Beadle's Dime Library, Vol. III, No. 29 — page 17: what you’re looking at

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

An icy shiver ran through her frame; there was a quivering tension of all the muscles; the blood ebbed away, leaving her like a corpse; and then she sat self? No man would rob his dwn father without the perfectly still. ““Has he confessed this, too?” she asked, in icy tones. ** Not in words, but by his looks and actions.” A sudden flash came into her eyes; the blood flowed back to her face; and she leaned forward and rested her hand on Mr. Carrington’s knee. “Stop right here!” she said, eagerly. ‘‘ Who is his accuser?” ‘**No one accuses him, Mr, Beaumont—” ‘“Ha! Mr. Beaumont! Oh, the villain! the base, lying hypocrite!" “Florence, you are unjust, That unfortunate boy has biased your mind, If you let ee rule your judgment, you will never attain the truth. r, Beaumont has—”’ “T know him better than you do. I repeat that he is a willful calumniator—an unscrupulous intriguer, plotting to secure his own ends!’ **But, my dear, he cannot alter the truth,’’ said the old man, with a sad smile of indulgence. ' “No; but he can so mold appearances as to give | them the semblance of truth.” ‘** But the motive?” a Hatred of Frederick—a determination to ruin him.” She did not tell him of the rivalry between Cecil and Fred. she had, so firm was his conviction. **My dear girl,” he replied, “‘no one could have displayed more friendly consideration than has Mr. Beaumont, from the very first. No one could be more reluctant to bring dishonor upon one whom he has long esteemed as a friend.” **Oh! the arch ey ‘Florence, see how unjust you are. Although all along knowing of the boy’s excesses, Mr. Beau- mont never breathed a word of them until Freder- ick’s father went to him for assistance in ascertain- | ing the facts.” ‘Yar better had he taken the Father of Evil into his counsel. ** Be reas#nable, girl. for Frederick’s good? under the displeasure of his father. luctance did he lay before us the incontrovertible Cannot you see that it was Yet he hesitated to bring him facts that fastened upon the wretched boy the guilt | of forgery.” **And what were those facts—alleqged?” She persisted in the expression of her disbelief. “He produeed two pieces of half-burnt paper, which he had found in the stove, and on which Fred- erick had imitated his father’s signature.”’ “ He produced two ela of paper, which he had found, and on which (he said) Frederick had imitated his father’s signature!’ repeated Florence, with her lap. stinging emphasis. Mr. Carrington waved his hand, ‘*On which some one had been imitating Mr. Pow- Tiger ; Dick, the Faro With equal re- | Perhaps it would not have moved him if | | that he had received, rather than what had actuall K why not do it on If disposed t6 commit the robbery, it 1¢ money to him- his own account, and secure all pig of a very disproportionate share of the spoils. “Through Frederick he could learn the interior arrangements of the bank, and in case of detection, could use him as ashield. Through him he did learn the com fh when Mr. Beaumont slept at the bank; through him he secured the means of noiseless en- trance; and having been captured, he was ready for the contingency, and will now escape, because the father cannot brand his son a felon.’ ‘Tell me the whole story—Frederick’s connection | with it, and the part played by Mr. Beaumont.” Mr. Carrington detailed to her the incidents of the robbery and the conversation with Jimmy Duff. Then she stoned him. ‘You say that they brought a kit of burglar’s tools with them, and upon hearing a breathing in Mr. Beaumont’s room, they asked the janitor if any one else slept in the bank. A short time since you sta- ted that peor already knew of Mr, Beaumont’s pre- sence on that particular night, from Frederick.” ‘That was a mere ruse, to hide their knowledge of the situation of affairs, lest its thoroughness should give rise to the suspicion that they were in collusion | with some one connected with the bank.” “But the janitor and Mr, Beaumont were under the impression, at first, that false keys were used. What proof is there to the contrary?” “The bold, dictatorial tone of Tiger Dick. Of what use would it be to make so shallow a pretense, and one which could not stand a moment, if only a pretense?” *‘And what said Frederick?” asked dlorence, the old anxiety returning to her face. It Seemed as if the meshes of this terrible snare were slowly closing about her lover, binding him limb and limb. “At first he grew violent, when required to give up lis keys, and resorted to equivocation, Afterward he stated that ke had lost them.” Mr. Carrington did not mean to misrépresent bis grandson; but his words conveyed the impression occurred during the flery scene of the morning. He did not know it; but his words gaye Florence the se- verest blow she had received since told that Fred had confessed his gambling to his father. Wh he been violent? Why had he resorted to equivoca- tion? These were the questions that kept buzzing in her brain, making the blood set back upon her heart in a crushing tide. She never once thought of doubting the truth of his grandfather's representa- tion, so far as he spoke from actual observation. ‘* Here is another thing that you should see,”’ said Mr, Carrington; and crossing the room, he took an envelope from the desk and placed the contents in They were a photograrh and a letter. Florence lanced at the photograph and instantly recognized 1e keys which she knew Fred to carry. Then she _ ell’s signature. Then he produced a draft, cashed in took up the letter. Chicago, returned to us in this morning’s mail along | with several others, and entered with them in the advice accompanying. That draft was a forgery. Upon comparison, the signature on the draft and the imitations on the pieces of burnt paper proved identical.” ** Well?” “Yesterday morning, while Mr. Beaumont was shaving in his dressing-room, some one entered. When Mr. Beaumont stepped to the door to learn who had come in, he saw Frederick—”’ ** Says that he saw him!” ** Says that he saw him thrust two sheets of paper into his desk, one of which was a letter in Mr, Pow- ell’s handwriting, the other bore imitations of his signature, ‘Have you looked? Are they there?” She bent forward, eager, breathless. ‘We looked! They were there!” She sunk back, stunned again into that i ** Avain were the signatures compared. ey prove identical.” She recovered herself with a long-drawn, tremu- lous breath. “Mr. Carrington,” she said, with quiet direct- ness, “he never burned those pieces of paper; he never signed that draft; he never put into his desk that letter and the sheet bearing the spurious signatures!” — Mr. Carrington smiled—but, oh, such a sad simi calm. gain did It read: Jonn POWELL, Esq. : Dear Sirr:—Being somewhat reluctant to part with the original documents, T send you herewith a copy which will scarcely need to be verified by certificate. Assuming that these credentials estab- lish my right to recognition as an independent bel- ligerent, and as a power suitable to be ted with ter the web es forms, I propose the following terms of recapitulation, to show that I am willing to do the square thing. Ist. To be returned (in such manner and at such tinie and place as shall hereafter be agreed upon) your dutiful son's share in the plunder, as stipulated, to wit, one-third (s), in consideration of services rendered. 2d. Bes eg- ed to march out with their side-arms, and no ques- tions asked. [Seal.} Tiaer Dick, Gen. Commanding. Fort De Cross-Bar, t July 5th, 18—. Florence read this characteristic missive with dry eyes, and laid it aside aside with a weary, almost de- spairing gesture. “Tt was brought here an hour before your arrival,” said Mr. Carrington, She did not reply, but took up the photograph, and sat looking at it until the tears welled into her eyes and trickled down her cheeks. It was the ng. accepting the return of any | | | | | | 17 ———— ne me ee ee ‘That, too, was subsequently destroyed.” ORS is nothing more you can tell me, Mr. Car- neton iB Nothing; only that, of course, Mr. Powell will pay no attention to the proposal of Tiger Dick, He cannot prosecute him; but neither can he publish to the world the acknowledgment of his son's guilt, by part of the money.”’ Florence rose wearily, and thanking him for the information he had given, and bidding him good- afternoon, withdrew. In her carriage, with the cur- tains drawn, she buried her face tn her hands in pained thought. Half-way home she sto pee her coachman, and directed him to the residence of Mrs, Brewster, Charley’s mother, She sat erect, now, with her eyes full of earnest ha ay ‘“Mrs. Brewster,” she said, upon meeting that lady, “will you kindly give me the use of your par- lor for a little while, and a messenger to send for your son? For reasons, I do not wish to send my coachman.”’ * Certainly!” replied Mrs. Brewster, with surprise, smothered by politeness. Twenty minutes later Charley entered her pre- sence, *“You sent for me, Miss Goldthorp?” he said, seat- ing himself near her in the depths of a bay-window. ‘TI did, Mr. Brewster. know you to be a friend of Mr, Frederick Powell.” She blushed slightly, as she spoke. At mention of his friend’s name Charley brightened with interest. “*T believe I may say that he has no truer, stanch- er friend than myself,” replied the young man, with dee cues “Tam glad to hear you speak in that way, Mr. Brewster. It enables me more freely to make some painful disclosures, and to ask your assistance in aid of that friend.” ** You may depend upon my hearty co-operation, Miss Goldthorp. I would do much to oblige you; for my friend I count nothing as a task."’ A ‘I wish first to ask you as to his general habits and the kind of associates he affects.”’ Charley hesitated. He did not know her motive, and he would not betray his friend. * You need have no reserve with me, Mr, Brewster. I wish to clear Mr. Powell of imputations against him, not to build them u “T believe you, Miss with the other much like them, ** Plays billiards, and drinks occasionally?" ‘** We all drink more or less.” There was something magnanimous in thus coup- ling himself with his friend, in what might be deem- ed reprehensible, that impressed Florence, She flashed a grateful look into his face, and went on: “Mr. Brewster, did you ever see him under the in- fluence of liquor—intoxicated A deep scarlet suffused her face as she asked the question, and her eyes sought the floor. “T have seen him twice when he was not himself," “Only twice?” She looked up ** Only twice.” She laid a trembling hand on his arm. ‘*Mr. Brewster, are you so intimate with him that you would be apt to know if such a thing took place?” she asked, panting. **We are almost constantly together. I think it could hardly take place without my knowledge.” “And the two instances with which you are fa miliar occurred »”’ ps ane last night; the other three weeks since."’ ** Tell me all about them !"’ Charley related the incidents as far as he was con- nected with them. “Do you know anything about Frederick's move- ees acter you parted with him on the night three weeks ago?” Charley reddened and looked undecided, “Reserve nothing, Mr. Brewster. Nothing but the truth and the whole truth will do in this case. When telling what may seem most condemnatory, you ma reveal some point on which everything else hinges.” ‘Miss Goldthorp, after leaving me, Frederick and Mr. Saunderson repaired to a gambling-den, kept by aman ed T Dick, ere Frederick won a hundred dollars, before leaving.” “How did you learn this?” “It was the common talk the next morning amon our set. His being seen in such a place occasion ” Boldthorp, Frederick goes young men about town, and is very eagerly. He could see in her reiteration only the blind | she so much needed. - some surprise.’ : Saremtanise of self-deluding love. Y, a hen he was not in the habit of gambling?” “My poor child, on that sheet the boy had care- CHAPTER XV. ., Never before, in that way, that I know of.” lessly thrown off his own signature, evidently weary- | AN ALLIANCE. that way? What other way could he have ing with the labor of imitation; and the last eopy | Fora long time Florence Goldthrop sat in tearful gambled? was but half done, ending in a scratch ba ao pen, | el pte Then aroudng herself and laying aside the eee people call betting on horses and boat-races n r. Beau- | pho , She said: 3 ; moma exrenosy” Sires iat ee Mr. Carrington, will you let let me see the pieces |“ And he made such bets?" ‘Mr, ngton,” persisted Florence, “I recog- | of burnt paper and the other sheet with the copied ‘Never for more than the oysters, or, possibly, nize in this only a fatal mistake, or a terrible fraud! signatures?” 7 five or ten dollars, I trust him as [ trust my God!” ‘Icannot. They were destroyed. Has he gambled any within the last three weeks, The old man did not try to reason with her. He ‘ Destroyed?” that you know of? only caressed her hair. ‘His father burned them. He could not bear to a I am almost sure that he has not." “ Go on,” ory said. “Is there anything 5 aa let the evidences of his son’s guilt remain in exist- nee st dae ari ae mine 4 that Frederick's ex- “Spare me!—spare yourself!’ pl d Mr. Car- ence.” ures ary?’ rington. ij ott cers “But, sir, was it not important for future investi- “Most assuredly not. I don't ce that he saves “T cannot. I must know all.” gation that they be preserved ?”’ much; but he is not more extravagant than other “ Florence, I would save Big the pain of this last; “Where certainty has been reached, what room is | young men of his position in life." but you force me to speak. Steel your heart, my there for further investigation? He could only bury | —; Who is this Mr. Saunderson?” child, for the cruel blow. It will call for all your the matter, and try to forget. : Well,” said Charley, with a puzzled smile, “he’s strength, You know that last night the bank was “Oh, sir! upon how fatal a basis have you pro- Fred’s evil genius, I don’t know of a term which plundered. Frederick Powell was a party to the ceeded! It is not for me to remind one of your age will exactly describe him; but he’sa sort of ante 8 robbery of the father who loved him—who trusted how little of certainty there is in this world—how | that gains a kind of recognition among: respegiey him, as you trust him now!" | easy itisto be mistaken. You have trusted to the | fellows by his impudence and by the om with Mr. Carrington was surprised at the effect of his infallibility of your judgment, and let the record of | which he spends his money. He keeps Brown & words, Florence looked into his face and smiled. —_|_a whole life be overthrown by the circumstances of | Thurlow's books.” “Oh, Mr. Carrington, this is too absurd!” she ° aday, Was your confidence in Frederick ever shaken You think that he has led Frederick into dissipa- id | before this morning?” ., | thou? “Tneredible as it seems, it is the melancholy truth.” “You cannot be in earnest. Why should he give his father’s money to strangers?” **Do not you see when a man begins to squander his money in dissipation and ee it creates an increased demand for it? No young man's 8a could long stand such a drain, e could not hope to commit forgery successfully more than once or twice. Tiger Dick, the man at whose table he gam ready to tempt him.” ed, was -“"No, But fact is fact, however much we may be | | deceived about it. When Copernicus declared that | Here was achance to get a large su »ply 3 and | | * But why take Frederick into company with him? the world moved, it moved es that had gone before tionary. Ido not imagine just as surely as if all the the boy to ownward course three weeks a ions, earlier; I discovered it only to-day.” She turned away with a sickening sense of despair, | ad not supposed it sta- | ave reached | If it was to hisinterest to wi his present position at a stride. His father knew of | his 4 o; his compan- | “No doubt of it. I've tried to counteract his in- fluence, and my interference has twice led toan open b e between Fred and uit Do you think he could be approached by money? ati ld he be induced to sari ite oviiiiee bee mation, cou e n rev it more to his interest to do so?” od ‘If he was sure that no one would find it out, I think he would accept a consideration, Butheisa She seemed*met at every point by a wall of ada- | sort of shoddy gentleman, and would not sacrifice mant. ‘At least you preserved the draft?” she asked, but without hope. his caste for money.” “Mr. Brewster, I must see him.” “If you wish it, I will fetch him to you here.” m (E(0) ooo) (E “SEO