Pittston Gazette

              Oldest f ewsuaDer id the vVvommy Vallev PITTSTON, LUZERNE CO., PA., FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 1891. A Weegly Local and hamilv Journal, lie seeks to do it by entrapping you in = h IE! it will be just like him to do it. But, pshaw, what need I fear from that! Haven't I got Green's confidence, and don't he take my word for everything? I need fear nothing from Scraggs, for I can easily disprove all he says. Still, if Green can be kept away from him all the better." his toil where lie touna Pearson in waiting for him. I must begin to prepare tlie girl's mind so that she may be prepared for the During tins passionate delivery the young man attempted to draw Louise to him, but she shrank away and made another ineffectual effort to release her hand. She was startled by his words no less than by his earnest, pleading tone. She feared and abhorred him, and every syllable he uttered went to her heart like a dagger. BILL'S TENOR AND MY BASS. BILL NYE SEES A PLAY. Path r's Victim John looked at Scraggs in a dazed way for some time, evidently halting between two opinions or else mixed up in a medley of ideas. Scraggs' manner and delivery were so earnest that it was hard to believe him insincere, but on the other hand it was equally hard to think of Pearson as an unprincipled libertine after all his unostentatious kindness. Another man might have been able to form a correct conclusion "John Green came up to see you yesterday afternoon," Pearson began, "and not finding you at home, left a message with me." climax." Bill was short awl dapper, while I wag thin and tall— ( had flowin whiskers, but Bill had none at all; Clothes would never seem to set so nice on me an him— Folks used to laugh and say I was too powerful slim. But Bill's clothes fit him like the paper on th« wall! And we were the spark in'est beaus In all tht place. When Bill sung tenor and 1 sung bass! The coat shirt is not open in the back, but otherwise of course is, to the casual observer, similar to the shirt in common use except that it may be put on without the usual affidavits. So in accordance with this idea, Pear- Bon managed, on the occasion of his next visit, to induce Louise to take a walk with him. She was loth to go, knowing what his sentiments were toward licr, and feeling all her old repugnance for him returning in full force, but she recalled all his kindness to lier father and his generous solicitude for her poor mother, and she felt it her duty to acquiesce in so small a wish. HE SAYS HIS FRIENDS ADVISED HIM TO DO SO. "You needn't put yourself to the trouble of stating it," said Scraggs, coldly, "since Green himself delivered it a little later." A TO Y OF WESTERN IFE Bat Speaking of Other Tliingg, There Will Be Some Changes In Heu'i Clothes The chest protector worn in the evening over the shirt front, with evening dress, is growing in favor along with the lung pad, the liver pad and the footpad. Those who casnot afford the gorgeous satin chest covering, which costs from two to ten dollars, will find a cheap and pleasing substitute in the Sunday Then aloud Pearson said "I can see Scraggs for you, Mr. Green, as I am going right up to his office, and any message you wish to deliver to him I can deliver and save you the time and trouble." Hardly had he ceased speaking when her pride asserted itself, and resentment flashed from her eyes. By DHO HA P. 3tO\TroKT. Pearson was taken somewhat aback by these words, but in a moment he had recovered his equanimity and said carelessly: ThU Tear Worth Noting—A Few Eti- quette Etching*. (COSriffP D D "Mr. Pearson," she said, "what right have you to say such things to me?" Cyrus Baker's oldest girl was member of tht choir - Eyes as black as Kelsey's cat and cheeks af red as fire! She had tho best sopranner voice I think 1 ever heard— Sung "Coronation," "Burlington" "Chiny" like a bird; Never done better than with Bill a-standin nigh 'er A-holdin of her hymn book so she wonldn' lose the place. When Bill sang tenor and I sung bass. ICopyright, 1891, by Edgar W. Nye.] New York, October.—Recently I went to the London theater for an afternoon of pure and innocent delight. The London theater is not so English as I had expected to find it from its name. It is an American theater where one can see a play that is mathematically and dramatically accurate. "Thanks," said John, "but I think I had better go myself. I owe it to Scraggs after his offer." "You met him on the way home, I suppose?" "I love you," he replied, "and I cannot suppress my feelings. Louise, you do not know what a power you hold over me, nor to what lengths I would go for your sake. I love you as never woman was lovM before, and I do not feel that I have done any wrong in saying so." CHATTER XVI. GREEN M AK ES ANOTHER LOAN. "Yes, and he told me Mills had furnished him the money." At first he talked of ordinary matters, such as any two acquaintances might spealc-of, but finally he became more personal and began to ask her about her life. To all liis questions she made straight-forward, truthful replies, acknowledging that her existence was by no means pleasant. paper. Some put the street vest on underneath the shirt on cold evenings. This gives to the thin and narrow chested child of wealth a better figure also and obscures bis bright and piercing wishbone. Try it. After a short d..'lay John Green's turn came and he was ushered into Mr. Mills' private office. Harry Pearson was there, and he received Green with a welcoming smile as he rose and said: "Very well then," replied Pearson, seeing that it would be useless to object, "we will go up together." "That was the message he left with and me." So the two men walked away in the direction of Scraggs' office and in due time arrived there to find Scraggs away. For a little while neither of the men spoke, and Pearson began to hope that the subject was dropped. But in this ho was disappointed, for directly Scraggs resumed it by saying: "Mr. Green, I um sorry you have been delayed so long, hut it could not be helped. I pleaded with my friend Mills to make an exception of your case, on account of your sick wife, and bring vou in before your turn, but Mr. Mills is very conscientious and systematic in his business affairs, and he refused to do it. Said perhaps some oi the others were in as close places as you were, etc. However, now that you are here, I hope M'~. Mills will mulct,- as much hat.tc as p65sible and let you go." STUDYING A PLAY, friends of mine told me to go I study the mechanism of e '' when I write another border Ladies will have different clothes this year throughout. A great deal of mauve is to be