The Price He Paid — page 239: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

230 EXCITEMENT INCREASING. suitable steps yourself. I am convinced that a etition for pardon would not be rejected, could you Sorinier yourself to present one.” “No,” said Brunnow, with the absolute decision of one whose mind is made up. - “Refiect, doctor, your freedom may depend on it. One word from ycu might, perhaps, turn the scale.” “No matter, I will not sue for mercy. That word would be a confession of guilt Ido not acknowledge; and for my liberty’s sake even I will not abjure the principles which have guided me through life. They may accord mea pardon or not, at their will. I will never appeal to them to show clemency.” The superintendent inwardly cursed “the old rebel’s high-flown folly and obstinacy.” “Well, that 1s a matter for your consideration alone,” he returned; “but you render it harder for your friends to help you, and most unusual exer- tions are being made in your behalf.” “By whom?” asked the doctor, in amazement. “I have no friends who possess the smallest influence in ministerial circles.” “You are really not aware that the governor him- cae As leaving no stone unturned to secure your par- on?” “Arno Raven—indeed?” said Brunnow, slowly. “Yes, Baron von Raven. It was he who, on hear- ing of your arrest, enjoined on me that the greatest consideration should be shown you.” | Brunnow was silent. The superintendent, having waited in vain forareply, went on after a short pause: “And he continues to interest himself for you. It is natural that the fate of one who was his friend in — early youth should touch him nearly.” The doctor looked surpised. “Is that known here already? His excellency the governor would hardly be likely to mention it.” “Not he himself, certainly. You will easily con- ceive that a man in the baron’s position cannot openly avow youthful connections which are strangely at variance with the tendencies and prin- ciples he has always professed,” Eomichooks. co