Pittston Gazette

              K*talDli*«ft»Ci IKftO. ' VOL.. M.MII No. 4. ) Oldest Newspaper in the Wyoming Valley. P1TTSTON, LUZERNE COUNTY, PA., FRIDAY, AUGUST 27, .897. A Weekly Local and Family Journal. C 81 .OO per Year / in Advance my salutation bj coming- forward. "1 guess you haV no dinner," she said, in a hospitable way. 9 ff 1A CtEV 8Y~ WME. // p & w [Copyrtrbt Dm. fcy J. u»isc«tt c».j the old widow was especially vehement, and Sarah would frequently shake her head and give forth exelam- tliis vault. The bank was noted for its conserva- One compartment was used for the reserve currency, another for the reserve gold, and these two compartments remained locked for loug periods. The remaining spaces were used for the storage of various securities. United States bonds, mortgages for loans on real estate, state and municipal bonds, and for the gold, silver and currency required in the daily transactions. This cash was carried out in trays and placed in the tills in the banking-room every the troubled and perplexed state the loss of the money had plunged hirn into. way the trustees hearkened to his words was an indication of the high regard in which he was Jjeld. for X am innocent," i said, confidently. "I have a small estate which came to me from my grandfather," I continued. "Every cent shall be expended, if necessary, for the purpose of proving my innocence." The truth was, 1 had liad none, and, being rather healthy. I was not sorry to be ushered t». the table, where I was bountifully s» pplied. ations indicative either of wonder or of disapprobation. My old nurse also favored me with many glances which seemed to have mucli of solicitude in tive business methods, and the great cautiousness with which its funds were guarded, it was tile established rule that the timepiece of the money vault should not be set to open until halfpast nine, at which time the bookkeepers and most of the employes were at work. In short, so careful were the officials that under no circumstances was it allowable to leave the combination lock unguarded by the clockwork, unless some responsible employe was "Is there any cash in the vault?" he asked. "We are wasting time." he said. "This method of procedure is futile. I will say that Mr. Conway was a guest at my house last evening. How he spent the time after he left my place I cannot say. But he was on the train this morning, as he said, for I usually take the same train in coming to town, and I saw him." "Yes, sir. All the gold and silver and the receipts of yesterday seem to be here," 1 replied. During the mewl the. woman favored me with many searching glances, which I attributed to hw curiosity. them When everything had been done to make me comfortable for the night, Sarah turned to me, and spoke low, with a touch of fear in her tones,. "You can do as you see fit about that," the president said, after a long pause, during which he seemed to be pondering over my words. "But if you wish, for my advice, I would say, do nothing whatever on your own hook. Nelson," he continued, coming close up to me and speaking low, "secret measures have already been begun to solve the mystery, and they will be thorough and farreaching. This is wholly independent of any investigations the police authorities ma}' undertake. You see, my boy, that I do trust and believe in you, after all. What I have told you is in strict confidence. Live as quietly and patiently as possible under the cloud. Take a trip to Europe, and enjoy yourself.""Well, get your money out to the windows as quickly as you can, Conway. then come to my room. Mr. Smithson, call the poliee, and send messengers to the trustees for an immediate meeting. God, what a report to give them!" After I had fiu'shcd my repast we again returned to the front porch. "You have a nice place here," I said handing the man a cigar. "The house is new. is it not?*" "Come. Nel, you go back home with us." she said. "Don't stay here all alone in dis grade big house. I am afrait to liaf you. Come back with she reiterated, appealingly. While unlocking the compartment, 1 noticed with surprise that the lock of the reserve currency compartment, just at one side, was on the last figure of the rombination, as though it had been already unlocked. morning. Mr. Morley only stated the cold fact, but nevertheless that he should speak at all in my defense seemed to me a good omen. "Aboud fife yea. old." he answered: and then his wife took up the conversa tion. One afternoon I set the clockwork mechanism to throw the bolt at halfpast eight, an hour before the usual time, as I intended to fret to work the next morning at that time. The present. With a heavy heart and a feeling that I was treading on the verge of a precipice I obeyed his behest. Then 1 went to his office. I was soon asked to retire. As I went out into the president's room, three or four fellows went In. I knew they were detectives. "Ve rented a farm ofer at Nelsonville for a long dime. ISud ve nefer had no ehildrens, so ve safed some money and bought dis farm," she said. "No, indeed." I replied, decidedly. "1 would not miss sleeping-atnid the grateful odor of spruce for anything. I'll be over to your house for breakfast. Mrs. Snyder," turning toward the old widow. "You understand I am to take my meals at your house, do you not?" I grasped the iron handle, and the door swung open. I started back when 1 looked in. What had come over mel 1 rubbed my eyes and looked again. The place was empty; nothing to be seen but the two shelves and the painted steel back and sides. Of the $400,000, the amount of the reserve, not one dol- annual examination of the books and securities by the trustees was to take ;enn Before the door leading out into the vestibule one of the special police of the bank was standing. There is no need to tell of the examinations I was compelled to submit to by these same detectives, and how they tried all their art, wheedling, threatening, bullying, to get me to confess to a crime I knew nothing of. For all their troulble they got nothing from me but the truth. The woman was eager for a little gossip, and was bound to have it, in spit* of the fact that the dinner dishes w ere awaiting her. place, and I wished to have the moneys under my charge in order. I smiled bitterly, as I recognized the fact that steps had already been taken to prevent my leaving the bank. "Yen. Dat ish all fixed. Mr. Sontag, your lawyer, told me. Hud you better go back init Sarah," the old woman replied. CHAPTER L sonvilie had been familiar to my boyhood. But now, after an absence of 18 years, I could hardly recognize this part of it. When 1 left the bank that afternoon J found a telegram awaiting meat my lodging place: The train stopped at Sidington Jnst long enough to have a trunk thrown off and allow one passenger to alight* The trunk was mine, the passenger myself. "Did you ever know old Abram Nelson. of Nelsonville?" I asked, willing to indulge her wish. "It's a long time now since he died—18 years." Mr. Perry was walking the floor; he motioned to me to be seated. "The trustees will wish to interview you," he said, significantly. "No, I'll stay and face the music. I am not afraid of any  which, may be made into my life." lar remained, The railroad bad been built some five years before, and that made, in itself, a great change. The station was in a valley, and the fertile fields and dark green forests on the bounding hills were all very beautiful. "And whv so? What's to hinder my staying here in my own house?" 