Pittston Gazette

              Katablifthetl 1850. * VOL. XLV1I1 No. 5. ( Oldest Newspaper in the Wyominp Valley. PITTSTON, LUZERNE COUNTY, PA., FRIDAY, SEPTEHBER 10, 1897. A Weekly Local and Family Journal. 41.00 IMT War ill -i(I VHJU't* . availed-up cellar?" 1 continued. Mr Sonntug's suggestion regarding tht spot where I bad stood to recover tlii paper and pencil, which had fallci from my hands. There was no desire to continue investigations while the storm lasted; so, picking up the paper,, 1 hastened downstairs to my room. fortune floating through my head." w JagCevby w. tr©£D |U [Copyright, tlg6. by J. B. correct one, docs it turmsn you witn a clew to the person or persons who did the job?" I asked. "Suppose we go to the old schoolhouse from which the stones used in the two doorways were evidently taken," Sonntug suggested, breaking in upon my imaginings. to me in the fellow, and, as there was a hint of insolence in his last words I gave way to my impatience. fort became calmer. While again endeavoring to calm her the sound of approaching footsteps reached U8. wisdom of secrecy coming to mind. Slie nodded, and her old eyes bright "Do not worry about me. Be sure I am able to take care of myself; and forewarned is forearmed. What else is there? Tell me. You know you may count on my help and sympathy." Perhaps," he replied, shortly "See here; you have given me some strange hints about my house," 1 be gan sternlj-; "now, then, you'll pleast explain more fully what you mean Mr. Hunter, or perhaps. I should say, Mr. Skinner." tiled expectantly As he raised his head to answer, recollection flashed upon me. "Ah!" 1 exclaimed. "I have been cudgeling my brain in the endeavor to remember where I had seen you before." ott Co.] "It is advisable to keep the matter a secret," I continued. "You have uoi mentioned it to anyone, have you?" 1 noticed a strange odor as I went through the doorway, and saw Sonntap standing in the middle of the room in a strange attitude. The pencil he had used was still in his hand, but the pa pet had fluttered to the floor. "What possible difference can it make if the stones were taken from there?" I remarked. "That will not tell us why the job was done." Mr. Morley came down the path from the house. At first he did not see us, and Florence called, which caused him to turn and approach. As he drew near his glance rested on me. Then he scanned his daughter's face anxiously. Ilis face grew white, and a drawn expression came over it; he tottered in his walk, and seemed to keep upright by an effort of will. CHAPTER XII. "Yes. yes, I know that, Nelson. And I do need your help. It seems as though I were walking blindfolded on the edge of a precipice." The loved form nestled closer to me. It made me foolishly happy to hold her in my arms and know they were as a haven of refuge to her. mm "Aeh, no." "Then please do not, for the present." She promised compliance with niy re- He quickly turned toward me with a half-smile on his face, but offered no "Well, it would be pleasant for you to meet an old friend. Horace Jackson's hunting lodge is quite near the schoolhouse. Perhaps we may find him at his place," my lawyer said, insinuatingly.I do not know what impelled me to add the name which Sonntag said wat the correct one, but the effect on th« fellow startled me considerably. tf. As the cellar was the next mystery 1 determined, to turn my attention to, 1 went home i/rxnediately after finishing my breakfast, harnessed the horse in the buggy, and drove off toward Sarah V house. quest. reply "I have seen you in Philadelphia," 1 The old lawyer not seeming to notice iny approach. I tapped him on the arm He gazed around at me with wide, star :ng eves, then drew a long breath. continued, "Possibly. I used to live there before ■oming to Twineburgh," he remurked, indifferently. His eyes grew staring, and a terrified hunted expression came over his face Glancing furtively around and drawing back a step or two, his hand went to his hip-pocket. "Yes, I know. The fellow nunter, the agent at Sidington, told me Jackson comes up here occasionally to hunt and fish. But as for Jackson being a friend of mine, heaven save me from such friends!" "Then, too," Florence went on, "I am so worried about father." "What was it that happened?" he finally asked. "Child, why have you tears in your ryes?" he asked, in low, husky tonei. Then, without pausing for answer, he *eat on: "Retire into the house, If I had the necessary tools it would not be a difficult matter to cut the flooi of my bedroom. "You have been in Twineburgh but six months," I went on. "Oh, did you catch it. too? Nothing but a little demonstration of electrical force." I replied. "Tt was quite close to us. The house must have been struck by the bolt; or perhaps the lightning rod saved it." "So you said yesterday. Have you any reason to be?" "Yes." As the glint of a shining object caught my eye, I drew suddenly back tc one side of the window, and the nexl instant a pistol report sounded out. "Maybe not; at least I know of none, except that he is so changed of late. But a woman's instinct often divines causes for worry when none are perceptible.""And I saw you for the first time about a year ago. 1 almost knocked you over as I was coming out of the president's office in the Safety security bank. You were just going in, and I ran into you." (iaofbter. I wish to speak to Mr. Conway. Change your habit if you wish. I do not think i will be able to ride with vou this morning." Sarah greeted me effusively. The good soul seemed to have a constant fear that each time she saw me would be the last. Noting Sonntag's surprise at my words, I explained the reason of my outburst—how Jackson had of late changed his opinion of my innocence, and how Florence had made a compact with him, and the certainty he seemed to feel that she would be compelled to redeem her promise. Ltyplaci I stood still a moment, dumfounded by the attack, then dropped on mj hands and knees and crept past the window to the table, in the drawer of which I had placed my pistol. Hastily grasp ing the weapon and noting that it was ready for use, I arose and approached the window, holding the pistol before me in readiness. "It was awful!" the old fellow ex claimed. "There waa a stream of fire reached half way across the room. Ii rani? from the wall there, right near Hie chimney. Well H'« over, and neith er of us hurt." Tire okl fellow shook himself together. "After this, no more