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Synopsis of Previous Chapters.
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Synopsis of Previous Chapters. CHAPTERS I. and IT.—The story opens among oichids, and the central figure is Sir Clement Frobisher, an orchid fancier Hafid, his manservant, announces Paul Lopez, who has brought Frobisher an exceedingly rare orchid, which when strong in the orchid house bursts inlo bloom. It is the Cardinal Moth. When Hafid sees it he is like one demented, and cries oat to have it destroyed. Lopez bids Frobisher farewell as Hafid announces two more visitors, Count Lefroy and his secretary, Manfred but Frobisher postpones their visit till luncheon next day. Angela Lyne, Sir Clement's ward and I neice.comes to him fcr seme orchids. She attends Lady Marchgrave'a charity concert, and is after- wards one of the dinner guests. Her dinner partner is George Arnott.a would-be snitor whose claims are favoured by Sir Clement. She meets there Harold Denvers, her lover, but there is DO engagement between them, only an understand- ing. He presents her with a specimen of the Cardinal Moth. On her return home she lets herself in with a latchkey. She sees a strange man creeping towards the conservatory, whither she was taking her orchid. She follows quickly, but arrivine there she finds he has vanished. I Hafid confronts her and begs her to Take and burn it." CHAPTERS III. and IV.—Frobisher sees Count Lefroy and his secretary Manfred. Frobisher and Lefroy are fighting against each other to obtain some concessions from the Shan of Koordstan. Frobisher informs Lefroy that the Shan will dine with him to-night, which Le- froy determines to circumvent. Frobisher shows the Cardinal Moth to Lefroy, who is enraged be- cause he has lost it, and strikes Manfred on the mouth. Afterwards he reasons that his secretary could not have betrayed him, and apologises. They go to Manfred's rooms to discuss a plan of action for the dinner. Manfred reads out an account of the mysterious death of a man who was murdered in a greenhouse at Streatham while trying to obtain possession of some orchids. The Shan of Koordstan is sitting over his breakfast. The man ser/ant announces Harold Denvers. The Shan, who has a liking for him, informs him that Sir Clement intends to bestow Angela Lyne on George Arnott. He says Denvers cannot have the concessions, as he has pledged the Blue Stone of Ghan. Denvers says that he has ob- tained a specimen of the Cardinal Moth, and that he has placed it in a nursery at Streatham. Count Lefroy is announced. CHAPTER V.—Frobisher's luncheon party takes place. Manfred pleads sudden indisposi- tion, and retires. Count Lefroy insults Lord Saltcur. They wrestle together, but are finally parted. Explanations follow, and the matter is smoothed over. Hafid discovers the body of Manfred lying on the floor of the conservatory- quite dead. Hafid is beside himself with terror, and murmurs, Take it and barn it, and destroy it," over and over again. Frobisher seeks Leiroy: and for once the veil of diplomacy is drawn aside, and they speak heart to heart. Frobisher gains the victory in this war of words. The gueatj depart, iind Frobisher tries to shake sense into Hand. Angela, who has been aroused by the commotion, comes to Sir Clement. He gives her so mnch information as be deems wise. and then dismisses her. Angela seea Harold Denvers creeping from bush to bush in the garden. He tells her it is a matter of life and death, and she lets him in. CHAPTERS VI. and VII.—Sir James Brown- amith and Inspector Townsend discuss the mur- der of Manfred, and compare it with the murder of the other man at the Streatham nursery, which was almost similarly done. They agree that both victims have been destroyed by Thugee. The cord nsed is in both cases identical—Manilla rope. Sir Clement is sitting up late over his pipe. His servant Hafid comes to him. He is silly with terror,and keeps on muttering, Take it and burn it, and destroy it." Frobisher abuses him roundly, and then dismisses him. He hears somebody moving in the house, and guesses it is Angela. His surmise is correct. She meets Harold, who tells her that he wants that spray of the Cardinal Moth. She gives Harold an account of the night's events. This determines him all the more to regain possession of the Car- dinal Moth. Harold ciragahafid-outfrom-the shadows. The man-servant says he has come-to warn his mistress that Sir Clement is on the alert and is lookiug for his slippers. They both implore Hafid to turn the key on him. He hastens to obey, while Angela leads the way to the conservatory. Denvers mounts the steps, and detaches a spray of the Cardinal Moth, but in so doing his arm is gripped as in a vice, and roTird bis wrist the flesh is cut to the bone. CHAPTER VIIL The Weaker VesseL bike most men of his. class, Frobisher had 1ft perfect knowledge of the art of using others. To study their weakness was always the first stage of the game, and therefore in an early Btage of their acquaintance, the little baronet learnt the fact that Paul Lopex was criminally extravagant with his money. How Lopez got rid of it Frobi- sher neither knew nor cared, the weakness paid, him, and there was-an end of it. Lopez and Rancid left the place together. i Therefore Frobisher paid his henehman liber- ally. There was no generosity about it, nothing bat policy. That was the secret of Lopez's life, and beyond that Frobisher never attempted to penetrate. Perhaps he knew that Lopez must not be poshed too far. Paul Lopez had contented himself with the zesnlt of his labours for the day. He was a plain, simply dressed man himself, and gave no sug- gestion of a liking for the luxuries and good things of this life. All the same, he was seated now at a most perfectly appointed table, clad in most immaculate evening dress, and looking across a table in the centre of which was a verit- able bank of flowers. Two opal electric swans floated upon what was meant to resemble a miniatare lake, and these gave the only light to the dinner table. The dining-room was small, but exquisitely furnished, for Lopez had a pretty taste that way. There were no servants in the room now, for coffee had been served, and Lopez was leaning back with the air of one who had dined wisely and well. On the other side of the table a girl sat. She was slight and fair, with a pretty, petulant face, the spoilt look not in the least detracting from her Grease-like beauty. Here eyes were the eyes of a woman, and her expression that of a child. Lopez called her simply Cara-not even his most intimate acquaintances knew her other name-an she was popularly supposed to be the child of some dead and gone friend. No daughter had ever had more care and love bestowed upon her than Cara, she was the one soft spot in Lopez's life. Perhaps she cared for him in a way; perhaps she had come to regard him and all these luxuries as a matter of course certainly it was that Cara lacked nothing many times when Lopez had to go without. There was a queer, half-ashamed look on his face now, as he pulled at his cigarette. Cara bad been scolding him, and be looked like a de- teeted schoolboy. You have been gambling again," she said, sharply. Why do 70a do it ? You would be a rich man by this time if you would only let those wretched cards alone. And you always lose. Yon are so headstrong and rash, you seem to lose your senses over the card tables. And you distinctly promised to take me to Pan this year. Lopez admitted the fact with a sigh. No- body else under the sun would have dared to speak to him aa Cara was doing at this moment. It never occurred to him to suggest that Cara might be doing something for a living. He had promised her a good time at Pan,instead of which be had been gambling,and had lost all his money. No trouble at all getting cash," he mur- mured. Cara crashed a grape between her white, stung teeth. That sonnds very pretty." she said. But I have had no money for a week and some of the tradespeople are beginning to ask about their books. If I am to be worried I shall go away. Did yon get those tickets