1 asked. "Have you cooked up a scheme, Sarah, with Mrs. Snyder, to force me to go back with you?" I asked of my old nurse. "Never fear, you'll see enough of me. I'll come over to your house "Come out to Fairlawn this evening. VYe entertain a small party. I want you." Thus the dispatch ran. and it was signed by a name very dear to me—Florence Morley. When the trustees' meeting broke up, the president came out to me. Then the train went on again, the engine puffing and hissing in a vain attempt to ucquire suddenly the greatest speed, seemingly in great impatience that it had ueen to stop at all—which was not to be wondered at; for, when 1 gazed around, from what I could see, Sidington was nothing more than a station house, a few miles of railroad, and a wide stretch of hilly country. "Yes, ve knew him. It vas part of his farm ve rented after he died." the man made response. What could it mean! My head swam, my breath came in gasps, the cold perspiration broke outtDn my forehead and rolled down my face. For a few moinenst I stood with every muscle paralyzed. Then 1 sank down upon the ledge and covered my face with my CTIAPTER IIL "Well, let them. They'll get nothing out of me," I replied, doggedly. "Well, good-by now. I must not allow you to take up any more of my time. I beg of you to follow my advice, and undertake no search on your own hook. In spite of discouragement, heartache, or long delay, do nothing yourself." "Nelson, if you are guilty, and wiBh to escape the consequences, now is the time to flee the country. The trustees have decided not to have you arrested just yet," he said, with a smile. The president paused in his walk and threw a searching glance at me. "I would advise you not to incriminate yourself, before you are accused." he said, coldly. I could not restrain a smile at his clumsy way of putting it, but before I could ask another question the woman came up to where I was standing and gazed earnestly into my face. I would willingly have pone to the antipodes to please the lovely young woman, and my disappointment was keen when I thought of the time lock having been set to ojDen at half-pasl eight the following morning. For Fairlawn was a country seat of Mr Mor lev's, about 30 miles distant, and I should not t»e able to return until nearly ten o'clock in the morning, and the combination lock would be unprotected a full Hour before the arrival of any of the employes. It was highly im probable that any thief expert enough »o open the combination would attempt the lock, even if it were known that the time mechanism had run down. The risk would be very slight, and I was tempted to take it. Rut. knowing, even though no consequences should be the result, that by doing so I would break n very stringent rule. I resisted the temptation, and in no very good humor started for a telegraph office for the piirjHDse of sending n dispatch to Miss Morley stating iny inability to accept her invitation. But, as there were few houses, and those in the distance, there was a loneliness about the place which seemed to find a counterpart in my life. For I was a social Ishmael, an outcast, burdened with the suspicion of a crime of which I was innocent. The fact that nothing could be proved against me, in the minds of most people, only indicated that I was such an adept in roguery as to be able to cover up all proof of my guilt. often." The two women exchanged glances, and seemed to be reluctant to proceed. Finally Sarah sjDoke in awe-stricken tones, first looking arouud with a frightened expression. "They are very kind, sir. But I wish to be arrested. Nothing would please me better than to stand trial," I replied, defiantly. He shook my hand heartily, and I left him. hands. 1 started to my feet. "I mean just what I say, Mr. Perry. I understand the position I am in. Why, sir, even you, who have been my best friend—I can see, even you, whom I have never given the least cause to doubt my honest3', suspect me." "Ach, Gott! It's true!" she exclaimed, clutching my arms. "It's Nel. little Nel! Ach Gott, I knew it!" The porter, who had just come Into the vnult in answer to my summons, approached me. As I was going out the door leading into the lobby, I ran against a man just coming in. He was an old fellow, small and thin, and had piercing steel-blue eyes. He rebounded a trifle from the collision, then gazed at me sharply. "I beg your pardon," I said. "I hope 1 did not hurt you?" There was a yonng fellow of about my age standing in the doorway of the waiting-room. He was regarding me with evident curiosity. I stepped up to him. "Dere's something funny aboud de house, Xel." "What's the matter, Mr. Conway? Are you sick?" he asked. Mr. Morley came through the room as I spoke, and at my loud tone he threw a glance at me. Whether it indicated disgust at what he might consider bravado, or commendation at nay daring to take a firm stand on my innocence, I could not say. Then her excitement ended in a flood of twrs. I gazed down at her in astonishment, and as I looked recollection came to me. "H umph! I don't see anything funny at all," 1 replied. "There is more sadness to me." llis question partially aroused me. "Call the president and the treasurer. Mason. Quick! Tell them to come into the vault," I managed to gasp. There was such a look came into his face, such a sad look, that it quite unmanned me. "Where is the Btatlon agent?" I asked, "Why, surely, I used to know you." I said, smiling down upon her. "You must he Sarah. You used to work at Gran«..ather Nelson's when I was a (small boy, and took care of me during my visits." brief! v It was now a year that the cloud had rested over my good name. The first six months of this time I had vainly attempted to live down the general suspicion. But I found the houses of even those I bad considered true friends closed against me, and so, heart-sore and almost despairing, I fled to Europe, hoping to find partial forgetfulness, or at least a rest from cruel tongues. Unfortunately for my peace, Americans read the newspapers, and I had only to mention my name to my countrymen