worn this year, also green and every shade of browns and chestnut. Soft and fuzzy effects will be sought after considerably. A nice warm bonnet, direct from Paris, is made of a neat little bluejay's breast with satin strings which tie under the chin. "I should think," he remarked, "that you would long for society and the brighter scenes of life." For a little while Louise did not reply, and during the silence the anger melted out of her eyes anjl a look oi pity succeeded it Perhaps she believed Pearson in earnest and felt sorry that she must blight his hopes. She knew rvhat she would suffer should Paul fail to return her love--what pangs of poignant pain that would cause her, and doubtless she thought Pearson's feelings similar to her own. She may have remembered his generosity to her father and mother, and experienced bitter regret that she was able to requite his goodness so cruelly But whatever the thought that possessed her, she became sad uud sorrowful, and her voice as she spoke trembled perceptibly. "I am sorry," she began, "that you have said what you have. You had no ri?l:t to judge me so illy. If I loved you, Mr Pearson, it would require no promises of riches to lead me to become your wife. I am poor and have known little enough of pleasure, God knows but I am not bo poor that I would sell my heart, my life, my happiness and my hope of eternity. The man I love need offer no wealth to induce me to become his wife, and no man whom I do not love need think me base enough to be influenced by such an offer. I respect you, Mr. Pearson, for the sake of what you have done for those 1 love. I feel under a thousand obligations to you, but I do not and cannot love you. My heart is another's, and when I marry my hand shall go where my heart is." Then there wa9 Prudence Hubbard, so cozylike and fat- She sung alto and wore a pcewee hat; Beaued her around one winter, and first thing I knew One evenin on the portico I up and called her Prne! But, sakes alive! she didn't mind a little thing like that. On aU the works of Providence she set a cheerful face When Bill was singin tenor and I waa slngin bass. "He has gone out in the country, Peerson remarked, glancing at a card that lay on the desk, "and there is no telling when he will return. Probably he will not be back before night. If you wish, I will deliver your message to him, and you need not wait." "You helped Green about getting that loan, Pearson, and I know what your object was in so doing." "1 do," she replied, "though I try hard not to. It is very wrong to repine and grieve, but it is not easy always to avoid it." "Perhaps you do, Scraggs," Pearson replied unconcernedly, "but for fear you don't, I'll tell you. My object was to render the man a little service." "I don't think there is any wrong in it, ' he said. "Yours is a hard lot, and it is only human that you should long for something bettor." "Then you may," said John, "for I am anxious to bo at home wj a my wife* You cpn tell him that I have secured the money, and that I will not be in day after to-morrow. That is all, I believe. And now, thanking you again for your assistance, I will go, but first beg you to come and see us at any time you feel so disposed." A very fascinating bonnet for street wear during the more bitter cold weather will consist of a mauve rosette with muskrat skin ear tabs. "Yes, to render him a little service; and for what?" John murmured his thanks for all this interest on the part of Pearson, then turning to .Mills said: "For his good, of course. So you think all mankind are like yourself, willing to do a fellow creature a favor only when it brings two dollars to your pocket to every one it brings him?" "What's the use of lonrrinir for some thing I can't have? It only makes me tlie more miserable, and besides it's a sin against those I love. Think of my poor mother, how much less bright her life is than mine. I know it is wrong to grieve over my situation, and I'm ashamed that I am weak enough to do so." Bill, nevermore we two shall share the fun we used to then. Nor know the comfort ani the peace we had together when We lived in Massachusetts In the good old oourtin days. And lifted up our voices in psalms and hymns of praise. Oh, how I wisht that I could live them happy times again! For life, as we boys knew it, had a sweet, peculiar grace When you was singin tenor and X was singln bass. "I All GLAD I MET T0U, GREEK." For skating and Christmas merrymaking a dainty little beetle with narrow velvet strings makes a cozy and very heaiihful hat for cold evjuinjp* under the wintry sky. In the premises, but John Green, honest, open, frank, truthful soul that he was, was slow to change opinions of a, person, especially when he was called upon to exchange a good opinion for a bad one. He had formed a high opinion of Pearson, and considered him a true, unselfish friend, while as for Scraggs. his opinion of him had never been of the best. Scraggs' words put him in a quandary and ho knew not what to say or how to proceed; but finally after the silence began to grow; awkward he spoke. "This is a surprise to me, Mr. Scraggs," he said, "and I do not know what to think of it. Pearson has been kind in aiding me and I never dreamed that he could have a dark purpose in it, and I can hardly believe that such can be the case, even now. But I thank you for the warning you give, and I promise to be on guard." "I suppose you arc aware, of the ob ject of my visit?" "Certainly," said Mills. "You want money, and the lir-t tiling to do is to list the property 3-011 propcise to give as security. Just call over the articles while I note them down." "Pearson," said Scraggs severely, "it is useless to talk nonsense to me. I know you, and I understand your heart "Thanks," replied Pearson; "I shall avail myself of your kind invitation, and before many days yon will see me at your house. In return for your goodness, Mr. Green," Harry went on, "I must beg you to remember what II said awhile ago, and if it comes in my way to serve yon, only let me know." Guipure and Venetian laces will be used to keep Jack Frost out of the otherwise exposed chest of society. Suede hats will also be worn this win ter. Pearson made no reply at once, but walked on some distance in silence, lie was revolving in his mind the words she had just spoken and trying to decide how to proceed the most effectually. When at last he spoke it was to this effect: John named over the articles toguifcAr with a dp.