Shenandoah herald. [volume] (Woodstock, Va.) 1865-1974, 1869-09-09
NO. 2
WON BY ACCIDENT.

Ed. Walker was very rlch-at least his
father.was. He lived in fine house on
Lone street. in the town Of -. AS
matter of course he was good match"
Mothers were anxious for their daughters
to make his acquaintance but for some
unknown reason he constantly evad ed
them. lie lived within himself; he asso-
ciated with but few, and they were most
ly men. He was cold and reserved, new
er having much to say He was in the
habit Of going away every summer, and
remaining away for two or three months
It was rumored he had been Tilted, and on
this account had left the gay halls of fash
ion and given up frivolous society to lead
retired life. But there was nothing to
substantiate this-so it rested vague
supposition. He was tall, well proper
toned, graceful and handsome; yet his
countenance was grave, and at time mel
ancholy. But this was no sign that he
might never be happy and cheerful.
Clara Golden lived in fine residence
on Cane street, in the town of O. She
had often heard Of Edward Walker, but
had never seen him. She had never had
an opportunity. One day, as she stood
on her steps, just ready to descend to her
carriage, she slipped and would undoubt-
edly been seriously injured, had she not
been caught in the arms of stranger.-
She thanked him he bowed and walked
away. She gazed after him and thought
"That's Mr.. Walker" She was soon to
give birthday party, and concluded to
send him an invitaton-to make his ac-
qnaintance-to win him if she could.
A few days afterwards, as he sat in his
gallery, reading Romeo and Juliet, and
perchance thinking of the beautiful girl
whom he had saved from falling, negro
man handed him note:
"lM. Walker: You are respectfully
invited to birthday party, to be given
at No. 20 Cane street, on Thursday night,
22d instant. You must come, else she in
whose honor the party is given, will not
enjoy herself. Respectfully,
"CLARA GOLDEN"
AS matter of course he was somewhat
surprised, but as the servant had gone no
inquiries could be made
''Oh, WELL I'll go. Perhaps have one
of my old adventures he said, after
reading the invitation.
The evening came About 10 O'Clock,
Walker rang the bell at No. 20. A Young
lady opened the door.
"Mr. Walker, [ believe ?"
eyes, miss"
Il sent you the invitation because I
dislike to see young gentleman passing
his days in solitude. Now, come into the
parlor, and [ willintroduce you
He smiled and followed her.
ladies and gentlemen, MIR. Walker"
He bowed. took seat beside her on the
sofa, and when music-such as would
charm Heavens eherubims rose as IS by
magic's power, he asked her to dance, and
they were declared the handsomest couple
and the best dancers on the floor. He was
afable to all, but evinced decided pre-
ference for the beautiful and intellectual
Clara,
The stars had disappeared one by one,
and the morning twilight was driving the
night spirit to their safe retreats. The
guests were departing Walker fingered
in the parlor admiring painting until he
heard the last good bye; then, taking his
hat, he started towards the door.
1--WE have had pleasant evening, Mr..
Walker. You must call again; l shall
be happy to see you at any time"
'',Ihank you. | will endcavor to visit
you often"
He entered his carriage and drove away,
muttering to himself: cit seems my doom
to marry. Be it So"
He slept-he dreamed-he saw the face
of Clara looking fondly upon him--she
seemed fairy. SO bewitching, so lovely.
The next week he called on her, and
evening after evening found him by her
side.
They say that the spirit of love comes
at the twilight hour--comes with all its
enhancing powers, touching the tenderest
chords leading to the heart, rousing all
the affections, and making man believe
there IS bliss in being Walker tried to
ward off his destiny, but ''the Injuries of
the scene stole too deep into his soul" and
he declared his love and was accepted.
That night he kissed woman
She had won him by accident