whom I met during my trip abroad to be asked if I was the one whose name was mentioned in connection with the great bank robbery in Philadelphia. I soon tired of this and of being compelled to tell over and over again the circumstances of that affair, so resolved to go back to my native land, avoid the city where I was so well and so unfavorably "Der's awful strange thinps haf been seen and heard," Sarah continued, with deep seriousness. Old Jake's face fell at his wife's words, and he moved nearer to her. "Why—why—what can be the matter?" t.he porter exclaimed. "Nelson," he began, "I don't wish to doubt you. I have always considered you one of my safe men. But do you not see, my boy, what is against you? You are the youngest man that has ever held such an important position as 3-ou hold in this bank. There was considerable opposition to giving you the pi • "You may go home for the rest of the day, Conway," slid the president, without looking at me. "Come to my office in the morning. Don't go into the bankroom.""No. Not much, at any rate. I want to see the president. Are you the president?" he asked. "Why, I'm the agent," the fellow replied. in drawling tones. I sprang to mv feet and confronted him. I cannot tell what expression was on my face, but he slowly edged away There seemed to me to be something insolent about his question, as though, he knew I was not the president and he had asked but to mock mc. "Isn't there any town here, or at least a settlement? Is this—" sweeping my arm around in a comprehensive gesture —"is this all there is of Sidington V "t\ch. see! he knows me!" the woman exclaimed, turning toward her husband. "He vould not forget Sarah! So. so. After so long a dime. Ach, my! And now you are a man, and haf growed so "Who has seen and heard strange things, and what are they?" I asked, lightly, for 1 ain not superstitions, and not easily frightened by two old women's imaginations. "Good God, manl don't stop to question! Go, quick!" He went out immediately at my vehement appeal, and soon the president and the treasurer came bustling in. from me. I went out unmolested, and slowly walked toward my boarding place. Why should this horrible shadow have fallen, blotting out the bright promising sunshine of my young life? Was it a dream, and would I wake to find it all unreal? Ah, no! The newsboys on the street were already calling: "All about the bank robbery!" and selling their papers rapidly. God help me, it was no dream. "You will find the president tn his office," I replied, curtly. "As for me, I am a bank robber.** "You kin see about all there ia from here," the agent replied, with a grin. Then, to my surprise, he stepped out on the platform, locked the door, and put the key in his pocket. lace sted on account of your youth. But I insii big!" "Mrs. Snyder haf seen lights at night, ftnd efen in de daytime haf heard noises, strange .loises of talking," replied my old nurf»». There was the suspicion of a twinkle came in his eyes as he said: "Indeed!,' Well, you don't look it.'' I really should have explained before that my name is Nelson Conway. I had been rather a small, puny child, and my grandfather called me Little Xel. "Are you going to leave the station?" I inquired. "What's up, Conway?" the president, Mr. Perry, asked. "Why, man alive, how white you are!" he added, looking search!ngly at me. The old fellow then entered the office, and I went outside to the street. On my way I met an associate in the bank, named Horace Jackson. Fie was one of the bookkeepers, a man about 40 years old, and a quiet, reserved fellow. lie never mingled in any dispute or controversy among the clerks, was a "Yes. No use stayin* around. There ain't no more trains till three o'clock, when a couple of coals pass. This ain't much of a station." "Well, they will have to be very bright lights and very loud noises to awaken me to-niglit, for 1 intend to sleep like a stone," 1 said, laughingly. "The strangest thing of all to me is my coming here for the first time since my grandfather's body was borne from the parlor to be placed in the grave." A few days went by, and, although nothing was found to sustain the theory of the detectives, that fact did not lessen the general suspicion which rested upon me. Soon Jake went about his business harvesting the oats. Sarah and I sat all that afternoon under the cool shade, talking about old times. "Oh. sir, what shall I do?" hardly knowing in my consternation what I was saying. "It's gone! all gone!" CHAPTEK IV. "But what's to be done about my loggage?" I asked, impatiently, pointing* toward a large trunk and several bandies at the upper end of the platform. "What's all gone? Your wits? Are you sick?" Mr. Perry asked. All that night I walked the floor, cudgeling my brains over the affair, but could arrive at no satisfactory solution. It seemed impossible that the vault should have been opened, and the currency, the bulk of which would more than fill a bushel basket, abstracted. The fact remained, however, that it was gone. My parents had been dead many years, and it was something new in my experience to be petted, deferred to and made much of. Sarah took up the acquaintance just where it had been broken oil 18 years ago, and seemed imbued with an augmented adoration for me. com|Detent accountant, and lived a secluded life outside of the bank. He uas a bachelor, and did not seem. to have any special friends. It was certain he never chummed orcrotiied with any rrf his associates in the bank. Indeed, it was a case of surprise to mo that I was not arrested. It would have been an easy matter, for I had no thought of hiding. The most public streets during the daytime, and a concert or the theater at night, were frequented by me. I held my head erect, as I had a right to do; but it was with a heavy heart and a chastened spirit that I realized that people shunned me. Rouses where I had been on most friendly terms were closed against me. Here the treasurer uttered an exclamation and pointed toward the reserve vault. Mr. Perry craned his neck and glanced inside. Then he turned quickly to me. and his face was as white as his shirt bosom. The agent looked in the direction I indicated. "Oh, that's all yours, is it? 1 thought maybe it might be. Got checks, I suppose?" Old Jake gave a sudden start which attracted my attention to him. 1 saw him gaze through the open doorway into the parlor in very evident terror, and heard him exclaim, in low, awed tones: "Gott in Himmel!" Ja "'Mr. Jackson, will you do me a fa vor?" I asked, as he paused in his walk □e took the checks, gazed at them doubtfully for a moment, then slowly went to the pile of luggage. "Yes, certainly. Here they are." "Why, God Almighty, Conway, where's all your currency ?" he asked, in hoarse tones. I felt there was one