experimenting' in electricity for me, mD pecially during a thunderstorm. I'll slick to—to the law," he said, with a flash of his bright eyes which told me he had recovered from the effects of the shock. "You cannot mean that he is changed toward you?" CHAPTER IX. weird tones of which I had first heard in toy room downstairs. "Can you let me have a saw, a chisel and a hammer?" I asked. "Aeh, yes. Bud vhat for, Nel?" "I am going to find out what is in thai cellar," I answered. "Oh, you are ill!" Florence iXclaimed, In deep concern. "What is it? Do code with me into tihe house and let me do something for you." In a loving way which was all her own she drew his arm through hers. After supper 1 lit a cigar and walked up and down in front of the house. During the meal Mrs. Snyder had kept up an incessant chatter concerning the mysteries about my hvTuse. I did not hear half her words, but nevertheless there was an element so foreign to my thoughts In the few sentences I caught that I was glad to escape her. It could not possibly be heard up in the attic, when speaking in my chamber. So then it must have the faculty of being able to change from one apartment to another just as the whim seized lu "Ah, possibly. I nave had business dealings "with thav concern," the old lawyer replied. "Oh, no, no! Not in his love for me. Indeed, there seems to be an augmented tenderness toward me. And it makes me feel as though, somehow, 1 was partly the cause of the trouble. Why, I know there is something worrying poor father. He is even change ing in appearance, and is becoming so Haggard. There is some secret sorrow he is enduring. I spoke to him about it only the other day." "now you ged in?" "And you knew Mr. Perry, the presl dent?" The lawyer was all attention now, keeping his sharp eyes constantly on my face, while I poured out my opinion of Jackson and his underhand methods. I was a lover, and Jackson u sort of rival, so naturally my remarks were somewhat stronger, perhaps, than necessary."By cutting through the floor." "Dat will be hard work, De timber under de floor is awful thick." "Yes. slightly." "Two can play at your game, Mr. ' But I got no farther. The man waB nowhere to be seen. The parent glanced down at the beautiful upturned face with solicitous love shining upon it, and his face lost some of its haggardness. He smiled and replied: "I am not ill, Florence; only a trifle worried. Do as I requested, please." Like the voice which had sounded downstairs, the tones were intermittent: in the present instance they alternated with the rappings. "Then why did you ask me at thD time if I was the president?" 1 asked. The evening' shadows were settling over the valley, and the moon was rising in splendor. "I know that. But I have plenty oi time, and so will be able eventually to get through." iionntag gave a twitch of the slioul der, and his shrewd sharp eye' twinkled. 1 hastened from the house and raL around, searching for him. but no trace could I discover. He had vanished com pletely. Ilis sudden disappearance puzzled me. After standing motionless, with hearing strained to the utmost, I noticed that at no time did the voice and the rappings sound together. The tools were produced, atad I started homeward, Sarah sending after me an earnest appeal for carefulness and the avoidance of danger. "Did I ask you that?" he queried "Do you not remember?" "Then you did not take any note of the voice?" I remarked. hy did you call the station-agent Hunter?" asked Sonntag. "What answer did he give you?" 1 isked. In obedience she slowly withdrew, sending' back to me an appealing' glance. Leisurely I tramped to and fro, giving up my thoughts undiBturbed to the pleasant realization of new-found happiness and to anticipations of future joy in the constant companionship of my sweetheart. "Can't say that 1 do," he replied "Yes, yes. Here it is: and you?—ah that's good. Now let us compare." "Because he told me that was his name," I replied. I soon gave up the search, put the pis tol in my pocket, and started briskly uj the road toward the Morley place. "Just laughed, and said 1 was gifted •vith a vivid imagination." The few detached words I distinguished had no possible reference to myself; nevertheless the voice seemed to follow me. I was unwilling to attribute the sounds to supernatural causes, for I was not a believer in the supernatural. It might be that the parties who had/ walled up the cellar found come of their plans, whatever they may have been, upset by my advent. »nd had taken this way to frighten me »nd cause my departure. "It seems strange you should leave the city to engage in the practice ol law in a small town like Twineburgh.' I said, musingly. The two slips of paper were laid on the table. "The first words taken note of on my paper," Sonntaghegan, "are, you have my—then a pause, and yours are: N'ever will. Ah!" he exclaimed. In deep satisfaction, "they seem to run along well together. Now you begin and read, and where the raps are indicated pause, and 1 will put in my words. Let'sseeif we can get any sense out of it." "There, you see, it must be only :usine~s worry. If it were anything egarding yourself, he would not make ight of it." When she had gone I turned my gaze upon the father. There was no wonder that Florence had expressed concern for her parent. Even the momentary glimpse I had caught of him on the morning after my arrival showed me a change. And now that a closer inspection was possible, the difference between the Mr. Morley of a .year ago and the man now standing before me was startlingly apparent. He certainly looked like a sick man. 1 intended to commence the task oi getting into the sealed apartment im mediately upon my arrival home. Tht ihouglit that danger of some kind might lurk in the cellar would not deter me. And the pistol-shot I had heard thD lust night seemed to indicate that then might be a degree of peril in the work I did not like the idea of the dank musty odors ascending into my sleep ng apartment, but I could easily remove to one of the spacious chamber* upstairs, and thus escape them. "Indeed! What could he have told you that for, I wonder? His name is not Hunter; it's Skinner." The cigar finished, I repaired to my room, with the intention of reading. But the evening was so fine that 1 soon blew out the tight and sat down by the window. If the station agent was such a desperate fellow as to draw and shoot at s word, what could Florence have to dc with him? "Why