death. As for happiness, she had been happythat summer, happy with her uncle and with--him. And with him now, eventhough they would be poor, as she was used to reckoning poverty, sheknew she could be very happy. She wondered what he was doing then; if hewas thinking of her. She ought to hope that he was not, because it wasuseless; but she wished that he might be, nevertheless. Then she toldherself that all this was wicked; she had made up her mind; she must betrue to the task she had set, duty to her brother and uncle. 

Her uncle! why had her uncle done all this for her? And why had herfather made him their guardian? These were old questions, but now sheasked them with a new significance. If that strange suspicion of herswas true it would explain so much; it would explain almost everything. But it could not be true; if it was, why had he not told her when thediscovery of her father's dishonesty and of the note forfeiting theestate was made? Why had he not told her then? That was what troubledher most. It did not seem like him to do such a thing--not like hischaracter at all. Therefore, it could not be true. Yet she must know. She resolved to question Sylvester the next day, if possible. And, soresolving, she at last fell asleep. 

Her opportunity came the following morning, the day before Thanksgiving. After breakfast Captain Elisha went downtown to call on someacquaintances. He invited Caroline and the lawyer to accompany him, butthey refused, the latter because he judged his, a stranger's, presenceduring the calls would be something of a hindrance to good fellowshipand the discussion of town affairs which the captain was counting on, and Caroline because she saw her chance for the interview she so muchdesired. 

After the captain had gone, Sylvester sat down before the fire in thesitting room to read the Boston _Transcript_. As he sat there, Carolineentered and closed the door behind her. Miss Abigail was in the kitchen, busy with preparations for the morrow's plum pudding. 

The girl took the chair next that occupied by the lawyer. He put downhis paper and turned to her. 

"Well, " he asked, "how does this Cape Cod air effect your appetite, Caroline? I'm ashamed of mine. I'm rather glad to-morrow isThanksgiving; on that day, I believe, it is permissible, evencommendable, to eat three times more than a self-respecting personordinarily should. "

She smiled, but her answer was in the form of another question, andquite irrelevant. 

"Mr. Sylvester, " she said, "I wish you would tell me something about thevalue of a seat on the Stock Exchange. What is the price of one?"

The lawyer looked at her in surprise. 

"The value of a seat on the Stock Exchange?" he repeated. 

"Yes; what does it cost to buy one?"

He hesitated, wondering why she should be interested in that subject. Captain Elisha had not told him a word of the interview followingPearson's last visit. He wondered, and then surmised a reason--Stephen, of course. Steve's ambition was to be a broker, and his sister was, doubtless, with sisterly solicitude and feminine ignorance of highprices, planning for his future. 

"Well, " he replied, smiling, "they're pretty expensive, I'm afraid, Caroline. "

"Are they?" innocently. 

"Yes. I think the last sale was at a figure between ninety and onehundred thousand dollars. "

"Indeed! Was father's seat worth as much as that?"

"Yes. "

"But, " with a sigh, "that, I suppose, went with the rest of the estate. "

"Yes. "

"Into the hands of the man who took it all?"

"Yes; the same hands, " with a sly smile at his own private joke. 

"Then how does it happen that my uncle has it in his possession?"

The lawyer smiled no more. He turned in his chair and gazed quickly andkeenly at the young lady beside him. And her gaze was just as keen ashis own. 

"What did you say?" he asked. 

"I asked you how it happened that my uncle now has father's StockExchange seat in his possession. "

"Why!. .. Has he?"

"Yes. And I think you know he has, Mr. Sylvester. I know it, because hetold me so himself. _Didn't_ you know it?"

This was a line shot from directly in front and a hard one to dodge. A lie was the only guard, and he was not in the habit of lying, evenprofessionally. 

"I--I cannot answer these questions, " he declared. "They involveprofessional secrets and--"

"I don't see that this is a secret. My uncle has already told me. WhatI could not understand was how he obtained the seat from the man to whomit was given as a part of father's debt. Do you know how he obtainedit?"

"Er--well--er--probably an arrangement was made. I cannot go intodetails, because--well, for obvious reasons. You must excuse me, Caroline. "

He rose to go. 

"One moment more, " she said, "and one more question. Mr. Sylvester, who_is_ this mysterious person--this stockholder whom father defrauded, this person who wishes his name kept a secret, but who does such queerthings? Who is he?"

