The Placer herald., 1870-12-24
TIL L Will LAIN'S DOOM
BY CHAELES HOWARD.

pie focked to the newly discovered gold re-
gions of California to make their fortunes
and in a few years the vast Wilderness was
changed into fields and villages.
Not far from where Auburn, is now loca-
ted, stood an humble log-cabin It was
built in the usual miner style, consisting Of
two small rooms. 1t was the house of two
brothers who had left the States for the gilt
terng gold of California Their names were
John and Samuel Paddock.
They had selected this place for theil
home, and with the aid of some miners, had
erected cabin, and went to mining their
labors were successful and gold was their re-
ward
One night the brothers were seated be-
fore a blazing fire reciting some of their ad-
ventures. Suddenly a loud shrek wae
heard to the westward of the cabin, and
down the ravine.
Hist what was that 2 exclaimed John,
rising quickly to his feet.
A cry for help, answered Samuel, going
to the door and listening
There it is again, said John, as q pro-
longed shrek vas again borne to their ears
by the night wind.
There is foul play going on at Heath's 5
cabin, said Samuel
Yes, think there is, and | am going to
help him. returned John, proceeding to
equip himself with his rife and revolver.
And am going with you, john, said
his brother.
They were soon on their way to Heath',s S
cabin, which was about two miles from their
home. The moon was shining brightly, and
the brothers had no difficulty in keeping the
right path.
Heath was a man about Is years of age,
and Of handsome features, though the lines
of sorrow were traceable upon his face. lie
went to California when the gold fever was
at its height, and built his cabin in the ra-
vine. lie lived by himself, and bis nearest
neighbors were-the two brothers, who often
visited him.
As they neared the cabin they proceeded
cautiously, for robbers might be prowlng
around. They were surprised to find no
light in the cabin, and after listening for
some minutes, they walked boldly forward
and pushed the door open, but all was still
Strike a light, john for there is blood on
tIc IOOT, sdlu tOdulutI
John did so, and as the light penetrated
the room it revealed Heath lying on the floor
upon his face, which was dabbled with his
own blood.
Poor fcllow!' said John, STOPPING beside
the prostrate man. But he breathes Go
and bring some water, he continued, for he
had detected signs Of life.
Samuel went to the little brook, which
ran near by, and brought some water in his
hat His brother took it and sp.inl<led some
into Heath's face, which soon revived him.
did you catch him ? exclaimed Heath,
gazing wildly around the room.
Catch who? exclaimed the brothers in
one voice.
'BaleyAthe fend ? returned the wounded
man, and then sank back inscnsible.
'Ie will live. Let us take him 10 our
cabin, said John.
After securing the door, and making a
simple litter, the brothers bore the insensibe
man to their cabin, and dressed his wound,
breast, made by a knife The two men
nursed him for four weeks, until he was well
again.
One night the three miners were seated
before their fire, each one seemingly engaged
in his own thoughts. They had sat in ST.
lence for an hour, when Samuel broke the
stiffness 10y saying: r, anf
well, Mr.. Heath, we should like to hear
the story about the night-attack on your cab
in, that is, if you have no objection to tell
ing it,.
'Oh, none at all, boys; but | will com
mence with my past life. | was born in
New York city, and as my father was very
wealthy, had everything wanted When
| was in my teens, my father was desirous
that should enter into business ! decided
to become merchant; father did not object,
and | was sent to New Orleans, and entered
the dry goods business as the Junior partner
in the firm Of Walker & Co. | liked my
trade very well, and soon became acquainted
with the young people, among whom was
beautiful young lady named Julia Grover.
Our friendship soon deepened into love, and
we were betrothed.
There was a man some years my senior,
who resided in the city, and who had once
al Ia 81 Ill. I \