for the opera to-morrow night ?" Lopez nodded. He bad not forgotten them in fact he never forgot anything of that bind. He looked furtively at the clock, and Cara sighed. "You are going out ?" she demanded. Which means that I am to have a long dull evening Fit home. I am sick of these long dnll evenings at home." How long since you had one ?" Lopez asked. good naturedly. My dear, there are few girls who have as good a time as you. And business must be attended to. I have to go out for a little time,but I shall be back by eleven o'clock. And when I come back I'll take you to the Del. grave to supper." A little smile broke out on Cara's pretty petulant face. Already she was debating in ber mind what dress she should wear. When Lopez made a promise of that kind he always fulfilled it. Cara rote and gave ber guardian a loving I embrace. She smiled engagingly as she lighted a cigarette for him Theu be off at once," she cried, and then you will have no excuse for being late. It will save time if I meet you at the Belgrave. Yon are to get that little table opposite the door for 10.45. And you will wait for me in the corridor." Card, issued her commands in the most im- perial way and Lopez listened meekly. He had been used to command and make use of men all his lifetime, bat he never rebelled when Cars. was concerned. He passed into the road leading to Regent's Park presently and hailed a passing hansom. In the course of time he was set down at the corner of Greenacre-street. At little way down that quiet dignified thoroughfare he stopped and took a latchkey from his pocket. The door of the house where he paused was closed, a feeble light glimmered over the fan, everything looked most quiet and respectable and decorous. In the hall was an umbrella stand, two carved oak chairs and a Turkey carpet. Beyond it was a dull baize door, and beyond that an inner hall magnificently turnished. A gorgeous foot- man took Lopez's hat and coat, and he proceeded to make his way up the marble staircase. There were more baized doors, and as Lopez paused the murmur of voices grew louder. Lopez come at length to the magnificent double drawing-room, where the electric lights were low and dim under crimson shades, and where a score or two of men were gambling. There was a roulette table, which was well patronised with tables for other games. There was no laughter or badinage, from the players' facss the stakes were evidently high indeed, the proprietor of the Spades' Club looked with a cold eye upon the gambler who preferred moderate stakes. The place was com- paratively new, and as yet the police had no idea of its establishment, and only a favoured few knew where heavy plav was to be found. Lopez helped himself to an excellent cnp of coffee and a liqueur, and stood smoking placidly and waiting for a chance to join the roulette table. Most of the men round were well known to him as gieat lights in the world of fashion, who were killing an hour or so after dinner before proceeding to one social function or another. They would most of them return in the smaJI hours. Another man was waiting, a little lithe active man who suggested the East. His dress was quite modern and Western, but his dark eyes and dusky skin told their own tale. Lopez gently touched the spectator on the shoulder, and he turned round sharply. Haven't you been playing at all ? Lope." aaked. I had my turn," the othci man said. I'm dead out of luck, Lopez. I shall have to help I myself to some of my maker's jewels if this goes on." Only unfortunately be of Koordstan has already anticipated you," Lopez laughed. You will have to think of a better plan than that, Hamid Khan." Kamid Khan smiled sourly. On the staff of the Shan and sent overon a secret political mission, the dark-eyed man was a deadly enemy of the man he called his master. He had all the vices and extravagances of his imperial employer and he would have done anything for the where- withal to carry on the campaign. Lopez and he had been more or less friends for many years, and many a piece of 3bady business bad they transacted together. The Shan is hard up 1" Lopez suggested. The Shan is at the end of his resources," Hamid Khan growled. Of course, it is always possible for him to raise money on those con- cessions. But for the present he's what you call bard up. Still, he's not without brains, and be may be worth backing." If I were yon I should back him for all he is worth," Lopez said, as he thoughtfully watched the rolling marble on the roulette table. I know that you are in the opposite camp and that you have elected to throw your lot in with what is calle3 the progressives in Koordstan. But the man you want to make Shan is a friend of Russia. and the English government may not stand it. Besides, the present Shan is no fool, and I happen to know that he is well advised here. If you can, get a grip on him." Oh, I've got the grip fast enough," Hamid Khan said moodily. Perhaps I should like to do what you suggest, but I'm too deeply-plunged to the other side now. I am forcing the old man's hand now 1 came over on purpose. The Blue Stone Lopez suppressed a little cry. He affected not. to be listening. If you will favour me with your attention," Hamid Khan said stiffly. My dear fellow, I beg your pardon. But red ;has tnrned up ten times in succession, and I was ^counting up the theory of chance. Do you mean 'to say the Shan has sold the Blue Stone ?" It was cleverly done, and the shot was an ad- mirable one. Hamid Khan fell into the trap at once. The Shan's not quite such a fool as that," he said. If be did that and the fact became public property he wouldn't be on the throne for a week. But I happen to know that he hasn't got the stone at present, and I'm going to work that fact." Lopez listened to all Hamid had to say, indeed he went further and made several sug- gestions as if he bad been advising a friend in the most disinterested manner possible. At the same time he had leamt a valuable piece of news, and he was trying to find some way to use it to the best advantage. There came a gap in the table presently, and Lopez changed a hand- ful of notes into counters. These notes were all the money in his possession, but the fact troubled Lopez not at all. Once the gambling fever possessed hin common sense went to the winds. He played on for some time with varying suc- cess, everything else forgotten. He was fairly temperate at first, but the fever began to turn in his veins, and he started gambling iu earnest. Surely it was time for black to have a turn after so marvellons a run of the ted. But according to scientific authorities this is nothing to go by, and the chances are quite equal even after a record run, and the end of an boar saw the last of Lopez's gold-lettered counters swept with a careless movement into the clutches of the bank, and he rose with a sigh. The proprietor the club, a tall man, with the bland air of a cabinet minister, came up to him and proffered bis condolenses. Lopez lighted a cigarette with a steady hand. I thought you were playing very well," the proprietor said. Nobody playsvery well at this game," Lopez said with a smile. There are some of England's best intellects gathered here well knowing that the odds are on the bank. And yet such is the egotism of the human nature that every indi- vidual expects that he is going to be more for- tunate than his fellows, and get the best of a dead certainty. My dear Bishop, if it came to a battle of wits between you and myself, the disaster to you would be great. And yet we come here and you grow richer and richer at our expense." If a small cheque is any good?" the other insinuated. It would go the same way. Besides, I can- not stay to night. I have a call elsewhere. I am taking a lady to sapper at the Belgrave, where unhappily they give no credit. In the temporary insanity of the moment, I have gambled myself dry. A JE5 note The note was immediately forthcoming, with an urgent request that Lopez would take what he liked. He took a further note, and rammed it carelessly into his pocket. Hamid Khan rose at the same time from the other side