strange?" was his curt que* "It is? Well, that's odd. Why should he wish to conceal his real name from me?" tlon. Florence was partly comforted by ay assurance. She glanced up into ay face and smiled. But the troubled nd perplexed look came back when he answered: "Oh. well, you are quite advanced iij years, and. with your long experience Dught to have commanded a larger and more lucrative practice in a large place like Philadelphia than in a small coun try town." It was strange that Sonntag should know the fellow's right name and noi know the danger attendant on calling him by it. My lawyer had seemed sur prised when I stated that the fellow had told me his name was Hunter. In all probability Sonntag had addressed him by the name of Skinner man; times, and the fellow had not resentec it, or the lawyer would have mentioned the fact. Why, then, should he reseni in so fierce and deadly a manner my usf of his right name? "H'ml can't say, I'm sure," replied Sonntag, dryly. "But I am delighted beyond measure to hear what you have told me concerning Jackson," he exclaimed, with more enthusiasm than he had ever displayed. Then I remembered how, on rising from the same chair the evening before, a tall, white specter had confronted me. This recollection coming to me suddenly in the midst of happy thoughts caused me to glance somewhat nervously toward the closed window opposite. "Perhaps It is as you say. But I canot get it out of my head that Mr. Jackon is somehow connected vith it all." This is what we read: "Never will—" "you have my—" "consent under existing—" "cirouinstances you have faith with me in every—" "way why was—" "the property removed—-** "from the original—" "place to bring you—" "to time what did you do with It safely—" On second thought the idea did not tppear tenable. For if the purpose was to frighten me, a fiercer and more terrifying demonstration would be used He did not reply for a few moments, but stood with h whimsical look on  face with his eyes turned toward thr "Jackson? How could he iffect your » life so seriously?" I exclaimed. "You had better sit down, sir," I said, in commiseration for his weakness. "Oh, indeed! It does not delight me; the bare suspicion has been enough for me to endure. I do not know that I would care very much for a seeming proof of guilt to be found against me. You do actually seem pleased," I remarked with disgust. On arriving at the house. I took thi tools into my room. I looked over the floor, and. after quite a time debating where the hole should be made, deter mined to begin over in one corner. Be fore I hud time to commence opera tions. a loud knock sounded on the front door. floor, broken "I flo not know. He used to come here frequently until lately. And after every visit father seemed to be bo troubled and worried." Mr. Morley sank down upon a rustic seat and I remained standing before him, awaiting his words with emotions alternating between hope and fear. " I could see a faint Image of myself swaying to and fro in unison with the motion of the rocking-chair in which I was seated. ** Was there only one voice which in some way sounded both in my room and In the attic, or were there various voices nil over the place, each independent of !he other? "I became tired of city life." he finally said. "I have no family depending upor rue. and so am at liberty to follow out any whim which happens to take pos session of me. There is enough business here to enable a single man to live well. Iiesidcs allowing him more leisure. 1 was looking for such a business, and— and found it in Twineburgh." 5?ing satisfied in my own mind that Jse difference between Mr. Morley and Jackson had arisen over business affairs, I sought to lead Florence away from a subject which seemed to cause her distress. **I—I have lost somewhat of late— busiuess reverses," he murmured. Then, suddenly fixing his eyes on my face in a searching glance, he said: "My daughter was weeping. What was the reason? What did you say to her to cause her tears?" "Pleased is not the word. I am mort than pleased. What you have told me is a most important bit of news," Sonntag said, taking up his hat. Perhaps Florence could tell me something about Mr. Hunter, or Skinner. At least it was right I should warn hei against him. Directly underneath was the cellar, whose solid walls,defy ing investigation of the interior, had so impressed the old nurse Sarah with an unreasonable fear. Even Sonntag, who, from his vocation, was accustomed to hold himself well in hand against surprise, had exhibited profound amazement when informed of the circumstance. I hastened downstairs, but when I ■eached my room no sounds were heard Hastily shoving the tools under th» lied. I went out tiirough the hull anci opened the door. My visitor wu Mr Sonntag. there. "hid where—" "you can—" A With these thoughts flitting across my mind, I soon arrived at the Morlej home, and, entering the gate, went nj the long graveled walk. Before an opportunity wns allowed me to ascent5 the steps leadingtothe piazza, my name was called. While in my bedroom. I had no way nf knowing if the voice in the attic was still sounding. "never find—** "it unless you—- "talk wisdom I shall—■** "go for it this very—" "night and take—" "it away and not one—** "Why is it important, and to whom?" I asked. "And what can you tell me about the station agent at Sidington?" I asked. "Well, you certainly are an odd fellow, if you will excuse me for sayinp so," I remarked, with a laugh. "Very important to me, but more to yourself." "It was her own tender heart that caused her to weep," 1 replied, after a pause, during which I considered what answer I should make. For it did not seem right to add any fresh trouble to the already overburdened man. The remainder of the evening I spent !n rushing from my room to the attic ind back again, and quietly stealing ihrough the vacant rooms, in the hope of laying hold of some explanation of the strange voice. I did hear it again 'n the attic, but there was no sound in mv room, though I had immediate!