The Argosy, Vol. 72

# The Warden of the Marches (Chapter XXIII: An Abdication)

Issue: The Argosy, December 1900 Author: Sydney C. Grier

This chapter depicts the aftermath of an explosion that has left an injured officer named Fitz Anstruther severely burned and temporarily deaf, blind, and dumb. Mabel North attempts to nurse him through the night despite Dr. Tighe's warnings. After a terrifying solo vigil—struggling against paralyzing fear and silence—Mabel breaks down and confesses her love to the unconscious man. Forced by Dr. Tighe to rest, she finds solace with Georgia. Upon returning to duty, Mabel hears artillery fire and realizes a battle is underway outside the fort. When a shell approaches, she overcomes her instinct to flee and resolves to die with Fitz at his bedside, clasping his hand before the blast renders her unconscious. The text cuts off mid-sentence as the roof collapses.