of the table, his dark eyes gleaming. He helped him- self somewhat liberally to champagne from the side table. Yon also, my friend." Lopez laughed, Let us depart and console ourselves upon the road. If you have not anything better to do walk with me as far aa the Belgrave. I can's ask you to join me, because it is my privilege to be sup- ping with a lady there. Come along." They passed presently into Piccadilly, and from thence by degrees through Grosvenor- snaare. A great party was going on in one of the big houses there, and the road was blocked with carriages. The lights shined on many lovely women, and Lopez carelessly admired them. There was one lady in a brougham alone, a tall woman with a wonderfully regular face and black hair glowing with diamonds. My word. but she is lovely, Hamid Khan exclaimed. Who is she ? Looks English, but there is a decided suggestion of the East about her." A wonderful woman," Lopez said. Unless I am greatly mistaken she is going to be one of the big sensations of the world here. She is the wife of Aaron Benstein, the financier. The old chap is in his^dotage now, and, of course, she married him for his money. As a matter of fact Lopez broke off saddenly, he was going to say that he had known IVlrs Benstein pretty inti- mately at one time, but there was no reason to tell Hamid that much. The block of carriages broke up at once, and the dazzling beauty with the diamonds in her hair was gone. I know the name of Benstein," Hamid said. He is the old man whom the Shan has had so many dealings with lately. I shouldn't won- der-" It was the tarn of Hamid to break off sud- denly, and Lopez smiled. Under the big portico of the Belgrave the curiously assorted couple parted. Lopez lingerea a moment to finish his cigarette. In an ordinary way he watched the well-dressed crowd flatter up the steps. By no means a bad night's work," he mut- tered. rve picked up a piece of priceless in- formation. at least I hope so. Unless I am greatly mistaken my dear little Cara ia going to ruffle it with the best of them at Pan yet." CHAPTER IX. A Word to the Wise. A soldier of fortune like Lopez was not easily elated by the unilei of the first goddess, but he felt on very good terms with himself as he stood there finishing his cigarette. Moat of the people I who passed ap the flight of marble steps were familiar to him, and Lopez amused himself by marking them off one by one. He was in an I indolent mood now, but his glance grew brighter aa a smartly appointed brongham drove up and a lady alighted. She had no covering to hex marvellous dead black hair, though her dress was hidden by a. long wrap. She was quite alone, I her air wae absolutely self-possessed as she looked around her. As she came up the steps she became conscious of Lopea's presence. j She smiled in a slow, languid v and half held out her hand. One always meets ou in uuexpeotsd places," ahe sa.id. The jS,Et time we came together the conditions were very differ- ent to these," That is quite true, Isa," Lopez said gravely. Mrs Benstein. if you please," the woman -aid, with not the faintest trace of annoyance in her tones. The smile was almost caressing. '■ We had better observe the proprieties. Do you :;rnembar the last time we met, Paul Lopez?" Lopez bowed gravely. His mind had travelled back a long way. He had never forgotten the marvellous beauty of this woman it seemed strangely heightened by the dress and the dia- monds. You were not Mr3 Benstein then.~ he said. No. My ambitions did not De in that direc- No. My ambitions did not De in that direc- I tion. I had no liking for a fortune ready made. I always made up my mind to carve out one for myself. But since then I have learnt how hard it is for a woman to do so." The gieat dark eyes grew thoughtful for a moment, then the woman laughed. 1, We are all puppets of fate," she went on. even the strongest of us. I am a philosopher, or at least I imagine myself to be one, so it comes to the same thing. I am tired of the con- templation of my splendour, so I am going to make use of it. I shall go into Society.' 1 am quite sure you will go anywhere you please," Lopez said. Yes," the woman spoke asif it were a matter of course. To- morrow I begin. The wife of Aaron Benstein, the money-lender. How they will sneer ani mock at me." And how they will envy you iron' 'he bottom' of their shallow hearts." Mrs Benstein laughed as she walked up the shallow steps. That will give salt to the dish," she said. I came here to-night becanse I was tired of my own company. Let us sup together and talk of old times." Lopez was desolated, bat he had to decline. There was a girl waiting for him here, a simple girl who was not used to this kind of thing. It seemed dreadfully rude, bat Mrs Benstein would have to excuse him. The woman with the dark eyes smiled meaningly." 44 As you will," she said. Then I will sup alone, and study human nature uninterrupted. Good-night." They could see her speaking in an a..gry manner to Mrs Benstein. She passed on to the grand salon where the band was playing, and hundreds of soft shaded lights played upon banks of flowers and on the jewels that glittered there. Cara had secured her favourite table, and was busy looking over the menu when Lopez came up. I began to think that something had hap- pened," the girl said. I feared-lest you had gambled all your money away." So I did as a matter of fact," Lopez said, coolly, as he unfolded his serviette. I had to borrow XID for the supper. But you need not fear-the information I got was worth the price. Now let me see what there is to eat." "Tell me what you have discovered," Cara de- manded imperiously. "That I shall not do,my child,"Lopez replied, [, Suffice it is that you have the benefit of my labours. Besides, it all refers to a closed chapter in my life. I have fonnd a way to put money in my purse, so that you will ruffle it with the best of thern at Pan." Cara smiled contentedly. She finished her meal presently, and then she had time to study the other gaests. It was always a fascination to her to try and read the history of other people. As a rule her guesses were fairly shrewd, and when she was wrong Lopez corrected her. Who are those people at the third table ,she asked. The man looks like a gentleman he might have been in the army. But there is a certain fierce swagger about him that tells a atory. There is a man who is rather cold shouldered at his clubs, his wife is pretty, but shallow, and not at all too straightforward. The boy with them is dreadful. Probably rich, though." Lopez smiled as he lay back in his chair. You are correct," he said. That is Colonel Fairford and his wife. They are the hero and heroine of that Lawton Lodge diamond scandal. Of course nothing was ever proved, but we have our ideas. The Colonel sticks to his clubs, but he has had a bad time there, and nobody will play cards with him. The young man comes from Australia. He is rich at present, bnt the Colonel will see that he does not long remain troubled with superfluous cash," A gratified little smile played about the cor- ners of Cara's month. "If the worst comes to the worst, I can call myself by a fancy name and turn palmist," she excliiiused. We are very clever people, you and I On the whole the people here to night are not particularly interesting. Who is the lady with the glorious diamonds ?" Cora indicated Mrs Benstein, sitting all alone, self-possessed and languidly interested in all that was going on around her. The recently married wife of Aaron Ben. stein, the great financier," Lopez explained. Tha old man is more or less in his dotage, and they say there is nothing that be will not do for bij, beautiful wife." The diamonds are absolutely superb," Cara said. "Why should they not be ? Benstein is sup- posed to have two-thirds of the jewels of society in his charge at one time or another. That is the way in which your high dame raises the wind, most of those stonej are kept at Benstein's own house. Doubtless his wife knows all about them. Then, if she wishes to wear this or that precious gem, why shouldn't she ?" Cara laughed merrily. Mrs