Spirit of Jefferson. [volume] (Charles Town, Va. [W. Va.]) 1844-1948, 1870-10-18
MISCELLANEOUS.
A Romance in Real Life.

About three years ago, a good. looking,
stalwart young mechanic went from this city
to accept an advantageous offer in the town of
Salem, Washington county. Being unmar-
ried and rather fond of society it was not long
before James West, as we shall call him, made
acquaintances that embraced at least all the
prettiest girls in the place After bestowing
attentions indiscriminately, thereby causing
many hearts to beat with jealous rage and
envy. he suddenly became more reserved in
his demeanor, and from theuceforth devoted
himself to but one, young lady whose per-
sonal attractions were only surpassed by her
amabc character andvared accomplishments,
named kate---, daughter of well-to- do
farmer of Washington county. West had ev-
identity heard the admonition that "faint heart
never won fair LADY, for he pressed his suit
with an ardOr that soon received its reward,
and their engagement was announced
Six months after. on bright sunny day in
May, the nuptials were celebrated After
marriage they settled down to houso- keeping
in neat little cottage, surrounded with all
that happy young compile could desire, and
everything seemed to augur well for long
and tranquil life of domestic bliss
But in an evil hour their hopes were shad-
owed. A former acquaintance happening in tho
village was met by the young husband, and
while recalling old times, social drink was pro-
posed. A faint show of resistance on the part
of West and the drink was taken followed
sooD by another. As the liquor mounted to
his brain all thoughts Of the sweet young wife
at home faded from his mind, and the rest of
the night was spent in hilarious debauchery.
Poor Kate, having passed lonely evening,
retired TO rest framing a thousand excuses for
her husbands absence. In the morning she
awoke in an agony of terror at finding herself
still lalone, and hastily fingiDg on some clothes,
opened the door to 20 in search of him
Imagine her horror at beholding the one she
loved so we'll lying across the step besmeared
with filth, In the worst stage of intoxication
The sight was so horrible that for time sho
was unable to move or act. Then, as If hav-
ing formed a sudden resolution, she hastily
dragged him in, dressed herself, and left tho
house.
The husband awoke from bis drunken stu
por shortly after, and calling for Kate, was
astOnished at receiving no answer Tho
thought occurred to him that his conduct Of
the night before had driven her away A
week passed by, and although the conscious
stricken husband made every search and in-
quiry, no trace of the lost ono could be found.
a year elapsed, and, having given up all hopes
of ever regaining his los, happiness, the hus-
band threw up his situation, sold his furniture,
and came to this city, where he secured en-
ployment tnachnist. i few days ago,
happening to be in Troy on business, while
passing up Second street, he came face to face
with his wife. The recognition was mutual
and, with the old love swelling up in their
hearts, they were once more united. Half
crszed at the sight which met her eyes on
that fatal morning, she had fed from tho
house and taken the cars to Troy, fortunately
securing situation in dressmakiDg estab-
lishment, where she preferred remaining,
rather than be the companion of one who
would so imbrute himself
And now, after being separated for more
than year, they have resumed housekeeping
in this city the husband, on his part, with
finn determination never to do aught that
would cause his wife moments unhappiness;
and she, with desire to brighten their new
home with love that will make it lasting,
and full of confidence that be will be true to
his word.-Troy Times.