true, loyal soul in the world whom I could depend on. and, in the natural desire for sympathy and consolation, I recounted to her all my troubles, including the circumstances connected with the bank robbery and the suspicion under which I had groaned in spirit for a year now. I could not restrain a smile at the sight of the tall, strong man overcome by childish fears, and was about to upbraid him for his foolishness. But I remembered the vein of superstition which runs through the lives of the Pennsylvania farmers, and so said nothing."Most willingly, Mr. Conway. You have but to state it," he answered, affably.On my way down to the bank the following morning, I bought some newspapers, and eagerly read all the accounts. Every paper, without actually stating the facts in bo many words, eave out strong hints that I was somenow connected with tne affair. I noticed, also, that passers-by looked around after me. Many men with whom 1 had a bowing acquaintance turned their heads and pretended not to see me. I realized in great bitterness of spirit that I was already a marked man, Buspected, and therefore shunned. R 1* * lamentable tfanr nftffn i: suspicion of a man runs through the general public without any just reason. The current in such an event is overwhelming, and it is useless to try to Btem it, as I soon realized. "I don't know, sir. I left—" I began, but the president cut me short. "I guess it's all right," he said, after taking the checks from the various articles of baggage and carefully comparing them with the ones I had given him. "You kin take 'em along." I stated the circumstances concern irg the lock. "It is |»ossiblc that 1 will be unable to be on hand at half-past eight." 1 added. "Is it that that's gone? You mean stolen? How could it be? Who could have entered the vault? You did not forget to lock up yesterday, did you?" he asked, with terrible earnestness. "You do not answer," he finally laid I was tempted many times to seek consolation and encouragement in the presence of Florence Morley, but it did not seem right nor kind to burden her bright life with my troubles, even should she consent to see me, of which I was doubtful under the changed cir* cumstances. Perhaps it was this fear which kept me away, as O til CI I on your advancement and pledged my ofiicial word that you would prove faithful to the trust. I had Buch confidence in you that 1 did not even consider it necessary to put you on your guard by telling you this at the time." "And you wish me to be at the bank in your place?" he said. "Yes, if It would not inconvenience you." Now the trunk was large and heavy, and I turned on the fellow with a touch of anger, for at first I thought he was making game of me. But when I saw the expression of stolid Indifference on his face, it struck me he was simply dull and stupid. "It seems as though I were fated to carry that load to the grave," 1 remarked. despondingly. "Come back with us," again pleaded "No, indeed." I answered. "The vault was locked at usual. I set the timepiece for half jDast eight}. I expected to be on hand and get things in shape for the examining committee." Sarah. "Ach, no. indeed you von't. Don'd you feel pad aboud it, NeL You see it come right. Let dem come to me," Sarah continued, waxing indignant, "let dem come to me. I dell dem if a "No. If there is anything out of the ordinary about my house, I am all the more determined to remain and find out what it is," I said, decisively. Then 1 "Not nt all. I will 1kD there, so the rule will be complied with. Oh. stay n moment. There is an old aunt of mine over in Camden who is ill. and I might possibly be summoned to her hcdslfle." "There was no necessity, sir, to put me on my guard. My duties would not *«"vn performed any better or mor» honestly and faitnrully had I known this. 1 thank you for your kindness, however." "And you have just discovered the the robbery a let- ••Thank you," I finally said. "It ia very kind of you to allow tne to take my own property. Perhaps you will •how further kindness by telling me bow [ am to take it. The bundles I might possibly manage, but the trunk, as you see, is large, and, I can assure you, heavy, and I really should prefer not to carry it, if any other way of removal might be devised." lOKtt 7** ter came to my boarding-place: % "Well. then. Jet it go. I'll Btay at home, and go to the bank, as 1 intended, myself," i Raid, feeling quite disap pointed. "Yes, sir. I went oat of town last evening1, and returned but a few minutes ago." "Mr. Nelson Conway—Dear Sir: If convenient, kindly favor me with an opportunity tor conversation this evening at eight. I remain fn town oyer night, and you will find me at my city residence. grandson of Abram Nelson is a thief. And dey find out some day." Stung by his implied doubt of me. and knowing my absolute innocence and how 1 had given my best efforts in the discharge of my duties, I had straightened up proudly. My grandfather before he died had written on the fly-leaf of a primer of mine: "Be Btrong tn adversity; that stamps the man!" I did not realize the full meaning of the words then. But they came to me now in full force. "Whan you waster go r* Iler assurances comforted and encouraged me very much. For 1 knew tny life had been honorable and square, at least in all business relations, and her absolute trust in me, after all the cruel insinuations and the cold looks of suspicion, wai balm to mjr wounded "So then the lock was unprotected by the timepiece a whole hour before the bookkeepers arrived," Mr. Perry said, with a most piercing glance thrown at "But if I say I will lDe at the hank you mny depend on me. Mr. Conway sick aunt or not." Jackson weut 011 He really seemed so willing to do me the favor that 1 could only repiy"Thank you very much. I'll depend on you. It will lDe doing me a great favoi indeed. I'll reciprocate some day." When I entered the lobby on my way to Mr. Perry's private office. I was favored by having the curious glances of my former associates thrown at me. but only one of them extended to me a salutation. That one was Horace Jackson, and he smiled as he bowed. -SYLVESTER MORLEY." \Vondering what he could wish to say to me, I repaired to his house at the time mentioned. known, and seek rest and peace amid the scenes of my childhood. I also determined, after my arrival, to begin a thorough investigation of the robbery on my own hook. The reason I had not done this before will be stated later. "Jackson promised me he would be here In iny place." I faltered. Mr. Morley received me in the library, and arose from his chair as I entered. For a moment it seemed to me the blast of sarcasm produced an effect, lor just a shadow of a smile appeared on the agent's face. It lasted but an instant. however, and the blank stare with which he