Benstein seemed to fascinate her. It is no bad thing to be the wife of a great financier," she said. Those diamonds and emeralds together are absolutely superb. Who was Mrs Benstein ?" Lopez was understood to say that she was a brilliant mystery. Nobody quite knew where she came from, and nobody cared. But she was rich and beautiful and clever and if she made up her mind to play the game of society, nobody could stop her. All this Lopez explained as he sipped his liqueur. Cara took Mrs Benstein in steadily. She would make a good enemy," she said. Who is the vulgar woman who is having supper with that handsome man with the red beard ?" Oh, that is Lady Beechmore," Lopez ex- plained. "Beechmoreisamanofgood family, he has a good name and his career as a soldier was an honourable one. There are phases of human nature that beat me entirely, Cara. A case like that makes me feel how little I know. Lady Beechmore was on the variety stage, with nothing piquant about her but her vulgarity. She is plain, she is horribly made up, and yet Beech- more married her." Is he a rich man ?" "As things go. yes. He is one of the peers who has enough for his wants and a little to spare, as the old song has it. Why did be marry her, Cara ?" Cara. admitted that the problem was beyond her. Lady Beechmore was vulgar enough in all conscience. She talked loudly and she drank a great deal of champagne. She was extravagantly dressed, but she wore no ornaments which was unusual in a woman of her class. She ought to be smothered in stones," Cara said. Bridge," Lopez explained sententiously. Lady Beechmore is one of the most reckless gamblers in society. Probably that is why she is tolerated in good houses. Everybody knows what a gambler she is, except her husband. If I were to hazard a guess I should say that the Beechmore jewels are all in the possession of Aaron Benstein." Cara nodded. The salon was gradually getting empty. Lord Beechmore said something to his wife who shook her head and then he sauntered slowly from the room. Laiy Beechmore looked across to the seat where Mrs Benstein was re- clining and her coarse face grew red with anger. By some kind of magnetic influence the eyes of the two women met and the former rose. She crossed over to Mrs Benstein's table, a few low words followed before Mrs Benstein rose also. Her eyes were flashing and her breast was heav- ing. She made a motion towards the jewels in her hair and then seemed to change her mind. A few of the low angry words reached Lopez's ears. A sardonic smile was on his lips. A curiouB coincidence," he mattered. She is actually wearing Lady Beechmore's diamonds. Well, the information should prove valuable. I'll go and see Frobisher to-morrow. The mere hint of what can be done should be worth 15()0." What are you muttering about ?" Cara asked impatiently. Take me home, I'm tired of all this light and glitter. Sometimes I wish that I had never left the country. All the same I would give a great deal to know what those people are talking about." (To be Continued.):
SAILOR'S TERRIBLE DEATH.
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SAILOR'S TERRIBLE DEATH. A terrible accident occurred at Plymouth on Sunday in connection with the departure of the German steamer Emil R. Retlaff- She was leaving her moorings and had one of her crew in a boat for the purpose of carrying away the ropes. The boat got under the vessel's quarter and in an instant was drawn on to the propeller which cut it to pieces and struck the unfortunate sailor, who was drowned before the eyes of bis shipmates.
i Complete Story.
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i Complete Story. THE JUDGE. BY DOROTHEA DEAKIN, Author of The Bluebell Inn," The Highway- I mar! The Showing-up of Steuben," &C..&C. I dropped the newspaper and stared out oi the window with unseeing eyes. A benevolent sun was still shining on the freshness of the June garden, and the cock thrash on the red thorn was still inviting me to join him in a wormy meal. How was it that outside things were unchanged I when lor me the light of life had gone out so entirely ? I hadn't the heart even to swear once more at my cursed luck. And I had been fool enough to believe for one whole month that the luck had changed. I had really come to believe that I—even I, should be able to finish my life in honourable prosperity and respectability, on pleasant and even con- ventional fines. Indeed, I bad sometimes felt that perhaps the glorious happiness of thp last few weeks was a mere foreshadowing of a bliss which was to see my life out. And now. Now Dolly was waiting for me in the Round Orchard at the rectory, and I must go to her at once. I found her placidly sewing in her wicker chair, and my heart ached as I saw how she smiled at me when she heard my step, and raised her little black head. Then she;eaw my face, and hers grew grave at once. Why, Will," she cried. "Whatisit1 What is it ?" I stood for a minute or two gazing at her in silent misery. She dropped her work and rose to her feet. She was a little thing, and barely reached my shoulder, and she laid her hand on my arm and raised her pretty dark eyes, fall of sympathy and alarm, to my face. Nothing." I took her in my arms and kissed her. I slept badly, that's all. And the post was—well —annoying, to say the least of it." The post ?" in some surprise. I shouldn't have thought the post would have troubled you much. Now, if it had been us——she sighed —" it would have been bills." Ah," I cried, seizing at any excuse, that was it, you see. It was a bill, a beastly bill." Dolly sat down and looked at me with anxious eyes. Oh, if that's all," she said, why worry, if you can pay it ? Now with us—" another sigh. I stretched myself at her feet and watched with apparent interest a bnsy little ladybird in the grass. Dolly," I said presently, a m-rj von told me that you loved me." Yes," said Dolly, quietly. I think it was true," I went on, still gazing at the erratic insectin fact, I am sure it was true." "It is true," she said, simply. "Dolly is not a coquette. It is no pleasure to her to tantalise a man by filling bis mind with doubts." How much do you suppose a girl will if she really loves ?" I asked. More than a. man," said Dolly. Wh"- have I to forgive you ?" I laughed bitterly. Have you ever had any secrets from mo ?" I asked, irrelevantly. To my surprise she was silent and at last I looked up from the grass. Why, Dolly," Icriedin reproach, "YOG don't mean I thought that you were candour itself. I thought——" Don't," shesaid, quickly. It isn't mnch of a secret, only I-I didn't think you'd care to hear it. It was a long, long time ago, and II Oh, Dolly," I was quite hurt. How could you ? I thought yon had more confidence in me than that. I thought She put down her sewing and looked at me wistfully. Of course, I will tell you if you wish to know," she said. It is only that once—there was another man—and he went away and didn't j come back." Did you care for him I asked gently, with- out, however, any Reeling of jealousy. Yes." Didfhe care for you ? But of course he did— who could help it ?" That was the worst part of it," she answered slowly. I never knew." I believe you care for him still," I said, untruthfully. As if I kaow that she loved me better than anyone in the whole world. No you don't," she was actually smiling. You don't think anything of the kind. I had almost forgotten him until you began to talk of secrets. That was the only secret I ever had. What is it that I am to forgive yon, Will ?" with a auick change of tone. I was silent. She leaned forward and smoothed my hair with her soft little hand. she said, tell me." I have nothingto tell you," Ireplicd sullenly. Oh, Will." There has never been any girl in my life but you," I answered. "I have no love affairs but this one, my Dolly." She laughed happily. I believe yon," she said. because whatever yonr faults are, you don't lie. Theu why did you aek mehow much a girl would forgive ? And why did you want to know whether I had any secrets ?" I was merely thinking of the abstract ques- tion," I murmured; with a wretched pang