"Caroline, I tell you I cannot answer these questions. He does wish toremain unknown, as I told you and your brother when we first learned ofhim and his claim. If I were to tell you I should break my faith withhim. .. . You must excuse me; you really must. "

"Mr. Sylvester, perhaps you don't need to tell me. Perhaps I can guess. Isn't he my--"

"Caroline, I cannot--"

"_Isn't he my uncle, Elisha Warren?_"

Sylvester was half way to the door, but she was in his path and lookinghim directly in the face. He hesitated. 

"I thought so, " she said. "You needn't answer, Mr. Sylvester; your faceis answer enough. He is. "

She turned away, and, walking slowly to the chair from which she hadarisen, sank into it. 

"He is, " she repeated. "I knew it. I wonder that I didn't know it fromthe very first. How could I have been so blind!"

The lawyer, nervous, chagrined, and greatly troubled, remained standingby the door. He did not know whether to go or stay. He took hishandkerchief from his pocket and wiped his forehead. 

"Whew!" he exclaimed. "Well, by--_George_!"

She paid no attention to him, but went on, speaking, apparently, toherself. 

"It explains everything, " she said. "He was father's brother; andfather, in some way, took and used his money. But father knew what sortof man he was, and so he asked him to be our guardian. Father thought hewould be kind to us, I suppose. And he has been kind--he has. But whydid he keep it a secret? Why did he. .. . I don't understand that. Ofcourse the money was his; all we had was his, by right. But to saynothing . .. And to let us believe. .. . It does not seem like him at all. It. .. . "

Sylvester interrupted quickly. "Caroline! Caroline!" he said, "don'tmake any mistake. Don't misjudge your uncle again. He is a good man; oneof the best men I ever knew. Yes, and one of the wisest. Don't sayor think anything for which you may be sorry. I am speaking as yourfriend. "

She turned toward him once more, the distressed, puzzled look still onher face. "But I don't understand, " she cried. "He. .. . Oh, Mr. Sylvester, please, now that I do know--now that you have told me somuch--won't you tell me the rest; the reason and--all of it? Please!"

The lawyer shook his head, regarding her with an expression of annoyanceand reluctant admiration. 

"Now that _I've_ told you!" he repeated. "I don't remember that I'vetold you anything. "

"But you have. Not in words, perhaps, but you have told me. I know. Please go on and tell me all. If you don't, " with determination, "Ishall make Uncle Elisha tell me as soon as he comes. I shall!"

Sylvester sighed. "Well, by George!" he repeated, feelingly. "I'll tellyou one thing, young woman, you're wasting your talents. You should bea member of the bar. Anyone who can lead a battle-scarred veteran ofcross-examination like myself into a trap and then spring it on him, asyou have done, is gifted by Providence. "

"But will you tell me?"

He hesitated, perplexed and doubtful. 

"I ought not to say another word on the subject, " he declared, emphatically. "What Captain Warren will say to me when he finds thisout is unpleasant to consider. But. .. . But yet, I don't know. It maybe better for you to learn the real truth than to know a part andguess wrongly at the rest. I. .. . What is it you want me to tell you?"

"Everything. I want you to sit down here by me and tell me the wholestory, from the beginning. Please. "

He hesitated a moment longer and, then, his mind made up, returned tohis chair, crossed his legs and began. "Here it is, " he said. 

"Caroline, about twenty years ago, or such matter, your father was acomparatively poor man--poor, I mean, compared to what he afterwardbecame. But he was a clever man, an able business man, one who sawopportunities and grasped them. At that time he obtained a grant inSouth America for--"

"I know, " she interrupted; "the Akrae Rubber Company was formed. Youtold Steve and me all about that. What I want to know is--"

"Wait. I did not tell you all about it. I said that another man investedten thousand dollars with your father to form that company. That man, sowe now know, was your uncle, Captain Elisha Warren. "

"I guessed that. Of course it must have been he. "

"It was. The captain was older than your father, had lived carefully, and had saved some money. Also, at that time, he idolized his brotherand believed in his shrewdness and capability. He invested this tenthousand on Rodgers Warren's word that the investment was likely to be agood one. That, and to help the latter in business. For a few yearsthe company did nothing; during that time your father and uncledisagreed--concerning another matter, quite unconnected with thisone--and they did not see each other again while Rodgers lived. In thatlong period the Akrae Company made millions. But Elisha supposed itto be bankrupt and worthless; because--well, to be frank, because hisbrother wrote him to that effect. "

He paused, fearful of the effect which this announcement might have uponthe girl. But she had guessed this part of her father's dishonor and wasprepared for it. She made no comment, and he continued. 

