@prefix ns0: . @prefix edm: . @prefix dcterms: . @prefix dc: . @prefix skos: . @prefix geo: . ns0:identifierAIP "f3797219-2f56-4826-a7cf-a226131d6ad3"@en ; edm:dataProvider "CONTENTdm"@en ; dcterms:issued "2017-03-07"@en, "1889-12-31"@en ; edm:aggregatedCHO "https://open.library.ubc.ca/collections/dbc/items/1.0346582/source.json"@en ; dc:format "application/pdf"@en ; skos:note """ n Sfe irfrtm HOLIDAY SUPPLEMENT. •pi.% CHRIfiTMAS Is hero; Wlmlrf whistle shrill, ley nnd chill, Utile caro wot' Littlo we fear Weather with- out. Sheltered about The mahogany tree, -Thackeray. "LONG AFORE I KNOWED." BV JAMES WHITCOMB RILEY. This delicious gem of tho Hoosior poet Is hero presented, with duo apologies to Judge, which first printed it: Jos' o littlo bit o' feller-I remember still— Ust to almost cry for Christinas, Utio a youngster win. . Fourth 6' Jiily's uotbln" to It l-Now Year's ain't a smell!— Easier Sunday-Circus day—Jes' all dead in the shell I Lordy, thon,-*h I at night, you know, to sot around and hear the old follis work tho story off about the sledge nnd deer, And "Santy" akoottn' round the roof, all wrapped In tur aud fuus— Longufore I knowed who "Santy Claus" wnzl Ust to wait, end set up later a week cr two ahead: Couldn't hardly keep awake, uor wouldn't go to bed: Klttlo slcwln' on tho tire, nnd Mother sattin' near Oanila' Bocks aud rookla' in tho skrecky rocking ckcor: Pap Rap', and wonder whero It wus tho money went., And qunr'l with his frosted heels, and spill bis liniment; And we a-dnnmhT sleigh bells when tho clock 'ud whir and buzz- Long aforo I knowed who "Santy Clans" wuzl Size tbe fireplace, and flgger how "Old Santy" could Manage to como down the chlmbly, llko tbey said ho would: Wlsht that 1 could bldo and see hlm-wondered what bo'd sny Ef ho ketched 0 feller layln* for him tbatawaysf Hut I bet on him, und liked him, samo as ef ho had Turned to pat mo ou tbe baok aud say, "Look a hero, my Ind: Hero's my pack-jos" be'p yourso'l llko all good boys doos 1" Longuforo I knowed who "Santa Claus" wus. H'luht tbnt yarn wus truo about him as It 'peared lobe— mado out o' lies llko tbat-un's good enough for nu*. wus so confldln' I could Jos' go wild , my stoeitiu'sliku thu littlo child lap to-night, tunl boggln' mo to toll udeorH, and "Old Santy" thut bUo ill; for tbls Uttle-glri-swcotheart of "Santy Claus" bl HILLSFORD'S HERMIT. A CHRISTMAS STORY, NOT AFTER THE REGULATION PATTERN. 3£mft* 0Yttftn$** § flgvo 00c netdt, (gfno ytentyi of pofgoft^ ctytxu ' Ofoc fvitmos we'ff mccte ©no unfl) (!«no tfasp $Mtl> adfc KittAO now io „ixi* '* ILLSFORD is a pretty little * village'ou n river as puro as truth, In tho heart of tho Iresquissus valley, with mountains walling it in north and south. At tho timo I write of it had all tho requisites of a thriving town, including a population which dripped- with self satisfaction. This very comfortablo commodity was so donso and universal that it fairly covered tho placo liko a fog. Hlllsford's most remarkable citizen was a hermit, an unkempt and eccentric individual, who lived in a cabin high up on the North mountain, and was known as "Old Weaver," In winter, when tho foliago was less abundant, his small dwelling could bo seen from tho village, a littlo speck of crudo architecture, tho smoke from which curled sometimes into tho very sky. It was pointed out to visitors, who wero told, without loss of timo, of tho hermit, Ids civilization defying habits nnd nnspeakablo appearance. But it was difficult to exhibit tho man himself. Ho camo down to tho village at Infrequent intervals and then tarried only long enough to procure somo simple necessities and departed without holding speech with any ono, Tho townspeople had tried to break into tlio privacy of his homo without avail. Thoy had been re- pulsed with looks nnd gestures which inspired fear and helped to confirm tho opinion thut "Old ,\\Veaver was crazy aud had better bo let ulone." And surely no man in his right mind could live tho lifo ho lived. His hair and whiskers showed no respect for I lio prevailing fashion lu hirsute trimming, anil his clothes wore a slap at all decent garments, lio rarely spokont all, but when ho did his words wore briefness itself. In summer thoy who went near his cabin sometimes found him sitting outside reading (lio Bible, nu occupation from which'they could not easily divert him. This caused somo to decide that he was "a religious crank," nnd helped to dissipato tlio theory that ho had committed somo torrlblo crime. Hillsford was full of wonder about tho hermit's past lifo nnd antecedents, but ns there was absolutely no way of linding out it wns obliged to remain in cruel ignorance, All it know ubout him wns Hint soveral years beforo tho timo I speak of he had arrived in tho villugo, purchased a piece of land on tho top of the mountain, reared a cabin nnd begun a lifo of solitude perfectly incomprehensible to tho people of tho valley.- At Inst thoy mostly settled down to tho belief that "Old Weaver had been crossed in love." Everybody know that lovo, if it did not run smoothly, could upset peoplo completely. Tliis gavo him exceptional interest in tho eyes of the young and sentimental, although tho most imaginative among them could not picturo him ns having over been n per- aonago capable of inspiring tho divino lunacy. Never wore thoy fully scnslblo of hu i Value as a romantic figure until after he had boon "written up for u Now York journal. A newspaper correspondent, on his summer vacation, wandered into Hillsford, and, of courso, sonn heard about the hermit, elnco ho was all thero woroutsidoof tho usual and uninteresting in the place. He nt onco spun out n coluinu and a half of solid nonpareil, mostly speculation, tinged with sentiment, about the curious recluse, This had a good result. It dignified the old man in the minds of tbo Milford- ians. UlUted him from tbo rank of a crazy old- mountaineer to nn eccentric hermit, with extraordinary sentimental possibilities boliind ljjui, It was often said thnt Weaver would bo foinul starved or frozen to death somo time. So overy winter there waa talk of "looking after him," by thoso in authority, but it onded in talk, as ho was not exactly tbe kind of man to dictate tu. In the vernnculor of Simpson's grocery, ho was "a hard ono to tackle." In the beginning of the herrait'B lost winter on tlie mountain some hunters, driven by cold to his cabin, entered and found him moaning on his rude couch. Thoy spread tho news in Milford, and "tho authorities" conferred together and decided that it was timo to net. But what should thoy do with him? Nobody could go up to his lodge on tho mountain to take care of him; his wretched dwelling contained no comforts. And nobody wanted to tako him into his home. There was tho county house, where all paupers woro Bent, but that was near tho county seat, seven miles away. They who were most outspoken In the matter of having him "looked after" and who owned tho largest and most comfortable houses, "hemmed and hawed" when it camo to a question of taking him in. Somo one, In a moment of humane feeling, suggested that tho seven miles' journey to tho poorhouso might prove dangerous to the sick man, und might even throw serious blame on those who became responsible for it. However, after much thought nnd more talk had been put upon the subject, tho poorhouso faction prevailed, and tho fiat went forth that Old Weaver must be taken charge of by tho county, willing or unwilling. The expedition sot forth the next morning. It wns principally composed of "the authorities," otherwise hard headed and dictatorial personages, with that degree of heartlessness peculiar to tho class known as "prominent citizens." I A heavy snow lay upon tho ground, and i the mountain roads were unbroken. A ; big sled, generously supplied with straw I and lunch baskets, was made ready. Tho departure of this hermit capturing I expedition was an event. The postollico ! loafers gazed upon tho imposing siwcta- do with envy in their hearts, though they cheered the noble philanthropists roundly. Tho peoplo at tho corner drug store were all outside waving their lints and making other demonstrations of good will and interest, Tho yam spinners at Simpson's grocery held their tobacco firmly between their teotlj and thoir hands in their trousers' pockets as the sled went by. This was their manner of expressing a very warm interest Women watched from doors, windows and porches, aa women always do, and a swarm of enthusiastic small boys hung on to tho sled until driven back when half a mile out of town. ■ 'Tho philanthropists cached Weaver's cabin late tn tho day, nfter digging their I way through great snowdrifts. All this I heroic exertion mndo them feel more ] dominant iu spirit than over. The very ! first rap on tlio hermit's door had the j sound of authority in it, delivered as it i was by tho formidable fist of tho town marshal, backed by lho approbation of ! tbo other prominent citizens who accom- I panied him. Thero wns no response. The expression or decision on tho mnr- sW?.fyiy°-deepened ns ho began to beat upon tho door with both lists and kick , it with the thick soles of his tremendous I boots. Still thero was no answer. Whilo thoy wero parleying about whether it was timo to uso the ax or not tho closed shutter of tbe hermit's singlo window opened, rovenling his haggard face, in which blazed a pair of j oyes whoso wrathful lightning fairly annihilated tho prominent citizens. "What do you want'r"ho asked, after a moment of discomfiting silence, as ; they stood, wordless, under the spell of i his unspoken anger. \\ "Wo heard you were sick," said the 1 marshal. "Well?" "Wo know you would need help," said , tho justieo of tho peace, "and so came to try to do something for you." I "You havo put yourselves to unnecessary trouble. I want nothing," j "But our duty as citizens will not allow us to let a fellow boing suiter," I said Deacon Whito. "Your Ilrst duly Is to mind your own business," said tho hermit. "Here Is Ur. Horsefly, who will help! von right off, if you will let us in," said , Mr, Smollett, also a prominent citizen. Tho doctor Btood silent, medicine caso in hand, the rigidity of tho regular's code ' preventing his doing any trumpeting on 1 Ids own account, i "When I am weary of lifo I shall send i ' for Dr. Horsefly. Until then ho must; ; excuse me," returned tho hermit, with I I something liko merriment dancing iu liis I wild oyes. ! Tiie doctor colored under this deadly insult, feeling it tho moro because tho earth was yet fresh over his two last patients. This offensive defiance nf their authority was iho tacitly understood signal for a concerted rally of the rescuers. Instinctively thoy drew nearer together, and one said: You ought not to be alone os you are." "Well, what do you propose to do with me?" "Why, why—tako you whero you will bo properly cared for, of course," answered Justice McCrackcn. "Now, that is kind, I admit," said the hermit, and ho looked at thom with a strange, amused expression in Ids eyos. Believing thnt they wero guining ground, they grow bolder. "Yes, we wish to bo kind. We can't let you ndrisii up here, you know." "Well, whero do you propose to take me?" "Hem, h'm: why, you see, Weaver— you sou Hillsford has no hospital— and"— "But you havo fixed upon some place for trie, I presume?" questioned the hermit, in the tone of one about to surrender. "Y-e-s," spoke up another. "Wo thought wo would tako you to Johnstown." "Ah, that'B the county seat, Isn't It?' "Yes." "And the county house is near thero, Isn't it?" "Yes." "Well, that's a good enough plnco for any one who wants to go there, 1 don't. Now it is time for you to leave," and ho Bhut the window. Tho besiegers conferred together and again began to beat ujxm tho door. Fueling more courageous when Weaver's wild eyes wero not on them they called to him that he must consent to go with them, or they would tako him by force. The window opened once more and revealed tho gaunt form of tho hermit grasping a shotgun. Instinctively the attacking party fell back a. few paces. Tho hermit spoko: "I will blow the head off any man who again lays a hand upon my door. I am in my own house, on my own ground, and there is not lav* enough in the republic to permit you to enter and lay a hand on a man who is neither criminal nor pauper. Had you come hero proffering private charity I should have resented it, but I should have respected you. As it is I will kill you liko dogs if you troublo'ine a moment more. And ho pointed tlio gun at thom In a wny that was convincing. Grumblmgly they moved away. "He's right," said tlio justice, who had a mortal fear of firearms; "he's not a pauper, lio owns tliis ground and he owns the house. If he won't como with us willingly wo shall have to let him ttlone." "lie's n3 crazy as a kite," pipeil up two or threo others, anxious to cover up their chngrin. "He ought to bo confined ns a dangerous lunatic," said tho doctor, in whose, bosom still rankled Weaver's poisoned arrow. They reached Hillsford in a crestfallen frame of mind, nil agreeing that the hermit might (lion dozen times over before thoy would "put themselves out" to do anything for liim again. Two weeks later, when tho weather was bitter cold, Kobby Hart, a sturdy 12-year-old, rushed into his mother's Bitting room ono afternoon, bursting witli news. "Old Weaver's in town," he panted. His mother looked up from her sewing machine with interest. Like everybody else in Hillsford she know tbo history of tho fruitless siego of tlio hermit's cabin. "Yes, he's here; awful sick, too: out of hts head, nnd is lying on the tloor in tho back part of Hunt's grocery. They're goin' to send him to tlio poorhouso at Johnstown," "Not in this torrlblo weather," said Mrs. Hart, looking alarmed. "Yes; right off. There's no place here for him, thoy say." "No placi! for a poor old sick man in all Uillsfoid? We are not so bad as that, Kobby, I nm sure." "Oil, but 1 heard Judge Murkle and Deacon Whito and all of them sny so. It's settled." M0AN1S0 ON HIS 1HJDK COUCH, "Come, come, Weaver, this is no wny to do. Wo nro hero in tlio friendliest Bpirit, and nro sincerely anxious to havo you taken caro of,, You are a sick mau. ', t _IA' *•■ f- ■-■■ 'JT-jSw - "I W1!X KILL YOU MKR DOGS." "Porlyips not," snid Mrs. Hart as she began to put on her bonnet nml cloak. Sho was, perhaps, the poorest person of refinement and education in tho town und tho most benevolent. She was a Widow, whose only dower woro n boy of 13 mul ftjglrl of li yoars. By sewing almost night and day sho managed to keep tho wolf out of sight"* Accompanied by Robby Hho wont over to Hunt's to bco tho hermit, and at once know that ho was sick unto death. As tho sled whioh was to transport him to Johnstown drew up nt tho door Mrs. Hart touched tho arm of Judgo Russell, who seemed to bo clothed with more authority just then than any of tho other "prominent citizens" who hovered about, and soldi "I will take care of Weaver If you will send him to my house. Ho is a vory sick man, already greatly exhausted by his journey down (ho mountain. Tho drive to Johnstown might kill him." "Really, Mrs. Hart, you're always doing too muoh for others. Young Dr, Clay was in hcvo.abit ago, and ho said tho old follow oughtn't to bo moved so far. But you'd better think twice before you tako him. He'll bo an awful charge." "I know that," sho answered*, "butI will take him and do the best 1 can for him," Bo.tho li6ftt_.it WAS put upon (he Bled and delivered at Jlr. Harts liko a bale of merchandise. The widow's un- selfishness kindled a temporary flame of the samo nature in other breasts, and for tho moment volunteer help was plenty, She took advantage of somo of this to get her. patient bathed and harbored and put to bed in n comfortablo, Christian way. Then began for her weeks of cure, work nnd anxiety. The Bowing macluno was silent, with the unpleasant consequence of low finances. Contributions to the comfort of tho sick man fell away as timo passed and tho affair became an old story. Young Dr. Clay alone remained faithful. Tho donutions of ot hers had dwindled down to advice. All in all Mrs. Hart had "a hard pull of it." At last the hermit became convalescent, Finding himself in a home where refinement and kindness prevailed, he fell into tho ways of its inmates ns naturally br if hu had been accustomed to civilization all his life. He talked genially und charmingly, and seemed possessed of ns much information as any man of tho .world. Clad in his right mind and conventional clothes, he lost his character of hermit entirely. Many of the signs of ago, too, had disappeared under the good ollices of tho tailor and tho barber. Ho did not look a day over 45, He was quite well now, but lio showed no disposition to return to his semi-sav- ago life, so far as anyone outside of Mrs. Hart's home knew. * Christinas was almost at hand. Hillsford was busy buying its presents and getting up festivities. At Mrs. Hart's tho preparations were on a scale so simple Mint they were almost pnlhetic. Two days before Christmas tho town had something new to tnlk about. A middle aged gentleman nnd lady of the upper cIiirs, apparently, arrived at the Hillsford hotel und asked for Weaver. While they rested and dined they woro regaled with the story of tho berinit'B queer doings, the ineffectual attempt to Bend him to the poorhouse, the widow Hart's interference and everything. Then they were piloted to tho Hart door, and for two days afterward, although tho town was almost eaten up by curiosity, it could find out nothing nt till about them. It got tho whole story on Christmas from The Weekly Chronicle. BT T. W. nOHSRTSOS, AUTHOR or "R0CIET7, "SCHOOL." ETC. THEIR CHRISTMAS CltPT. Our roodora will be Bitrpnsod nnd gratified to loam that Mrs. Caroline Hart was married night In-fore Inst to Jlr. Vincent II. Weaver, of New York. Tlie ceremony look pluce «t iho bride's homo at 8 o'olock, The groom's sister, Mra.0. 