at my heart. She looked dissatisfied. I will put it to you," I said slowly. I will put the case to yon, Dolly. It may interest you. Supposing—for the sake of an example—that a man, who was very young, very poor, and very weak-willed Dolly was silent. Quite young and a bit of a coward sup- posing that, hardly by his own fault, he got into debt, and the debt frightened him. Supposing he had to pay that debt by a certain time with- out the prospcct of a penny to help him do it." Go on," said Dolly. Then supposing some grasping, stupid and affluent relative—an uncle, say-unwisely left his cheque book on the writing-table." Oh." By this time Dolly's bands were clasped tightly together, and I could almost see her pink nails catting cruelly into her soft flesh. "If," I said hoarsely, tearing up the shelter of my ladybird with agitated fingers. "If that miserable, misguided boy filled in the cheque, for an amount big enough to save him from ruin, should you condemn him, Dolly ?" No—not altogether." Dolly's voice was as broken as my own. Was—was he found out ?" Yea," said I. He was found out. He was always an unlucky devil." II Poor, poor boy," Baid Dolly. He was found out almost at once," I went on doggedly, and the forgery was easily proved. Then he was tried and sentenced to a long imprisonment." Dolly gazed at me with dilated pupils. But after a little while he escaped," said I, and was not—for a wonder—caught. He went to a quiet place in the country where no one knew him, grew a moustache as a disguise, and took a situation in an architect's office, in the nearest town. He drew well and worked hard, and in a few years he had saved enough money to buy a junior partnership in the firm. In time he started for himself. Apparently his luck had turned at last." Thank God," said Dolly. Then," continued I, he met a girl. The prettiest and sweetest and dearest little girl in the world." Oh. Will." He did not tell the girl his story. He did not doubt her love, but she was good and true and he was afraid—afraid that perhaps she might not understand—afraid that perhaps if she knew all she would not forgive." "He needn't have been afraid," Dolly said quietly. If a girl loves a man, she loves him because she help it. She Io/es him for what he is. What does it matter to her what he did when he was quite another person ? She doesn't love the poor, foolish unhappy boy who forged the cheque she loves the man who could never do such a thing as that." But," said I, the man was a gaolbird an escaped convict; liable to be retaken at any moment. Could the girl go on caring for a criminal ?—a haunted thing?" Oh," Dolly cried. How little you under- stand. If he was in danger the girl would only go on loving him all the more. She would try to make np to him for his miserable life." I took her little hand and kissed it. Sweetheart," said I, "I think I knew all the time what you would say. There is no one in the world like yon. But there still is some- thing more. I haven't told you quite everything yet." Dolly took up her sewing again. Calm and placid as she was I could see that the story had shaken her. I noticed that she could hardly steady her hand to thread her needle. One morning," I went on grimly, the escaped convict read in his morning paper that the forger had been arrested at last; that although he obstinately denied it; he was un. questionably the man whom the police had been looking for so long." I looked up. How white her face had grown The case was altered, you see, when someone else had to suffer unjnstly for his crime." Dolly didn't speak. I rose at last and stood before her, waiting with an aching heart to hear what she would say. And she said nothing. The cage ia in your hands, Dolly. too are playing the judge. The prisoner is at the bar— the jary has pronounced him guilty. What is his sentence to be ?" But Dolly was stricken damb. You are better fitted to decide than I. Yon are true and honourable and—and kind. Don't keep the prisoner in suspense, Dolly." She broke her long silence with a miserable little cry and a distressed gesture. Oh," she whispered. "It—it—it is difficult when—when the judge is interested in—in the prisoner." I sighed. There is no jadge bat yon," I said. Then there was a long, long silence. Has—has the other man anyone—any-——" He is not married," said I, if that is what you mean. His mother is dead, and he is not even engaged." And the prisoner," she said brokenly, u has —has the girl I" Yes," said I. The prisoner has the girl- so far." Don't you think," she faltered, that for the sake of the girl the real man ought to—ought to take no notice of that paragraph in the news- paper ?" My heart leapt wildly. Dolly," I cried again. You don't mean—— The innocent man would suffer a. great deal, you know." If the real man gave himself up," said Dolly I slowly, two people would suffer, a man and a girl. It is better for one person to be unhappy than for two. The guilty man deserved to be unhappy," I aaidfloomiiy. "Hewasaforger." Yes," with a sob. But the girl Then I took her in my arms and she if f her heart would break. "Ob," she sobbed. What is that other man to us that we should ruin our two lives for him ? I daresay he has done something much worse to deserve punishment if we only knew. I love yon, Will, I love you. I can't, can't let you go. You asked me to judge. I will judge. I command you to forget that hateful newspaper—and—and I will forget it, too—because I love you." The next day I worked hard, and the next, and the next. Then I gave up the idea of tiring myself > out, and went over to see what Doily's reasoning C and Dolly's kindness would do towards driving back the hateful thoughts which flocked into my miserable mind. It was five o'clock, uid I found her on the lawn giving tea to the children in the shade of the big sycamore. She looked np and gave me the pretty smile of welcome I knew so well. Her face was pale, I thought, and her dark eyes looked tired. She, too, had been passing sleepless nights, then. The younger children greeted me with a yell of delight,wbnt Dickie got up and shook hands. He was twelve, and we were good friends. Then I sat down on the grass, and little Sylvia brought my tea to me, tripping as she came over her long. Greenaway frock, and only saving herself from disaster by suddenly embracing me. It's always much, much nicer when yoa come," she said. "Dick's been in punishment drill again," cried Letticej with a giggle. He's always in drill now." Shut up," said Dick. I ignored Lettice, and kept Sylvia on my knee. A short-haired, demure little person of four. Her eyes were Dolly's eyes, and I loved her. I looked round at the pretty garden, and the children's happy faces. Then I looked at Dolly. Some day," I thought, some day (to Why did yon go to drill to-day, Dick ?" Let- tice asked inquisitively. The boy flushed. Mind your own beastly business," be said. Dolly laid her arm across his shoulder. Don't speak like that, Dickie," she said. Letty doesn't mean to be unkind. What was it ?" Foolin," said Dick. Only fooling." Hard lines, old chap," I murmured. Sylvia had gdne to sleep with a sticky cheek against my flannel coat, and I nodded at the boy with friendly sympathy. "I was see-sawing with a form," he said. and the silly thing went smash. Hignett thought it was yoong Baxter who did it, and- none of the other chaps let on that it was me. f They hate Baxter, and I don't wonder. How did they find out. then ?" Lettice was still deeply interested in the subject. Dick's mouth was full of gingerbread, bat he answered his sister's question without hesitation. I went up and told, of coarse." Lettice giggled. "What a silly you were," she ciiod. He took a gulp of tea.. "Oh, was I ? You're a. girl, you see, and yoa don't understand. Girls are always mean. Do you think I should have let Baxter go and have my beastly drill and say nothing about it ? I'm not a low cad." No, but Baxter is." Lettice was delighted with her own wit. Dick gave a sniff of contempt. All the more reason for my owning up," ne said. A chap can t do these things. Why, even Baxter didn't' say who it was till I told myself." Then he was nearly as silly as you," said his sister with much contempt. Wasn't he, Dolly ?" But Dolly was silent. I was silent, too, and presently I put Sylvia down and went away without apology. 