"Now we come to the will. Your father, Caroline, was not a bad man atheart. I knew him well, and I believe that may be said truthfully. Herealized what he had done, how he had defrauded the brother who had beenso kind to him, and he meant, he kept promising himself, to some dayrepay the money he had taken. To insure that, he put that note with theother papers of the Company. If he did repay, it could be destroyed. Ifhe did not, if he should die, it would be there to prove--what it didprove. But always in his mind was the thought of you and Steve, thechildren he loved. He had quarreled with his brother it is true; he hadcheated him, but restitution for that cheat he had provided. Butwhat would become of you, left--in case he died without makingrestitution--penniless? He knew his brother, as I said; knew hischaracter, respected his honesty, and believed in his conscientiousnessand his big heart. So he made his will, and in it, as you know, heappointed Elisha your guardian. He threw his children and their futureupon the mercy and generosity of the brother he had wronged. That is hisreason, as we surmise it, for making that will. "

He paused again. Caroline did not speak for a moment. Then she asked:

"And no one knew--you or my uncle or anyone--of all this until lastMarch?"

"No. Graves had, with his usual care and patience, pieced together theevidence and investigated until we were sure that a stockholder in theAkrae Company existed and that all of your father's estate belongedto him. Who that stockholder was we did not know until that day of themeeting at our office. Then Captain Warren told us. "

"But he did not know, either?"

"Not until then. He supposed his Akrae stock worthless, and hadpractically forgotten it. When we told him of its value, of the note, and of the missing shareholder, he knew, of course. "

"What did he say?"

"Say? Caroline, he was the most distressed and conscience-stricken manin the city. One would have thought he was the wrongdoer and not thewronged. He would have gone straight to you and asked your pardon, if wewould have permitted it. "

"But, Mr. Sylvester, now we are coming to the part I cannot understand. Of course the estate belonged to him, I know that. It is his. But whydidn't he tell Steve and me the truth then, at once? Why did he let usbelieve, and employ you to lead us to believe, that it was not he butsomeone else? Did he think we would blame him? Why has he--"

"Caroline! Caroline! don't you understand yet? Do you imagine for onemoment that your uncle intends keeping that money?"

She stared at him in utter amazement. 

"Keeping it?" she repeated. "Why not? It is his. It belongs to him. "

"Caroline, I'm afraid you don't know him, even yet. He was for going toyou at once and destroying the note in your presence. He would have doneit, but we persuaded him to wait and think it over for a day or two. Hedid think and then decided to wait a little longer, for your sake. "

"For my sake? For mine?" she passed her hand in a bewildered way acrossher forehead. "Mr. Sylvester, I don't seem to understand even now. I--"

"For your sake, Caroline. Remember, at that time you were engaged toMalcolm Dunn. "

Her intent gaze wavered. She drew a long breath. "I see, " she said, slowly. "Oh. .. . I see. "

"Yes. Captain Warren is one of the best judges of character I ever met. The Dunns did not deceive him for one moment. He was certain Malcolmintended marrying you because of your money; for that matter, so was I. But his was the plan entirely which showed them to you as they were. Heknew you were too honest and straightforward to believe such things ofthe man to whom you were engaged if they were told you; you must see theproof with your own eyes. And he showed it to you. "

"But then, " she begged, distractedly, "why couldn't he tell me afterthat? I--I am so stupid, I suppose--but, Mr. Sylvester, all thisis--is--"

"He might have told you then, but he did not think it best. Caroline, your uncle has always believed in you. Even when you sent him from yourhome he did not blame you; he said you were deceived, that was all. But, too, he has always declared that you had been, as he expressed it, 'brought up wrong. ' Your money had, in a way, warped your estimate ofpeople and things. He believed that, if you were given the opportunity, you would learn that wealth does not, of itself, mean happiness. Sohe decided not to tell you, not to give you back your share of yourfather's money--he refuses to consider it his--until another year, untilyou were of age, at least. And there was Steve. You know, Caroline, thatmoney and what it brought was spoiling Steve. He has never been so mucha man as during the past year, when he thought himself poor. But youruncle has planned for him as well as for you and, when he believes thetime has come, he--"

"Please, " she interrupted, falteringly; "please don't say any more. Letme think. Oh, please let me think, Mr. Sylvester. .. . You say that UncleElisha intends giving us all that father took from him? All of it?"