1'. Stevenson, and her husband, also of Naff York, nml two or three of the brlde'B closest friends were the only guests. Mrs. Hurt, new Mrs. Weaver, ns everybody knows. In one of the most highly rcspeetod ladlas of HUlsftml Although far from rich, she hits boon pltlltttttbropio i" an extraordinary degree. livery ono knows how Weaver, thy hermit, fell sick ono day early In lho winter when ho camo Into town to huy some supplies, ami Mrs. Hurt hnd hhu removed lo her collage to prevent his being taken to tho comity house nt Johnstown, lint not until recently did uny one know that Herman Weaver lho hermit, and Vincent 11. Weaver tho Celebrated author were one nud the same. It has boon generally'bel loved that onr hermit had been the victim of some cruelty nt Cupid's bauds, and for this reason had descried thu society of Ids fellow men. Wo loam from goo:! authority that this diagnosis wns incorrect. He lived in his niininti-.in cabin because ho could thero ilevole himself to the work or writing his books without Iho risk of being lured nway by uny of , tho thousand diversions which tempi him from his loll Inlheclly. His ehnrneterof Boml-savago was assumed to protect him from intruders. Mr. Weaver really did not livo In his mountain lingo half tho timo ho wns supposed to. Often, tor months together, ho would bo Absent, mixing with the wits and lluemtours of tho metropolis. He hns even been iovoral limes to Europe, while tho pooplo of llilisford supposed him to bo within his solitary cabin. Eccentric ho is, to ho mire. For Instnnee, wo have heen told Hint before he spoke of marriage to Mrs. Hart he put SW,WO in her ttVW in n Bub- Ktantlal Now York bank anil pet tie* a handsomo Bumtipononohof her two children, Ho wished tomnkoher independent beforo th.) question of marriage was discussed, nud bo considered hei entitled to nil he oould do for her for having taken him to her homo, thereby saving bis lifo whon he wns at death's door. TIiLb inn true love match, without doubt Their Christinas gift Is tho very best lu Santa Claim' pack. It Is labeled "l-ove," and comprehends tho better |«irt of earth and a portion of heaven, Mr. Weaver mndo n final trip to his cabin on tho mountain the other day, and wrote across ita door In big lottcra, "It is not good for man to 1» nlono." Mr. nnd Mrs. Weaver wlll build a splendid houso hero for tholr summer home, but will sneiul'tbelr winters lu New York, They toft yesterday to finish dm Benson there. We with them every happiness under tho nun. ThiB startling piece of news paused many an eye to protrude when It was read. "1 always thought that Mrs. Hart was a designing thing. Sly, oh, so sly. ITI warrant sho knew that Weaver was a rich man or sho never would havo taken liim in," said a woman who, only a month before; had expressed tho i'ear that tho widow "would have old Weaver on ke* bonds for life." Gertrutin Garrison. Beautiful and right it is that gifts and good wishes Bhould fill the air liko snow flakes nt ChvUtnias tide. Anil beautiful In the year in ils coming and in its going —most beautiful and blessed beoauSO it U always tlio Year of Our Lord. CHAPTER I. "Would you havo tho kindncsss to step tbls way, sir, into Mr. Dnwbarn's roomf" Theso words wero addressed by a banker's clerk to a young man whoso dross and manners were a vulgar compound of groom,- betting man, and pugilist. The sporting gentleman swaggered by tho desks and tbs eierks, looking infinite disparagement at tha whole concern, nnd was ushered through the- double doors into presenco'of Mr. Uawbarn. Mr. Daw-burn wns lho principal banker in Bramlingdou, uud Hrnnilingdoii was tbe county town of tbo littlo comity of Mufford. It consisted of ono long, straggling street, beautified by five old churches, each a splendid specimen of architecture, whioh contrasted strongly with the Town Hall, tho Corn Kxcuango, and the Market Plnco, whlrh wore modern buildings, uud unpleasant to tool: nt. "Mr. StiuMen," said Mr. Dawbnrn to tbo young gentleman of sporting appearance, "1 havo to talk to you, sir, very seriously; sit down, if you please." Mr. Stnddcn snt iu a chair ns if It were a saddle, shut ono eye knowingly, and examined tbo thong of his whip with iho othor. "Mr. Studdeu," continued tbo banker solemnly, "I irnvo been informed that you have overdrawn your ucuouat to tho amount of "Yes; I know all about that, governor," broke in Mr. Stndden. "I'vo been told so twice." "1 therefore gavo directions that the next timo you presented n check, you should bo shown iu hero to mc," said tbo banker. "Thnt is—a chock of my own drawing." "Quite so." "Well, now I am here," said Mr, Stndden, goading the sido of his imaginary horse with his h'l't heel; "respectful mums, ami should liko to know your littb game. What** to bo done?" "Mr. Idea, I havo known you from a boy." "Weil, Iknowlbat" "And I now seo you a ruined man11 "Hold hard, Matildn," interrupted Stud- don; "not ruined—pushed for tho moment— ou my knees, but not staked. I'vo been unlucky on tho racos this last year—unlucky at piny. Why, lust night I lost n pot at loo, and then thnt girl behaved to ine in"—- Mr. Studdeu," said tbo banker, closing his eyes, "I cannot listen to n catalogue of your crl —cri—imprudences. 1 am tbo father of a family, and"— "Cut that, governor." brokoin tbe amiable Mv. Stndden. "What 1 want is money, aud not preaching—no preacheo nnd iloggcotoo. This is the stato of tho odds. I'vo overdrawn my account; good; will you let mo havo Bon&uioref tin, linoan. If you will, I am sure to retrieve myself, i'vo some splendid things on, but must havo tho ready—ti—id* dity—rhino." "Jlr. Studdeu," said Mr. Dnwborn, "I do ^^, not understand your jargon, nor is such ltm-flpt guago the sortof thing I nm accustomed to hear. Yon have lost tho fbt'lutie left you by your father In gambling, horso racing, and —and tho like. For tho last seven years I have seen going to Irretrievable ruin; As you had n Ion;; minority, nnd no friend., to advise yon, I havo tried to help yoiv. but I regret to say, your complete ruin is iaevita- blo—Inevitable." "Hot you fifteen to ono it isn't!" said Mr. Stutldon. "What you nwomc," continued the banker, not noticing tho Interruption—"what you owe mc 1 shnl! never trouhlo you for." "Bless you t" said tho Irreverent Stndden. Mr. Dnwbarn's face reddened. "Mr. Stud- Ion," ho choked out, "I nm not accustomed to Ijo treated witli rudeness, and I don't mean to begin now, 1 would havo given yon somo advice, sir." "Don't want it, lhani; you." "Good advice, parental advice; but it will be of no use, 1 can seo." Not ubit." I shall leavo you therefore to the pursuit of your career of profligacy, and mny it— mny ft"—Mr. Dawbani stammered, for bo felt tbnt ho WUB proposing a toast at it publio mooting-*"may it provo to you that—that— that"— Out with it, governor," slid tho insolent young sporting man. 'No, sir, 1 will not out with il," snid tbe banker, majestically. "1 will not say what I wns going to say." "Arc you qutto clear what you wevo going to say!" inquired tbo young man, who ro- spaoted neither ago nor wealth. Jlr. Dawbani covered liis defeat grandly. "I will not dQtaiu you any lonsw, Mr. Stud- don." IIo rang the bell. "1 wleh you good day. sir; my servant will sbow yon out." "Very good, governor," said Mr. Studdcn, dismountiug from bis chair, or saddle, "You throw nio over—very good; nnd Just at tbo moment when I could mako a colossal fortune. If I had your capital, or you bad my talent nud speculated—ka foesilmu I—what might not bo mado with tho tipt I havo! I know tbo way out, Chawles"—this Mr. Studdeu addressed to tbo servant—"you needn't show mo. Mr. Dawbnrn, I havo tbo honor to bo, sir, yours truly, over to command, et cetera—cetera—cetera," Mr, Stndden departed with a flourish, leaving tlie banker iu a stato of tbo most wratkfuJ fudignntion. Mr. Dawbnrn was a (jrent man in Bramlingdou and accustomed to bo treated with respect and defcreuco and sorvtllty, and though so excellent a jwrson, Mr. Dawbani was something of a humbug, and tho young man's manners bad convinced birn that bo knew it, and It U very annoying to mon of SO years of ago to bo found out by tholr juniors. Mr. Robert Studdeu, or, us ho wus called, Mr. Bob Stndden, or Mr. Kip Studdeu, swaggered post tho cashier aud clerks With tho case of a jockey and tlfo grace of a groom. A dozen steps from tho door of tho bunk ho met a clork whom bo stopped. "Halloa!" bo cried, with graceful badinage, "Uuuro, how goes it?" "How Co you do, Mr. Otbadeal" inquired tho clei'k. "Doa't bs In tritb a hurry- V/tli, ho;/ ij cbc.eb." "Mr. tt;-.d-r "Don't bo afraid) my boy. I'm noi tlio nuiu t.i qpoil c;iurt. Why ttOt bale vrtfch Ucrl Dftltl Dd land you uiy lab^f-Ver va help you, I Livr yoa tie othft' tsvrulnfi. Hi-Ul liu-rel; fldoa cloxd cao eye, Uiruut his Lis chtsk awl eteoUed Harm the •i ssltoS* ctreoi of Brainliagdoh, W'tiajj sslf coastiouo vlegality, * CHAPTER II. ntry town it ia impossible l» Ue^t e;cret, esceyt rumor points to so Iminals that justice r.nd become lost in aurmiso, loi-ent thut tho guilty xo detect murder, tbo i Bwlf t at tbo discovery • met Juliet at a fancy Instead of at n mas- ia, and afterwards prowled Irdun of bis mistress' father's giiori Captilct -nnd Montaguo .-en informed of the occurrences following morning by several I credible oye witnesses—all of ami tho majority on the other -thirty years of ago. 'as Christmas day, cold, clear and ■osty. Mr. Dawbani was dressed in his , brightest black, nnd bis cravat was as a mon- j ument to tho most irreproachable of laundresses. But Mr. Dawbani was pnlo and agitated, his head shook nnd his bauds trembled, till tho papers he held iu them rattled and crumpled. Wheu a servant opened the dining room door and announced "Mr. Muuro," Mr. Daw- barn turned paler, and wheu tbo young clerk whom Mr. Roliert Studdeu had so playfully rallied n fortnigbt beforo in the street entered, tho banker trembled more violently, "Mr. Munro,"suid the banker, when tho door was closed,."you—you—you doubtless know why I havo sant for you—on this festive occa—sioa—siou, today?" Tbo young clerk, who was ns pnlo as Mr. Dawbani, faltered out, "No, sir," with so trniis|Nircat an effort thnt tho banker saw tbnt tlio young man perfectly understood the reason of iho Interview, "Your conduct, sir, has been sueh that I— I—I do not know bow to address you," stammered Mr. Dawbnrn, "That you, sir, my servant, my paid mid salaried servant, should hnvo so abused my confidence; should hnvo so dared to try to so injur? uo is—is— what 1 did not expect from you. I know nil, sir, nil. You aro discharged from tho bank this moment," A pailg shot over tho young man's face. "You will no:, be allowed to enter the" ngain. This quarter's salary is tlieiv?, si The banker put upon tho table a small paper packet. "Ar, I shnll not suffer you to take your placo at your desk again, there is a half year's salary." Tho banker placed another small packet on the tabic, and tbo clerk mndo a deprecatory motion with or, j hand. "I insist on it, sir, and shall tako no denial. I also insist on your leaving Branilitigdou tonight, or to-morrow morning, at tho latest. Should you havo nny debts here, leavo a list of tbcuifdlld today being Christmas day, 1 will seo that one of tbo dorks pays them tho dny ufter to-morrow. Thero can bo no excuse fervour remaining, and your absence, sir, is a matter of much moro importance to mo than a fow paltry pounds; bo I will hear of no objection." Mr. Dawbani paused and drow breath, and the young clerk looked nt him and then at the window, us if out into a far distance beyond, "My accounts, sir" ho bogaii, whon the banker Interrupted hlra, "Will b? found quite right, I daresay. Had yoii only robbed mo of money, sir, I should linvo been better pleased. I havo treated you only too well, and in return seo what you have done." Mr. Dawbnrn struck his clenched band upon tho table. "But no matter. Do I understand that jou will leave Bra'tnlfpgdon to-night." Muuro look bis eyes from tbo window, and, bolting full in tho banker's face, snid: "Lucy." Mr. Dawbarn's faco turned scarlet, nnd bo again struck tho table. "Don't mention my daughter's unino to mc, sir, if you please. 1 won't bear iti How dare you! There, sir, ire the rubbishing letters you hnvo sent to her, and if you havo any senso of decency or honesty left, you will return those you have of hers—of—of my dan -liter's." Muuro took up tho letters his former mas-, ter had tossed to liim. "Did you bear m.