1 had had enough for one afternoon. Even little Dick understood that a chap couldn't do these things," and I, oh my God, what was I ? That night I never closed my eyes in sleep for one minute. Over and over again the wretched, miserable thought flooded my mind. Over and over again I told myself what I ought to do— what was the only honourable thing to do and over and over again Dolly's face, and Dolly's eyes, Dolly's smile, Dqlly's little bands, Dolly's counsel, and Dolly's love for me stood in the way of honourable resolve and blocked the narrow. pathway which seemed to me the only possible- one. For Dolly's sake," I told myself again and again. For Dolly's sake I must kebp quiet. Dolly loves me, and 1 dare not give up ber happi- ness as well ae my own But in the end I made up my mind for once and all, and early in the morning I went to see- my sweetheart at the Rectory and tell her—tell her—ah I how could I tell her ? She was busy, of course, getting the children ready for school, but she left them at once when I spoke to her. Come out into the Round Orchard," I said.. I have something to tell you." When we were there—she standing with white face and apprehensive eyes, and I—God knows what I was doing. I spoke first, however. Dolly," I said, I have made up my mind. Did you hear what DicK said yesterday ?" Yes," she whispered. I was so sorry, so very sorry for you. Poor Will A chap can't do these things,' I quoted bitterly. There is only one tbju possible for me to do." What ?" I shall give up. Dolly." Will Darling—dear little girl—don't, don't cry so—you break my heart, Dolly, when you cry like that—sweetheart, lift up your head—oh, my dear, my dear tIt Have you forgotten me ?" Her voice was very low, but I caught it. Forgotten you ? Forgotten ? Oh, heaven, shall I ever forget you ? Yet I must do it. I must do it." But—I love you, Will." I know yon do, darling. Your love is all I have now. And some day you will see that it is better for both of us that I should leave you now—while you respect me." If you are going to give me up," in a rnuftled voice. the only thing I can do is to die." Dear little girl," I said, with a catch in my voice, you must try to be brave. We are neither of us going to die. We are going to live a long time without each other, and in a little while I hope you will learn to be happy again. As for me, I have earned the punishment; poor Moly- neux hasn't." Dolly drew herself sharply away from me and held up a white, miserable face. What ?" she cried. What did you say his name was ?" Molyneux," replied I in some sarpriBe. Ió Why 1" Then what is his Christian name ? Tell me, quick. Oh, don't stand there staring at me. What is it ? What is it ?" But thunderstruck I stood there. Dolly stamped her foot. Oh, don't say you don't know. Can't you find out ? Oh. how stupid, how stupid you are." I felt in my inside pocket for my pocket-book, opensd it, and searched with half-blinded eyes —apparently I had been crying—for the news- cutting which had destroyed my happiness. Ah, there it was. I looked blunderingly down the narrow slip for the name, till a pair of trembling fingers snatched it from me and Dolly devoured the tiny print with eager eyes. Here it is—here it is." Prisoner gave an assumed natnc—To'in Col- lingwood Molvneux." Yes," I said. Of coarse, that is the name. How stupid of me not Why, Dolly, what is it ?" Dolly lay at my feet as still as death. She bad fainted. The next minute I was on my knees by her side frantically calling her name and rubbing between my own her cold hands. But presently she opened her eyes again and sighed, and I helped her into her wicket seat. John CoJlingwood Mclyneax, she said slowly. Is that the right name of the man in prison for what you did?" Yes." I didn't understand. I only saw that some wonderful change bad come over her. Her voice had changed utterly. It was cold almost and very weak and low. And you let bim be blamed for you—for, you?" "Yes." I said. You—you coward." I stared at her and wondered if my brain was giving way. Little winder if it did I thought. She leaned her head against the battered basket-work of her seat and went on in the same exhausted tone. He is suffering, and disgraced, and wretched, because-^ becanse of you. The beet and the bravest and the handsomest, and—and the dearest—for you-for you." I was silent under the lash of her tongue. She went on without mercy. You are the forger, and the escaped conviot, and he, he who has done nothing, nothing at all that isn't honourable and right; he if you please is to be punished for what—you—did." The memory flashed into my mind of the judge and the sentence of the prisoner at the bar, but I didn't recall it to her. I don't understand you," I said, trying hard to keep my voice steady. But I am not going to let him suffer for me any longer. I am going to release him at once." Dolly sat. up, and a little colour tinged her cheek. Oh," she cried. Of coarse, of course. It's the least you can do now. Go, do go at once." I am going," I said slowly. There is no reason now why I should stay. You have pro- nounced a just sentence at last, Dolly. Will you say good-bye to me before I go ? I don't know what has changed you so suddenly. It was hard to go when I thought you loved me—now—" Then I think she realised how strangely she was behaving and buried her face in her hands in shamed silence. I did love you," she said slowly at last. I thought I loved you better—better—I loved yon so much that I couldn't bear to let you go-but now I know." What do you know ?" I asked. Her voice grew soft. I know that all my life I mast have gone on caring for—for him." My brain was whirling. All my thoughts broke into a mad revolving gallop round one central fignre. Molyneax ?" I cried. Molyneax f Is he the man ?" Yes," said Dolly, in a low voice. I caught at the bough of the apple tree which shaded her to steady myself. I am sorry, Will," she went on humbly. I am sorry I spoke so cruelly. I was mad I think when I heard who it was that—that— And then at last I understood, and went to do my errand.
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Simple I wonder why fishermen always exag- gerate so terribly about the fish they catch ?— Sharpe Because it's a lot easier to lie than it J8 to oateh fish.
Y GOLOFN GYMREIG. ----.----
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Y GOLOFN GYMREIG. Dymumir 1'n gohebwyr Cymreig gyfeirio eu go- hebiaethau, llyfrau i'w hadolygu, &c., fel y canlyn • Dafydd Morganwg, Morganwg House, Llantwit-street.. Cardiff."
AT EIN GOHEBWYR.
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AT EIN GOHEBWYR. Y all Afiaaiun.—Ymddengys. .Yr Organ. "-Yn ei dro. Gwsg."—Daw yntau yn ei dro. Bugeiliaid Bethlehem, 44 Crist yn y Bedd.Adgyfodir y llinellan. Bonedd y Bardd.Amlwg yw mai cyu- dylwyth ydym i gyd. Ymddansrosant. Pennillion Telyn, "-Yn eu tro.
CY8TADLEUAETH Y GOLOFN.
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CY8TADLEUAETH Y GOLOFN. Mae cais wedi dyfod o ragor nag un cyfeiriad am gael ychydig ddifyrwch cystadlenol o byn j'r Nadolig. Yn awr am dani ynte Testynau, a Gwobrwyon. 1. Am y Tawddgyrch Cadwynog goren, ar un- rhyw destyn. Gwobr, Cyfansoddiadau Buddugol Eisteddfod Liverpool, 1884; pris deg swllt. wi D.S.—Ni wobrwyir pennill annghywir. n. Am y Gan oreu (dim dros gant o linellan) ar Arferion Llygredig yr Oes. Gwobr," Hanes Crefydd yn Nghymru," gan D. Peters; pria, 5s 6c. III. Am y Pennillion goreu (dim dros 100 llinell) ar unrhyw destyn lleol. Cymreig, Gwobr Ie, Gwaith Barddonol Dyfed, Cyf. I. IV, Am y chwech Pannin goren i'r"Ardd." Gwobr, Gwaith Dyfed. V. Am y saith Englyn goreu i Ddyddiau'r Wythnos." Gwobr, Cyfrol o Farddoniaeth, Telerau 1. Y gystadlenaeth yn gyfyngiaig i Ohebwyr y Golofn. 2. Nid oes ganiatad j'r an person anniu mwy' nag an wobr. 3. Bydd Ail a Thrydydd Wobr ar bob testyn. 4. Y eyfansoddiadau i fod mewn cyn Rbttgfyr y cyntaf.