} hastened there. CHAPTER X. "Oh, Nelson! how puzzled I am over what you have told me! You say he tried to shoot you?" I ushered the old lawyer into thi room. After a few commoupluce re marks he said: "That walling-up of those cellar doorways has made quite an impression on me. Sup{KDse we "Yes, I nm rather odd." "No; stay and explain," I called to him as he went out the door; "what do you mean ?" It was irritating to have thoughts concerning the mysteries which seemed to abound in the old homestead come crowding up and play at cross-purposes with the happy state that the meeting with Florence had induced. When we reentered my bedroom. Sonntag's quick eye caught sight of the tools under my bed. "dollar will you ever—•' "Haven't a moment's time. Must go. I mean that most probably the cloud which has enveloped your name will be lifted shortly. Do not cut into the cellar to-day. Walt until to-morrow." Saying this, my lawyer departed. "Why, Mr. Conwayl" "Yes; but do not agitate yourself over that. He did not hit me, you know," I answered. "Itight here is where the shock came." I said, after reading the last phrase. "Of course I took no more notes after that. Have you any more?" It was Florence who called, and who on my turning toward her got out of a hammock. She was still dressed in her riding-habit, and as I approached I noticed her horse tied to a post near by. He regarded me with a questioning look, and I added: "She was sorry, sir, that my innocence has not been established. This was partly the cause for her tears. I am deeply grateful for her tender sympathy." have a look at them." asked, "Going to cut through the floor?" he "But why should he want to shoot you?" she exclaimed. 1 was very willing. Together we descended the stairs to the storeroom. "That is what I Intended to do. I'm going to know what is down there," I replied, decidedly. The mysteries had seemed trivial in the daytime, had been wholly forgotten In Florence's society, but now that I was again alone and the night coming em, the thought of the cellar enrae back to me tinged with a shadow of fear. And the voice, the unearthly voice— what was it? Mr. Sonntag examined the place where the door had been, minutely, as though he expected to find in the stones of the wall some iutimution ol what was on the inside. He even went so far as to scratch off patches of the whitewash. "No. The flame came, and I got no further," Sonntag answered. "Thb certainly is curious. There seems to be a complete circuit formed somehow, or. more properly, two circuits; when one is closed five other is opened by thai ••.losing-, and vice versa." "That is as much a mystery to me as to you. Who i« the fellow, anyhow? Where did he come from? His real name, I understand, is Skinner." Finally I gave up the quest for the 'ime. and, thoroughly fatigued, undressed and went to bed. "Are you going riding again?" 1 asked. "In that case, pardon my intrusion.**Thdn I told him about the noises 1 had heard which had seemed to romi' from beneath, the slamming of th( door, and the pistol shot. I aJso told of the voices I had heard both in tbC attic and in my room, and all 1 had ob served regarding them. CHAPTER XI "Oh!" The hard lines of his face relaxed; he drew a long breath. "She thinks very highly of yon, Conway." "Your words give me the keenest pleasure, Mr. Morley, and offer me an opportunity to lay before you a subject which may prove unpleasant," I eaid, eagerly. My head had hardly touched the pillow when the report of a pistol reached rny ear. The sound was muffled, as though coming from e distant apartment. Indeed, it seemed to come from underneath, as had the sound of the _*lanunityr.doori but j et notdixectlv be ueath: it would undoubtedly have sounded much plainer had the shooti Ing taken place in the walled-up cellar lDelow my room. I stood for some time gazing at the door through which Mr. Sonntag hat' gone. Amazement held possession of me. A thousand and one questions whirled through my head. "Papa and I usually ride at thl* time. I am waiting for him." she said with a touch of surprise; for I had spoken in rather formal tones. "Yes, that is his real name," was Florence's answer., "Why, what reasoD could he have had for telling me his name was Hunter? Tell me what you know about him, my dear," I demanded, for I thought she really appeared somewhat reluctant to "It is rather dark here," he finally said, glancing around. While making the foregoing remark the old fellow was leaning over the table, intently scanning the two papers. a flame 8hot_o"» -**— At first I had felt a hope that the vague account given by Mrs. Snyder might have something of truth In it. The unraveling of a chain oi events which seemed to border on the supernatural would be a new experience to me, and therefore furnish a diversion in the quiet, uneventful life I expected to lead In Kelsonville. But my lawyer had departed. I final ly strode to the window in the hope of * hr itim-i'wAietrat g u road, too far to call him. "Then I will defer my errand. Some other time will answer just as well, perhaps. Will von kindly tell me when J "What Is it, Nelaon? What can w the matter?" she asked, her browr "Perhaps the door can be opened," 1 The old lawyer listened intently, and I had finished- walked to the win "I have the key with me, but maybe It would be best not to use it. Give me a few matches." "Do you suppose that the sound of thC voices could in some way have comi from the- telephone wire?" I finalh askcC1. "Yes." "A detective! He! What is he doing about here?" I asked, in astonishment."He is a detective," she answered. alarm, first at my presence and now at my words? If he was so bound up in his daughter that he of having her leave him, even tot»arry the man she loved, there seemed small hope of obtaining his consent. "From where?" I saw him pull up hi* horse and lean forward and address a man who had approached him from the opposite di rection. jye» (taring1 in astonishment. "WIV. you not speak now?" There was no answering shot, and no more unaccountable noises, though 1 I hearkened intently I handed him all I had with me. and he. by the light afforded, examined closely the places where ho ha«* scratched off the whitewash. "Between the window and chimney, It seemed to be," he replied, without lifting his head. "Not brinp an electrical expert, I can not say," Sonntag answered, turning from the window. "Why. I can certainly. It is not very important, perhaps. I wish to ask yon what you know about the station agent at S'dington. I have seen yon talking with him on several occasions. What ran one like you have to talk about with such a desperate villain!" "Promise me you will not breathe a word," Florence said, earnestly, holding up her forefinger in emphasis. "I promise solemnly." "And promise you will not think me a very foolish girl?" Bat now I needed no such diversion to lead my thoughts away from the robbery and its blighting effect upon my life and honor. I did not regard that affair any longer as the one great barrier which stood between me and happiness, although the desire for exculpation was keener than ever. I stepped over t» the place indicated. Tln-re was a large noil sticking in the Kail, which had been covered with The conversation lasted but a minute, and then horseman and pedestrian each went on their Several ways. AH through the night I lay vainly J trying to find repose, but sleep would ! not come. 1 was resolved to leave no ►tone unturned to unravel these my* leries. For the events, trivial as the.