\\ if asked tbo banker. "I beg your pardon.11 "I sny, will you (*jvo mo back ber letters, anil will you leave Bi'nm.ingdon to-night!" Thore wns a pau :o, and tbo bells of tho church rang out for : loniiug scrvic., "IoaninakeiioproaiiBO, sir,1' replied tho young elork, vory clearly. "I havo a duty to your dull : liter as woll os a duty to you. If alio desires tliat I Bhould"— "You sot mo at defiance, do you, sir!" burst in tho banker, "Very good, very good; but tlou'fc suppose that if you stay hero forever thin, yon will seo my (laughter, or bo enabled to write to her. If you stop In Brninlingdoii, sho goes, Next week sho travels with hor mother to London, abroad, anywhere, away from her father's presumptuous clerk, who, because bis master naked him n fow times to his house, tosltat his table, and treated liim as an equal, so far forgot himself aa to lift is eyes up to hi i daughter, bis only child," It had boon a terrible Christmas morning In tho banker's house, Mr, nml Mrs. Daw barn had boon Informed thnt their only daughter, Lucy, rose overy morning early aud had nu interview with tho young clerk, Mtmro, in tho kitchen garden, tho door of which oponod Into a lane, and of which door either Lucy 01' tiie young clerk, or both, possessed iv key. Lucy bad been forced into confession, nml bad gono on hot1 knees to her papa, mul wept and implored him not to hurt her George. Sho bnd given up all bis letters, which sho was iu tho habit of placing under her pillow every night, and which letters Muuro bnd written stealthily In banking hours and placed In a certain portion of tbo wall, near tbo tool houso in tho kitchen garden, Mr, Dawbani went on wildly aud frightened Mrs. Dawbani, a goad, motherly woman, into a fit. When Mrs. Dawbnrn recovered, Miss Lucy went off iuto a swoon, aud her father nnd mother had to recover fier, and Mr. Dawbnrn was iu agony lest the servants of bis household should bo cognizant ot tho disturbance, which was an entirely unnecessary excitement on his part, as tbeyj tho servants, had known ull about it for tho last eight mouths, Poor Lucy was told tbat Munro was to bu immediately sent away, but that sho nud her mamma were to go to church thai day, as their absence might be remarked by u dovout but curious congregation, nud tlmt sbe was to bathe her eyes and look unconcerned, easy, comfortable and composed, As Lucy and her mamma passed tbo door of the dining room, Lucy heard .tho young clerk's voice, Sho knew thut sho should never seo liim again, aud akt> could not resist ber impulse, Sho ran to tbe door, seized tbe handle, und would have opened it, but her mamma pulled her nway, ftud on tho other sido Mr Dawbani rushed to tbo door and put bio back against Jt, Munro atrodo to tho window, tbat bo might tako a last look of bis mistress ns ebo left the house. "Good-by, Georgo dear, good-byl" cried poor Lucy iu tbo poertigc. "Wo shall novor *co each other again; but good-by and goodly aud flOPtVby again." chapter nr/ ; Aj'cnrbadoJnpsocI eiuco Lucy Dawbarn had Liddcu farewell to hor father's clerk through tho dining room door, Ho bad left Breiuiiugdon aud gono no ono know whither. Keitber letter nor message camo to Lucy; aho woo too strictly watched. She often walked iu tbo garden and looked at that portion of tho wall where tbey had concealed their lot- tors. Tho good old brick tbat tbey used to tako out cud put back again was a thing cf tho past, In ita placo thoro was a bran new red brick cemented by bran new white mortar that you could seo a miio off. Lucy bad been to Loudon, aud bad boon visiting not ouly hor father's und mother's relatives but tho magnates of tbo county, aud bad seen nil sorts of pleasures and fashion and distraction, and at tho end of six mouths bad returned very thin and pale. Sho had been homo but a few weeks when tlio news came that, young Muuro hnd nailed from Liverpool for New York. It reached Lucy's em's through a sympathetic servant maid. Tho next morning sho sent word that sho would liko to hnvo a cup of tea sent to licr up stairs In her own room, ns sho hnd a licadacho nnd begged to bo excused from tho breakfast table. Mrs. Dawbnrn knew that sho had board of Munro's departure for America, but sho did not dare to mention ovon tho name of tho, objectionublo clork to her husband, who wnscntiroly ignorant of tho young man's movements. Two or three days nfter lho doctor was sent for. The medical man hummed uud hawed nnd snid tbat his patient wan low. Lucy grow worse nnd worse. A consult;ition was hold. Tho young lady's disorder was pronounced to bo nervous fever, uud ono whito headed old gentleman from Loudon suggested to Mr. and Mrs. Dawbani tbat if tho young lady were engaged be should not advlso the postponement of the ceremony. "You see, my dear Mr. Dawbani," snid tho old gentleman, "your dear daughter's malady is partly mental, Sho baa hero uo employment, that is, no fresh employment for her mind. If you could substitute new duties, fresh impressions, she would recover quickly. Hei energy is wearing ber to pieces; sho wants, so to spenl;, to begin ber lifo over again. If—if her partner has not yot been chosen"— bore tho eyes of tho fnther nnd mother met—"lot her travel, let her choose nn occupation, givo her something to do. I know a young 1. dy—ranch tho same kind of case—'.v..'. .jolc to painting, nnd found cou- lu benefit from lho study mid tlio i-.'actice. Italy, now, might create a desiro to cultivate somo art—say music, oh! Your dear daughter is not strong; her mind is too much for her body." Lucy wns taken to Hnrrognte, to Cheltenham, to Leamington nnd Scarborough, then to tbo south of France nnd Italy. When aho returned to Bramlingdon she bad to be lifted from tlio carriage. Her father, who had not seen ber for two months, was struck with tho visible alteration in her foe* and figure. Ho himself carried hor to hi.r room and was hardly conscious of his burden. Sho snld sho was tired with her journey and would go to bed, Mr. Dawbnrn descended to dine with his wife, nnd mooting on tho stall's with tho sympathetic housemaid who bad informed Lucy of Munro's departure for America, and asking tlio girl why sho was crying, and receiving for answer thnt it was for Miss Lucy, bo discharged ber on tho spot. It was a dismal dinner. Husband nnd wifo spoke but littlo, and when ono caught the tho other's oyo there was n great show of appetite. Mr. Dawbani drank a considerable quantity of sherry. When tho cloth wns removed the conversation flagged. Neither dared begin tho consultation they felt was Inevitable, Before tbey went into Lucy's room to look nt her aa sho lay sleeping, Mr. Dawbuni put his arm around his wife's waist nud kissed heron tho forehead, a proceeding which mndo tho good old lady tremble very much and hor mouth and nostrils quiver. Sido by side in tbo dark tho couplo lay awake In their luxurious cbninbor, Btarting at tho reflection of tho window framo upon tbo blinds. Tho father began. "Jemima." "Philip," said tbo mother. "What do yon think of Lucy?" Tho mother heaved a deep sigh. "Good God!" said tho banker, "when I took ber up in my arms I could hardly feel her weight. Sho wns liko a feather—liko a feather. Jemima, you're crying, my lovo. Toll mo, honestly, now, honestly, candidly, as you think. Tell mo, tell mo." Tlio wifo throw ber arm around hor husband's neck and sobbed: "I fear that wo shall lose her," It was spoken, nnd death was recognized ns a presence in tbo houso. "D'yo think (hero's no hope!" "Only ono, mid that a vory poor ono," Mr. Dawbani felt a mental qualm, for he know what was coming. "What's Hint." bo asked. "You'll be angry with mo, Philip, if I tell you." "Angry, my dear? no, no, not a bit," said tho father. "You know what I mean," The banker sighed. "Do you mean" ho begnn. "Yes, I do," replied lho mother. "If Lucy could see or hear of that young man, 1 ho- llovo Sho would recover. I'm sure it would do her good." There wns a long pause, Mr. Dawbani groaned in spirit, but bo felt that bis wjfo was right. "I bnd such better viows for her," groaned tbo banker. I'Ycs, my dear, I know yon had," said tho wife, pressing his hand, "Lord Lundringa was most particular in bis attentions, and Sir Tbcophilus Hawdon absolutely spoko to mo about ber." "I know bo did," said tbo acquiescent wifo. "Think of Lucy being Lady Landringa or Lady Hawdon I county peoplo—and then of her being Mrs. — obi" "It's a sad thing, dear, but what can we do now tbat aho's so ill—poor thing! And If wo could eavo ber lifo" Mr. Dawbnrn turned in tho bed. "I'll ask Topham about It to-morrow." {Tophum was tbe doctor.) "I'll hoar his opinion." "I have asked him," said tho mother, "and hongrec3 with mo." "But bow can It bo donor' asked tbo banker, turning again restlessly. "I can't ask tbo fellow to marry my daughter." "No, but you can offer him a situation in tbo bank," "Suppose ho refuses," "Ho won't refuse," "But how can I find him? Whero is lief" "In America," answered Mrs. Dawbarn. "America!'' repeated tho banker, sitting up in bed. "Thou bow tho deuco is ho to bo got at!" "Advertise for bim, If ho will apply to So-and-So, ho will hear of something to his advantage, I asked Dr. Topbam'a advice about all that," "Advertising Is not respectable," said tbo banker; to which bis wifo mado no reply but tho word 'Lucy,'" "Besides," continued Mrs. Dawbnrn, nfter a short pause, "If you don't liko advertising, scud somebody aftor bim to find out .7ln.ro ho Is," "Sendoomebodyl Send who! "Oh, that Mr. Mtuddcu; bo's doing nothing and I dure say will bo glad of the job." "I suppose that Tophum advised tbat tool,' "Yes, ho did.0 "J thought I recognized Tooham's interest i j uu& $ uuug vagabond. 1 suppose you aud demotion for tbe past and a fluo prospeofi tor bo hnvo talkod this matter over new some \\ the future. time." "I and Hr. StudilenS" "No, you cud TopUam," "Yea." "And you've arranged It all between you." "Yes." "Why didn't you tell uo this before, Jemima!" "1 waa afraid." "Afraid! Afraid of what!" "Of you." "Of mo, Jemima! Don't yon think X lent my child aa much ns you!" "I'm suro you do; but you men don't understand somo things." "But Topbnm's a man," remarked tbe puzzled banker. "But then he's a doctor," was the reply. Mr. Dawbani groaned inwardly, as a possible coronet presented itself to hia mind's eye—and thou faded away. "I suppose you must huve it your own way." be aald. "May I, Philip!" asked his wife, putting her arm around his neck a second time, "Yen, I bcliovo you're In tbo right. But won't tho shock—tlio surpriso hurt ber!" "I'll answer for that May I toll her tomorrow!'! "Yes," sighed tho vanquished father. "Bless you, Philip*!" said tho good mother; und alio kissed hoi' partner, and lioth wifo and husband slept tho sleep of tho just. CHAPTER IV. "Lucy, my dear," said Mrs. Dawbnrn tbo next morning ns she entered tbo invalid'* cbnmbcr, "I and papa hnvo been talking aboil t you." "Yes, mamma," said Lucy, with an evident want of interest in tho subject: "And what do you think he says!1' "Don't know, mamma." "Ho's going to mako some alterations in iho bail!;." "Oh, indeed!" Miss Lucy bad not tho smallest solicitude about tbo bank, "And what elso do you think?" "Oh, mamma, I am so tired," said Lucy peevishly. "What else dn you think bo menus to do!" continued Mrs, Dawbani, bending her matronly head over her daughter's face, and pouring into her ear words that mndo tlie girl flush scarlet and ber eyes flash. "Oh, iimmmn, itcnu't bo true!" "My love, could I devolve yon!" "No, dear mamma, no; but oh, is it true! Kiss mc, mamma ('ear. I am so happy nnd eo thankful, nud—and in a littlo timo, when I'vo thought over how happy I nm, papa may como in, and I'll kiss bim nnd thank liim. and tell him how grateful I am too, and"— But poor Lucy could got no further,' ond sobbed and wept witli delight, "My darling, kiss mo now," said her father, advancing from tho door, behind which bo had watched tho effect of tho news. "I'll do anything tognnka you happy—anything." "0 papa! my own papal" "My darling, you'll lovo mo now again as yon used to do, won't you? and—and—there's Mr. Bob Studden's knock. I'll send tbat fellow off to Now York—I mean to Liverpool, this very night." Mr. Bob Stndden wns waiting in tbo dining room. Ho was so changed in faco, dress, appearance nud manner that when Mr. Dawbani saw htm bo started nnd snid: "Aro you Mr. Robert Studdeu f" "Yes, Mr. Dawbnrn, it's me," said tbo familiar voice. "I dare say you And me changed. I do myself." Ho was indeed altered. In plnco of tho spick, span, now, natty, dressy, shiny, oily, varnished Bob, lho delight of barmaids and tho envy of grooms, stood n shabby, corduroy trousered, waistcontloss vagabond, smelling of straw and porter. Mr. Dawbani hesitated beforo ho asked him to sit down. "1 got your letter, sir," said Bob, whoso manner was ns deferential n3 bis clothes wore shabby, "and camo on immediately. Sorry I couldn't present myself moro decently; but such is fate." "What ore you doing now, Mr. Studden!" asked tho banker. "At present, sir, replied Bob, "I am stableman at tho Cock aud Bottle." "Good gracious!" "It's not what I could wish, sir, but It's better than nothing. I'm sorry to say I'm only oraployed thero two days n week—Mondays and market days; but still, what with odd jobs, I manage to grub on." Mr. Dawbani looked at tho cx-bettbig man's wan fnco nnd wistful oyes, and asked him if ho would tako a glass of wino. Bob shot a quick glance, and said that he would; and In tbo keen look Mr. Dawbarn rend hunger. "Tbo sherry," snid tho banker to a servant, "nnd bring lunch— somo cold reust beef— nnd—you know; und whon wo'vo lunched, Mr. Studdeu, we'll talk business " Mr. Studden's performance upon tho bcof wns so extraordinary that tbo banker feared thnt bo would commit involuntary suicide.' It was with a feeling of intense relief that bo enw bim nttnek lho cheese; but tho attack was so prolonged that Mr. Dawbarn feared lest tho suffocation tho beef had left unaccomplished should Im effected by tbo Stilton. "Not any more, sir, thank you," answered Bob to his host's complimentary question. "I never tasted such a cheese—nnd aa for tho beef, it's beautiful, I haven't tasted nnlmnl food for these tan days, For rod herring Is nut animal food nuy mora than n lump of salt is, and I'm sick of red herrings. Soak 'cm in os much hot water ns you llko, thoy always taste of luctfers; perhaps becauso they lio next to 'em in tho shop. I may thank you, Mr. Dawbarn, for a real meal such as I haven't bad for—for" Tbo wiuo'Mr. Studden had drunk seemed to havo got into his head, and from hia head Into Ids eyes. Men ore strange creatures— and even hotting men ure men—nnd whether it was tbo memory of bygone days, or tbo wino, or tho bread, or tbo butter, or tho beef, or tho cheese tbnt affected him, cannot bo ascertained, but ono of theso causes, or somo of them, or all, caused Bob Studden to ley his bond upou bis nrma, and to cry copiously, Ho then began accusing himself, and saying thnt bo was a bad lot; tbat riowin miserable and repented; tbnt his lifo was an hourly curse to bim; that ho knew lio bnd brought it all upon himself; tbnt all bis frlonds had deserted hfm, particularly thoso who had shared his hospitality, and oven bis monoy, when bo was prosperous; that tho man who owed his riso lu Hfo to bim, and whom bo bnd assisted at a crisis, had behaved to him with an Ingratitude that stung him to tho soul; tbnt ho was half starved and bad no bod but in tbo stable; that ho was ruined—ruined- and bod no hopo. Whon tho poor, broken down semester bad exhausted himself, tbo bnnkor began. II- told bim that ho (tbo bankor) bad been nd- vlsod to offer him (Studden) employment because ho know bim to bo intelligent, mid hoped tbat his post sufferings fiad been a warning to him for tbo future; that tho business ho wished to employ bim on was difficult and delicate, being no less than to go to Now York nnd from there to wherever oho It might bo necessary to travel, in search of Mr. Munro; thnt monoy would bo provided and letters furnished bim, and tbat ho waa required to start, for Liverpool that vory night; thut it wus hoped ho would no!