"Yes, all. He considers himself merely your guardian still and willaccept only his expenses from the estate. "

"But--but it is wonderful!"

"Yes, it is. But I have learned to think him a wonderful man. "

She shook her head. 

"It is wonderful!" she repeated, brokenly. "Even though we cannot takeit, it is wonderful. "

"What? Cannot take it?"

"Of course not! Do you suppose that either my brother or I will take thefortune that our father stole--yes, _stole_ from him? After he has beenliving almost in poverty all these years and we in luxury--on _his_money? Of course we shall not take it!"

"But, Caroline, I imagine you will have to take it. I understand yourfeelings, but I think he will compel you to take it. "

"I shall _not_!" she sprang to her feet. "Of course I shall not! Never!never!"

"What's that you're never goin' to take, Caroline? Measles? or anothertrip down in these parts? I hope 'tain't the last, 'cause I've beencal'latin' you'd like it well enough to come again. "

Caroline turned. So did Sylvester. Captain Elisha was standing in thedoorway, his hand on the knob. He was smiling broadly, but as he lookedat the two by the fire he ceased to smile. 

"What's all this?" he asked, suspiciously. "Caroline, what--Sylvester, what have you been tellin' her?"

Neither answered at once. The captain looked from one to the other. 

"Well, what's up?" he demanded. "What's the matter?"

The lawyer shrugged his shoulders. 

"What's up?" he repeated. "Humph! well, I should say the jig was up. Themurder's out. The cat is no longer in the bag. That's about the size ofit. "

"Sylvester!" Caroline had never seen her uncle thoroughly angry before;"Sylvester, " he cried, "have you--Have you dast to tell her what youshouldn't? Didn't you promise me? If you told that girl, I'll--I'll--"

His niece stepped forward. "Hush, Uncle Elisha, " she said. "He didn'ttell me until I knew already. I guessed it. Then I asked for the wholetruth, and he told me. "

"The whole truth? _Caroline!_"

He wrung his hands. 

"Yes, Uncle, the whole truth. I know you now. I thought I knew youbefore; but I didn't--not half. I do now. "

"Oh, Caroline!" he stepped toward her and then stopped, frantic anddespairing. "Caroline! Caroline!" he cried again, "can you ever forgiveme? You know--you must know I ain't ever meant to keep it. It's allyours. I just didn't give it to you right off because . .. Because. .. . Oh, Sylvester, tell her I never meant to keep it! Tell her!"

The lawyer shook his head. "I did tell her, " he said, with anothershrug, "and she tells me she won't accept it. "

"What?" the captain's eyes were starting from his head. "What? Won'ttake it? Why, it's hers--hers and Steve's! It always has been! Do youcal'late I'd rob my own brother's children? _Don't_ talk so foolish!I won't hear such talk!"

Caroline was close to tears, but she was firm. 

"It isn't ours, " she said. "It is yours. Our father kept it from you allthese years. Do you suppose we will keep it any longer?"

Captain Elisha looked at her determined face; then at the lawyer's--buthe found no help there. His chin thrust forward. He nodded slowly. 

"All right! all right!" he said, grimly. "Sylvester, is your shop goin'to be open to-morrer?"

"Guess not, Captain, " was the puzzled reply. "It's Thanksgiving. Why?"

"But Graves'll be to home, won't he? I could find him at his house?"

"I presume you could. "

"All right, then! Caroline Warren, you listen to me: I'll give you tilltwo o'clock to make up your mind to take the money that belongs to you. If you don't, I swear to the Lord A'mighty I'll take the fust train, gostraight to New York, hunt up Graves, make him go down to the office andget that note your father made out turnin' all his property over to thatAkrae Company. I'll get that note and I'll burn it up. Then--_then_you'll have to take the money, because it'll be yours. Every bit ofevidence that'll hold in law is gone, and nobody but you and Steve'llhave the shadow of a claim. I'll do it, so sure as I live! There! nowyou can make up your mind. "

He turned, strode to the door and out of the room. A moment later theyheard a scream from Miss Baker in the kitchen: "'Lisha Warren, what ailsyou? Are you crazy?" There was no answer, but the back door closed witha tremendous bang. 