* Deemed and as they probably woulc' prove when explained, were certainly While watching him, the thought again occurred to me that I had seen 01 inet hiin previous to ray arrival at Nel In the fear that I should lose my love, after all, 1 poured out my earnest words. "It seems impossible the voices could be heard without the aid of a receiver," I remarked. When the pedestrian drew nearer 1 naw it was Hunter, the station agent tfc Sidington, or, as Sonntag had informed me, Skinner. It seemed very odd that he Bhould have assumed another name Then my eye caught the glimpse of a horsewoman coming down the road from the direction of the Morley resi dence. It needed but that glimpse to tell me that it was Florence. She WW coming toward the house, perhaps tC see me. iH "Mr. Morley, I want Florence to be my wife. There is no use mincing matters; the simple fact is, 1 must have her. She loves me, and my love for her U part of life itself. Will you not give your consent?" "Do you know it seems as though 3 had seen vou before?" 1 said. eonville. "Perhaps there is a receiver both ii your room and upstairs—not like tin ones we are accustomed to, of eourst but one formed by nature. Ortalnh there are possibilities in electric forct which we have not yet discovered. Yoi say the sounds occurred only when i. wind was blowing which caused thC wire to swing against the lightninp rod?" "Never!" Florence's face turned white. "Desperate villain?" she repeated, in a fearsome whisper. "Why, Nelson!" "Well, then, after the bank robbery I used to read all the papers to ascertain if the robbers had been discovered. The time went by, and you, poor boy, were still under the cruel suspicion. Why, Nelson, nearly all of your old friends believe you had a hand in the affair." "Yes, so you remarked during youi visit to my office yesterday," Sonntap replied, as he stepped back to where 1 was standing. I was sure of Florence's love and truvt, bnt I could not wish her sweet lelf linked forever to one over-whose life a cloud of suspicion hung. Her love was an inspiration, an incentive; under Ita influence I hoped to accomplish reaults which even the vast resources of the bank had failed in. Irritating, and threatened wholly to destroy the rest and peace I had expected to find in Nelsonville. Then 1 told of my recent talk with the scoundrel and his dastardly attempt to shoot me. To my disappointment he dodged the question altogether. "There is no doubt of that being a solid wall," he went on; "so if the It was exasperating that, besides being burdened with load of guilt which rightfully helongec on other shoulders. I should also be subjected to petty an noyances which promised to make my otay in Nelsonville anything but peaceful. True, I was my own master. I could leave the old house on the morrow. But to be utterly routed and driven from the field by a few harmless Florence hearkened, with hands clasped across her bosom, her eyes staring in terrified amazement. "Why are you here?" he asked. "Here?" "Oh, I know that!" I answered, gloomily. "And I was foolish to give up the trust and love and confidence of the only true friend I seemed to have at that time," kissing the faithful girl's forehead. "That was surmise, for I have had no opportunity to watch when the wind blew. But it seemed the most natura explanation of the rappings." When she reached the cross-road lead ing to Sidington and Twineburgh, uj which the man Hunter was approach ing, she reined up her horse. "Oh. do not be alarmed," I added. "He did not hit me. A miss is as good as a mile, you know." "Yes. Why did you come to Nelsonvllle?"To devote all my thought, all the energy I possessed, to this one en3 wbs "T» find rest and quiet and peace; to escape people's cruel tongues," I exclaimed impatiently. "I give you my word of honor, sir," I went on. thinking I divined what his thought was, "I knew nothing of your living in Nelsonville. No idea was farther from my mind than that I should meet Florence here. But I cannot help telling you how my meeting her has lightened the burden of the past year, how her love makes my life appear bright before me, and shine even through the cloud which still rests upon my honor. You, of course, can withhold your consent, but, I tell you openly, I shall in that case do my utmost to persuade her to marry me against your wish." now my purpose. Thit small mysterious events were arisii g with their attendant Irritations, th eatening to divide the resources of my mind and body which 1 desired concentrated to one end, filled me with impatience. But ehe still stood gazing at me. doubt and fear upon her face, too dumfounded to speak. Finally, she burst into tears, and, in a most pathetic way. held out her hands appealingly to me. "And you had no way of ascertaining whether the sounds in your room her« and in the attic were produced by th« same voice and at the same time, oi whether there were two voices inde pendent of each other?" When the fellow came up to Florence. I was surprised to see him stop and en gage her in a conversation which last ed some minutes and appeared to bC rather earnest, judging by the wh\ Florence leaned down toward him. "Indeed you were foolish, and cruel, too," Florence murmured. "Six months went by, and you went to Europe. Nothing was discovered regarding the robbery; and, what was worse, nothing seemed to be donej in the master. Every one seemed to have forgotten all about it, except that you were the guilty one; that was not forgotten. Oh, Nelson, I felt so sorry for you! 1 knew how honorable you were, and how heavy your heart must have been. So 1 made up my mind to do something myself." though inexplicable happenings was contrary to my nature. Then. too. Florence; how could I leave the place, now that I had found my love abidinp Stirred to the heart's core by her grief, I caught the