had viewed my belongings took its place. spirit. "Jackson! What has he to do with the \ault? He doesn't know the combination, does he?" "Good evening, Mr. Conwa3'," he gravely said, bowing his head. "Please be seated." The solitude of Sidington, the lack of a welcoming hand, the knowledge that I had outgrown all boyish estimates and would therefore find the old homestead no longer encompassed about by the romantic interest which a youngster's mind was able to conjure up-—all this did not tend to raise my depressed spirits, and my heart was heavy within me as I plodded up the long, dusty hill toward the home of Mr. Hun sicker. There was another, the brightest, fairest and best of women, who also felt confidence in my integrity, or at least had done so; one whose affection i had gained. Dnt I had not heard from her since immediately after the rob bcry, and whether her trust and love still remained unshaken 1 could not say. I had no reason to doubt her: bui then time works wonderful changes in a woman's opinions, often. The president was writing when 1 entered, but he laid aside his pen when be saw me. "Not another word. Mr. Conway, on the subject. (Jo and enjoy yourself.* Then he regarded me with a smile as he continued: "1 suppose it is Miss Mor ley that you intend to visit. Now. I am just on my way to see her fathei at his office." "I am sorry I gave way so. It was a foolish fear. I am innocent of anywrong, and I am confident that my innocence will be proved some time. Until it is, I will try to bear the suspicion as patiently as possible," I said, calmly. "No, Rir. It was only to have an employe in the room after the timepiece had run down, that 1 asked him to be "Take a seat, Conway," he said. After I had chosen a chair on the opposite side of the room, and be had resumed his seat, he began, somewhat reluctantly, but in his stately, courteous way: I did as requested. My heart was heavy before, but it was heavier when I noticed the troubled look on his face. "Where you wanter goV he Anally asketl. in an indifferent manner. present." "1 would like to go to Nelsonville, if there could be found a way to get my trunk there too," I replied. "Call Jackson," Mr. Perry requested of the treasurer. Here some members of the examining committee came hurriedly in. "What is this I hear?" "How did It happen?" "Whom do you suspect?" These were some of the exclamations that reached *xaj car as uiejr crowuea around the president. "Mr. Perry, have you read the papers?" I asked. "Our conversation may prove unsatisfactory to you. If so, I beg your pardon in advance. Of course you are aware that the public in general connects your name with that daring and mysterious affair at the bank." "Oh. you are acquainted with thr Morley*. then?" I remarked, somewhat coldly, for I did not relish his bringing Florence Morley's name into the con versa tion. While that gentleman was gone on his errand, Mr. Perry and I made a hasty search through the other compartments. We found some of them in disorder, and, judging from appearances, many bonds missing. The president nodded assent. "So you're goin' to Nelsonville?" He favored ine with a quick, searching glance, which waa immediately withdrawn when he caught my eye. "Nelsonville's about three miles from here," he continued. " Tain't much more of a place than Sidington. You ain't go in' to stay there, are you ?" "Ilow is it that such a general impression has gone abroad that I had something to do with the affair? Who has started such a rumor?" After supper Jake drove me over to Nelsonville. Sarah accompanied us. of course. She would have been intensely pleased to have me stay at her own house, but I was longing for the rest and peuce which the old homestead seemed to promise, and so could noi be persuaded to change my plans. A delicious breeze was blowing at the top of the hill, and I paused a moment under the shade of the maples, to bare my perspiring brow to the cool in fiuence. "Only slightly acquainted. I am in terested in a few business venture? with Mr. Morley. My acquaintance ex tends no farther." Jackson wild. The president was •ompletely over- I whelmed by this new discovery. He ! Ktood gazing at me with a look of the 1 greatest anguish on his white, drawn "I do not know, Conway, unless the police have given public expression to their opinion." "I know very well, sir, that it is so," , I replied, sadly. One by one the trustees came in. One of the last to arrive was Mr. Morley, but he passed on to the committee room without noticing me. "Now, I do not mind saying that I do not necessarily condemn a man because he is suspected," Mr. Morley continued. "In a case like yours the general public's opinion does not influence my opinion. At the same time, the general public is not to be blamed so much, after all. The people form their opinions from the newspapers, and I am sorry to note that the papers do not seem friendly toward you." I was about to answer sharply that that was my business, but, remembering the curiosity that the advent of a stranger generally causes in the minds of country folks, I told him my plans were not definite. Then I slowly walked up the shad} path leading to the porch, keeping im hat in my hand. I hoped Mr. Hunsicker would be at the house for dinner, fot I determined not to go out into the hot fields to search for him. 1 returned to my lodgings lipht-heart ed and happy at the prospect of apaii seeing the sweet girl w horn I had loveC and worshiped for some time in secret "The police. And what is their opinion? Was it not shown beyond any doubt that 1 was miles away from the vault at the time that the robbery must must have been committed? I say nothing about my own assertions. But how can anyone doubt the word of a man of Mr. Morley's standing?" fact At the corner of two roads, near the house, dwelt an old widow, who had taken care of my place. "Corns out to Falrlawn this avenmc." mc, I know nothing1 about this. !ieve me. 1 am innocent." "No one has accused jou, Conway, so ar." he replied, seriously, and with sig- "Oh, Mr. Perry," I cried, "as God hears Oh, be- I thought of Florence, and wondered what she would think of It all. After my happiness of the evening before, to be crushed under such a blow of fate was most crueL But I resolved not to be flushed. There came to me a kind of exhilaration of spirit in making this resolve, and when, after awhile, I was summoned before the trustees, it nerved me for the ordeal through which 1 knew 1 must pass. added, more softly, for 1 did not wish to wound the kind heart of in v old nurse The large farm had been rented ouj in parcels to neighboring farmers, but the house had remained vacant ever since my grandfather's death. So then Horace Jackson was acquainted with Mr. M or ley. I could Dot but feel a greater resjDect