 * * * * *

Half an hour after his dramatic exit Captain Elisha was pacing up anddown the floor of the barn. It was an old refuge of his, a place wherehe was accustomed to go when matters requiring deliberation and thoughtoppressed him. He was alone. Dan had taken the horse to the blacksmith'sto be shod. 

The captain strode across the floor, turned and strode back again. Everyfew moments he looked at his watch. It was a long way to two o'clock, but each additional moment was another weight piled upon his soul. Ashe turned in his stride he saw a shadow move across the sill of the big, open door. He caught his breath and stopped. 

Caroline entered the barn. She came straight to him and put her handsupon the lapels of his coat. Her eyes were wet and shining. 

"Caroline?" he faltered, eagerly. 

"You good man!" she breathed, softly. "Oh, you _good_ man!"

"Caroline!" his voice shook, but there was hope in it. "Caroline, you'regoin' to take the money?"

"Yes, Uncle Elisha. Mr. Sylvester has shown me that I must. He says youwill do something desperate if I refuse. "

"I sartin would! And you'll take it, really?"

"Yes, Uncle Elisha. "

"Glory be! And--and, Caroline, you won't hold it against me, my makin'you think you was poor, and makin' you live in that little place, andget along on just so much, and all that? Can you forgive me for doin'that?"

"Forgive you? Can I ever thank you enough? I know I can't; but I can tryall my life to prove what--"

"S-s-h-h! s-s-h!. .. There!" with a great sigh, almost a sob, of relief, "I guess this'll be a real Thanksgivin', after all. "

But, a few minutes later, another thought came to him. 

"Caroline, " he asked, "I wonder if, now that things are as they are, you couldn't do somethin' else--somethin' that would please me anawful lot?"

"What is it, Uncle?"

"It's somethin' perhaps I ain't got any right to ask. You mustn't sayyes if you don't want to. The other day you told me you cared for JimPearson, but that you sent him away 'cause you thought you had to earna livin' for you and Steve. Now you know that you ain't got to do that. And you said you told him if you ever changed your mind you'd send forhim. Don't you s'pose you could send for him now--right off--so he couldget here for this big Thanksgivin' of ours? Don't you think you could, Caroline?"

He looked down into her face, and she looked down at the barn floor. Buthe saw the color creep up over her forehead. 

"Send for him--now?" she asked, in a low tone. 

"Yes. Now--right off. In time for to-morrow!"

"He could not get here, " she whispered. 

"Yes, he could. If you send him a telegram with one word in it:'Come'--and sign it 'Caroline'--he'll be here on to-morrow mornin'strain, or I'll eat my hat and one of Abbie's bonnets hove in. Think youcould, Caroline?"

A moment; then in a whisper, "Yes, Uncle Elisha. "

"Hooray! But--but, " anxiously, "hold on, Caroline. Tell me truly now. You ain't doin' this just to please me? You mustn't do that, not for theworld and all. You mustn't send for him on my account. Only just for onereason--because _you_ want him. "

He waited for his answer. Then she looked up, blushing still, but with asmile trembling on her lips. 

"Yes, Uncle Elisha, " she said, "because _I_ want him. "

 * * * * *

The clouds blew away that night, and Thanksgiving day dawned clearand cold. The gray sea was now blue; the white paint of the houses andfences glistened in the sun; the groves of pitchpine were brilliantgreen blotches spread like rugs here and there on the brown hills. SouthDenboro had thrown off its gloomy raiment and was "all dolled up forThanksgivin', " so Captain Elisha said. 

The captain and Sylvester were leaning on the fence by the gate, lookingup the road and waiting for Dan and the "two-seater" to heave in sightaround the bend. The hired man had harnessed early and driven to thestation at least thirty minutes before train time. Captain Elishawas responsible for the early start. Steve was coming on that train;possibly someone else was coming. The captain did not mean they shouldfind no welcome or vehicle at the station. 

The whistle had sounded ten minutes before. It was time for Dan toappear at the bend. 

"I hope to thunder Jim got that telegram, " observed the captain for thetwentieth time, at least, since breakfast. 

"So do I, " replied his friend. "There's no reason why he shouldn't, isthere?"

"No, no sensible one; but I've scared up no less than a couple ofhundred of the other kind. If he shouldn't come--my, my! she'd bedisappointed. "

"You wouldn't feel any disappointment yourself, of course, " said thelawyer, with sarcasm. 