* lightly givo up a chanco (bat offered him re* TU dp it! I'll do iti" said Boh, rising and grasping tbo banker's hand;''and God bless you, Mr. Dawbarn, for giving a poor outcast devil liko mo tho chanco, I'll nob deceive ycu, cir, ii1 1 do"— "Hush, bush, Mr. Studdeu," "You 11 mako a man of me, sir—a MAN! I'll bo truo as steel. PU not bat—not on tho beat horso tbat wns ovor foaled. To-night, sir—I'll ctart tliis minute, barefoot, if you wished it. I've goto decent suit of clothes ti pawn, dr, quite icood -enough for tho lik<" of me; I'll be faithful and truo, sir, and God bless you, sir, and—and" Hero Bob broke down again, and even stiff Mr. Dawbani was compelled to uso his cambric handkerchief as Mr. Studdeu used his coat sleeve. Bob was furnished with letters; among them was ono from Mr. Dawbani addressed to Muuro, which inclosed a note from Lucy, which contained' only theso words, written fn u largo, trembling baud: "Comeback tome—obi como buck to mo, my dear;'nnd soon, if you would seo ngain upon this earth your own Luov." A few hours after Bob waa Boated on tbo roof of tbo night coach, and aa It rattled past tho banker's bouse bo saw a light in Lucy's chamber. Although tbo night was cold tho window was thrown up, and a thin hand waved a handkerchief. CHAPTER V. Two yeara elapsed and tbere was no news of. tlio missing Mr. Munro. Letters arrived frequently from different parts of America from Mr. Bob Studden, who evidently found bis task to be more difficult than bo had sup- piwl. America was a largo continent, and 'i was not so cosy to And ono particular man upon it. Poor Lucy amused herself by reading books nud perusing maps, Sho liked to wonder if Georgo wore thero—or tbere, nud what sort of place it wns. Sho arranged all Mr. Bob Studden's letters of Intelligence in chronological order nud compared them with the books nnd tho maps, and so traced.bis progress. Sho always know when nn American letter arrived by an histiuct for which kIic was nt a loss to account herself; but for all theso sources of consolation, for all Iter mother's nnd father's solicitude, she grew weaker nnd weaker. Sho took no air but iu oil invalid chair. Her father walked by her sido grave nnd dejected. Stealthy shad' mvs took possession of tbo haulier's bouse. They flitted on tlie windows, lingered on tho staircases and hung about tbo passages; and tbo good folks of Bramlingdon looked sad as they passed tho banker's, over which, as over thoso it contained, there huug tho sanctity of t great sorrow. Two long, long yenrs and two long, long months Lucy waited and hoped, each day her palo cheek growing paler, and her light form lighter, and toward Christmas sho was unable to bo lifted from ber bed. Dr. Top- bnm said that ho had exhausted tho resources of his science; nnd when tbo poor girl turned feverishly, nnd, with a alight access of delirium, asked for tbe fiftieth timo if there woro no news, tho doctor beckoned tho bunker nud liis wifo from tho sick room and said: "I'vo an ideal This cannot Inst long-she must bo quieted somehow. Sho keeps asking for news; now news from America would quiet her nud sho might sleep." "Wc havo no news," said thosinglo minded brmkor, "No," replied tbo doctor, "but wo can make somo." "Mako some!" "Fabricate it—invent It Don't you see!" "0 doctor!" remarked tho tearful mother, "to decoivo a poor creature on tho threshold of death 1" "To snatch her from death," said Dr. Top- linni. "It must bo dono. It is tho Inst chance. Wo must write u letter from Studden thia very night." "nut—but—but—it is forgery I" stammered th" banker. "Besides," snld Mrs. Dawbnrn, "Lucy knows Mr. Studden's hand aud always ox- nmincB tho envelopes." "Thon," anid tho doctor, "wo must do It by telegraph " "Telegraph I" "Yes. In a few minutes yon wlll receive a telegram from Mr. Dob Studden, saying tbat ho has just arrived at Liverpool with— with a companion." "Who'll send It!" "I will," snid tho doctor. "But when—whon sho finds that Studden is not in England—what then!" "Wo must think of something else," said tbo undaunted Topham. "Tho caso is deft- perate, und something desperate must bo tried. Oo and tail; to her, Mrs, Dawbarn, and I'll send tbo telegram." With a strong fooling of conscious guilt Mr. mid Mrs. Dawbarn put Into their daughter's hand a telegram containing these words: "From Robert Studden, Adolpbi Hotel, Liverpool, to Charles Dawbarn, Bramlingdon. "1 havo just arrived in Liverpool. I hnvo news of Mr. M. I hopo to bo In Bramlingdon by Thursdays'1 Lucy read tbo telegram and sat up In her bed. "He's come, mammal" sho said, nnd hor eyes flashed nnd her cheeks flushed, "lio Iniided In England thia morning—I folt bo did—aboufi f) o'clock. Ho will bo hero soon, George will-very soon—vory soon. Mamma, please tell Eliza to put out my lilao frock. Ho liked lilac—and to como nnd do my hair— nud-and—nnd—tell Eliza to como to mound 1 can tell hor what 1 want myself," Tho father nnd mother exchanged glances thnt aaid: "Hero ia tho consequence of our deception, Wbnt can bo dono noxt!" Tho thought bnd hardly been interchanged lie. fow a smart rap was hoard at tbo street door, and a servant camo in with another tele- graphio dispatch, which ran tbusi "From It. Studden, Adelphi Hotel, Liverpool, to C. Dawbarn, Bramlingdon. "Just arrived horo with Mr. Munro. Shall start by night train, leaving hero nt 1:80. M, nnd self will bent Bramlingdou to-morrow. Tolegrupb back." "How absurd of Topham to semi two tolo- grams!" anid Mr. Dawbarn, when he and his wifo were alone, "as If ono would not briug mischief enough, Ho must ho mad," Dr. Topham entered tho ho.iso, and Inquired how bis plan had succeeded. "Ob, Lucy is vory much delighted und agitated," answered Lucy's father, "What wo ahnll do with - hor when situ finds tbo uows not truo, 1 do not know. But, Topham, why tho douco did you send two telegrams!" "Twol" echoed Tophnm. "Ioulysoutone." "Yos, yon did." "No, 1 didn't." "Yos, you did. ncre it is," Tbo doctor looked nt tbo second telegram, and said, "I didn't scud this." "Nol Who thon!" "By Jovol Ho dldl Studden, I moan. Dawbarn, he's como I ho'scomol I only anticipated tho truth, It wai a medical inspiration—and my patlont will recover." Mr, Dawbani loot no timo In telogi-nphiug baok to Liverpool, At Lucy's express doslre Mr, Studdeu was Instructed to telegraph at every station, that bIio might know bow much nearer and uearer hor George wns to her. Tho telegraph boys wore up tbo v. hub night, uud Lucy kopt tho toteztuuu aud read them until aho fell fust asleep, • WbuuBhonwokoBho found herself tumble to I'lco, co rowlvod to receive hor future bua- bi.ud Iiuii-.lo; mid when she bad looked ia tljo mirror uhu bogged her mamma lu u whisper io lot ber have somo rouge—"not to make mo look better, but for fear my pale, white, white cheeks should frighten George.1' Tbo heavy hours flow by. Georgo arrived, and wus shown upstairs to bis faithful, constant mistres-t; aud tbo servants in tbo kitchen held grunt jubilee, and thero was sweet hem-ting below stairs us woll as above, Mr. Dawbani fouud Mr, Bob Studdeu quite un American—according to the notion of Auioi'icuns imbibed by Englishmen a few months resident iu the Now World. He woro a "goatee" beard, squat* toed boots, and loud trousers and cravat. Ho addressed Mr. Dawbnrn as "colonel," aud assumed a maimer that savored equally of tho quarterdeck aud the counter—half pirate, half bag- matt "As I advertised you, colonel," he explained, "tu the various letters from the various diggings where I fixed my temporary location whon 1 set foot in Now York, 1 could find small tracoof G. Munro, but I followed up that trace, and dogged eternally wherever be had mado tracks. At lust 1 lost bim, nnd was near thinkiu' I was dono holler —yes, sir—and do you know why I thought 1 was dono holler! Ho changed his name, nud what bis last occupation was I could not discover. Howovor, I traveled and traveled on; and how d'ye think, and whar d'yo tbiak, colonel, 1 found him out at last!" "I don't kuow." "It was quite by accident—It was. I thought I'd heard of bim In Detroit, but I couldn't find bim in Detroit; and I Wns goin' away by tho caw on the following suu up. Not knowing wbnt to do with myself till roosting time, I strolled into tho museum— that Is—that waa a theatre then. Tbo first man I ace upon tbe stage was G. Muuro, dressed liko n citizen, iu coat, vest and pants, or perhaps I should not hnvo known him. 1 hailed him, aud wo stnrted off that very night We traveled quicker than post, or I should hnvo written. 1 should havo diagnosed him before, but tho truck was cold, because bo bad changed bis name, and gono upon tbo stage—a fact which 1 have not mentioned to nny one but you, nor do 1 intend to du—tho stngo not boing considered by the general ns business liko." Lucy was soon seen out again in tho invalid chair, but her father uo longer walked by her side. Ho waa replaced by Mr. Muuro, who usually propelled it himself. Within eighteen months tlio young couplo were married, ami some timo after Georgo was mndo a partner in tho bank. Mr. Robert Studden. by tho iissistanco of his patron, emigrated to Australia, where ho drives a thriving business [ti horses. Beforo ho sailed ho spout the Christmas day with tho brido and bridegroom. Aud though our talo ends happily with marriage and dowry, as novels nnd plays should end, It is not for that reason u fiction, but a truo story of truo lovo, AN IDEAL CHRISTMAS. Events « Day Wl.lclt Matte Mr. Scris- Blon Tired. It wns Christmas dny; nuybody could tell it; sleigh bells rang out more crisp and clear than usual; tho sun was brighter, tlio nir was sharper, men stepped more briskly along tho streets, tho chimes sounded sweeter; tho sleigh bells tinkled moro merrily, nnd if that wasn't enough to convinco tho most skeptical, ho could took ut tho bending of the morning newspaper. "Hal" cried Mr. Scriggles as bo limped out of bod; "beautiful day I beautiful; and, Indeed, Christmas; Mrs. Scriggles isn't owake yot cither; I'll get ahead of ber thia time Merry Christ—" "Scriggles, 1ms tho servant got that lire started vet!" "I don't know, dear; I was just going down to seo about it. Merry Cbrist- "Scriggles, I would llko to have $ft to give to tho church. Havo you got any money left from last night!" "Certainly, I kept $35 exclusively for Christmas. I'll leavo tho five ou the dressing caso for you." Ho skipped gayly down stairs just in timo to meet tbo now up stairs girl. "Good mornin" Mistlier Scriggles, Merry Chrlstmns and Christmas gift." "Certainly. Bridget, here's a couplo of dollars for you." Tho cook waa just emerging from the kitchen whon bo arrived at tbo door. "ChristmusgiP, Mnssa Scriggles." "Certaluly, Arabella; here's $2 for you." Breakfast was oaten nnd Scriggles presented his wifo wltb a bonnet which she snld wns horrid, nnd sho gavo him a cans to add to bis collection, which numbered something aver a dozen. Ho thon took tbo street car down town. "Mornin', Masai Scriggles," said his beet- black. "Chrisuiusglf." "Yes, Sam; hero's a dollar for you." •'Christmas gift, Mr. Scriggles," said tho elovntor boy, "Yes, of course; horo'a a dollnr for you." "Christmas gift, Mr. Scriggles," said his office boy In a cheery, holiday tone, which was good for $3. "Ab, good dny, madamo," said bo to tho lady whom ho found seated in Ida chair. "Merry Christmas to you, I'm sure." "1 nm glad to seo that you havo tko tree | Christian spirit," who said. "I augurs favorably for my cmuid." t "What can I do for you, ma'nm!" "1 nm working in tho cause of charity," sho replied. "I am soliciting subscriptions for tbo now minion for tbo natives of Patagonia. I hopo I may put you itolva fer $10. Mr. Scriggles Enid certainly, and bauded her tho monoy. Tbo janitor and two scrub ladles nlso mado successful culls. Ho bail to compromise with tbo latter on oO cents apiece. At nbout 8 o'clock Mr. Scriggles concluded to start for borne. As hu reached the sidewalk ho felt hi his vest pockets, then In bis trousers pocket, A slight look of annoyance crossed hia face, "Morry Christmas," said a cheery voioo, "Oh, bow nre you, Brown; yos, to bo sure. Do you huppen to have a oar tlckot in your pocket!" "No, I haven't," "Any clinngol" "No, not a red." When Scriggles reached homo it was about half past 0, Ho dragged himself wearily through tbo door and bung himself ou tho loungo. "Did you havo a pleasant Christinasl" asked his wife, "Christmas bo-blessed I" was tbo only reply as hu flopped ovor ou his sido, with bis faco to tbo wall. BURDETTE'S WITICISMSl flrlef ami Pointed Essays on Current Topics. Tho first territorial Volapuk club in America has boon organized in Walla Walla, Washington Territory. There is a phonetic appropriateness in this thing. J, W, Itedlng- ton's scientific journal, The Walla Walla Wab Wah, Is tho olllcial organ of tbo society. USI'AnDOKAIJI.E CANNIBALISM. Don't talk to us about honor among thieves. When tbe train robbers wont through that Northern Paoiflo train at Custer, thoy refused to tako any money from the train conductor aud brakemeu, but when they came to tho Pullman car they went through all tho Pullman employes twice, and then threatened to kill them if tbey didn't rake up a littlo more. Such treatmout as this must cut Sir Georgo to tho benrt. Why, you wouldn't bo at all surprised now to learn that thoso train robbers, when tooy got safely away, fell upon nud robbed each other. OU MAY OS IT WAS THE BOULANGER HARCS. "What makes a white cat deaf!" asks a scientific writer. Why, we always supposed It was the debate on the tariff. It makes human beings wish tbey were deaf or dead. LATE IN OSB TBIKO. "Why did the orator speak of 'the late Georgo Washington!"' asked Rollo. "Because ho is dead," replied Hollo's mother. "But Washington was never lato," said Rollo; "ho was Qrst in wnr, Ilrst in peace and first iu lho hearts of hia countrymen." "But lio was tbo last man to get a monument," anid Hollo's Uncle Georgo, aud without coming to a vote the committee rose and tbo houso adjourned.—Brooklyn Eagle, A Total Mistake. Mrs. Jacob S , an estimablo woman living in a small town In tbo west, discovered early in ber matrimonial career tbat she bad not been fortunate in ber choice of a husband, for Jacob proved to bo excessively lazy mid shiftless, doing almost nothing for tbo support of bis wifo and tbo round faced tittle children. Soveral yeara after her marriage Mra. S— hoard of tbe approaching marriage of Jen- uio Krnlo, tho daughter of a neighbor, and mooting the girl one day sho said: "Veil, Slumnio, 1 hear you vas tbinkin' 'bout getting married. Vas dot so!" Tho girl, with becoming blushes, admitted tbo truth of tbo rumor. "Veil, ShennieV'said Mra. 8 , "Itwould bo veil for you to dink dwice beforo you mnrrys nnypody." "Did you think twice about It when you were married." nsked Jennie, rather resenting tho intimation tbat sho had not mado a wiso choice. Veil, yes, I did," replied Mm S , after somo littlo hesitation. "I did dink dwice, Sbennie; but I mado von grade meestake, von grado meestake, Shennle, I did not dink dcr second time undil alter I vas married."— Detroit Freo Press. Dangerous to Trlllo With. Deacon Lukers (entering crowded car)— Say, you I Hov you paid fer that young one's seat! *■ Count Fillippl (who has left bis organ fn thobnggago car)—Sicca bim, PJppoI—Judge. Today. Onli:hl nt nli'hlal 0 night Desired of nmuBolougi Tim ancient heavens lied forth In light To slug thee thy uow song; Anil tihoot lug down tlio stoon To xlii-phord folk of old, An aiurH, while thoy watched tholr ulitwR Hot (oat beside tho fold, Tt van so long ago; lint tlod can mako It new, Ami lis with Hint .tweet overflow, Our empty hearts endow, Tako, Lord, ilioso words outworn, Oh, mnko them now for aye, Spcnk-"Uuto you a child la horn," Today—lodiittoduyl —Jean Ingclow, Tliey n»vo No Perspective, An American writer says tbo wealthy Japanese picturo owner koop3 his art treasures stowed away in what is called a "go- down," or storehouse, and bis paintings are brought up ono at n timo If nny visiter Is present, in order that a single picturo may bo scon by itself. Wo should think that ono at a timo would bo about os many as an American could stand, if thoy are tho work of Japanese artists. Japanese art la eccentric and mystifying, and half a dozen at a time would mako tho visitor think bo had what in Volapul; language is called tho"|UHsJuu.n Norristowu Herald. Unfortunately, Too Often tho Tho minister nought to fmprai by giving Bobby a lesson in mo|*" boy," ho said, "I havo lived foi aatl bnvo never used tobacco ' nor toid a lio, nor awore, nor plaL nor"— "Havo you got any UttinHfEf' interrupted Bobby. "No, I havo never had any littlo boys." "Well, thoy are mlgbty lucky," said Bobby.—San Francisco Wasp, Ten Hearts That tlcat as One, Mormon Youth—Mr. Elder, I am in love with your daughters. Mr. Elder-Which ones! Mormon Youth—Miasos Amy, CInribol, Mamie, Jennie, Emma, Polly, Bridget, Ann ond Josephine. Mr. KIder—Tako them, my boy; tako them and try to mako some of them happy,—Town Topics, ________________ Rather Have tho Hoy Whipped. Editor—John, if anybody calls toll k!ml nm vory busy writing an editorial, Ofllce Boy (ten minutes later)—Man dowi stairs what wants to know who wrote that article In yesterday's paper. Editor—Go back and tell bim you wrote It. I'm not fooling Arab rate today.