«v*riptinn of one. The Bedford will be the popular chord among musical people, it is said. including his two horses, the harness, wagon, plows and other farm property. ' * i vi- The music folks have nowadays ain't what It used to be, Because there ain't no singers now on earth like Bill and me; Why, Lemuel Bangs,who used to go to Springfield twice a year. Admitted that for singin Bill and me had not a peer. When Bill went soarin up to A and I dropped down to ID! The old bull fiddle Beza Dimmltt played warn't In the race 'Longside of Bill's high tenor and my sonorious bass! Then with a firm hand-pressure John turned from the office and rode away toward his sod cabin on the prairie. Harry Pearson, from his position by the window, looked after him until he disappeared from view, then slapping himself on the thigh, exclaimed half aloud: Shoulder capes will be more brief this year than usual so as to show the figure. Those who have abandoned the corset will wear the Paisley or Bay Stat* shawl. "Now," asked Mills when the list was complete, "how inuch money do yon expect to get on these?" "Well, you arc right, I suppose, in thinking that it is useless to grieve for what we cannot have, but sometimes we can have things when we do not think so." Dlay so thi». ___ drama I can see how to pat the border on without puckering the drama. I can never be thankful enough that I did so. I put in the entire afternoon studying the construction of a play that has been thrilling the Bowery for a long time. In this play a maid with a feather duster is seen at the beginning of the first act dusting the parlor and trying to think of her piece. This is well done and dramatically accurate. The plot now proceeds to unfold itself. In the second act a villain appears with pink whiskers made for a smaller man. He moves about the stage to melancholy music. "I haven't made up my mind to any particular sum," 6aid John. "I only know that I have given yon in every cent of three hundred dollars' worth of property." A neat little eight inch shoulder cape, a wide belt and a kilt skirt will malm 4 very tidy costume when surmounted by a neat little two-for-a-quarter hat of some bright shade. Louise looked up inquiringly, and the glance Pearson had of her lovely faco emboldened him to proceed. "The victory is won, and the game is mine. I swore to have Louise Green for my own, and I will. John Green is in my power effectually, for it was my money that he got from Mills, and it is I that holds his note. He can never pay the debt, and within a month or so his money will be gone, and then- he will be at my mercy. Mercy? Hah, I don't know anything of such stuff. What do I care for John Green's sufferings, or what becomes of that sick wife of his? They might die of starvation for all I care if there was not another in the case. And yet John Green imagines I am a good man and a benefactor. Poor fool, he little dreams how dearly he will have to pay for all the kindness I show him. Lonise is the price, and 6he shall be mine. Of course I cannot marry her, and I would not if I could, but a pretty mistress is just as good, or better, for then when I am tired of her I can soon get her off my hands." "Three' hundred," repeated Mills. "Conld you sell it for that amount?" A very nice riding habit consists of skirt and bodice of appropriate material and trousers with a broad gold braid down the side of the limb. These are neatly tucked into the boot tops and are said to be extremely comfortable. "No, I suppose I could not under present circumstances," John admitted. "Yon can have a happier existence if yon choose," he went on. "You can have friends, society and enjoyment. They are all within your reach. Would you exchange this life for that?" Bill moved to Californy in the spring of fiftyfour.And we folks that used to know him never knew him any more. * Then Cyrus Baker's oldest girl—she kind o' pined a spell. And, hankerin after sympathy, It naterally befell That she married Deacon Pitkin's boy who kep' the general store. And so the years—the changefnl years—have rattled on apace Since Bill sung tenor and I snng bass. "To be on guard to my purpose, Green, you must guard against accepting any favors at Pearson's hands. In other words keep out of his power. It was because I know what I do that I proposed to let you have money. I made the oiler to save the girl from his clutches. I have a daughter myself, and, whatever else may be said of me, no one can say that I am not a friend of virtue. I am sorry you borrowed that money of Mills, but it is done and we must make the best we can of it. If the worst comes I will write or telegraph to old-what's-his-name, Harry's uncle in Ohio, and have him come out." Soraggs for the momant failed to re call Blatchford's name, and he little dreamed how much he missed in doing so, for had he known the relation that existed between the Greens and Hiram Blatchford, and had Green known the identity of Pearson, as the mention of Blatchford's name would have led to, a world of bodily and mental suffering would have been spared the poor, unfortunate Greens. "No, you could not. But could you Bell it for two hundred dollars?" The girl's reply, though far from what the generality of lovers would wish, was not displeasing to Pearson. It was more than he had dared to hope for, since he knew that she did not love him, and he was satisfied that she expressed for him respect and pity. "Not at present." "No, nor you couldn't 6ell it for one hundred, could you?" "I expect not." "Nor fifty?" Something in the eagerness of his ▼nice, us lie asked the question, attracted the girl's uttenlion and caused her to start. She had un intuition of his inclining m.d longed to flee from him. ll-jw-vfir, as that was not possible. !,ho -.rultmd on without making any reply. He waited awhile, and seeing that she was not going to answer him, he rrj-caU'd his question. liy this time she hud regained her composure, and her rcplj o.i:nCD calmly and steadily. Corsets will be worn by those who prefer them, and there will be no fuss made over the fact. More independence will be shown this year than usual, both among the women and the men, in the matter of dress. This is a hopeful sign. The newspaper paragrapher hag done much, I believe, to kill off the extremist and the toady. Comfort will be the first thing to consider. "THE NOTE 13 NOT FOB SALE." "I don't know. Perhaps I couldn't. But remember that is no criterion of worth. Nothing sells now but food." Ton told me once, before you rr' urned east, what your intentions were toward Green's girl, and I understand that your intentions are the same yet. You are striving to get Green in your power and use him as a lever in your efforts with the girl. That was your purpose in takinsr him to Mills to pet his monev. and you are tne man who holds that "She respects me," he mused, "and that will