------------.-....---... BARDDONIAETH.
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BARDDONIAETH. CADEIRIAD LLANORFAB, Yn Mfaont Senni, 1903, am ei Bryddcst— 7. Yr lean a Dawodd." Llanorfab arab a gurodi-godyra, I gadair y cododd Efe n gun a fwyn ganodd Eiriau mel mewn goreu modd. I fri uchel, dan ganu,ein "Llanor Fab" lionwedd sy'n dyrehu Fe luniodd lin gan yn gu, Wyl was, am "Drial lesu." Mwynhad oes nwchlaw pob croeoan, a'i Fo'n denn coronau; Ac ami dlws yn glws fo'n glat4 A dirif fo'i gadeirian. Pencerdd Mellte, MR THOS. JONES (LLANORFAB), Cadeirfardd Eisteddfod Senny Bridge, Gwyl Mabon, Hyd, 5ed, 1903. I'w ddi-gilwg fuddugoliarth-cododd Cadarn awenyddiaeth; Yn ei fri drwy dewi daeth Yn arwr y flaenoriaeth. L!anorfab," yn Hawn arfan-'i Wared"r, Rodia Yn Ei Gamrau,j A'i emyn yn ddiamhau 0 stor Gwir ddystawa'r gau. Abercrave. G'.vcIcayJJ. Arian yn darian, a-deri—gwiwdeg Yn Gadair uchelfri, Yn rhwydd yn awr rhoddwn ni I ti, swynwr Pontsenni. Wale frawd a goleu fri-ei urddaa Yn harddi ei deithi Heddyw curodd y cewri.am dano'a wir Yn hir y sonir at lanau'r Senni. •Llwynhendy. Tom Da vies. PARABLIAD. (Buddugol yn Eisteddfod Pemhiwceibr, 1903.) Ntabliad,-yngaaiad yn ngonact-byw Baban bach difeiau; Arwydda'n glir ei ddawn glau, A gwar ar dori geiriau." Ton-Pentre, Cenech. BEDDARGRAPH Mrs Elizabeth Price, Dyffryn Aeron. Liza'n iach uwch loesion asth,-yr aelwyd Arwyla mewn hiraeth; I'r wraig bur, o'r cur mawr caeth, Mawr elw oedd marwolaeth. Ty nygwndwn, Dyffryn Aeron. Carohui. TORIAD Y WAWR. Ddued yw'r nefoedd, D'wylled yw'r llawr; Cymyl a. niwloedd Ettyl y wawr. Gwig a'i llais Brian Beidiodd a'i mawl; Awel a chwiban Farwnad gwawL Anian yn wylo, Yn wleb ei grudd; Dagrau sy'n treiglo Ar fedd y dydd. Gwenlloer ro'dd ffarwel, Pylodd ei gwedd; Draw dros y gorwel Torwyd ei bedd. Enraidd lasernau Y nefoedd gun, Beidiodd a'u golau, Yn un ac un. Gwga mae'r wybren, Duo, trymhau; Emryxit ffurfafen Sydd wedi can. Mentyll caddugion Grog ar bob bryn; Cwrlid cysgodion Orchuddia y glyn. Cwyno mae caniad Donau yr aig, Tyr on hochenaid Ar glust y graig. Prudd n&d y wylan Dros ewin lli', Etyb dallhuan A'i hoeraidd gr!. Ddued yw'r nefoedd, DwyHed)wci)awr! Gymy 1 a niwloedd D wedweh, Ddaw gwawr? idwnt i ororau Y dwyrain prudd, Troir aur allweddau Ystefyll dydd. Dysglaer wawl-genad Dremia i'r llawr, Glesni ei lygad Sy'n mhorth y svawr. Rhag ei olygon, Yn ddiymdroi, Chwila'r cysgodion Am le i ffoi. Anian wisg emaa A gwregys aur, Rhoddion o goffrau I phriodfab claer. Cyweirir tannau Y goedwig werdd, Cbwery'i thelynau Foreuol gerdd. Gwisg y mynyddaa En mentyll gwaedj Llawrlen o berlan 0 dan eu traed. Codi eu pennau Wna'r blodau blydd, Er cael cusanau Gan deyrn y dydd. Huan a gyfyd Yn llawn ei gol, Gwasgar ei olnd Dros fry n a dol. Ffrydiau goleuni Orlifa'r llawr; Codwyd y Ilenni- Torrodd y wawr I Penvhicrccibsr. Catrin 0 Fon, Y FRIALLEN. (Buddagol yn Eisteddfod GJyn Abbey, 1903.) Friallen feeban, felen, Plentyn y gwanwyn mwyn, Wyt fel ieuenctyd awen, A'th fywyd oil yn swyn; Addewid dyddiau tecach Wyt i galonau fyrdd, A air posibilrwydd tlws Sydd yn dy flagur gwyrdd. Mae 11 Salmydd boren 'r gwanwyd Yn son am loewacb nen," A thithau, 'n swaei delyn, 0 r pridd yn codi'th ben. Darfyddodd dyddiau'r eira, A'r storm sy'n colli'i nerth; Cei dithan gusan cynta'r haal Ar fynwes lom y berth. Cei wena cyn fod lili Yn deffro ar y maes, A pheraroglau'n golchi Droe dy ymylon llaes; Cei wylio'r ddeilen gyntaf Yn agor yn y coed; Cei gwmni mwyn y llygad (lydd," I harddu'r llwyhr troed. Jr eymled yw dy gartref Yn unigfeydd y wlad, Oei wybod beth yw'r tangnef Dry fywyd yn fwynhad. Y Llaw sy'n trwsio'r rhosyn- Tywysog btodau'r ardd, Sy'n rhoi yr hanl, y gwlitb, a'r gwlaw I bob briallen hardd. Ar fin yr aber groew Cei afradloni'th swyn, Lie deil y dydd yn loew, Lie mae brefiadau'r wyn. A chyn daw anadl Hydref I wneud pob gradd yn glaf, Cei dd'weyd dy neges wrth y bfd, Cei firw yti yr haf". I t Ton-Pentre. Ceneeh,
Detested It. fbit
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Detested It. f bit "Sir," began a creditor, who met one o. debtors in the street the other (hy, sea S- a bill in June ?" II Yes. sir." "Andagainin August ?" Yes, sir." And again in September ?" Yes, sir." ,.)3j And I presume you receivccl one :Ii- J- 'w day?" T did, sir." j-*nr. Well, sir—well, sir ?" flustered the credj Well, you needn't be so proud about j4'. plied the other, as he lighted a cigar. "T ør1 are firms in this town who send me bills two weeks in the year, and they never stoP^. in the street to boast about it, either. I de such egotism, sir Good morning." Uncovering Their Past. b All right," says the rich father, after count had stated his terms; "I'll marry you and agree to turn over to you dollars. Now, let's get it Suppose we say 1,000 dollars down and f balance at 2 dollars a week." Here ?3adie bursts into tears and leaves room. -i0l Now, ma," says the rich father to hi' rr what on earth's the matter with that girl? øa Well, I don't blame her at all, pa. It as if yon never could keep from betraying fact that we are of plebeian origin." "What have I done now ?" asks pa. "Why, you talk as if you were 'count from the instalment house." Explained. When the famons professor entered the fing-room his countenance was ornamented^ several points with sticking-plaster, and •was a general inquiry among his friends twbat was the matter. Razor," said the professor Good gracious I Where did you get s'uaveii asked someone sympa.thetically.: It's a strange thing," said the man of l ing, I was shaved this morning by a man at1 really is, I suppose, a little above the ordlo JJe barber. I know of my own knowledge that took a doable First Class at Oxford, that, ^studied in Germany afterwardsrand spent 'years in other foreign educational centres. O. know also to my own knowledge that he has cO tributed scientific articles to our best and has numbered among his intimate men of the highest social and scientific in Europe and America. And yet," soliloqo^jj the professor, after a pause, he can't shave man decently." jøb- By Jove," exclaimed a friend in ment. What is he a barber for, with all tfJe88 accomplishments. "Oh, he isn't a barber," said the profesøør yawning. "You see, I shaved myself this øoØ ing." No Thieves There. To the average boy Iceland is