for Jackson For Mr. Morley was one of the most in fluential and highlyrth ought-of men ii Philadelphia, and. besides, was one o the trustees of the bank. Jackson h:D( never lioasted of his relations will such an iiiHuenlial man: indeed. I hat never even heard him mention tnc fact before this. " "Tain't that I wanter be impert"- nent," he went on, with a grin; "but I thought if you was only goin' to stay there over night you might leave your trunk in the station." A knock at the open front door causec —I knew her fear for me grew out ol her love and solicitude for mv welfare an interruption in the clatter of dishes which proceeded from an inner room, and very soon shuffling footsteps approached the door. idea nee, —"1 can tuke cure of myself under an\ circumstances. I am not a child now. "You cannot think I had anything to lo with it," T went on. "You know I Have never betrayed any trust which I have held in this bank." "Well, Conway, nu one does doubt that you told the truth in that. But—" Mr. Perry seemed loath to proceed. "That is true, sir," I answered. "And I cannot imagine why they should take that stand, when nothing, absolutely nothing, can be found to criminate me." We stopped at the widow's home for I he key. and the old lady came along with us. Sarah." "Well, I had intended to spend two or three months, possibly longer, in Nelsonville. It depends altogether on how 1 like it. So, you see, I must have my trunk." "Den let Jake stay with you until you find out," Sarah persisted. "But what, sir?" I demanded, after a pause. A tall, stoop-shouldered individual, dressed in a brown cotton shirt', blue overalls and cowhide boots, loomed up out of the gloom of the darkened rooms Prom the look of astonishment on the man's face when he saw me. 1 judged the advent of a stranger was a rare occurrence to this household. Soon I stood upon the poreh and gazed around upon the scenes which had stamped themselves so strongly upon my boyhood's mind that even now. after all these years, they seemed wonderfully familiar. I missed the whiteheaded old gentleman, whose figure had been the most beautiful of all to my boyish mind. With a sigh I turned to the door, placed the key in the lock turned the bolt, and entered, followed reverentially by Sarah and her h usband, and Mrs. Snyder, the old widow. "My God! I don't know what to think. 1 can't think. You never told anyone j the combination?" the president sudlenlv asked. "Veil, hud de oats, Sarah; ve god to finish de oats to-morrow," hastily exclaimed Mr. Hunsicker, in remoii After telling all I knew, which I did in as concise a manner as possible, a deluge of questions was hurled at me. nearly every one of the 18 or 20 members of the board taking a hand in the cross-examination. "The detectives' theory is that you had accomplices, who, from directions given by you, were able to carry out a prearranged plan." "I can furnish no idea why it is so; 1 simply state a fact. As I intimated, it is not my custom to condemn a man before he has been found guilty. But, whatever my private opinion may be, in this case you must understand that the suspicion which has fallen upon you will necessarily preclude a continuation of the friendly relations which have existed between you and—and my hCmsehoId." ■trance 1 had felt all along that it would hi presumptuous for me to aspire to lDC Florence Morley's husband. Bui thi "Oh. no, no; I have never breathed a figure of it to a living soul." 1 answered. earnestly. "Two or three months!" He gazed dowu at the track for a moment, and then turned quickly toward me aa though an important idea had just come to him. "Now come, how foolish this is! What could be the matter with the house? Nothing hurtful, that is curtain. I'll be ull right. Don't worry, and I'll ride over in the morning and tell you how soundly I slept." I answered with a scornful laugh. "Accomplices!" Who are they?" 1 asked. evening she was so gracious, so swee and lovable, that it was impossible foi me to resist the impulse to tell hero my love. To my intense happiness I discovered that my humble, self was b\ no means an object of indifference t» her. "Will you haul me and a trunk to Nelsonville?" I as Red. "Who besides yourself knows how o open the vault?" "You say you were out of town last night and did not return until a few minutes before ten this morning?" asked one of the vice presidents. "The bond teller and the receiving eller." I replied. "Well, I suppose they are looking for them," Mr. Perry said, with a half- "There ain't no hotel at Nelsonville. P'raps you didn't know that." he said. My question produced a blanker stare from the old fellow, and his jaws, which had been busy masticating a mouthful of food, ceased operations. 1 gave him time, and, when he had partially recovered from hi* surprise, again addressed him. smile. "It- will make no difference to me. 1 have made arrangements for accommodation. You see, 1 am going to occupy a portion of my own property." "Der's no candle here. I go ged von und pring id ofer," Mrs. Snyder said. "And they are away on their vacaions. are thev not?" "Yes, sir," I answered, "I hope they'll enjoy the search," 1 said, sarcastically. "Oh, Mr. Perry, why is this thing brought upon me? Why am 1 so universally suspected, when nothing can be shown against me? If there is enough cause to attribute the robbery to me, why am I not arrested?" "You have not stated where you were, and how you spent the time," the man continued. "Perhaps the remaining trustees share with me a natural curiosity to know this?" "Oh, sir, you cannot believe in your heart that I had anything to do with the bank's loss!" I exclaimed, bitterly, for, kindly as was his manner, the words he spoke seemed to strike a knell to my fondest hopes. "Not necessary for to-night. I am going to bed early, and will not need it. To-morrow we'll see about lamps, for sometimes I like to read late. See how bright the moon is goingto be. It shines right into the bedroom, und will give me plenty of light to go to bed by." Air. Morley was of n dipiifiwl, com manding presence, and rather overawed me. It would 1hD no easy matter to ask liis consent to marry his daughter Florence was his only child, and all the purposes of the father's life seemed It center in his motherless daughter. Still 1 knew 1 must approacii him someday and there was comfort in the fact that he had always met me in a kindly, it dignified and reserved, manner, lie had never given me nny cause to think that my attentions to his daughtei obnoxious to him; but then those attentions had beei extended out of friendship only. I Dw he would be af fected by the knov.ledge that I was from this evening, the accepted lover of his daughter, 1 could not surmise. 