make my victory easy. She will bow to the inevitable and will accede to my wishes all the more readily because of that. It would be hard to force her to sacrifice herself to a man she did not even respect. I am satisfied with my progress so far, and it only remains to be seen which is the stronger, her love for herself or her love for her father and mother." The piece all the way through is so dramatically accurate that I could go out for an hour and know exactly where they would be when 1 came back. But I went there mostly to see Eva Hamilton. I wanted to see how she would succeed as an actress. I thought if she acquitted herself nicely I could write a play for her next year. Bnt she did not do very well. She wore yachting clothes and a scared look, but her voice was as devoid of emotion as that of John L. Sullivan, and her statements were as devoid of sympathetic effect as those made by the man who calls trains in the Union depot at Chicago. As 1 was settin by the stove this evenin aftei tea. I noticed wife kep hitchin close and closer up to me. And, as she patched the gingham frock oui grandchild wore today, I heer her gin a sigh that seemed to com* from fur away— Couldn't help inquirin what the trouble might be; "But it is a criterion of worth, Mr. Green," Mills corrected. "It is a criterion of value because a thing is only worth what it will sell for. We govern our loans by what the property would fetch if it was sold to-day, and not what it might be worth if times were good and money plenty. Ordinarily your things might sell for three hundred dollars. They might have been worth that last year or they may be worth it next year, but that has nothing to do with the present time. We're dealing with the present, and I'll make you a loan on the present value of your property. I'll advance twenty-five dollars on it." THE UMBRELIA FIEND. "Ycc, it is only natural," she said, "tvot I cho.ili b* willing to exchange this life for a better one. I suppose no sane person would hesitate an instant to do that." note." "You ai e making rather reckless assertions, Scraggs; but say they are correct, and then what?". "Why, only thiy you must give the note up to me. I will pay yon a premium on it." "Was thinkio of the time," says Prus a-breshin at her face, "When Bill sung tenor and you sung bassl" —Eugene Field in Chicago News. Aloud Pearson said: So pleased was he with the way affairs were tending, that Harry Pearson slapped himself again and indulged in a satisfied chuckle, after which he went on: "Then will you make the exchange?" he asked. "Forgive me, Miss Green, for presuming to utter such sentiments. I did not mean to say what my words imply. Far be it from mc to suggest that your heart can be won by such things as I offered. I only meant to say what I would do for you in order to show you the depth' of my affection. Will you forgive me, Miss Green, and think of my words only as I meant them?" "That is impossible, Mr. Pearson," she replied quietly, totally ignoring the meaning of his question. "At least I cannot hope for such a thing for a long Important Informal Ion. "Who-ee! Must give it up, eh?" "Yes, you mutt." "Perhaps I must, but I fail to see why." ' Go home, little Eva. Go back to your old life, whatever it may be. Do not attempt to be emotional when an east side audience frightens you and your lines light out like a scared jack rabbit at the early dawn. It is high time you called % halt. Go not to the quiet grave of that deluded man whose name you are pasting on the deadwalls in order to get aew clothes and bait the old deadfall for aew victims. I am glad the press united Dn this wretched woman, this evil angel Df a soft hearted man whose life was ruined by her. "Wonder how old Blatchford will feel when he discovers one of these fine mornings how well I have served him? Wonder what he will think when ho wakes up suddenly to find that I, his trusted agent, have gone off with his granddaughter and several thousands of his money? It will break his heart to lose the money, and it ought, but it ain't likely he will lose any sleep on the girl's account. He'd rather give up every relative he has, than to part with a dollar. Such old cusses as he is need to stand a heavy loss to bring them to their senses." time." "Great heavens'" cried John, twenty-five dollars!" "Only But as it was they parted so, John going on homeward in a state of great mental perturbation, while Scraggs drove toward Magic City, resolving in his mind various schemes for thwarting Harry Pearson's nefarious plans. "Look here, Pearson, you proceed with your intentions toward that girl, and I promise you that Blatchford shall be informed of it without delay.' He felt that the time had come to speak out. Yet he hesitated. What he had supposed an easy task he found most difficult. lie was reckless, honorless and heartless, but still he quailed before this innocent girl — this girl whom he loved to desperation. Away from her prescncc he could deliberate on his plan without a qualm of conscience, but her sweet face, her clear, honest eyes disarmed and confused him. He felt small and mean, and the little spark of manhood in him made an effort to assert itself. For an instant he was overwhelmed with the heinousness of his intended crime, and there was a short conflict between his better and baser natures, but the latter being master of him soon asserted itself and crowded out all sense of shame and regret."Only twenty-five dollars," Mills repeated. "I wouldn't do that if your friend and my friend, Mr. Pearson, hadn't interceded in your behalf. I would rather not take the business at all, and but for him I wouldn't offer to advance more than ten dollars. But if yon want to take twenty-five you can have it. Please decide quickly, though, for my time is precious, and others are in waiting." "Blatchford! What docs he care? Do you -.suppose he'd bother his head about a daughter of one of these poor settlers whom he owns body and soul! Pshaw, he don't care what they do, or what becomes of them, so lontf as he has their mortgages. Write to Blatchford, if you want to, and see what good it will do yoy." "I hold no ill feeling, Mr. Pearson," said Louise, promptly, "and I will not think the less of you for what you have ■aid. The subject is one unpleasant to nib, and to continue it can be of no benefit to either of us, so let us drop it, if youflpsc." acceded readily to this requesCsince to continue the conversation longer at that time would by no means enhance his interest. He felt that he had accomplished all that could be accomplished previous to his finishing stroke. Of course, in the meantime he could go on gaining her