The Caledonian. [volume] (St. Johnsbury, Vt.) 1837-1867, 1856-03-22
what could be done.

All day, whether be worked at the form, or
run Of errands for his master, his thoughts
we're upon the same subject. His ambition
and love Of adventure we're awakened. a.
we'll as bis interest for his little friend.
The arrests, and the probable fate of the
prisoners. were everywhere the theme of
but no one knew when or how
they we're to suffer. The intentions of the
government, if it had any, were a profound
secret.
Antoine resolved to 90 himself to the min
lister Of Justice. and beg the life of Dacourt
and as soon as he was released from his daily
task, be FASTENED to put his plan in execu-
tiOn
He went first to the Hotel de Vile, which
in those turbulent times was alwavs thronged
with politicians but Danton was not there
He then directed his steps to the club, Of
which he knew him to be a member, but with
no better success. lie waited at the 4 oor of
entrance for some time. but he did not arrive
After little thought, he resolved to 20 10
the Assembly. a great crowd were collect
cd about the door, but he perseverinsly push.
ed his way through the lobby, and reached
the ball. The object Of bis search was at
that moment making some proposition to the
Assembly. Antoine waited and watched his
movements. After some time, the minister
put on his hat and turned to leave the hall.
Antoine placed himself in the way, aha
caught his sleeve as he passed. What wilt
thou, boy 2" asked DAnton, stopping to gaze
on the bright, earnest face
II came to ask the release Of Alphonse
Dacourt"
Danton bit his lip. why dost thou ask
it? Is he thy father. or friend:"
No, Monsieur. DO not know him. but he
has sister. who loves him dearly 1t is for
her sake ask H."
"Ah They have sll some sister, or friend
who loves them. suppose. and they shall all
be released in day or two"
NAY, .Hnsitw le ,iaiSt>r, know that
they will not be restored TO their tricn,ls, and
know that Dacourt i, condemned to die"
"Xpw knowcst thou, boy" said the
startled minister. Thou art very bold" -
And he fixed full upon him his piercing eve,
but the boy DID not quail, or change counte.
nance.
"Come to me tomorrow morning at my own
house" said Danton in low tone. and pass.
ing Antoine. he strobe out OF the hall
Antoine was punctual to the appointment
He found Danton alone, in his break fast room
lie babe Antoine sit down.
"And now, tell me. bov." said he, "hov
didst thou know that Dacourt was to die -
conceal nothing, for, upon thy truthIulnes
NAV depend the success of thy mission"
lie did as he was desired II. explained full
~ the reason of his interest in the prisoner
Danton listened patiently, while he describe
the beauty and artlcssncss OF Christine, he
love for rsuic, from whom she had been 81
ruthles>lv separated. Ur>ue's relation t
Dacourt, Chris,incs sriet a: what she ha,
heard, and his own earnest desire TO he'll
her and the cold, calculating politicia,
whose words had such power with men, VII
trailicked in human lives. in the name ol
Liberty, became man again, with quic
feelings, and tender svmpathies, as b. listen
I'd to the simple story.
When Antoine had finished, Danton put
handful of coin in his hands Thou ha.
heard Alright my boy. But he silent, an
keep what thou knowest | have given M
word for his death. and cannot retract, bu
there is one way left. Now, listen Dacou1
will not die to-day. though many OF his fello
prisone rs will, but his name is one of IL,
last on the list. Thou art bold. brav
boy, and wilt not be afraid of pixies and sabre
hey?
No, Monsieur"
} Nor OF the sight of blood, or corpses:"
; Antoine shook his head, though he felt
strange sort Of quivering at his heart.
well, then, do thou 20. tomorrow morI
ing, at sunrise, to the prison of the Abbay,
The judges nave discretionary power to r,
lease prisoners. Present thy petition to them
Antoine thanked him, and turned to 90 :
but DantOn called him back.
If thou could st manage to take Christir
with thee, her beauty and innocence Nigh
do much. And now, 20, my boy, Danto
wishes thee success"
TO BE CONCLrDED.
"A SISTERS LOvE.-The purity, trut