dear form in my arms. Wondering what could be the cause of the sudden and overwhelming expression of sorrow, and heartily ashamed of myself for having addressed her in cold, formal tones, I sought with many endearing terms to console her. Then, too, the certainty that Horace Jackson seemed to feel that Florence would be compelled to fulfill her promise, weighed heavily upon me. Why bad Jackson changed his opinion regarding my Innocence? What developments bad arisen which would throw new light on the case, and make an innocent man bear the consequences of a crime he knew nothing of? here? "Why, you know it was impossible foi me to be in the attic and in my roon too," I answered I Finally the young woman turned hei horse's head and galloped back in tb« direction she had come. When the first rosy tints of dawn showed in the east, slumber closed my weary eyes. "Perhaps we may be given an oppor tunity to find out something about tin voices," Sonntag said, with a gesture to ward the window. The station agent watched her re treating form, then slowly began to re As on the previous morning, Mrs Snyder was compelled to arouse me foi breakfast. On the present occasion shf announced rather testily that the morn ing meal had been waiting for over an hour. "How do you mean?" I asked. trace his steps. He had gone but i short distance when he stopped anC looked toward my house, then agaii turned and came back. What is it. my love, that so distresses you? Tell me ab®»t it. You do not "There is a thunderstorm coming up Tt will undoubtedly be preceded by ». wind," the old lawyer said. Just before retiring it occurred to me that the lights of Mr. Morley's house might be seen from the attic window. It seemed as though sleep would be sweeter after a glimpse of those lights, some of which were casting radiance over Florence's loved form. "You!" I was startled by my boldness in speaking as I did, but the words were out, and I would not have recalled them if I could. I watched him from behind the cur tains. As he approached near 1 saw his clothing was wet and bedraggled which plainly showed that he had bcei out in the recent shower. -.^288F /V® jii TV, ■ "Yes. It was foolish, I know, but I could not rest until I determined to try and clear you." I could not resist the desire to begir investigations immediately, and there fore after hastily dressing I walked all around the house, keeping at such dis tance from it that every part of the roof could be seen. "Yes, ves! now fortunate it is thai you are here!" I exclaimed, excitedly for I comprehended his meaning "Now you remain here, and 1 will jjo Uj to the attic," I went on. "Each of ut must note the exact time the sound iD heard. We had better compare watches so that there shall be no difference fi each one's estimate of the time." For a few moments my heart was too full for speech. "And what did you do?" I asked, gently. "Florence would "not marry without my consent," Mr. Morley remarked, with the trace of a smile. Where I had heard the votes I took my itui. Mr. Sonntae examined itie place minutely. whitewash. A flannel coat which I had hung on the nail the night before wat new lying on the floor, a charred ruin He came up to th«-bouse in a hesitat ing way, glancing all around furtively and wns about tq'pass up into the yard when 1 leaned the window am hailed him. 1 left my room and quietly ascended the stairs. Arrived at the attic, 1 grouped my way to the small window through which I had gazed that morn ing. I stood for a few minutes con templating the lights of the Morley res ldence on the hill opposite. "I did not want father to know, so [ asked Mr. Jackson to send the best detective he knew of to me. Mr. Jackson seemed very kindly disposed toward vou at that time; he did as I requested, :ind asked me no questions about mr intentions." "Ah, sir, I know that well. We can wait until my Innocence is proved. But It would be most cruel to us both should you withhold your consent." There was a line of wire running along the side of the road, which, as 1 afterward ascertained, belonged to a telephone circuit embracing half a dozen towns and villages in the vicin ity. This wire crossed the roof of the house, but was not fastened to it in any way, swinging at least three feet cleai of the ridge-pole. Within a few inches of the wire was a section of lightning rod. The nir was still, and the wire hung motionless. On the previous night a strong breeze had been blowing, as I remembered from the mournful cadences it produced up in the attie. room behind it is being used for some purpose, entrance is not gained from here. See what pains have been taken to hide the work. The whole wall has been newly whitewashed. If that had not been done, the new muson-worlD would be glaringly perceptible. Let us go into the house cellar and have a look at the dividing wall ther?." The nail itself was blackened, and was ijuite hot, as contact with m\ lingers told me. 1 pulled out iny watch and approachcC Sonntag. Ilis hand went up to his ves pocket and he was about to follow in example, when upon our hearing cam that small, soft, high-pitched voice. "Halloo, there! what's up? What d you want?" 1 demanded. "You are still sanguine, then, of your innocence being established?" "Great heavens!" I exclaimed, start ing back, "this is the strangest phenom -non. What a wonder the house la not Glancing up at me with his stupii stare, he spoke. "When you want t' send anything away by freight, have ii at the station before nine o'clock in tlx morning," he said, in the deliberatin) way of one who is compelled to mam facture a speech on the spur of tbi "Most assuredly, sir." A brisk breeze was piping down the valley. Through cracks and crevices It crept into the old attic with soft wail Ing and moaning. There was homesickness in the mournful tones, and a sad ness, as though the spirits of the departed were sighing for a return to old familiar scenes. nblaze!" "So you hired a detective to trace the robbers ?" "Yes." Why an anxious look should appear on his face I could not tell then. 1 know the many sudden changes of expression which came over him during the conversation caused me considerable surprise at the time. I went on expressing amazement, un til I discovered that Sonntag did not seem to hear me, so intent was he over the words the voice had uttered. It needed but a glance to see that this wall hud not been tampered with The whitewasli was old, and there was no spot where it had been