—Judge, A I'lno Profession. Mr. Crupper (to his jockey)—How did 11 happen, Muckins! You aro tbo sixteenth of an otinco over weight, Muckins-1. knowed I'd git in necrnposomo* how. I Btoppod on mo way down tor gft mi boots sbiiicd, air.—Time In Chicago Ito Might, Exnmlnpr (to graduating medical student) If you Should mako a mistake and give s patlont nu overdoso of tartar emetic, what would you do! Student-Try to buy up tho coroner.— Chicago Tribune. jlN tbls ■o om- \\morclnl ago thero can bo no > good reason >wby Tilbury y village should 'have boen placed so near the summit of the hill, but so it Is, and «U but a few of the farmers around about havo to toll upwards in order to reach the half dozen stores there and the three churches. Perhaps tbe original settlers of western Massachusetts bad an eye, or two, for the beaitif ul, for tbere is not a habitation fn Berkshire county that commands a more extensive or picturesque view. The natives of Tilbury seldom mention the scenery, but not many yoars ago it attracted the admiration of wealthy'people from a distance, and tbey set up their summer homes there. It made a marked change In tho village, the more becauso a portion of the now comers found it plensureable to remain through tbe winter. It was thus that evil entered and brought unbappiness to Hoze- klah Martin. My mind wanders back to that time when as a child I listened to his stentorian tenor voice leading tbe singing from tbe choir loft of tho ancient Congrcgationallst church. There were two long services every Sunday i, and I recall tbat when the now preacher §ed In tbe movement to abolish the after- p sermon Hezekiah was one ot thoso who A hardest for the old custom, and when [inevitable reform was finally nccom- the sturdy chorister novor looked | his minister in the same light that he Vforo. Ho was more faithful than ever ling all tbe louder as it to mako up in I for lack of opportunity; but wheu tbo 1 divine finally went his way, aud an- Treacher took the pulpit, tho chorister [if a great burden had been lifted; as pish had escaped a most dangerous Cars turned steadily along and nczo- jprcamo every difficulty that choir Ire subject to. Ho pacified the jealous Sopranos, raised up new bassos, sung four consecutive Sundays all alone when the choir deserted him in high dudgeon because he refused to approvo of a uew anthem book, and In many other ways demonstrated bis fitness for tbe work until prosperity in tbe sbnpo of summer visitors fell upon Tilbury. Then began a quiet, Insidious trouble, as imperceptible at first as the approach of old age, tbat eventually overcame bim. The first manifestation of revolution came in a division of opinion in tho pariah over tbe choice of a now preacher, for old Mr, Spooner bud begun to feel tbnt he was somehow In the wny, and ho resigned before tbe peoplo were fully aware tbat tbey wanted to hear a now voice. There wero two leading candidates for his place, a young and eloquent preacher and a zealous worker, and an elderly man against whom not a word could be Bald, Tho newcomers in Tilbury, joining hands with tho younger members of tbe church, elected tbo young man, and as tho 1 not been loug or determined, "ing of differences and Even then Hesekiab i that all would not t several months passed Jftny direct intimation that 1 appreciate a change In tbe u__ _ " ) be beard of it was hi a dl'scussloii among liis singers at a Saturday evening rehearsal. It was not meant tbat he should bear, but he entered the vestry unexpectedly. Bam Hinckley, ono of those very bassos who bad beeu patleatly trained by tho chorister, was saying: "Wall, I shall bo sorry to seo tbo old man's feelings hurt, but he can't expect to lead singfn' forever.M And pretty Maria Jasper, tacitly understood to bo Sam's sweetheart, responded sharply! "But I think it's just too mean, and if 'Kiah has to go I follow. That's all!" And then tbey all saw tbe chorister coming down tbe aisle, aud a painful hush fell upon them. Hezekiah bowed gravely as he approached tho group and said: "Good evening, neighbors," That was tbo way ho always addressed the choir at rehearsals. Perhaps he avoided a greeting to each Individual from fear of arousing jealousy by seeming partiality. At all events I nevor beard of bis varying tbo formula. Ho continued, as bo referred to a small slip of papor hi his bandi "Whon the Lord wills we will all go, nnd not till then, it Is not our part to mcddlo with what Is In His bands. The minister has chosen hymn 307 for tho drat piece. Wo will sing it toitho tunc of 'Cambridge.'" At that rehearsal and during ecrvico next day everything wont na usual, but report of tbo talk that i-lozokiah bad board flow about the parish quickly, and not a few remarked that tho chorister looked unusually grave, "I cnl'lnto," remarked Mr, Davis, tho sheep raiser from Item's Hill, to bis wifo as thoy drove homo after mooting; "I cal'lato 'Klah Martin feels his yoavAa growing on htm; bay I" "And 1 enl'Inte, Philander Davis," returned Mrs. Davis, with significant emphasis, "that It ain't ao much liis natoral yeare bo feels ofl the loss of his friends," . "fc.hu! Mafthy, Iiu ain't lost no frioads, 'Kiah hain't; I ithink.jes* 'sinuch of him 'i ever I did, au' yit I'm 'bleeged to admit tbat when a man gits along in years it's time for him to let stouter men hold tbe plough. Hay!" Now, tho fact was that Philander Davis was ono of tho few among the older beads tn tbo parish who sided with tbe reforming element Mr. Davis was ambitious for Tilbury and all tn it, nud he prided himself somewhat on being able to entertain new ideas after having passed tbo ngo of 50. At tbo last church mooting bis support had been recognized by his election to membership of the parish committee, and be, therefore, was well informed ou tho restlessness of tho younger members regarding tbe matter of music, It was tho ono point of serious difference between bim nnd his wifo, nnd she wus uot to bo hoodwinked by bis sophistry. "Don't tell me, Philander," aha replied in answer te his lust expression, "I know jnst bow you feel. You want to pleaso *.be smart folks on tho hill, and I haven't got a word te aay against them, cept it does soma's If tbey needn't come to Tilbury and expect to nm things iu city style, Thoy want a quartet, now, don't thoy! and they want to interduce new music, don't thoy! and not lot tho congregation joiu iu, 'copt on one hymn, don't tbey! and they're goin' to try to make Hezekiah step down on account of bis ago, and bo beeu chorister for fifty your.., doh't tbey J aiut tbey, I should say 1" "Git up, there, Jim, g'long with yel" exclaimed ALp, Davis, "You're putty sharp, Mortby; of you was to look through tho bole iu one of my millstones aud seo the other a griudin' you'd think you saw clean through both, wouldn't ye! bay! but I don't think you'd mako much of a hand to run a church, Murtby. Hay!" And so, with good-natured obstinacy tbe discussion was continued until Mr. Davis bolped bis wife out and led the horse Into tbe barn to unhitch, Now that tho chorister knew that tbere was a feeling thnt his services wero not required, the parish committeo hoped that he would rollovo them of discomfort by resigning voluntarily; but weeks passed and Hezekiah retained bis place without a word. So at last it was determined tbat be must bo approached in a Christian, neighborly spirit, and induced to consider the matter fn the right light. As the oldest member of the committee, Philander Davis wife deputed to do the talking, but though ho bad accepted the appointment with a cheerful sense of Its Importance, hia confidence failed him when ho faced tbo old chorister one October owning in Hezekiah's little parlor. Tbe other members of the committee sat looking at 'their hats whilo Mr. Davis coughed awkwardly and begnu: "Feellii' tolerable well theso days, 'Kiah! Hay!" "I'vo been enjoyiu' good health all summer, Mr. Davis," responded Hezekiah with dignified asperity. "Wall," said Mr, Davis, aftor a wretched pause and another cough, "we've come up to talk nbout tho music." Mr. Davis waited for tho chorister to lend tbe way to what must follow, but Hezekiah kept silent. So the spokesman continued: "You see, 'Kiah, tbo parish thinks they'd ought to bo something of a change," Hezekiah could bold out no longer, "Neighbors," bo said with a trembling voice, "I can't make no change. I'vo stood up In tbo loft thoro more'n fifty years nud haven't missed but two Sundays. I'vo sung tbo good old muslo that you audi, Philander, was brought up on, and I can't sing much else. I'vo kept tho choir together for you, aud If tbo monoy stood in tho way (Hezekiah received 850 a year) I'd keep It up for nothing. No, don't say 'taint money; I know that; I know you want a high toned quartet nud that you're willing'to pay. But—I'vo dono my host, neighbors." Tbo old chorister bowed his head upon bis hands, nud tbo parish committeemen wished thoy bad not come. Mr. Davis rubbed tbe back of his bead and his colleagues looked sternly at bim. "Wo bnto worse'n thunder to hurt your feolln's, 'Kiah, hay!" ho began again, whon the chorister stood up and interrupted him, "I know," ho said; "you don't want to tell mo I'm too old, But, prniso tbo Lord! I'll not stand in tho way of tho parish's good, I resign right here." But the committeo was not wholly lacking In human sympathy, and it was agreed that Hezekiah should sing until tho ond of tbo year, and tho chorister consented, though with less appreciation of the favor extended to him than most of tho committeo bad expected, » "Blessed If I didn't feel sorry for tbo old man," said young Deacon Goodspeed, speaking of tbe matter soveral days later. So did a good many others, but as tlio cud of the yoar approached tho sympathy lost Its keenness, and In tho snmo degree tbo ambition of tbe younger members increased, so that eventually tho desiro to havo a big display of music on Christinas led to another call on Hezekiah, the result of which was tbat tho old chorister yielded bis placo at onco without a word of pretest, Tho celebration of tlio kindly festival began with a musical service on Christmas eve. Tbo now quartet was in plnco nud Hezokiuh snt with tho nudienco. Iu doforenco to old timo custom boiuo of tho hymns were suug by tho entire congregation. Tho old chorister tried te sing witli tho othcra, but nfter a fow bare the tears somehow got entangled In his voice, nnd, us ho could not sing and weep too, ho stopped singing. Whon ft was nil over soveral of Ids neighbors approached him to say tlmt they didn't think thoro'd boon nny improvement, and Hezekiah abook each ono by tho hand and answered nothing, Tho laat gossiping couplo bad left tbo church, tbe Gotten had blown out tbe lights aud locked the heavy doors behind him. Bloigh bells jingled faintly away out of hearing, and tho Blow footsteps of the sexton crunching ou tbo half trodden snow mingled with tbo tones of tbo clock in tbe high tower striking ten, Then a door inside tbo vestry opened, and out of a cloBct whore brooms aud dustpans were kept an old man came hesitatingly. Ho mndo his wuy vory slowly up tlio broad stairs to tbo main meeting room. At tho door lending to tbo choir loft he paused a moment. His bnnd was on the ktiob, but bo turned ft not. More slowly than before he went down the alalo and dropped Into a pew. Ho snt there in the darkness a long time, his bond sunk forward on bis breast. A half hour, may be, passed, beforo he rose nnd marched with determined step to the choir door, and up tbo stairs to tbe familiar loft He found a match in his pocket aud lit tbo lamp tbat hung near tbo bench, whero Hezekiah for more than fifty years hnd sung God's praises and carried tbo volcesaud spirits of the congregation with him. Tlie dim yellow ray threw gloomy shadows of tho pew backs Into relief, just disclosed the pulpit at tbe further end of tbo church, gavo faint bints of evergreen festoons on the walls, and here aud tbere the laurel worked words "Emanuel," "Glory to God in tbo highest," and bo on, that bad been placed thero with great toil by tho young men and women of the parish In honor of tbe day so near at band; but had you been there you would have seen only the patriarchal form of tbe chorister wltb a Badly bitter look on his faco gazing at tbe gloom about the pulpit. Was bo thinking bow often be hod stood solemnly thus while the minister was praying! Perhaps so, for after a moment his lips parted, and a tremulous "Amenl" uttered softly ou a high note, sung to tho evergreens and the shadows. Then Hezekiah looked about tho bench in front of him. Ho picked up ono of tbe new anthem books brought in by tbo quartet. He glanced at tbe cover aud 1st it fuil. Taking tbe lamp from its socket he held it so that he could see, aud presently drew forth the ancient collection of anthems, every tune fn wbicb bo knew by heart, so sacred to him, and yet so speedily hidden away where It should servo nobody. He replaced tho lamp and turned the pages to "Coronation," the first piece sung by n choir under his direction moro than a lifetime ago, Fondly be looked at the familiar notes and theu, bis chest thrown out nnd bis bend held up, he sung the grand old tuno and its magnificent words with all tbo fervor and all tbe power that bis voice ever bad commanded. From beginning to end the hymn rung through tbe deserted gloomy church, and Dr. Williams, driving by In baste to attend the ills of a far off patient, wondered that tbe rehearsal should have been continued so lato. When tbo lust note hnd ceased Hezekiah stood with the book still open And hia bead still up, but tbo tears wore coursing down bis face in Bteady streams, At last be Bank Into a chair, and with a great pang nt the heart ho saw upon the bench bosido tbo volume of newfangled tunes a little book of manuscript music. When he was a young man of nnt moro than SO Hezekiah bad taken it into his head that be would write music, and tho soveral anthems that ho had composed in pure harmony, but with crudo progressions, bad been laboriously copied Into books, nnd bad been used occasionally ever slnco In church service. What bad they been doing with his muslo! Wns it not enough that they should discard him in bis old age, and his ways and hts books, without bunting up his feeble but j earnest compositions to laugh at them! Tbat could uot bo forgiven! With melancholy fingers be turned tho leaves. His inspection stopped nt nn anthem for Christmas, composed on words taken literally from tbe Scriptures. There it wos, with its introductory recitative for bass, and a double fuguo, as ho called It, when the angels' chorus was reached. His wifo bad sung tho treble be- forosho left tlie choir, and when with patient resignation ho had laid her In tho grave, bis daughter bnd performed her pnrt, and slnco sho marrbd aud moved away the anthom had not been sung. With what grand emotion bo had heard the voices begin tbe first fugal movement: Glo • ry to God in the high • • • high-estl <»).ry te God In the Ood la the liiuh Glo • ry to Gud lu tho high • est I j J. J- ,* vJt-nj. -arts:-. —?=—: And bow sweetly tho second movement followed I and how they worked in together! Glo-fj. to pf.l in tlio Mgbwt.ini lEF-**- -E—-n.