Vermont watchman and State journal. [volume] (Montpelier, Vt.) 1836-1883, 1866-06-29
miscellaneous.
THE WIDOW FIrz ALIEN

Some months since CHANGED 10 be riding
in chaise on the road from N, shire town,
Of some importance. This mode Of travelling
l always adopt whenever practicable. It is
far better to my taste, than to be whirled
through the country bent up in close car,
at a rate which precludes sightseeing. In
addition to this a railroad is generally locat-
ed in the most unattractive portions Of towns
through which it passes.
For these reasons, unless practically hur-
ried, usually eschew railroad and railroad
cars, aud cling to he oldfsshoned method
of travelling.
SO much by way of introduction and ex-
plsnstion.
The scenery on either side Of the road of
which was passing being of very attrac-
tive character, checked my horse to a walk.
In front Of us, at some little distance,
preceived woman respectfully dressed, who
was walking slowly along, and turning an
occasional glance upon US as if she had some
thing to say.
She gradually slackened her pace as | APP
preached, and when fairly within hearing, in
quired whether | had any objection to take
her in the chaise width me.
Being naturally gallant, could do no 9TH
erwise than to comply with request from
such source. Ofcourse Informed her that
nothing would afford me greater satisfaction.
In trice l. was rolling over the highway.
with an unknown lady at my side.
had an opportunity to scan her features,
which did furtively.
She was what would be called rather pref
ty, neatly not richly dressed, while from her
neck suspended by a guard hung gold
watch. She took it out at once 10 learn the
time, which gave me an opportunity to re-
mark that it was Of costly workmanship.
You must Think said she after a pause,
l" that have made rather a singular request
OF gentleman with whom l am totally un-
acquainted"
mot in the least, madam" said /, polite
ly.
Nevertheless feel bound to give some
explanation of this step in my justification.
My name is Mrs. Fitz Allen"
''An Rristocratic NAME" thought /. al
wonder whether she's widow"
am something OF an invalid, in conse-
quence, as my physician tells me, fmy taxi
ing too little exercise. He has therefore d. /
rected me to walk three hours a day. In
conformity with his direction / set out this |
morning with he design Of walking to M, !
but found after while that had miscal- |
culated my strength, and resolved to throw
myself upon the generosity and kindness of
49, 49, Paebef Dy Wnum tnVu6A. ---i
conhde in; | am sure from your appearance,
sir, that am not mistaken in judging you to
be of that character"
felt exceedingly hattered at which right
ly judged to be intended as compliment,
and began to esteem myself in luck at having
encountered the fair lazy who had placed her
self under my protection.
We kept up an animated conversation,
which, however, was now and then interrupt
ed by Mrs. Fitz Allen bending forward and
looking over the side OF the chaise.
Surprising that che was DESTROYS Of seeing
more Of the country than could be obtained
nom covered carriage. | offered to lot down
the chaise top. but she demonstrated so earn
estly against this proceeding. that was fain
to let things remain as they were.
Meanwhile became more and more pleas
ed with my companion, and began to consid-
er more and more earnestly whether she was
likely to be widow.
For the purpose of asceftsining this, / re-
sorted to very ingenious fabrication as fol-
Iowa:
1t would be very singular" remarked |
carelessly, " il it should chance that your
husband and are old acquaptances. | used
to know Mr.. Henry Filz Allen. who was
If remember rightly, IA lawyer"
NO don't think IL could have been the
one. My husband died some years since.
Besides his name was Robert, and he was
merchant
had gained the information desired
need not say that Mr.. Henry Eitz Allen
the lawyer, whom l had mentioned, was
quite an apoeryphal parsonage.
began to consider whether it wouldn't be
MT NH lie f.II -
when the widow afterwards INQUIRED with
visible agitation whether l wouldn't drive
little faster.
To this had not the least objection.
therefore laid on the whip, and the horse
bounded forward at rapid pace.
al like to ride fast" said my companion.
in explanation of her request, at is so ex.
hilsraiine. think there is no enjoyment
like that OF riding rapidly"
:" agree with you perfectly" said |.
IL Is a favorite recreation of mine"
The sound Of wheels are heard behind us.
"Conldn't you drive little faster :" asked
Mrs. Fitz Allen, anxiously.
was about TO apply the whip once more,
when heard a shout to stop from behind.
No, don't stop said my companion.
lie don't want anything with YOU"
was puzzled, and was about to follow her
advice. when the words were repeated In a
more authoritative tone.
"stopl command you in the name Of
the law"
The instant afterwards constable drove
up.
"Whst do you want With mei" asked
in astonishmcnt.
Nothing with you, but l have something
to do with Miss Saunders who Is with YOU"
"Iknow nothing Of Miss Saunders" said
j. "ihis lady is Mys. Filz Allen, and is I'M
der my protection"
I" Mrs, Fitz Allen" retorted the oonsta.
Bile, with loud laugh. "Well, che was
MISC Saunders only this morning. Howsom-
ever, whatever her mama ID. ahA mnat cntne