renewed. Wc stood gazing into each other' eyes for a moment, then I made a rus fcr the door. "And that fellow Skinner—is he the one?" The lawyer tJetained me, and in grea impatience 1 waited. . "Pshaw! what's the use bothering over thut, Mr. Soniitag?" I said. "Ther« isn't much sense to be made out of it. anyhow." "Yes. I suppose ft was a foolish thing to do, for nothing seems to have ome of it, although Mr. Skinner keeps telling me he is on the right track now, and will soon have them." "I have already examined the outside place," tlie old lawyer remarked as we ascended the stairway. moment. "I—I have not kept track of that affair," he began feebly, "having' been fully occupied with my own concerns. Have—er—have thece been an* new developments, any discoveries upon which you base your hope?" "Take paper and pencil with you," h. sa!d. "Jot down the words and indicate the raps in the exact oriDer that the; come. I will do the same with thwords and pauses. Now go." "Is that all you wish to say to me" You did not come all the way from Sid ington to tell me that?" I inquired caustically. What was there about my old place that produced such a depressing effect upon my spirits? Ilere was one mystery which could be very reasonably explained. The wind had swung the wire, causing it to strike against the perpendicular portion of the lightning rod, thereby causing the series of gentle vibratory raps I had "That was not whitewashed, and, i1 I remember rightly, the stones used looked old and worn like the rest of the foundation," I said. "Yes, there is, too. It is converse tion, and not a mere jumble of words,*' the old lawyer paid, with an air of triumph. "J ust hear what I make out of It now." "Foolish, was it? Oh, my darling!" I exclaimed, as I caught her hands in mine and grazed down into the sweet face. I could say no more then, choked as 1 was tby my emotion. The noble, true-heurted girl! Impelled by her love for me and her absolute faith in my integrity, undertaking alone to establish my innocence, while all the world remained indifferent! I saw the nobleness, the willingness to make sacrifice for her love, back of it all, and tears came into my eyes and a great thankfulness into my lieart. What a fortunate fellow I was, after all, to be permitted to inspire such devotion! The happiest moments of life have a Blight shadow to them, as though to warn us that all joy is fleeting. Perhaps it was only this shadow which caused the undeflnable feeling of insecurity. But there was a quality, also, which breathed of events to come of dire import, 1 seemed like the mariner on a dark sea, conscious of breakers ahead, and knowing not which way to steer. Even my dreams in the restless ■lumber of the past night seemed premonitions."Why, no," he began, glancing al around, as though seeking for hif words in the surrounding objects. "1 —I thought perhaps you didn't knowthat—that—a—are you having a good time?" I went up the two stairways on thC jump. The wind was coming up strong and the heavy thunder rolled iu thedis tence. Near the small window, when I had heard the voice, I took my stand "An innocent man cannot be made to suffer forever, according to all laws of truth and justice. 1 firmly believe my name will be cleared, perhaps sooner than expected." "Yes; the stones used in both the doorways were old ones. But they are of a different kind of stone," he remarked, with a shrewd smile. Divided up, the following waa Bonn tag's version: heard. Satisfied that the other mysterious events would also g-ive up their secrets upon investigation, I went to breakfast. Mrs. Snyder was not nearly so talkative as during former meals, he raps from above were tui daytime, i ml /if the ODrannlness lo»Chi and xciHtuthj of nigtf Tlie voire so'undinif, 9 dlstiuetJy aslsefore, Wiie bly\on loi tid whistling' of the high w MjVlier and pencil were U(teim) wilb strained a louder now First Party—"Never will you have mj consent under existing circumstances You have broken faith with me in ever\ way. Why was the property removed from the original place?" "A most enjoyable time indeed." I ex claimed, enthusiastically, if somevvha' sarcastically. "Just such a time ai I needed—restful, quiet, and perfeo "Then your hopes are based on mere sentiment, and not on any discovery bearing on the case?" Mr. M or ley asked. "Different kind? What significance would that have?" lost a great "All the stone quarried about here is limestone. You will find the founda tioiis and walls under your house are built with this kind. If any other kind was used it would hnve to be brought from a distance. Sandstone was used for the two doorways." which tht "Mostly on the idea that truth will eventually prevail," I replied, epigramma tically. In- The had given peace." "Desperate villainP" sbe repeated. deed, she appeared rather glum hough not h h ms probid moaning nd. Second time." Party—"To bring you ttD Just a trace of a smile seemed to flil across his face at my words. know how happy it would make me tc be allowed to share your troubles." reason of the old widow's taciturn man ner was noon explained. "A most unstable anchorai nowa- That vague forebodings should come when my mind was filled with thoughts of the beloved one who had given me her heart, was most strange. I could not shake off the depression. The darkness of the attic deepened it. After pouring my coffee, she watched me iu silence for some itme. But silence was not the widow's forte, and, as I was busy with my own speculations, she was compelled to begin. First Party—"What did you do with "Oh! then there is nothinp the mat ter with the place?" he asked, en "I am troubled, Nelson, deeply troubled," 6he replied, raising her tearstained face. "There are so many inexplicable things going on about me, so much mystery, such forebodings of dreadful happenings, in my heart, that if it were not for your love existence would be misery. And now your own dear life is threatened, and all my fault, too. I cannot understand it at all. Why should anyone want to kill you? Oh, Nelson!" She laid her head against me, and I gently stroked the soft tresses which fell back behind her ear in such beautiful waves. For a few moments I could not answer. Her words startled me beyond expressinon. What, in God's name, •vas there about this back-country place? Had its uncanny mysteries even entered- my darling's sweet life to taint its happiness? Continued on pa«e four. ready, and tention to 8econd Party—"Safely hid, where you can never find it unless you talk wis doin. 1 shall go for it this very night and tuke it away, and not one dollai will you ever—" it?" riously. "But if Skinner is in your employ and therefore working in my interest, why should he endeavor to shoot me?" 1 finally remarked. W.