-L._s- »;»J-fV-t"r "FP" "Glo - rv la Ood ia lb* Hijbwl, And now it wns all hold up for the smiles of a modern quartetl Tho old chorister's bend sank upon tlio bench, and Ida tears blurred the notes on tho ancient pago. "Gracious massy! Hezekiah, wako upt wake up'Kiah; you'll ketch your death of cold! Cornel" It was Poter Stone, tbo sexton, dum- fouuded by surprise, shaking tbo old chorister violently by tho shoulder. Painfully Hezekiah raised Ida bond. "Merry Christinas, Poter; I'd rather stay hero," bo said feebly when ho saw whore bo was, Poter laughed nlmost hysterically and tugged away persistently at tbe old man's shoulders, "Como down to tbe flro," he exclaimed; "tho choir will bo here right away to ro- hearso for the service," "Yes, I'll go," answered Hezekiah, and with groat difficulty bo dragged bis stiffened limbs down tbo stairs Into the vestry, where tho furnnco wns already roaring with a freshly made flro. He submitted to bo rubbed and slapped by Peter to fnduco a quicker circulation of his blood, but ho gavo no clear answer to tlio wondering Inquiries as to how ho camo to bo locked Iuto tbo church over night. Presently tbo organ upstairs began to Bound, Hezckinli shivered nnd Peter rubbed him Uio Imi'der. Then tho voFco of tbo boss In tbo now quartet wns beard reciting: "And thero word shepherds abiding iu tha field." Tbo old chorister listened with staring eyes. Could it bo! Tho long recitative came to nn end, and then all tho voices took up In proper order ffbo angels' chorus. Wbnt docs that mean, Pototi" exclaimed Hezekiah, atartiugup, "Why, 'twas meant as a Christmas sur prise In your honor. They're goin' to sing four pieco." The old chorister broke awny from the sexton and hobbled up tho stairs. When bo reached the organ loft they wero singing "And on earth peace, good will to men." Hezekiah waited until tbey wero done, and then in a low, grave touo Hint startled the singers, ho said: "1 wish you all a merry Christmas, neighbors. I've bad hard feelings ngainat you, uud I pray that God will forgive mo and cause you not to look unkindly on an old man. This is more than I deserve." F, ti. BunTON. TIIE FIR TREE. Far down in tbe forest, where the warm sun and the fresh air made a sweet resting place, grew a, pretty little fir tree; and yet it was not happy, it wished ao much to bo tall like Ita companions, tbe pines aud firs which grew around It, The sun shone and the soft air fluttered Ita leaves, and the little peasant children passed by prattliug merrily, but tbe fir tree heeded them not. As it grew it complained, "Oh I how I wish I wero as tall as the other trees, then -I would spread out my branches on every side and my top would overlook tho wide world. I should have the birds building their nests on my boughs, and whon tho wind blow I should bow with stately dignity like my tall companions." Two winters passed. In the "now r wrsn i were autumn, as usual, as taw. as otheu the woodcut- tiiees!" ters camo and cut down soveral of tbo tallest trees, and the you)*; fir tree, which was now grown to its full height, shuddered ns tbe noblo trees fell to tho earth with a crash. After the branches were lopped off, tbe truuks looked so slender and bare that thoy could scarcely be recognized. Then thoy were placed upon wagons and drawn by horses out of the forest. "Where were thoy going! What would becomo of themf Tho young fir treo wished very much to know. So lu tbo spring, when tho swallows and tho storks came, it asked, "Do you know whore thoso trees woro taken! Did you meet them!" Tbo swallows knew nothing; but tbo stork, nfter a littlo reflection, nodded hia head and said, "Yes, 1 think I do. I mot several new ships when I flow from Egypt, aud tbey had fine masts that smelt liko fir. I think thoso must have been tbo trees; I assure you tbey were stately, vory stately " "Oh, how I wish 1 were tall enough to go oa tlio sea," said tbo fir treo. "What Is this sea nml what does it look like!" "tt would take too much timo to explain," said tho stork, flying quickly nway. "Rejoice in thy youth," said tho sunbeam; "rejoice in thy fresh growth ond tho young lifo that is in thee." And the wind kissed tho treo nnd tbo dew watered ib with tears, but the fir treo regarded them not. Christmas timo drew near and many young trees were cut down, somo even smaller and younger than tho fir treo, who enjoyed neither rest nor penco with longing to leavo its forest home. Theso young trees, which wore chosen for thoir beauty, kept their branches nnd were nlso laid on wagons aud drawn by horses out of tho fore3t. "Whero are they going!" asked tho fir treo. "They nro not taller thai) I nm; IniUrd ono Is much loss; and why nre tho branched not cut oil! Where are they going!" "Wo know, wo know," snug tho sparrows, "Wo have looked in at tho windows of the houses in tbo town, nud wo know what Is douo with them. They nro dressed up in the most Bp!eiid id mntmer. Wo have seen thcinsi uniting ill tho middle of n warm room, nnd adorned with nil sorts of beautiful things- honey enkes, gilded apples, playtb i n g s, nnd mnny hundreds of wrtx tapers." rr WAS_TnE first to "And then," nsked fam* tho fir treo, trembling through all Its hrniicbcs, "and then what happens!" "Wo did not seo nny moro," said tbo sparrows; "but this wns enough for us," "I woudor whether anything so brilliant will over happen to mo," thought tho Hr treo. llojoico with us," snid tho air and tho sunlight. "Enjoy thino own bright lifo in fresh nir," Hut tho treo would not rejoice,,though it grow taller ovesy day, and winter and aum- mer Its dark green foliage might be seen fn tbo forest, while passers by would say, "What a beautiful tree I" A short timo before Christmas the discontented fir treo was tbo first to fall. As the nx cut through tho stem and divided the pith tha treo fell with a groan to tho earth, conscious of pain nnd falntness, and forgetting ull ita anticipations of happiness, fn Borrow at leaving its home fu tho forest It know that it should never again see its dear old companions, tbo trees, nor the little bushes and many colored flowers that bad grown by its side; perhaps not even the birds, Neither waa tbo Journoy at all pleasant, Tho treo first recovered itself while being unpacked fn tho courtyard of a houso, with several othor trees; and it beard n man say, "We only want one, and this Ib the prettiest" Then came two servants In grand livery and carried the fir tree into a large and beautiful apartment. On the walls hung pictures, and near the great stove stood great china vases, with lions on tho lids, Tbere wero rocking chairs, silken sofas, large tables, covered with pictures, books and playthings, worth a great deal of money—at least the children said so. Then the fir tree was placed in a large tub, full of sand; but green baize bung all round It, so that no one could see it was a tub, and it stood on a very handsome carpet How tho fir tree trembled! "What was going to happen to bim now!" Some young ladies came, and tho servants helped them to adorn tho tree, On one branch tbey bung little bags cut out of colored paper, and each bag was filled with sweetmeats; from other branches hung gilded apples aud walnuts, as If they bnd grown tbere; and above, and all round, were hundreds of red, blue aud white tapers, which were fastened on tbe branches. Dolls, exactly liko real babies, were placed under tbe green leaves—the tree bad never seen such things before—ond at tho very top was fastened a glittering star, made of tinsel. Ub, it was very beautiful! At lost tho tapers were lighted, and then what a glistening blazo of light tho tree presented! And now the folding doors were thrown open, nud a troop of children rushed iu as if thoy intended to upset tho tree; they were followed moro slowly by their elders. For a moment tbo little ones Btood silent with astonishment, nnd then they shouted for joy, till tbo room rang, and tbey dnnced merrily round tho tree, whilo ono present ufter au- otber was taken from it. "What are thoy do- Ingf What will bap pea noxt!" thought tho fir. At last tbe candles burnt down to tho branches and were put out Then the children reco permission to plunder tbe tree. Oh, how they rushed upon lt, till the branches cracked, and bad It not what will bafpsn been fastened with NKCTl tho glistening star to tho ceiling, it must have been thrown down. The children thon danced about with their pretty toys, ond no one noticed tho treo, except tho children's maid, who came and peeped among the branches to Bee if an applo or a fig had boon forgotten. "A story, a Btory," cried tho children, pulling a littlo fat man toward tbo tree. "Now wo shall bo in tbo green shade," said tbe man, as be seated himself under it, "nnd the treo will havo tbo pleasure of bearing also, but I sliall only relate ono story; what shall it be! Ivedo-Avede, or Humpty Dumpty, who fell down stall's, but soon got up again, nud at Inst married a princess." "Ivedo-Avede," cried some. "Humpty Dumpty," cried others, and thore wns n flue shouting and crying out. But the fir treo remained quite still, and thought to himself, "Shall I hnvo anything to do with nil this!" but ho had already amused them aa much as they wished. Then the old man told them tbo story of Humpty Dumpty, bow ho fell down stairs, and was raised up again, nnd married a princoa And tbo children clapped their bauds and cried, "Tell another, tell another," for they wanted to bear the story of "lvedo-Avcdo;" but thoy only had "Humpty Dumpty." Aftor this the fir treo became quite silent and thoughtful: never had Uio birds in tbo forest told such tales as "Humpty Dumpty," who foil down stairs, and yet mar rleda princess. "Ahl yes. so it happens in tho world,' thought the fir troo; ho believed it ull, bo online it was related by a such a uico man. "Ahl well," ho thought, "who knows? perhaps I mny fall down too, nnd marry a princess;" and ho looked forward joyfully to tho next evening, expecting to bo again docked out with lights and playthings, gold and fruit. "To-morrow I will not tremble," thought ho; "I will enjoy all my splendor, and I shall heartho story of Humpty Dumpty again, and perhaps Ivede-Avedo." And tbo tree remained (pilot mid thoughtfut all nighl. In tho morning tho servants nnd tho houso- maid camo in. "Now," thought the fir, "all my splendor Is going to begin again." But they dragged him out'of tbo room and upstairs to tlio garret, and threw liim on tbo floor, iu a dark corner, whero no daylight shone, nnd t here thoy left him. "What does this menu?" thought tho treo. "Wbnt nm I to do here! lean hear nothing in a plnco liko this," and ho leant against tlio wall, nud thought and thought. And bo bnd timo enough to think, for days nnd nights passed and no one camo near him, nnd when nt last Eomebody did come, it waa only to put away largo boxes iu a comer. So tho treo was completely hidden from sight ns If it had never existed, "lt is whiter, now," thought tbo troo, "tho ground Is hard and covered with snow, so that peoplo cannot plant me. I shall bo sheltered here, I daresay, until spring comes," 'Squeak, squeak," said n littlo mouse, creeping cautiously towards tho treo; then camo another, nnd" they both sniffed at the fir treo nnd crept between tho branches. "Oh. it is very cold," aaid tho little mouse, "or olso wo should bo so comfortable hero, shouldn't we, yon old fir tree}" "1 nm not old," stud tho fir troo, "thoro are mnny who nro older than 1 nm." " Whero do you como from, nud what do you know?" nsked the mice, who woro full of curiosity. "Hnvo yon scon tho most beautiful places In tlie world, and can you toll us all about thoinl and hnvo you boon iu tho storeroom, where cheeses Ho on tbo shelf, nnd limns hang from lho coiling! Ono can run nbout. on tallow candles, there, and go in thin and como out fat." "I know nothing of thnt place," said tbo fir treo, "but 1 know tbo wood where tbo sun shines and the birds sing." And then th* tree told tho little mice all about Its youth, Tbey had never heard such an account in their lives; and after they had listened to tt attentively, they said: "What a number of things you hnvoseenl you must have been very happy." Ono morning peoplo came to clear outtht garret, the boxes were packed away, and tbo tree was pulled out of tbe corner, and thrown roughly TOLD THE MICE ALL ABOUT ITS TOUTS, ' that It forgot to think of itself, and could only look about, tbere was bo much to bt seen. Tbo court was close to a garden, where everything looked blooming. Fresh aud fragrant roses hung over tbe little palings, Tbe linden trees were fn blossom; while tho swallows flew here and there, axing: "Twit, twit, twit, ray mate fs coming,* but ft wns uot the flr treo they meant "Now I shall live," cried the tree, joyfully, spreading out its branches; but, alas! tbey were all withered and yellow, and it lay in a corner amongst weeds nnd nettles. Tho star of gold paper still stuck iu tbo top of tbo tree, and glittered in the sunshine. In the same courtyard two of tbo merry children wero playing who bnd danced round the tree at Christmas, and had been so happy. Tbe youngest saw the gilded star, and ran and pulled it off tha tree, "Look what Is sticking to tbe ugly old flr tree," enld tho child treadiug on tho branches till tbey crackled under bis boots; And the treo saw nil the fresh, bright flowers in the garden, and then lookod at itself and wished ft had remained iu tbo dark corner of tbe garret, Theu n lad came and chopped tbe treo into small pieces, till a largo bundle lay in a heap ou tbo ground. Tbe pieces wero placed in a flro under tbe copper, and thoy quickly blazed up brightly, wbilo tho treo sighed so deeply that each sigh was liko a little pistol shot. Then tbe children, who w at play, came and seated themselves in front of tha fire, and looked at it, and cried, "Fop, pop," But nt each "pop," which wns a seep sigh, tho tree was thinking of a summer day in tha forest or of somo winter night there, when the stars shone brightly, and of Christmas evening. Now all was past; the tree's lift was pnst, and tbe story also—for all stories must como to au end nt Inst.—Adapted from Hans Christian Anderson. CHRISTMAS SERVICES. Tho village church on Christmas Day Holds kindly hearts and pleasant faces And some am seen to sing aud pray Who seldom go te such like places; ■ma rnoNT pew. But If for only onco a year Their hearts nro touched. It makes them better; And ho who feels his conscience clear Must own himself tho season's debtor. Enter hero both rich nnd poor. Como In simple hopo and faith; leave liehlud you nt tho door Love of life and dread of death. THK FREE SEATS. Como on this tho day of days, ITumbly pray on bended knee; Sing tho fervid song of prniso. All tho seats In heav'u are free. Christmas In a Restaurant. Mr. Wntbaek (spending bis Christmas fn town)—-Waiter, for gracious snko bring ma something to break up this turkey with. Waiter— U'ct'll yer havo, dynamite or au as? - t 01 CHRISTMAS WHAT CAME OP KILLING A ItiCU UNCLE. By MASK LEMON, I. "Dauco with mo, Letty Green," said Oeorgo Poynter, to a pretty girl with blue oyes and "hair that shamed the worn. Her ample ball dress was of tho purest white muslin, fastened at tho sleeves and round the waist with bluo ribbon—bluer than her eyes. "Yea," answered Letty, "I want to dance with you." Tlio dnnco nt an ond, Lotty tried to smooth her golden curls into order with her littlo bands, and thon, opening her pretty blue eyes to their full, said: "Georgo Poynter, I should like oome orange. "Yes, Letty," said tho young gentleman addressed; "and there's lemonade and negus and such a sponge cuke." "I liko dnnciug with you better tlinn any one, Letty," said George, to his pretty partner. "Do you? Why?" replied Letty, her voice rather obstructed by the sponge .cake. "I think it la becauso I liko you—you aro so pretty," replied tbo young gallant. "You musn't say that, or mamma will foold you, Georgy.' Sho scolds every one who tells ine I am pretty," said the young lady. But tho words had been spoken, and from that night until tho end of tho, Christmas holidays, Georgo nnd Letty I sold they were sweethearts. n. Some four or five years had passed and Letty Green and hor mamma were sitting together under tho veranda of their pretty cottngo, working, and talking of a pleasant day they hnd spent at Mr. Poyntor's. when Master Georgo camo, he said, to bid them good-by, as ho wus returning to school on tlio following morning. "And I want to ask you a favor, Mrs. Green, and Letty a favor," said Georgo, coloring slightly, Mrs. Green would grant it, of course, and so would Letty, if sho could. "I want Letty to rido Kufus, my pony, whilst I nm at