as little as the interior of Africa. Yet Iceland JS country famous for the achievements of its he for the poetry and prose it has given to world, and above all, for the education that per- vades all classes. The love of learning is almost a mani* Iceland, and it is the rarest thing in the W"' to meet a nati ve who cannot read and write.. Another admirable trait is the remark* honesty which prevails in Iceland. J almost unknown the people never lock doors, and but two cases of thieving are koo^ to have taken place within many years. One was an Icelander who had broken bis and whose family in winter were suffering food. He stole several sheep, and was final*? detected. He was at once put under care for his injury, provisions were famished his family, and in time he was given work. was his punishment. The other case was a foreigner who BtW seventeen sheep. He was in comfortable enmstances, and the theft was malicious. **■' punishment was to sell all his property, restotf the value of his thefts, and leave the country °* be executed. He left at once. Taught a Lesson. During the siege of Sebastopol a Russia11 officer, Captain S wanting some wioej oidered an officer to send a man after it. T&* man, a young soldier, took the money, started off on the errand. Jast then, however, French battery had concentrated its fire upon the very spot where the young man mast go. stopped, and then turned back. The officer, o> course, reported the act of disobedience to tbtf captain. The captain, in a rage, ordered the man his presence, and demanded to know why he not obeyed his order. 1 beg you to pardon me, captain, but I waS terribly afraid." Afraid 1" cried the captain afraid 4 Russian soldier afraid Wait a minute. I drive the fear out of you. Come with me. The captain led the way to the ramptl mounted it, and there, with the ballets raining round him, began putting the man throng" some military exercises. Not many seconds elapsed before a balle: struck the captain in the arm. tie did DO wince, but kept on with the drill, while tb blood dripped from the wound. Next a bulle went through the tail of the soldier's coat and another through his knapsack. Then suddenly the firing ceased. The soldier begged for !{lacel and the captain dismissed him. The French explained afterwards that ,be1 ceased firing out of sheer astonishment at tM sight of the two men exposing themselves eO recklessly. Advised. An amusing scene was enacted in a country court-room some little time back. justice, a big pompoas official, with a voice 1]»* a trombone, took it upon himself to examine witness, a little withered old man. M What is your name ?" asked the justice. Why, squire," said the astonished witness you know my name as well as I know yonrn. Never -sou mind what I know or don't know," was the caution given, with IDalCJ terial severity. I ask the question in ØlJ official capacity, and you are bound to ansvve1 it." With a contemptuous snort the witness gaft his name, and the questioning proceeded Where do you live ?" Well, what next ejaculated the old Why," he continued, appealing to the langhiB* 1 listeners, I've lived in this town all my lll and so's he," pointing to the justice, "an hear him go on you'd think Silence I" thundered the irate maistrat" Answer my question, or I'll fine you for coo* tempt of Conrt. Alarmed by the threat the witness named bl place of residence, and the examination went o0- What is your occupation ?" Eh ?" What do you do for a living P" Ob, git out, squire. Jast as if you don t kDo that I tend gardens in the summer season aD cut wood in the winter." ] As a private citizen I know it, but Court I am not supposed to know anything aboøt you," explained the perspiring justice. Well, squi re," remarked the puzzled witness it if you know somethin' outside the and don't know nothin' in it, you'd better get let somebody try this case that's got soDJ sense." The advice may have been good. but it costtD witness forty shillings.
TAFF VALE RAilWAY.
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TAFF VALE RAilWAY. New Line Between Cogan Junction and Grangetown. The new T.V.R. line between Cogan and Grangetown was opened on Sanday naorOjSj* for traffic. There was no formal ceremony. first train to ran over the new line was the <>• a.m. from Penarth. and it was followed by other ordinary passenger trains, which run Sunday at their appointed times. A gang of OJ ø was at work all day near Grangetown fltatil°lt, putting the finishing toaches to the work. j new line is two miles long and has two metals, the facilities for the despatch of being doubled. Formerly there was only passenger and one mineral line, now one' up and one down passenger and one np one down mineral line. How mnch additional facilities were needed will be re»' ( when it is stated that no fewer than 51 passeDP^ trains passed over the old line twice a day— 0i np and once down. In addition a good mineral traffic had to be dealt with, this jje according to the state of trade. If it shoo* Qf fonnd necessary to run an increased passenger and mineral trains over the line will now De no difficulty in the way of that done. Aa yet, however, nothing has been as to the running of additional trains. The has occupied about two years. The Pr,n jjjjy item was the building of a bridge over the 1iøø, river. There are three signal-boxes on i0 In connection with this work it is baild anew station at Grangetown witn island platform, and with that object in id work of rebuilding the bridge over Penartn- 0(j has been commenced. As well as being the bridge will be raised a couple of ^ee.t',eS to there will thus be plenty of room for vebiC pass underneath.
STOWAWAYS' SHOCKING FAíE
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STOWAWAYS' SHOCKING FAíE wb The Australian mail steamer Orient arrived at Plymouth on Sunday from y reported that two stowaways made their j board at Fremantle and were overtaken jf terrible fate. They concealed the after wheel-house, and when the ste ..ø" gear was started both men were caugn. crushed by the quadrant. One was pløí to the deck by hia bowels, which were tU*1 when assistance was forthcoming to poor fellows in response to their cries 0 jgg One died immediately. The other had One died immediately. The other had badly fractured.