"Who? Me? Oh, I'd be sorer'n a scalded wharf rat in a barrel of pepper. But I don't count. There's the real one up there. "

He motioned with his head toward the window of Caroline's room. Sylvester nodded. "Yes, " he said, "I suppose so. Captain, I'm somewhatsurprised that you should be willing to trust that niece of yoursto another man. She's a pretty precious article, according to yourestimate. "

"Well, ain't she accordin' to yours?"

"Yes. Pretty precious and precious pretty. Look at her now. "

They turned in time to catch a glimpse of the girl as she parted thecurtains and looked out on the road. She saw them looking at her, smiled, blushed, and disappeared. Both men smoked in silence for amoment. Then the captain said:

"Waitin'. Hi hum! nothin' like it, when you're waitin' for _the_ one, is there?"

"No, nothing. "

"Yup. Well, for a pair of old single hulks our age, strikes me we'regettin' pretty sentimental. You say you wonder I'd trust Caroline toanother man; I wouldn't to the average one. But Jim Pearson's all right. You'll say so, too, when you know him as well as I do. "

"I'll trust your judgment, any time. So you won't tell Steve yet awhilethat he's not broke?"

"No. And Caroline won't tell him, either. Steve's doin' fust-rate ashe is. He's in the pickle tub and 'twill do him good to season aspell longer. But I think he's goin' to be all right by and by. Say, Sylvester, this New York cruise of mine turned out pretty good, afterall, didn't it?"

"Decidedly good. It was the making of your niece and nephew. Carolinerealizes it now; and so will Steve later on. "

"Hope so. It didn't do _me_ any harm, " with a chuckle. "I wouldn't havemissed that little beat up the bay with Marm Dunn for a good deal. Fora spell there we was bows abreast, and 'twas hard to tell who'd turn themark first. Heard from the Dunns lately?"

"No. Why, yes, I did hear that they were in a tighter box than ever, financially. The smash will come pretty soon. "

"I'm sorry. The old lady'll go down with colors nailed to the mast, I'llbet; and she'll leave a lot of suds where she sank. Do you know, I neverblamed her so much. She was built that way. She's consider'ble likeold Mrs. Patience Blodgett, who used to live up here to the Neck; likeher--only there never was two people more different. Pashy was thecraziest blue-ribboner you ever saw. Her one idea in life was gettin'folks to sign the pledge. She married Tim Blodgett, who was the wustsoak in the county--he'd have figgered out, if you analyzed him, aboutlike a bottle of patent medicine, seventy-two per cent alcohol. Well, Pashy married him to reform him, and she made her brags that she'd gethim to sign the pledge. And she did, but only by puttin' it in front ofhim when he was too drunk to read it. "

The lawyer laughed heartily. "So you think Mrs. Corcoran Dunn resemblesher, do you, " he observed. 

"In one way--yes. Both of 'em sacrifice everything else to one idea. Pashy's was gettin' that pledge signed, and never mind ways and means. Mrs. Dunn's is money and position--never mind how they come. See whatI'm drivin' at?"

Sylvester laughed again. "I guess so, " he said. "Captain Warren, I neversaw you in better spirits. Do you know what I think? I think that, fora chap who has just given away half of a good-sized fortune and intendsgiving away the other half, you're the most cheerful specimen I eversaw. "

The captain laughed, too. "I am, ain't I, " he said. "Well, I can saytruthful what I never expected to say in my life--that _once_ I waswuth ha'f a million dollars. As for the rest of it, I'm like thatmillionaire--that. .. . Hi! Look! There comes Dan! See him!"

They peered eagerly over the fence. The Warren "two-seater" had roundedthe bend in the road. Dan was driving. Beside him sat a young fellow whowaved his hand. 

"Steve!" cried the captain, excitedly. "There's Steve! And--and--yes, there's somebody on the back seat. It's Jim! He's come! Hooray!"

He was darting out of the gate, but his friend seized his coat. 

"Wait, " he cried. "I don't want to lose the rest of that sentence. Yousaid you were like some millionaire. Who?"

"Don't bother me, " cried Captain Elisha. "Who? Why, I was goin' to sayI was like that millionaire chap who passes out a library every time hewakes up and happens to think of it. You know who I mean. .. . Ahoy there, Jim! Ahoy, Steve!"

He was waving his hand to the passengers in the approaching vehicle. 

"Yes, " prompted his friend, hastily, "I know who you mean--Carnegie. "

"That's the feller. I've come to feel about the way he says hedoes--that 'twould be a crime for me to die rich. "

 THE END