school. Papa has no uso for it, and it carries a lady beautifully." "But to accept this proposal would give «o much trouble." "Not in tho least, Tom—that's our groom—says it won't, and papa says it won't, and I say tho same; so plenso say you'll uso the pony. Straps, the harness maker, will lend a side saddle." Mrs, Green accepted George's offer, as Xetty was rather fragile, and nony riding had been declared to be good for her; but Mrs. Green's incomo would not allow of tho expense, sho said. There were peoplo who called Mra. Green a mean woman, and hinted that she loved money better than her child. Georgo Poynter went to school very cheery, becauso ho had mado sueh a capital arrangement about his pony, nnd ho often thought, when tho weather wns fine, of Rufua, and wondered if Letty wero riding him. Georgo had not forgotten, perhaps, that years—years ago lie and Letty had called themselves sweethearts. m. More years had passed, and brought j their changes, Georgo nnd Lotty woro alone together in a small book room in Mrs. Green's liouso, tho windows opening .to tho garden, Georgo wns attired In deep mourning, and thero were strips of black ribbon here and thero on Letty's whito dress. They had been talking of death and sorrow until both had become silent. After a time Letty took George's hand, nnd snid: "Dear Georgo, you must striro to meet your great nilliction with a bravo •pirit—indeed you must." rarely mentioned—Chauncey was a _— nutured. good for nothing, unsettled, amusing fellow, who contrived to live a gypsy kind of lifo on £200. a year, stead lastly refusing to encumber himself with uny employment or to incur responsibilities more (to quote Chauncey) than litis hut would cover. He was a native of St. Gnats und known to everybody In the town, but bo had no regular abiding place, as lie chose to wander at will, una Georgo Poynter would not have boon surprised to have received one of Chuuneey's brief letters dated from London, Purls. Vienna or Pokin. Ho mostly affected England, however, and London especially in tho winter. When money wus scarce Chnuncoy walked; when ho was in funds he availed himself of nny cheap convoyanco which offered, Bometimes never inquiring its destination, but making himself equally at home wherever he was stranded. At Christmas time ho alwoyn returned to St. Gnats, and waa a welcome guest at many hospitable tables in that thriving town, making his headquarters, however, with his old friend and school chum, Georgo Poynter. Be had written to announce his return to St. Gnats for tlie Christmas approaching tho end of the two years which had intervened since George Poynter had assumed the stool of office nt Mr. Hawk's, and supplies of tobucco and bitter beer were already secured for tho welcome pected guest. Chauncey had a fnvorito lounge iti London, a tobacconist's in an out of the way street in the neighborhood of St. Mnry Axe. The proprietor was a beadle, or some official of that character, to ono of the companies, and tlio tobacco businesa wob conducted during tho curly part of the day by tho boodles wifo and daughter. It was Chaunccy'a pleasure to sit on a siiuif tub in front of tho counter and smoko, in turn, all the varieties of tobacco sold ut the beadle's, beguiling the time, nlso, with animated conversations with the daughter, whoso powers of repartee wero more ready than rcllned. It i:i not our intention to chronicle more than Chauncey's parting interview and what camo of it, ns slang from a woman's lips is our abhorrence. Chauncey was about to leavo (ho shop after ono of his long sittings, when the younger lady said; "You won't soo mo again, I expect, Mr. Chauncey; Fin going to be married." "You married!" "Yes| me; why not, I should like to "I have—I do strive," replied Georgo, looking a way from Letty; "but remember what has como to mo. Two years ago my father died. A year before thut ■villain, Jackson, mined my father— liroko his heart—killed him. O Lotty! wbnt have I dono to deservo this? What can I do?" "Trust still to the father of tho fafher- less," replied It," "Ho will do tUltJ things thnt Is proper, Mr. Chauncey," «dri Mru '*""'"" «-**■" bogo's calculating machine could aloen have computed thom—mere human intellect would havo fulled. Tho window frames of tho houses seemed sprouting with holly und "tho ivy green, and no doubt but mistletoe hung, kiss provoking, within. Mrs. Green hnd nisdo overy room in her cottago an amigi'iim of her name, as it was holly decked everywhere. Nor was the sacred bough forgotten—"on tho young people's account," eho said, "though Letty and Georgo had long ceased to want an oxcuso for n kiss," Georgo Poynter wns waiting tho arrival of liis friend, Chuuncey Gibbs. A glorious lire blazed within tho grate; the table was Bpread to welcome the coming guest, for whoso delectation a faultless rumpstouk pie wub browning in the oven. The train, punctuul lo its timo, was heard screaming into the station close by, nnd in a few minutes aftor the two friends were together. If you aro hungry it Is tantalizing to listen to the particulars of n dinner you are not to sliaro; If you nre sated, you are bored by tho recapitulation of dainties you euro not to touch, and therefore wo will allow tho friends to take their meal in pence. Neither will wo join their nfter revel when two or three old croniea camo in nnd made a night of it, until Georgo and Chauncoy sought their , beda fairly tired out with jollity. | When breakfast was over the noxt' morning, and Chauncey found thnt Georgo had excused himself from attendance nt the timber yard, he said; "I am glad you can givo tho morning to mo, ns I have some news for you that may, perhaps, surprise und annoy you." "Indeed!'' replied George. "What Ib it?" "I would not touch upon it last night, although I think bouio immediate action should be taken by you or your friends," continued Chauncey, looking vory serious, "Pray speak out," said George. "Oh yes. I must do that, for I have no tact, never had, to mako un unpleasant matter agreeable. Hnvo you heard from your uncle lately?" "Yes, two days ago—principally on Mr. Hawk's businesa, replied George, "My old boy, your uncle never intended you any good when ho shut you up in that log houso of Buwk'o. Ho put you there for liis own selfiah purpose and nothing else." "Why do you say that?" naked Gcorgt "Ho bus led you to anpposo that vo but a good angel was already busying ■ - ■■ .\\ „n,,. . \\ T ..... . tnntt himself for their reunion. And such an ~&™ ««W{ »• but I dislike the man. -- -- j YouknoiyCiipt. Ranker?—of courso you angel!—Chnuncoy Gibbs! "Ho won't write to old SUna?" Thon I will," unid Chauncey, half nloud, when Georgo hnd left him. "Ho won't kill his unelo—an old fool? Then I will," Ho opened the long blade of his penknife and—trimmed a quill which ho found on Gcorgo'u desk. Thoro were paper and Ink, as may bo supposed, and thero wub nlso the ready writer, Chauncey, who begun: "St. Gnats, Dec. 20,16—. "Dear Sir—Ab my friend, Mr. George Poynter, is unfortunately suffering at this time from n severe blow in Ins chest—('That's perfectly truo')—I have placed myself at his service; and although I shall not express myself ns ho would have done on the subject—('That's true again, I fancy')—I hope you will take tho will for tlte deed. News has reached us here, dear sir—('He'll like that dear sir')—that after many yours of deliberate calculation—('No, nnt. calculation'}—consideration, you .. _„, said 'M™, Beadle, with much dignity.nnd Becky at that moment calling "Mother!" in rather an hysterical tone, Chauncey was allowed to find his way out of tho shop as ho pleased. On tho following morning Chauncey was nt lho church of St. Mary Axo a quarter of nn hour before lho timo appointed for tho ceremony which waa to unite Miss Beadle und somebody to their lives' end, A halo old gentleman between CO and TO, perhaps, wasthonaxfcarrivril. Having mado some very confidential communication to tlio old pew opener, ho wns conducted, evidently in great trepidation, to the vestry, nnd thero immured until the arrival of lho tobacconist und family— but without the emblematical Scotchman. Clmuncoy concluded, therefore, thnt Miss Bendlo had captivated tho old gentleman now awaiting his doom in tho condemned cell called tlio vestry. Tho Beadle waa in mufti, but his cos- tumo still pat-look of the nplcndor of hia office, and a canary colored waistcoat with glittering buttons of ruby glass rendered him somewhat conspicuous even in tho gloom of St. Mary Axe. His general expression nnd bearing wns that of a tempered indignation, as though he wero about to consent to tho infliction of somo Injury which ho could avoid if ho. pleased. A word, n look, might have' provoked him to Imvo* torn lho license from tho parson's hundB and to have dragged his daughter from the altar. Ho wns therefore allowed to walk up the aisle unmolested. Mrs. Bendlo was very lively on her entrance to tho church-moro lively, perhaps, than black tea nnd tho occasion Warranted; but, whatever bud been tho stimulating cause of her cheerfulness, it ran in plenteous drops from her eyes as sho approached tho altar, und must huve beeu exhausted entirely by tho end of tho ceremony. Njoho weeping for ber children womd havo beonlu dry nurse compared with Mra. Beadle, Miss Beadle waa resigned) ua became her to bo ut DI. With closed eyes nud drooping head sho leaned upon her mother's arm until, with pardonablo confusion, sho rclcasod her hand to put up her parasol ns aho drew near tho altar. Chauncey rushed to her relief, nnd with somo difficulty possessed himself of the Incumbrance, and aa there were no attendant bridesmaids tho impudent fellow attached himself to the wedding party, to be, as ho said, "generally useful and to pick up tho pieces." Thocoremony proceeded with all proper solemnity, but (hero was somo association with tho name of one of tbo'contracting parties which mudo Chnuncoy fairly start, and thon determine to witness tho signing of tho certilicate, to satisfy n doubt which had suddenly entered Ida mind, Tho wedding party retired to tho vestry when "Amazement'.* had ended the ceremony, nnd proceeded to B.gn tho registers attesting tlio union which had just been solemnized. Mr, Clmuncoy Gibbs being, ua ho said, a friend of tbo family, signed also, und thero read—what had better bo revealed in the next chapter. Any ono had only to havo walked down tho High Btreet of St. Gnats tc havo known that Christmas waa at hand, Tho grocers1 windows wero overrunning with lusc.ioiif.ncss; tho butchers* shops were no choko full of beef and mutton ' that tbo butchers themselves would have to cut their way out into tho street; the you to aupposo that you were to be his heir some day, has ho not?" "Ho has never said thnt in direct terms; but ho certainly has hinted ut sueh a possibility." "Then lie's on old scamp, If ho don't deservo a harder nnmo," said Chauncey, thumping tho table. "Two days ago ho did bis best to disinherit you. You may stare, but I saw with my own oyes, heard with my own ears, that old ragamuffin marry a bouncing woman of thirty." "Marry! Undo Silas marry!" "Fust as St. Mary Axo could do it, to a snuff.seller's daughter;" nnd then Chauncey, to the astonishment of hia friend, narrated what wo already know of tlio wedding at which Mr. Chauncey had bo officiously assisted. "This is indeed a terrible blow," said George, "un unexpected blow." "Yes; I nm afraid, knowing the hands he hns fallen into, that ho won't have a will of hia own when n fow months havo passed," wild Chauncoy. "I found out tiow the matter camo about. Old Silas was very ill, and wouldn't have a doctor; but—a Beadle, I call him—got at him, and then introduced hia daughter ns nurse. Thoy first physicked him nearly to denth, and then brought bim round with bottled porter. They told tho old fool thoy saved his lite, nnd ho believed it; nnd out of gratitude, nnd (he want of n nurse, bo proposed to Miss High-dried, und married her." "This hits mo harder Ihnn you know, Chauncey—much harder. Poor Lefty und I cun never bono now" "Oh, uousonsol replied Chauncoy, "Keep your unclo's secret, ns ho will'if ho can, marry Lefty, nnd let Mother j Green storm afterwards." ; Georgo ahood bis head, and then ' said': "Chauncey, you advise thut which is dishonorable." "All fair in love, old boy," replied Chauncey, with a laugh; "and if I wero you, to gain tho woman who loves me, whom I love, I'd kill tuy uncle." "Great heaven! what do you sny? But I •.&•> -you wero joking. No; my course is perfectly clear so for us Mrs. Green and Letty ure concerned. I go to them nt once, und tell what has taken plnco. If Iain forbidden to continue my visits by Mrs. Grjon sho shall bo obeyed. Letty 11 know, will ho always Into to'mc; and when I tun mnke a homo for her, 1 can claim her with honor," "Devilish pretty npeooh," said Clmun coy," und all right: I hnvo no doubt. still say, kill old Silau GhoesomiUi. at 1 you want require (en 1 poulterers bad laid in such stocks of lur- faeyu, geeso and chickens, that Mr, Bab- I Jieoseuiun, and get married) or, stay—perhaps—yes— ycu sliall write to him, 1 ow that he's honeymoon struck—tell I' to follow his example, ni: fcllOl! Hid pound:! lo do it." "1 understand thi:; uoncchsO) Clmuncoy," replied Georgo, with a and stullo, "Your friendly chaff ia wcllinoantf but my caso if. very sorlous. Aud so good-by for an hour or two. You will find me hero after that time," Tho road to Mrs. Green's cottngo never seemed no long beforo to George Poynter as it did now that ho felt his fate. Tho happiness, for a timo at leas!, of his darling Lotty depended upon tho interview hu was BoekUig with her mother. Ho wns not without somo justification for tho misglvinga which beset him, aa Mrs. Greon had more than twice or thrico casually hinted nt what n mother's coitreo should bo to prevent a child "marrying into poverty. Indeed, sho had onco told him, when Lotty waa not present, how glad she wan when his unclo's recognition of him produced such a favorable turn in Gcorgo'u fortunes, ua it hnd spared them nil the pain which aho should havo felt It her duty to havo inflicted. Tho crisis had only been deferred. Thero wero tears from Mrs. Greonr-regrets nnd pity; but there wero woro oIbo cold, cruel words, which were not to bo gainsaid, unless Letty could disobey tlio mother who had loved her all hor life, and lived only to seo her happy. George spared hia Letty and her mother any contest ns to tho decision to bo mado. Ho promised to obey Mrs, Green in all she required of him; but ho promised Lotty nlso, when t|ioy were left alono, that his love never should change, nor should n doubt over havo placo in his thouglifa that sho could change ono tittle in her lovo for him. And as lio held her to his ben ting heart—not for tho last I ime, no! no!—ho told hor how ho would strivo to mnke a homo for both—tlmt thoir probation would ho short if a bravo resolution could only find tho means to work with. And thoy would come—thoy always did; for bad not thoy been proiuiuccl by the ono which could not lio? Poor hearts! they parted very sadly; | have discovered that man was not made to live alone, and therefore, with a wise regard for your own happiness, you havo sought connubial felicity at the altar of St. Mury Axe. ('Very good!' muttered Chauncoy; 'tho name of tho church will bIiow that hia secret is known to us.') I know not whether it is your wish that your blissful union should bo made generally known; but I cannot hesitate (on tho part of my friend, I mean) to offer you my aincerest congratulations, and to wish you all the happiness you deservo. ('That's true; and I should liko to add, all you are likely to find.') I am aware that what you hnvo dono must necessarily interfere largely, if not entirely, with (hose expectations which you once or twice—('Shall I say promised? No1)— encouraged mo to entertain—('What would old Georgo say to thut?')