respect by his services in behalf of her parents, but to her he would say nothing more of his love, and he would make no more direct efforts to win her consent to his proposal. "Green is such a confiding-, honest soul," he mused, "that Pearson will have no difficulty in coining over him with those suave manners of his. If he had a little knowledge of humanity and wasn't such a trustful fool, I might be able to do something for him, but as it is I have little hope. Some people are the blamedest fools in the world, and John Croon's one of 'em—" here Scraggs hit his horse a vicious rap to alleviate his feelings of disgust, and went on: "lie's allowed Pearson to bamboozle him into going to Mills, and fool-like, he thinks Pearson has done him a 'trreat favor. I don't see why in the devil some people are al.vays so anxious to lick the dust from the feet of rascals," and Scraggs brought his horse mother cut. "Now I've got to get Green out of this scrape," he continued, "if it can be done. I've got to buy that note from Mills, if he'll sell it." A professor at Columbia college wm explaining some of the habits and customs of the ancient Greeks to his class. "The ancient Greeks built no roofs over their theaters," said the professor. "I can't accept so small an amount," John replied, promptly. "I can do better. I will let it go at fifty, but no less." "What did the ancient Greeks do when it rained?" asked a student. Such women also hurt the stage. They bring the blush of shame to the face of ihe profession and do mnch to discourage a young dramatist like myself from writing the great American play. Let as change the subject. Table etiquette will continue to be in fa#Dr among, those who can afford it. The souvenir spoon will hold its place for the winter, perhaps, but not longer. Those who retain their faculties will not go very largely into the purchase of spoons that are so heavily embossed and oxydized in th9 bowl that they injure the teeth and inflame the mouth. For a long time Pearson remained at the window musing over his scheme and congratulating himself on the flattering prospects of its successful issue. It was a deep-laid and well- As Pearson delivered himself of these words he kept a close watch on Scruggs' features, and though he spoke confidently and with the utmost indifference, he was greatly disturbed, lie was in constant dread lest something should transpire to reveal to Scraggs the relation existing between Blatchford and the Greens, lie became satisfied on the present occasion, however, that Scraggs had aa yet received no intimation of the truth, and ho breathed easier. But Scraggs' threat to write to Blatchford disturbed him. He knew that it was not idly made, and he also knew that if he did write the whole truth would come out, and, heartless as old Blatchford was, it was hardly possible that he would sit quietly with folded hands and permit his granddaughter's ruin. The professor took off his spectacles, polished them with his handkerchief, and replied calmly: "Then our business is at an end," said Mills, as he arose and started toward the door. "They got wet, I suppose."—Texas Si f tings. Men's clothes this fall in New York will present more bright colors than Heretofore, and the cherry, scarlet, crimion and other bright shades for 6carfs, mainly in satin, are very noticeable. 1 write these items regarding men's apparel because very many friends sort of look to me as authority each season and ixpect me to furnish tips on etiquette and clothing, as I am constantly in touch with the highest and best authority."Hold on, Mills," Pearson called. "I want to speak with you a moment." Mills and Pearson withdrew to the opposite side of the room and talked for some time in low tones. John did not hear a word that passed between them, but he felt assured that Pearson was arguing for him, and when at last they came back and sat down he was assured of this, for Mills said at once: "Mr. Green, I am going to make an exception of your case, and advance you fifty dollars. I wouldn't do it for another man on earth, and I ought not do it for you. It is taking agreatiisk, and besides it is setting a bad precedent. However, Mr. Pearson says your wife is in a bad way, and he has pleaded with me for her sake to show a liberal spirit,and against my judgment I've consented for once to mingle charity with business. I must ask you to keep this transaction quiet, at least the amount of the loan must remain a secret." John readily consented to this small request, and Mills proceeded to make out the papers, and a few minutes later John Greep emerged from the private office with fifty dollars in his pocket. Itreaking tlie Ice. "If I were free," be mused, "I would make this girl my honest wife, but I am not free and cannot become so, and all I can do is to make her my wife in all save the name. In some faraway spot where no one knows us or can ever On the deck of a transatlantic steamer a diffident young gentleman tries to get into conversation with a fellow passenger, and after a good deal of hesitation he manages to say, in a genial tone of voice, "Are yon going to America?"The true gentlemen Who remain seated in the street car while elderly ladies ding to the roof and stand np in the uisle, will continue to ostensibly slumber or read the paper and thus endear themselves to the public. Louise, anxious to escape Pearson's company, expressed a wish to return home, and accordingly they walked back to the cabin. Neither had much to say, and save for a few desultory, commonplace remarks, the walk passed in silence. "V "Yes. sir; and you?"—Petit Parisien. The man with the wet umbrella, who eats onions and then seeks to conceal the faet by the use of stimulants, will still continue to freqnent crowded can and rest his elbows on the bosom of the meek merchant from the country. CUAPTfitl XVII. THE SERPENT AND HIS AGENT. Only One-third of t Man. "I have three tailors," said Goslin proudly. Four-in-hands now are no longer the Dnly scarf that is tied by the proprietor. There are two or three of them which require a steady nerve, a Christian spirit and an outside income. Arriving at the fence in front of the cabin, where Pearson's horse was tied, Pearson stopped. The reader may be inclined to think it a little strange that Scraggs should manifest such decided interest in a matter that did not at all affect him. Hut, as has been said, Scraggs was a man of heart, and lie \\»s a great friend of virtue. Besides, he was a man of strong impulses, and his likes and dislikes were extremely pronounced. From the moment he came to know Harry Pearson in his true character he had disliked him, and the instant he became cognizant of Pearson's intentions relative to Louise Green, he resolved to thwart them if possible. And it may be added that Scraggs was a man who, once having formod a purpose, never abandoned it until lie had reached the end. "I suppose you had no more than that," replied Miss Amy; "you know it requires nine tailors to make a man."