1 "Yes. sir." I faltered, for I divined the meaning of his questions. CHAPTER II. Here the treasurer returned, followed \v Jackson "Were you here this mornug at the time you promise*! Mr. Con- "Oh, you own a place there, then?" It was something like coming home, after all, albeit to a house almost void of furniture and peopled only with remembrances of loved forms long since gone. At any rate, it was the only home I could really call my own. "Yes, the old Nelson homestead la mine. It descended to me from my grandfather, Abram Nelson. He has been dead 18 yeara. I have not seen the place since. 1 was quite a small boy then. And now. as I have plenty of leisure, the desire is natural to revisit the scenes of boyhood days." "Do you understand English?" 1 asked. I hesitated in giving answer, noticing which my questioner glanced around triumphantly, as though he had scored a point against me. "Ach. y-e-e-a Indeed 1" he replied, aft er he had hastily swallowed the food. way you would naked Jackson. be?" the president "We had hoped to keep the affair a secret-, for a time at least. Therefor® some few of the trustees thought it best not to make it public, as having you arrested would have done. MVe were all pledged to secrecy, but somehow the affair got abroad. 1 suppose you did not mention it?" "I have already said all 1 care to say on that score," Mr. Aiorley replied, rather coldly. "And la your name Ilunsicker—Jacob Hunaicker?" I continued. lie nodded a reply. I finally succeeded in getting rid of them. Old Jake was eager and anxious to.be off, but Sarah hung back, reluctant to leave me to the lonely terrors which her superstitious mind had conjured up It was only after 1 had given my promise to come immediately to her bouse Jackson glanced around in surprise at the group he saw inside the vault. "You do not answer," he finally said. "Of course you need not If your answer will criminate yourself." "And—and your daughter, sir," I went on, with trembling voice; "she does not share the general suspicion!" There were two rooms, the span: bedroom and the parlor adjoining, on the first floor, which still retained the furniture. Everything about these rooms, though faded and somewhat worn, wub in good order, and I complimented Mrs. Snyder on the care she had taken. "It was an impossibility for me to ful-; till my promise." he answered. "An aunt of mine over in Camden who has been ill for some time died last evening, and. as I am her sole relative and ' heir to what little she possessed, I was ! A smile flitted across his face for a moment. Then he became grave again, and regarded me earnestly. He did not reply for some time; he seemed to be considering his answer. sThe agent listened to my words, and I was considerably amused to note the interest they inspired—an Interest. 1 thought then, due wholly to a country fellow's curiosity. "The station agent down at the depot said that perhaps I could get you to take me over to NeJsonville. Will you do it?" "It is not the fear of criminating myself that causes me to hesitate in my answer," I replied, casting an appealing glance in the direction of Mr. Morley. in the event of any danger to me springing up, that she consented to leave. Feeling profoundly gratified that my coming here had revealed to me such absolute trust and love as inspired my old nurse, I placed my arm about her waist while going to the door, and then parted from her with a kiss on her wrinkled old cheek. "No, indeed. I have not spoken to a soul on the subject," I replied. "Dfr. Perry," I cried, impulsively, "you do not believe I am guilty, do you?" « "V-ell, bud ve're just at de oats," Mr Ilunsicker said. tompelled to go over to Camden last night. I expected,to return in time to keep my word with Mr. Conway. But I was unable to complete the arrangements for the funeral and some other minor matters relating to the will until That gentleman turned his eyes tohard me, and I thought there was rather a pleased expression about them. He smiled gravely and bowed his head. "My daughter is rather indignant; she thinks that you are unjustly treated," he finally said. "If I have told'you all you wish to know about myself," I went on, "will you kindly tell me, as a return favor, where a team can be procured to cart me and my belongings over to my place?" "I am willing to wait until after supper, which will not interfere with the harvesting. You will be well paid fcr your trouble." Sarah had thrown up the windows, and the soft evening air came intC» the "I do not wish to believe so," he replied, guardedly "Oh. think, sir, what this terrible affair means to me! It is a fearful bur-» den for a young fellow to bear who is wholly innocent." I could not restrain myself on hearing this. I sprang from my seat and approached him. Althougl* the place had not been allowed to go to ruin, there was alDout it that indescribable quality which h attached to long-deserted houses. \Ye all felt it more or less. Surah and Mrs Snyder sjioke in whispers: Jake stepped about on tiptoe, as though fearful that the heavy tread of his cowhide boots would bring back the spirits of the departed; while to myself there was a pathos about the old house which had not known an inhabitant for so long. It seemed like some human being deserted by its own flesh and blood. rooms, could only hope that F1 cc's influ "I spent the evening at Mr. Morley's place In Fairlawn," 1 quietly said, interpreting that gentleman's inclination of his head as permission to tell. Hereupon the rather shrill voice of a woman come from the inner room She spoke In Pennsylvania Dutch, but I was able to make out that her words conveyed a command for her husband to comply with my request. She also added that he should not offer to do the work too cheaply. enee, which I was well aware was pow erful with her fatlier, might prevail The dear girl's heart was mine at am this morning, and I had only just arrived at the bank when Mr. Smithson (the treasurer) informed me you "Mr. Morley, you do npt know what Continued on uase four. The fellow grinned at me.*as though there had been something in my words of an amusing nature; but finally he did give me the desired information: After the souri of the wngon wheeU had died away in the distance, I disrobed and prepared for bed. The moonlight was so enticing, however, that 1 sat down on a chair by the window and for a few minutes gave myself up to reminiscent thought. rate, for she hud told me so, and I be lieved her words. My answer created some surprise, and all eyes were turned upon Mr. Morley Such were that gentleman's position and standing that the mere fact that 1 had visited at his house produced a change in the manner of questioning me. The questions were couched in inore respectful terms. "It is, indeed. But, you see, it is this way. The bank is a public institr and I. as its head, dare not let nr sonal feelings interfere with my to the public. Personally, it does seem possible that you could have connection with the loss of the per money—" wished to see me." ss lsr^?»i-,-N"'^^i * of the Globe for H f rheumatism! H NEUEALQIA and similar Complaints, I and prepared under the t-uu.s fl ■k GERMAN MEDICAL LAWS.