—and though 1 descend from tho clouds-»- ('Good figure that')—to the substratum of daily toil and permanent anxiety, I ahull know that you nro sitting happy nt your domestic hearth, smoking' tho pipe of peace—('It wnutu something clso to round off tho sentence')—nnd—and— ('Oh, blow iti')—rocking tho cradle. "May Iroque3t—if not asking too much at this blissful period of your life—a lino, to tell mo that 1 may ndd to my affectionate remembrances an Aunt Cheeseman? "I remain, dear air, "Your nffectionoto nephew, "Por Guorge Poynter"— Chauncoy paused. "It won't do to sipn my name, or Mrs. C. will remember it. Yes—I havo it—thoy never heard tho nnmo of C. Gibbs." Having sealed nnd directed his letter, Jhaunccy proceeded to |K»st it. In traveling down from London. Chauncey had learned that a projected branch railway from Stf. Gnats was in high favor with all tho moneyed interest of tbo place; and when ho suggested tho propriety of killing old Silas he bnd tliis railway in Ins mind, as ou tho following day tho allotment of shares was to tako placo. Chauncey knew—as ho know cvorybody—Mr. Golding, the banker nnd chairman pro tern, of lho projected coni- fiany. Without the least misgiving or icsitntion hu called upon tlmt highly respectable gentlemun, nud, nfter 11 fow minutes' interviow, gavo tho conversation an extraordinary twist, or jerk, aa thus: "You'vo heard of tho grent windfall to our townsman, Georgo Poynter, 1 suppose," said Cliaunccy. "No? Well, per- (laps it was hardly to bo expected, seeing what 0 retiring fellow bo ia." "What is it?" naked Mr. Golding. "Ho is n young man for whom I have tho greatest respect, I shall bo glad to hear of nny good fortune to him," "And it iu a good fortune! His uncle, you know, was immensely rich," aaid Chaimeey. "The old bachelor is no more —went off lhrc.oduy.iugo—and my friend George Was long ago hip appointed heir." "Silnfl Cheeseman gone!" remarked Mr. Golding, with n shrug; "a very money getting man; mid must have dictl very rich—very rich." c 'E-nor-moualy rich! Shiglo man mnny years; no expenses, you know," aaid Chauncey. "I witnessed the last moments of tiie old bachelor at St. Mary Axe. Went off quite composedly after liis will, wus accomplished. By the bye/it atrlkes J me you might secure tho interest of young George." "Mow, my dear cir?" naked Mr. Golding; "wo nre always glad lo secure 11 good client" "And with such wealth I" said Chauncey. "You allot shares iu tlio fit. Gnuts Junction to-morrow, do you not?" "Yen," i'opli*1 tho banker; "and tho applications exceed anything I over knew; Iho shores will bo fivo or six premium before to-morrow is over." "That's your plan, then! Secure him a thousand." "A tliouanndl" exclaimed Mr. Golding. "Well, half n thousand—say five hundred—for Georgo Poynter; I'll let hitu know whoso influence ho hua to thank for thom. You'll bo the bunker of his immense wealth—bin friend—ad visor," i "But hu has not applied," said Mr. J Golding. "But ynu have. What's a paltry fivo hundred t<> you In comparison to after gain—or to him? Ho won't care for tho money, but tho friendliness of the thing," said Clmuncoy, with n flourish of tho hand, m (hough ho were proposing tlio merest trifle of a sacrifices "Ami you, my dear ah?" asked Mr. Golding. "Oh, nothing; I want nothing; nud you may rely upon my secrecy." Mr. Golding pressed Chnuncoy'n hand, nud thanked him for the friendly uug- tion. Mr. Golding hnd but ono confidant, Mr. Baxter, who at that moment entered tho bank, uud was announced ua being there. "Do you object to my naming the matter to my friend Baxter?-great iniluonco nt tho board," anid Golding. "Not iu tho least: [perhaps lie may help you to mako tho allotment u thousand, replied Chuuncey. "Oh, Impossible, my good friend," said tho bunker. "Show in Mr. Baxter," Chauncey's communication having . „-. eyou must," said Baxter, with emphasis. Chauncey did not and would not know Capt. Ranger. "Ho ia n trouhlcsomo fellow, and 1 should bo glad If ho would leave tho placo," aaid Mr. Baxter, "If Mr. Poynter will buy he shall havo the preference," Chnuncoy saw no objection to that, nnd promised to apeak to liis friend if Mr, Baxter would mnke tho offer In writing; but £11,000, he thought, would be the utmost that Mr. Poynter would givo for a house. Mr. Baxter paused for a moment, nnd ns they were opposito his counting house he invited Chauncey in, nnd subsequently gavo him n letter to Mr. Georgo Poynter, containing an unconditional offer of Prospect House for £3,000. Chauncey carefully put away the letter and bade Mr. Baxter good day. Poor Georgo had returned to his lodging when Chauncey had transacted all tlio important business wo have recorded, nud not all his friend's good spirits could rouse him from almost despondency. "My old boy," said Chauncoy, "you'll sink down, down, (f you show tho white feather in this way. You're young enough to work, nnd like itr-I never did." "It ia not hard work—hard fighting with tho world, that I am fearing: it is the effect of this day's cruel trial upon poor Letty." And then Georgo told Chauncey all that had passed. "Well, you would bo so luiBtily honorable," replied Clmuncoy; "you bad better been advised by mo—waited a day or two until you had killed .your uncle. George looked at his friend nnd saw n cunning twlnklo in his oyo; but Chauncoy bad his own reasons for saying no moro on tho subject. George wns very ill tho next morning —too ill to go to tho timber yard; bo Chauncey offered to seo Mr. Hawk, and, if business pressed, to supply George's place for a day or two. Mr. Rawk declined Mr. Chauncey's services, and was so excessively polite und anxious in his inquiries nbout Mr. Georgo that Chauncey thought tho story of yesterday had reached Mr. Btiwk. It was not bo; but Cnpt. Rnnger had been to the timber yard to ace Mr. Poynter, and bad surprised Mr. Bawk by assuring him tlmt his clerk must have come into money, as ho had bought Prospect houso nt a sum which hu.(Capt. Ranger) hnd refused to give, Iiu bnd, howover, left a commission with Mr. Bawk; and Chuuncey wormed out of the timber merchant tho following particulars: Captain Ranger, It appeared, had married n lady with money—not always n desirable exchange for n man's lifo—nnd the lady never allowed him to forget the pecuniary partof theircngagoment. She hud taken n fancy—the word is not strong enough—5 longing for Prospect House, nnd tho captain had undertaken to obtain it; but, being fond of a bargain, ho had disgusted Mr. Baxter with a tiresome negotiation, nud tbo house had slipped from him. To confess this to Mrs. Captain Ranger would bo to in- volte a conjugal tempest: and in his extremity he had come to Mr. Bawk to intercede with liis clerk lu transfer his purchase. "Well," Bald Chauncey, "Georgo is a good nntiired follow—too good nutured— und I will undertake to cay thut tho captain dial] havo Prospect House for £4,- 000." "Four thousand pounds!" exclaimed Mr. Bawk, "And not ono shilling less," said Chuuncoy firmly. "Tho liouso is worth it na it standu; but compute its valuo to Captain Ranger, und it m cheap at uny monoy." Mr. Bawk pleaded to n stone agent when ho tried to coften Mr. Chauncey; and Captain Ranger coming into the counting house nt I ho moment, heard the terms proposed, raved liko a maniac for ten minutes, and (hen consented to bc swindled—rubbed, for the sake of pence und quietness. Clmuncoy could be n man of bin moss when lie pleased, and he waa now in a business mood. Ho therefore trotted off tho angry captain to an attorney's, made tho transfer, and secured n prospective £1,000 for his friend Georgo by killing hit uncle. As the day wore on, Chauncey waited upon Mr. Golding, and found that gentleman writing to Mr. Poynter, and expressing tiie great pleasure it gavo him to hand him tl letter of allotment for fiOO ahnres in tbo St. Glials Junction, etc. etc. etc. Railway; adding a hope that tho firm of Golding, Silverton & Co. might have Mr. Poyntor's name on their booka us an honored client. Clmuncoy undertook to deliver lho letter, and to uso hia Influcnco with his friend to mukethoonlyacknowledgment he could for such disinterested goner-; oiity. A Christmas Group, Tbo shining holly hangs upon tbo wall, Its scarlet clusters gleaming In tho light Of ruddy flro glow, and tho welcome sound Of silver laughter; rlpplos through tho room. From youthful voices, whilst tho mistletoe, - Its white, trauparent beadlots temptingly Hangs o'er their sunny heads, Now kith and Ua Are grouped la circle round tlio cheery hearth, Each telling bis experience of tho yoar, For some thoro bo thut only meet at Yule, Tho gray hatred grnndshlro sagely nodi his hood What time the prattle of tbe four-year old— Tho golden tressed youngling of tbo flock— Is poured into bis car; aud on his knees, Eagor to prate, doth she, wee fairy, sit, Tbe household darling of a score of hearts. In yonder snug armchair sits grandmamma, Whilst ten-year Tommy steals beside her knee. Knowing full well, the bright eyed, saucy roguat Tbe hidden soft spot In the old dame's heart; And wltb a loving, half regretful gaze, Look on the children's parents, carried baok To the "long syne" when tbey themselves www blast In ohlldhoM'fl happy, glad nnconsef outness Of Ills to oome; &qd so, forgetting Time, They tn their treasured blossoms bloom again. '.-A.H.D. Setting a Christum Chanco. Do you blame liim? Tho mince pio was n Christmas favorite in the time of tho poet Herrick, who wrote of it: The wli lie the meet Is a-shredding For tlio rare mince pie, And Uio plums stand by To fill tho paste that's o-kueedlng. The Day Ilefore Christmas. Fat Turkey—I've been living hi; lately. Wonder wlmt'B the math What js thia Christmas business ai way? r Thin Turkey (who has consumptio; You will know before night; ta, (a! Swnet nnd Hitler. _ lion- swot', and fresh tbe soft spring alr-J A bnlir., ca apputlxer. '£37 ItmakftJ*.efed'lll.o— but, (hi whewl ____m__t _ Coosam tho fcrtilli.erl '.*Kr —Uurllngton Froc V A Stniiipcr Aimiiiu StritMgerfl.'fl ' New York Bolle—Do you know tlmt ua Now York Is there are only four hundred peoplo thoro who can claim to really belong to tho elite? Omaha A.an—Blioitldn't wonder. It's the loucliest pluco 1 ever got into.— Omaha World Rthuf'H IH|)ln._]ii, That Ethel Ih nn i_rilrt. All must almlt with irrneei How could one uvtu .luunt 1: Who'd ever seeu tier I nm« -i^iidonTId Ktu. SPICE OF THE SEASON. The Christmastime chuob on apace and charity begins to hum. The prettiest thing In a stocking Christ- urns morning is a pretty girl's foot. r>- n ... . • , 1 When KrU KrinKlo comes down Ilia Pcm- Georgo was very ill at caso when chimney It booIh Kris and the children as hia friend Chauncoy returned, and at (well, UM ?J?An*fe Santa Ulau, Isaiid to be of G_ gin. Hit. favorite oath- ~ "HyClilmnuy.", The pawnbroker knowl Is coming, and so does th & bo does the girl. A facetloiiB divine got fwruianv ri.»t , maB sllppors that ho jinff™B$5ffi& think me a centlnodcF' ° ,n<"" bccii repeated to Mr, Baxter, tho dlplo- r.iatiat thought he had better retire; hut ho had not gono many yards from tho bank when Mr, Baxter overtook him. "Delighted to hear what you havo told us concerning your friend Poynter—an excellent young man, and deserves all ho gets." "I nm euro of that," said Chauncey, "whatever good it may bo." "Ho'll reBido at St. Gnats, I suppose?" "Yes," answered Clmuncoy. "And will want a liouso suitable to his new position?" "Yea," "Now I nm wanting to sell f respect Houso yoiiilci—flno gurden, abunclanco of wator nud all that—would It suit him, do you think}" Chauncey waa rather posed by this Inquiry, and said therefore, "Perhaps." "i think it would; iil.dUO la what I nak felt to bu liis inconsiderate raillery, "I um norloua, old boy, quite Eerious," sold Chouncoy, throwing Goldiog'o letter nnd tho transfer on tbo table. "I have killed ohl SihmChcfsomnn, and theft, are somo of lho proceeds of lho transaction. Open—read mid satisfy yourself," Georgo opened thoenvolopocnntnfning tho transfer, and then Mr. (lolding'n let-1 ter. He was in a mist. He thought he was delii'iou!! und had lost hia reason; and Chauncey wus a long lime making him comprehend how ho had como to bo possessed of— ProfltotiliTtiiKfor .,£1,000 I'roUt0:1 nix.Glares, pivmltiliiOpereliai'o... 8,J0!) Tclal AG00 and all by killing old Silas Cheeseman! Poor George was hard to satisfy that theso largo gains were honorably come by, mid when ho went to sleep he dreamt that ho had robbed tho bank and had set Prospect Houso on JUu The following morning brought a letter, from Uncle Silas. Tho poor old dotard expressed himself so pleased ut his nephow's forgiveness of an act which ho hail tliottght would have provoked only rcvilhigs und wicked wishes, that ho enclosed a cheek for i'l,- 000 an I his avunclar blessing. Was over another fortune mado by such means? Georgo had all the money; Mr. Golding begging his retent ion of lho shares, as hts commercial ncutoneas might be damaged by a disclosure of the trick which had been nrncliacd upon his cupidity, nnd Cnpt. Imugcr ivnusubmissively sutlB- lied, having told Ids cam Bpoaa that he had bought Prospect House a decided bargain, Mrs. Green would Imvo had to endure many mortifying reflections had it not been Christians timo wjicn Lotty uud Georgo, and all other cstrunjjed friends. nro willing'to forget tlielr old grievances, and, in thankfulness Unit bitch u BOfisoi was vouchsafed to erring man, hiiinbh imitate tho Great Forgiver, 1 ie of (iernuuiiM^»^fl t "plniny chrtaf. I ring hi h^voTco whoVwm SPways chZ in when anything la told. 5 CWme rlthft He Is . ~ ,aiu iimbier Willi tne small boy who presents his mother with a pair of folt slippers for Christmas. ■'" '" junta smart boy, that's all. Tho custom of having a rousing Christ- man dinner la not only nn ancient one, but It la tho most universal of any custom known to the civilised world. Talk about oil trust*, rubber trusts, coal rusts, etc., os much as you like, but what we want about holiday time ts a turkey or goose trussed,—Boston Courier, Remember that a Christmas gift gains nothing In significance by being costlv, and that to Beck to outdo others In peon- nlary outlay, simply because you have tlie means, is vulgar. "Ah, my son," said tlio minister, 'Tm f;lad to see you In the Sunday-School at ast, Is this your first Sunday.' "Yes, sir" "How do j ou like ftr "Oh, guess I kin Btand lt until aftor the Christmas .reo'i-Tid-Blta As ChrlstmaR approaches, the young man who has beon toasting his toes and lounging on \\ho best parlor sofa, trios to get up n quarrel with Ills girl bo as to escape bankrupting himself on a Christmas present, Monetary; ClarksbyVOood morning, Mrs, Gadby. Shopman;, I see?" Mrs. "Yes' ,'"" ' ' ' ' Gadby.- Vcs; I've been t .. —, _ i'o been picking up a few little things for Ohristmnn,^ C.-"I havon't seen Mrs. Gnoby on 'change late* (laconically)—"I have." ly." Mrs.Ci,"""@en, "Publisher changes in chronological order: Robson Brothers (1882-1883) ; D. Robson & Co. (1883-1886) ; British Columbia Stationery and Printing Co. (1886-1887) ; British Columbian Printing Company (Limited) (1887-1888) ; Kennedy Brothers (1888-1890)."@en ; edm:hasType "Newspapers"@en ; dcterms:spatial "New Westminster (B.C.)"@en ; dcterms:identifier "British_Columbian_Holiday_Supplement"@en ; edm:isShownAt "10.14288/1.0346582"@en ; dcterms:language "English"@en ; geo:lat "49.206667"@en ; geo:long "-122.910556"@en ; edm:provider "Vancouver : University of British Columbia Library"@en ; dcterms:publisher "New Westminster : [publisher not identified]"@en ; dcterms:rights "Images provided for research and reference use only. Permission to publish, copy, or otherwise use these images must be obtained from the Digitization Centre: http://digitize.library.ubc.ca/"@en ; dcterms:isPartOf "BC Historical Newspapers"@en ; dcterms:source "Original Format: Royal British Columbia Museum. British Columbia Archives."@en ; dcterms:title "The Columbian Holiday Supplement"@en ; dcterms:type "Text"@en ; dcterms:description ""@en .