— Smith & Gray's Monthly. Sncli thoughts as these occupied Pearson's mind, and he saw the necessity of conciliating the irate agent. "1 will not go in," he said, "but I will come out again in a day or two. I hope you will not consider my visit an annoyance, for I promise not to revert again to the subject we were discussing awhile ago." Broadway will have cable cars running in November, and it is to be hoped that the first few trains will be made of wrought iron with a cowcatcher in front in which may be concealed a large cartridge of dynamite, so that the fiend who has been in the habit of driving his truck over two or three children per day may be entirely obliterated the firat week. It is no longer de rigger to part the :oat tails and arrange them in the lap on dtting down. 1c has been tabooed bejause it gives the impression that one is too thoughtful of his clothing, and econ- Dmy and etiquette do not harmonize. "Mr. Seraggs," he said, "what's the sense of you and I going on like a couple of fools. I don't care anything for Green's girl, and have no designs upon her. I did make a fool assertion a year or so since to the effect that I had, but I did not mean it." A Cold Wave. "How cool your house was all summer!", / I l! "I would not have you stay away," replied Louise, "ou my account, and I assure you that I appreciate your mindfulness of ray parents." "Yes. I stocked the furnace fnll of ice and the blast that came up the flues was simply arctic in in its coolth."— Harj)er's Bazar. "DECIDE QUICKLY, TISIE IS PRECIOUS." mat urea pxan ror emDezznng a large amount of Blatchford's money, and, with Louise for his mistress, fly to a distant land, where he would live in grandeur. O (I 'H- Gloves will run in various shades of tan and black and tan; also the color of the Colorado and Colorado Claro cigar. A navy blue cheviot suit with a tan .•olored glove makes a very pretty contrast. The cheviot in dark blue and black will be very popular. Efforts will be Viade to force into favor the old fashioned vest, made of all kinds if brocaded, twilled and startling deligns, but quiet people who desire to lead different lives will adhere to the vest made of the same material a3 the init Let those who are leading double lives, and trying to keep the wolf away from two or more different doors, wear the honeycomb vest, the accordion plaited vest, the corrugated vest, the brocaded and the birdseye maple, gros grain and other fortissimo designs, but the father of a family will not try it. t •'Do you swear," said Scraggs, you are speaking the truth?" "Why, yes, if you wish it," Pearson replied unblusliingly. "that "Thanks," said Pearson. "Good day." And vaulting into his saddle ho can- Money will be plenty this winter among well to do people, it is said, and should they fear a temporary stringency the remedy is easy, for they will only have to skip a dividend or two, a practice which is becoming more and more popular among our foremost financiers. In the meantime Green was jogging homeward, and he, too, was busy with thoughts and musings. ne had secured a little money, but it was not sufficient to keep off hunger for any great length of time, and lie realized that unless Mary began to recover soon so that he could seek employment he would in a few weeks be without means again, with nothing more to mortgage. Musing thus, with many misgivings and dark forebodings, John at last came face to face with a man in a buggy. It was Scraggs. "Baptiste, I don't take up so much time in dressing as you do!" Matter and Man. Fifty dollars did I say? ''Then you will perhaps not mindletting me have Green's note." Yes, fifty dollars, less Mills' commis «ions and interest, which were eight dollars for a sixty days' loan, three per cent, per month for interest and five "That's easily explained, sir; you see I can't afford to keep a valet."—El Mundo Comico. Thus this aff; to the s lay the interest of Scraggs in i- of Green's be accounted for no doubt, of all. "No, I wouldn't, if I had it. Mills Is the man for you to see on that business." " BAY TIIE WORD A.XD TIIEY ARE YOURS." per cent, per month for commissions. A It wu home, c do augk late when Scraggs arrived it was impossible for him to liat day, but at an early hour Ilarry Pearson left the oflice directly, and as he walked the street his mind was busy with thoughts of the interview just ended. learn of our past, she and I can live as man and wife and be as happy as though we were. With old Blatcliford's money, which justly belongs to her and her mother, she shall have all the comforts and pleasures of life, and live a lady among the grandest." No Chance with the Old Style. small matter, truly, and an insignificant sum. Only eight dollars for the use of forty-two dollars for two months. At that rat©, if Green had made the loan for a year he would have received two dollars in cash while the remaining forty-eight would have gone for interest and commission on the two. Ah, a blessed thing is the chattel mortgage, and blessed is the man who owns one. It was a fortunate thing for the poor settlers that Mills made short time loans only. That feature was the only redeeming one in his system. And now they have got up a "button dance." But it will never rassle around and get there like the good old fashioned "collar button crawl."—Richmond Re- P. S.—In full evening toilets mnch good taste, etc., will be shown. the next morning he repaired to Mills' office. .None of the great army of loan Ceekers who visited Mills' office every day had made their appearance yet, and Scragga found that worthy alone, and y few words stated the object of which was to purchase John "Old Scaggs is going to cause me trouble," he mused, "unless I proceed with the utmost caution. lie's a sly old corder. devil, and now that he's set his mind against me, he'll do everything in his power to down me. It would be just his way to write to old Blatchford, and In that ca.3e the jig would be up with me, for I'd not only have Blatchford down on me, but my wife, too. This is a blamed ticklish business, sure, and the first thing I know old Scraggs will get wind, in some way, of the fact that those Greens arc old Iilatchford's relatives, and if he does old Blatchford will know of their whereabouts, and come hunting them up. Scraggs and Green must be Kept apart, and I must move