The Caledonian. [volume] (St. Johnsbury, Vt.) 1837-1867, 1841-02-23

aud she was now suffering under its banGfu in
flueuco. At times, her mind would wander, and
she would call upon her deceased husband, and uF
on her son, IN tones OF love and ahectioni then a
gain reason would resume its sway for moment
only to be overthrown again, by the pognancy o.
her pam. But she had faithful aud tendernurse
in the person Of Lucy, who endeavored, bySAind-
ness and attention, TO repay The debt she owed
her; though unconnected by the ties OF bioe1s had
! kindly ven her u home when her own had beer
desolaed and destroyed. M ,mas
One evening, when Mrs. Fortescue had fallen
INTO transient slumber, which sometimes succeed
ed those fits of arrangement, Lucy took The oppor
tuny of esca ping from the confinement of the sick
chamber, and placing domestic IN her stead, she
descended TO the parlor. AS she entered she took
the little bible which the stranger had presented
her and began TO read. She had, however, scarce
iy commenced, when the tramp OF n horse vas
heard approaching the house, and in few mo-
ments The hall door was burst open, and young
man in the undress of an American officer rushed
into the room.
'Lucy!'--"Charles!'' were the EXPLANATIONS
| and the lovers locked in each others arms.
"Charles, how glad am you've Gomez" she ex-
claimed.
eyes, Lucy, but must soon leave you,-by
daylight must again be in camp"
"Why, Charles9" ..
because / have stolen away unknown But
hope soon to return, to leave you no. more.-We
are even upon our way TO williamsburg
where, in few days after our arrival, Washing
ton intends leading against Yorktown, One
more blow, Lucy an one will drive the
arrows home to the tyrants heart the flag Of
liberty will float Observation-Disclosures will be
free!"
As he spoke his. his slight and graceful figure
seemed to diate, and his fine features beamed with
all enthusiastic fire. w.. ..af
''But my mother, Lucy ,--,where is shc'" he ask
ed. f.. .-.9 s4. O. .-4l,..l ...rse
Lucy until that moment, in the enjoyment of her
happiness, had forgotten Mrs. Fortescue, and she
now informed him of his mothers condition.
''Lead me 10 her-lead me 10 her." he sald =
"and will watch over her as she has over. me-
Mrs. Fortescue had awoke, and her mind again
wandered us they entened the room, consequently
she did recognize him, whom even now, she
called upon IN the most tender accents. The
young soldiers breast heaved he seated himself
beside the bed.
He still continued watching her; aud il was far
past midnight ere he thought of the necessity for
his re turn 10 camp. 1t came with startling effect
upon his mind. Must he leave her she who had
nurtuied and cherished BIN IN infancy, and who
had fingered his sick couch for days and nights
unce asingy? No! that must not be. Ye, how
could he avoid i' Not being able TO obtain leave
of absence, (such being tho orders issued by the
Commander in. Chief) and burning with desire
TO behold his mother and his Lucy he had, lknow
ing he watch word) passed the sentinel in hopes
nj hac, han
was he to do? If he returned TO the camp, he
would perhaps more see her again; If he
manned he would be branded as deserter, and
suffer, If taken, an ignominious death. 1t was
fearful alternative, yet he chose the latter, "for,
said he, sshe for my sake would have done the
same" .s.ts .Nler .t.t .sE n. 4..
lie communicated his resolution to Lucy, with
out, however, acquanling her of the fearful risk he
rum and he seated himself again beside his afflicted
parent. t~ +s
The day wore away, and night was about draw
ing her dark mantle over the earth, when he tramp
of horses feet was heard approaching the window
just in time of troopers dismoun., the
leader Of which inquired of Sanbo, the old negro
slave, if Captain Fortescue was there. Ere the
officer propounded the question, Charles had d.
vinedlhe cause of their appearances, and Immedi.
ately descended. -l jt.t .i.1fa1 tlbi4f1 ress 81
"Captain Forescue,'' said the other, as Charles
made his appearance, 81 have come upon an nn,
pleasant duty, but one that must be performed
l have come 10 arrest you assa -
"Desertcr,' added Charles finding The man hess
itated. 81 know it, he continued edo not alarm
Them, and Twill accompany you in a few moments.
He ordered the seryautto prepare his horse, re-
entered the house, and assembled to his mothers
room. Lucy met him as he entered, and inquired
what was the matter. t6 'ips5 1.f at 1ieGgo .fuH
"Nothng much,' lie answered, as he pressed
her 10 his heart and imprinted a kiss upon hor
cheek. 81 am wanted Farewell dear Lucy
He then turned and pressed his lips to the cheek
Of his mother. Fastening from The room, he was
soon upon his way, accompanied by tho soldiers.
Lucy had observed his emotion, but attributed it
10 separation, and it was not until sometime after
ward, that she became acquainted with tAe fact,
AS she was passing through the kitchen, she heard
Sambo interrogating tho other servants as to tho
meaning of deserter, She Immediately Inquired
his reasons for wishing know, and related TO her