^ nRt by eminent physicians'^^® least |0l) DR. RICHTER'S (KM ANCHOR  SPAIN EXPELLERl K„0 H World renowned! Remarkably sureewiful! 1 HOnlv genuine with Trade Mark " Anchor,*'■ not IF. Ad. Rlrhter&Co., 2 Kirearl St,, New York. ■ I 31 HIGHEST AWARDS. I I 13 Branch Houses. Own Glassworks, fl ihat Endo*aed& recommended 1DDJB Farrer & Peck, 30 Luzerne Avenue. fT7* O. C. Glick, 50 North Main St. *lon .T. H HouC k. 4 North Main 'e as Pitttston, Pa. f ,/t| ntof no RirMTFR'Q vill I "ANCHOR" NTOMAOIIA I, bwt for I After the evcuing'senjoyment I withdraw to the hotel near the depot, where I passed the rest of the night in happy untici|Dation8 of the future.* Then he added, in deep concern: "I sincerely hope the inability to keep my promise has not been the cause of any trouble." "Why, I guess maybe Jake Hunsicker kin tuke you over. He's just gettin' in the oats, but if you pay him, p'raps he'll leave the oats be long enough to drive to Nelsonville and back. Anyway, he kin take you after supper, if you wanter wait till then." I smiled as I recognized In this one of the provident traits of a Pennsylvania Dutch farmer's wife. The train which took me back to the city was a few minutes late.and when I arrived at the bank it lacked but ten "Well, whatever trouble there may be. the blame certainly cannot he attached to you, Mr. Jacks«m, under the circumstances you have mentioned. You may return to vour work." Mr. Per- But before I go on with my experiences in the old hotise, 1 must tell about the bank robbery of which 1 was sus- "Oh, thank you, Mr. Perryl I km you could not think—" "I'll pay you well," I reiterated "And where did you go from Mr. Morley's place?" the examiner went on. "To the Fairlawn hotel," I replied. "You did not Immediately return to the city?" "I guess you should gif me feefty cent," Mr. Hunsicker said, in a doubtful manner, as though he really did not expect to receive that amount, but was determined to get all out of me that he could. pected Had I been late, either the president or the treasurer would have had to he called upon to open the vault, and it is doubtful if either of them remem bered the combination. The bocd tellei and the head receiving teller sharer) with me the knowledge of the combination. but. as those two gentlemen were away on their vacations at this time, 1 was the only one besides the oflieials who could unlock the vault. minutes of opening tinn He cut me short. "Officially. T n hold you in doubt, so much so at that I cannot give you back your "And where does Mr. Hunsicker live ?" WhileaI was pnssing from bureau j to wardrobe, from center-table to mantel-piece. taking mental notes of all the ; old-fashioned china and bric-a-brac which adorned those places still, and which in my young days had been for-! bidden my boyish fingers, Sarah and I Mrs. Snyder made up the bed. taking the bedding from a huge cedar chest which stood on one side of the room. Up to n year before, I had been employed in a large savings institution in Philadelphia. My advancement with this concern hail been slow but steady, and after ten years of earnest work I finally uttained the position of senior paying teller. Under my immediate charge was the vault, in which thecush and all securities held by the bank were kept. This vault was, of course, guarded by a time lock. Theftmnk opened for business at ten o'clock, but the bookkeepers began their work a half hour earlier. There was a separate vault for the books of the concern, which was not furnished with a time lock, and ali the book keener a knew the conciliation of ry said, after a long pa list The agent pointed to a clump of trees on the summit of a hill about a quarter of a mile distant. "You kin see just a part of the root through the trees. The road runs uphill right past the house." I asked, "I intended to ask leave of absence for n few days," Jackson began, in a hesitating manner. "But if anything has happened which would prevent your granting it—" not, "No, sir, for the reason that I could There was no train until the morning." "And did you suppose I expected remain?" I asked, indignantly. "I ci not. I want to hold no position w] absolute and perfect confidence is felt in me. You can consider this as resignation, sir," I added, sition." "It is settled, then, that you take me over. We'll not quarrel abt/ut the terinn Allow me to rest here under the coo' shade the remainder of the afternoor and give me some supper, and you shaL have a dollar." "And you were on that train?" "No, no. nothing has linppened which would keep jou here. Your request is granted. Every consideration must give way to death," Mr. J'erry responded."I was on that train, and arrived in town at a quarter before ten," I calmly replied. "How about these things while I am gone? Will they be safe?" I Inquired. "Oh. yes; no one'll take 'em. It'll be all right," he replied, indifferently, as though he did not care whether my luggage would be secure or not. Then he gave one more glance at me, grinned in his dull way, sprang from the platform, mud went off down the road. "You may be compelled to prove that." continued the vice president, significantly.Sprigs of spruce and hemlock had been placed in the chest from time to time, and when the cover was lifted the pungent odor filled the room. The heavy outside doors were soon opened, and. summoning the porter to help me carry out the cash for the day's business, I entered the vault. "I am glad you look upon it h light. It is manly, sir," said Mr. I "And, Nelson, not even the reston of the missing funds would give m great pleasure as the establishme j our innocence." The farmer was quite overwhelmed by my munificent offer, as was also the hitherto unseen female. For the woman peeped from behind'the door of the kitchen to have a look at me. Jackson thanked the president in his quiet and courteous way and left the luult. "Very well, sir; I can do so whenever it is necessary." All through the preparations I noticed that Sarah and Mrs. Snyder were . engaged In earnest conversation. There were eight compartments inside. the doors of which were provided tvith combination loeks. "It is past the time for beginning business," the treasurer suggested. Here Mr. Morley, who had been only a listener until now, spoke In his grave, dignified, manner, and the deferential L All the country for miles about Net- J bowed to her. andshe acknowledged The remark aroused Mr. Perrv from "Never fear, sir, my innocence soon be proved. It cannot be otherwise,