as fast as possible. I must have Louise, for I do love her with all my soul and I can't think of living without her." Ilarry Pearson was not a hardened libertine, though he was unprincipled; and it requires a soul lost to all sl.ame and feeling to deliberately plot away the virtue and innoecncc of a young, trustful girl. Pearson's conscience pricked him deeply, now that he was approaching the climax of his purpose, and to palliate it he sought by every means to smooth way the evils of his course and leave only the good it promised to the poor girl—as though there could any good come of a life of Bliame, or any enjoyment from stolen i! Jim—You say that parade of 200 men was two hours passing a given point? Impossible—what point was it? An Old Juke With a Point to It. A NORTH SIDE DIFFICULTY. "I am glad I met you, Green," Scraggs said. "I have been out in quest of some money, and luckily I was fortunate enough to get it. So, if you have time to go back with me we can fix the business up to-day." in a vC He Wouldn't Take Up Her Tim* If his vi Green Full drees will be worn this winter in New York after G o'clock and until daylight on the following morning. It will also be worn on the following day by men from Staten Island and Brooklyn who have missed the night boat. Nothing can look sadder than the man from Perth Amboy who is coming home at noon in a dress suit which has a little chocolate edaire down the front toremind him of the annual dinner of the Society for the Prevention of Publicity for Charity. It happened on the North Bide. A young man whose name may be gi pen as Reginald Grimshaw, because it is neither Algernon McStab nor Patrick Fita- James, was looking through the young lady's album. He saw the photograph of a strange face and inquired: Meana Should Drop In. M Tom—Casey's saloon. — Buffalo Enquirer.sorry, Mr. Scraggs," Mills reinptly, "but I cannot accomou with the note." The SubtletieH of Snobbery. "Are those people anybody?" "They are known by everybody, but care to know nobody." "Then they must be somebody."—Life. When John left the office Pearson fol- "I am ever so much obliged to you, Mr. Scraggy," replied John, "but I have secured a loan, through Pearson's assistance, from Mills. I came by your office to inform you. I am sorry that you have gone to so much trouble for nothing." „ot?" Scraggs asked. ~.« I loan money as a business. lowed him, and the honest, trustful embraced the opportunity to thank Harry again for his interest and trouble. "thanks. ' bald rv arson. "good day." re is a profit in it I want it." i inly, Mr. Mills. I did not exi to sell the note at its face "May 1 ask whose portrait this is, Miss Annabel?" tered away, very much unlike a brokenhearted, rejected suitor. valv Advice to Kalnmakeri. "That is Mr. Means, of Buffalo." "Hum! He isn't a bad looking fellow." "You never would guess what a queer dream J had about him not long ago." "No?" '•It's all right, Mr. Green," Pearson, Bald, "and you owe me nothing. The favor I rendered you, if you persist in calling it a favor, was nothing more than any man should do for another. 1 am sorry we were not able to make better terms with Mills, but we were fortunate to do so well as we did. If at an.v time I can render you a service iust let me know, and you shall find me ready to do anything that lies in my power. You are going home direct, I suppose?" "I don't care for the trouble, Green," said Scraggs, "but I'm sorry you borrowed that money of Mills." "Why so?" Y on ? Then you are willing money. [to be continued. J Along about the equinox is, it will be observed, the best time to show off a rain machine.—Detroit Free Press. to p. "I am, or I should never have come here. We money lenders do not do things for the fun of it." Ilis baser nature having in this instance, as in all others, asserted itself, Pearson soon succeeded in putting away all shame and self-reproach, and with calm determination took up the subject again. And Their Cats Have No Tall*. Be Didn't Bay Anything. A movement is now on foot to onen a sort of gents'*xchange to be called the Suburban Gents' Consolidated exchange, where out of town men may drop in and shuck their business suits and assume the evening dress, then after the dinner, if still sufficiently lucid, they may swap back and go home. There have been, of course, small places of this kind before, but this is to be arranged on a larger and broader plan than ever before known, and a competent person will prelide at all hours. They are queer folk, the Manx people, if all one reads of them be true. The Saturday Review tells a tale of an old Manxwoman, who, when a certain author explained to her the nature of his occupation, replied condescendingly, "Well, well; what does it matter so long as a body makes his livin honestly?" Not less characteristic was the Manxman's remark to a visitor whose health had been much benefited by his stay on the island, "You iss a much better gentleman now till you wass when you came."—London Globe. He was telling the story to a policeman at the Erie depot across the river. He was a tall, solemn looking man, and his baggage consisted of a gaunt and lonely looking carpetsack, which evidently held a shirt and a collar or two. Said he: "No. I dreamed he had come all the way here from Buffalo to—to propose to me. I—I was otherwise engaged. A—a friend had called—just as—as you have, Reg—Mr. Grimshaw, you know—and I —1 instructed the servant to say I waa not at home." "Because the less you have to do with Harry Pearson the better. Mark my words, Green, you will pay dearly for all the aid Pearson gives you, and the day will come when you will wish with "That's very true, and for that reason I am at a loss to understand why you should be willing to buy Green's note at a premium. I let him have twice as much on his property as I would under ordinary circumstances." CHAPTER XVIII. THE SERPENT MAKES A PROPOSAL. During the nest two weeks Pearsor went to Green's three or four times, and though he never had an interview with Louise, he gave her to understand the state of his heart, and did everything in his power to ingratiate himself into her good graces. He also sought to broaden and deepen the hold he had upon John's feelings, and upon the whole was quite well satisfied with the progress he was making. He had no hope of winning Louise's love, but he thought he was gaining her esteem and that was enough. "Louise," he said, "it is not impossible for you to make the change I spoke of. I said society, wealth and pleasure were witliin your reach. They are, and all you have to do is say the word and they arc yours." all your heart that you had never seen him." "1 am