& for of the Globe for "And was therefore brought from a distance?" I asked. I was considerably surprised at thif question. "1 should say not. Whai should be the matter with it?" 1 asked catch the words "l'erhaps not in this case." This is what my paper showed tHEUMATISM, ETJEALCHA and similar Complaints, and prepared under the stringent J GERMAN MEDICAL LAWS .A k prescribed by eminent physicians^® I was about to retrace my steps to the stairway, when sounds reached my ear which caused me to pause and listen —m series of raps, alternating with n rasping noise, but so feeble and indis tinct that I was anable to form an opinion of the cause. All I could determine was that they seemed to come from above. "I guess you ton't like my cookin'," she said. "But you said there is nothing but limestone quarried about here," 1 sutr- "Never will (rap, rap, rap) consent under existing (rap, rap—a gratlnp noise, probably caused by the wire be ing held against the lightning rod by the force of the wind) the property removed (raps) place to bring you (raps) hid where (raps) never find (raps) talk wisdom 1 shall (raps) niprht and takr (raps) dollar will you ever—" v "There, that's a pretty sensible talk. [ take it," said my lawyer, when he had finished. "Soine folks say it's kind o' queei like. Some say dead people use thf house at nights for meetings." he re plied, sinking his voice down low, and glancing around nervously. "Oh, Nelson, I don't know. I cannot understand it," she replied, as deeply perplexed as I was. "Indeed I do: the proof lies in tli? quantity I find room for. You are an excellent cook." gested "And that is true. The etones used in the doorways had been used before, for they are old and weatherbeaten. Do you remember a small stone building up at the mountain, which years ago was used as a schoolhouse?" my lawyer asked. "How does it happen that he is station agent at Sidington? Why does he remain here at all?" "Oh, well, perhaps it is sensible enough, but what good will it do you. now that you have made a conversation out of it?" 1 remarked, in some Im patience, for Sonntag'a satisfaction seemed to be out of all proportion to the importance of a few chance remarkp caught in some mysterious fashion from a telephone wire. The old woman's face relaxed gome what under my praise. "Is thut so? Well, let them. A' long as the dead ones don't disturb me t am sure I have no objection. What part of the house are the spirits sup posed to frequent?" 1 asked, a though) of the walled cellar coming to me. "Father procured the position for him at my request. The detective said it was the best place to watch the robbers from, for absolute secrecy was necessary, and no one would suspect the station agent at a retired place like Sidington of being a detective. Of course I did not tell father that the man for whom 1 desired the position was a detective." "Veil, bud you ton't come rite avay i when id is retty," she continued, "und I tought maybe you not like de eook- A loose shingle or piece of timber, rattling in the wind, would have made a dull, heavy sound, while the gentle raps I heard had a clear, mellow ring, like that produced by the vibrations of a tuning fork. ltight here the garret was fioodefl'by a blinding glare, and immediately fol lowed crash on crash close above me. i in'." "Oh, yes! It was known as the Mountain school," I replied. "I beg jour pardon, Mrs. Snyder. 1 i did oversleep. I'll be more punctual in future." The fellow seemed a trifle flustered I thought, by my sudden question, lit pave vent to a nervous laugh, and ai the same time darted a sharp glanct at me, which, momentary ns it was nevertheless was so different from hit usual half-wondering stare that 1 wat impressed by it. 215 or. ■ fork. "Well, it is fast goiug to ruin," Sonntag continued; "has not been used foi years, I am told. The point is here: That old schoolhouse was built of sandstone. Where the builders got the stone I, of course, cannot say, but evidently not around here. It is my belief the stones in the two doorways were taken from the old tuinblc-down schoolhouse." Stunned by the noise and too dazed for the moment to realize thut the threatening storm had burst, I feebly tottered toward the stairs and sank down upon the top step. The old lawyer smiled in a kind of pitying way, and regarded me with a whimsical expression. 31 HI i 13 Branch AWARDS. Own Glassworks. "So you schleep ofer yourself ? Vhat for?" she inquired. After lighting all the matches I had with me tChd making as thorough an examination of the roof as the brief llickering lights would allow, I groped toward the stairs. 150c. Endorsed & recommended rrer & Peck. .TO Lnzerne AvenuC Q. C. Glick. 50 North Main bt. J- H Hooek, i North Main St a . Pitttston, Pa. Vv jjm DR RICHTER'S ICHOR" STOMACHAL W "Oh, I was up rather late the evening before," I remarked, indifferently. "Who knows?" I went on, gayly; "perhaps my arrival in Nelsonville may be the cause of a complete revolution in matters regarding the telephone. ) must send for an electrical expert and have him investigate the mystery. Al readv there are visions of an immense "Do not give way to an unreasonable terror, dear heart," I finally said. "WThat possible harm can reach you?" I made no reply to her last words. Indeed, I could not. My mind was in a whirl. The rain was coming do-jrn In torrents and the roar on the roof seemed but an echo of the thunder. 1 was soon ahln to arouse mvself from mi daaed j for I knew questions relating to the j strange things which had come under ' her observation were trembling on her lips. "Oh, I don't know what part of th* house Is used by the spirits. flow should I know?" "It is all so mysterious, and now your dear life is threatened!" Florence exclaimed, the tears again coming to her eves and falling down herchee!:*. Probably half the distance to the landing was passed when upon my ear tril the voice, the nnearthlr voire tbe "It is not for myself that I am fearful, and I suppose it is unreasonable; but think. Nelson, if he had shot you!" She shuddered, and then vdt'j r." ft- "Yon remember our dlseorerv of the "And suptDosin£r your surmise is I There had been something irritating