at a loss," John said derstand you, Mr. Scraggs." ag to do with the all. Please state what amount will buy the note." "That has not matter at "It was over in New York, on some street or other. A man had fallen down in a fit or something, and I stopped to see what was up. A young man crowded in beside me, and looked at me and said: 'Old man, in the midst of life we are in death.'" Mr. Grimshaw turned pale. Ho had never been in any peril of this kind before."No. I ought to let Scraggs know that I have secured the money so that he need not put himself to the trouble of raising it for me. I will go to his Oiffice first and then be off for home." He had stopped now and placed himself before her. His breath came fast and his blood coursed wildly. Grasping her hand and holding it in spite of her frantic efforts to release it, he went on in a rapid, hoarse tone: "That's bccause you do nit stand Pearson's motives." "Why, whaV motives, except one of kindness, caA W have in aiding me? He cannot hope to make anything out of me, for I have nothing'." under- Mills looked at Scraggs rather curiously for an instant, then broke into a "If he should—er—call while I'm here, you know,'' he said, looking arpnnd fearfully to see if his hat was within reach, "I—aw—wouldn't be"  A great improvement in men's apparel this year will consist of the coat shirt, which is open the entire length in front and so therefore saves that terrible wear and tear of the soul caused by climbing hand over hand up the dark interior of a hot and freshly ironed shirt. Let those whose lot has been a more pleasant and accessible one speak sneeringly and lightly mayhap of the man whose sex has doomed him to a life of unceasing struggle upward through one of these stiff and airtight garments, but to a man whose hair has been worn off in this way it is no laughing matter. ' 'To be plain with you, Mr. Scraggs," he said, "and to bring the affair to a point at once, I must say that the note is not for sale.'' "At no price?" "At no price." soft smile This arrangement did not suit Pearson, as was plainly evident from the frown that came to his face. Yet he dared not openly oppose it lest he cxcite his victim's suspicions. It was necessary to the sucecess of his plans that Green be kept awav from Scraggs, an# he resolved that he should be if possible, and if a meeting must take place between the men he would manage to be present to hold Scraggs in check. "Well?" "Louise, I love you, and if you will be mine you can have everything that it is in my power to get you—everj'- thing that love can suggest and money buy. You shall have friends among the highest, you shall have a home among the finest, you shall have all the pleasures that the rich enjoy. In short, Louise, be mine and you shall never again know what it is to have a wish ungratified. You shall never feel the pinch of want or the cruel touch of a cold world. I will make it my study and my work to serve yon, and you shall be my queen. Oh, Louise, do not weep, do not look distressed. Be mine, Louise. Say you will." Asking Too Much. "I didn't say nothing or other, and purty soon he looked up agin and Mid: 'Old man, we fleeteth like a shadder and continneth not.'" "But I'm sure he won't, Reg—Mr. Grimshaw!" "You have not property, Mr. Green but you have that which is of far more value to both yourself and him. You "Of course it hurts, Josiah," said Mrs. Chugwater, as she applied the liniment and rubbed it in vigorously. "Rheumatism always hurts. You must grin and bear it." "But if he should, you know," panted the young man, pushing his chair back, "I—um—wouldn't be selfish enough, you know, to—to take up your time, Miss Annabel, you know. Besides, I"— "Well, sir?" "If I can only ha-""1 her respect," he thought, "1 can casi.y bring her to ray terms when the time comes. Green will soon use up the money he borrowed, and then Louise must choose between me and hunger—hunger not only for herself, but for her father and her sick mother. And the victory will be mine by easy odds, for she is such a simple, honest-hearted little thing that she will readily make any sacrifice in order to spare her parents. Just a few more days of clear sailing and I shall arrive in port with my prize all safe and sound. In the meantime, though, have a daughter, and it is her ruin lit "Mav I as your purpose in holding in make a good profit by "Then what did you say?" working to." it when letting i "I didn't say nothing, but he crowded up closer to me an 1 said: 'Old man, man dieth and wasteth away and continneth not.'" "Scraggs," cried John, with livi "be careful what you say." •Tm willing to bear it, Samantha," groaned Mr. Chugwater, "but darn me if Tm going to grin."—Chicago Tribune. "I am careful, Green, and I would to Heaven it was not necessary to say what I am about to tell you. But as a husband and a father I feel it my duty to speak out and warn you against Harry Pearson. I know his purpose for he has stated it to me. He has designs on your daughter, and knowing that he cannot win her by fair means ICS, vou I am not cor f ask, Mr. Scraggs, but led to answer you." "I don't go a red cent on dreams, any- For a moment Reraggs was clearly "stumped," to use an expressive slang term. The note was evidently beyond his reach, and it seemed useless to try further to get it. Yet he did not like to abandon the effort so soon, but how to procced further he did not know. how." "Curse Scraggs, anyhow," he mused. "The old fool has got his head set •gainst me, and he won't hesitate to **ke any step to thwart my schemcs. I vish he'd never ffot into the secret of iny intentions relative to Louise Green. Ho threatened to blow on me once, and A Mistaken Idea. "But, Anny, what are you doiug with papa's encyclopedia?" "And then?" "And then I came away, and after 1 got on the boat 1 found that he had got my watch. 1 took the next boat back and looked all around for him, but he had withered away and departed, and the place knew him no more."—New York Evening World. In the cold, sepulchral silence that ensued, the young man melted somehow out of the house, and if this should meet the eye of Mr. Means, of Buffalo, it will convey to hini the assurance that Miss Annabel Ogleberry, of t"he North side, will be at home to him at any time.— Chicago Tribune. Nearly all laundresses pin the shirt together at the neck, and no man is ever prepared for this, so he drifts farther and farther away from that direct and narrow way which I am told is extremely lonesome. "I'm only looking for dolly's lost stocking Papa said yesterday that you could find everything in the encyclopedia!"—Fliegende Blatter. Scraggs went back to his own office,