The spirit of democracy. [volume] (Woodsfield, Ohio) 1844-1994, 1874-08-04
Selfft StorIp.
THE WO OATH S
BY PAUL EEATHERFogD.

Dick White bought farm in the
West, built house on it, and when hi
had everything complete he and hi:
young wife went there TO live The
nearest house was that of old Eban Mor
gan, his father-in-law. 1t was agsins
the wishes of Dicks friends that he wen
to this wild region, but he had laughed
at their fears. He was hardy young
borderman, and trusted TO his wits to get
along with the red skius. His wife wa;
a young girl who had spent all her life
on the frontier, and consequently did moi
mind moving back ten or twenty miles
with the man she loved. They were
soon established in their new home, and
both worked with will, and soon had
the satisfaction Of seeing well-tilled and
thriving farm.
Dick had chosen a beautiful spot fol
his house, situated in the middle Of s
small grove Of oaks. The sides of theil
house weresccvered WITH r.srvsines,aItd
a beautiful well OF sparkling water mes
tied at the foot of giant oak.
Two years passed away, aud a blue
eyed, curly haired boy was added to the
family
During all this time Dick had got
along ir friendly enough manner will
the Indians. Sometimes they woult
come to trade with him, and he won thei
favor by his fair and honest way Of deal
ing but an event happened about thi
time which may not be out of place tC
record here.
One day Dick was at work short dis
tance from the house, when his wife call
cd him in loud, excited voice. Whei
he reached the door he saw an Indian
who covered down and tried to slinl
out
'What is the matter, Mary 2" be ask
ed, standing in the doorway.
"That man has insu!ted me, Dick sh,
said, pointing 10 the savage
$50 that's what you've been up to-
he said turning ilercely on the hslf.breed
Walaro by name
The man muttered something by wa
of apology.
at won't DO, mongrel. I'll teach yo
to come round here insulting my wife,
said Dick, reaching up for a whip whicI
hung over the door, and giving the say
age severe f2gging 60 now, an
learn better manners" said Dick, lettin
the haIf-bree rise to his feet.
The pale face will pay for this wit
his hearts blood, and may the Grea
Spirit help me-" said the savage, raisin
his right hand to heaven.
Co.. Numbered Dick, taking ste
toward him Il fear you not
The next day Dick saw the chief, Re
Fox, and told him the whole occurrence
The chief listened gravely
"My pale faced brother has don
right" he said at last, although Die
thought his manner was little cold,
The hals-hreed's threat did not max
much Impression on Dick or his wife,a
at the end of three months was forgot
ten. 1t was Sunday night, and Mary
little brother, lad Of ten, had come owe
to stay few days That night, or mol
ming, they were all startled by choru
of yells, followed by shouts and blows 8
the door
Dick jumped up and looked out.
"We're attacked, Mary" he said,as h
Jumped into his pants and seized hi
arms Mary was soon up and dressed
little Tommy was also ready Dick fire
his rifle through convenient loop hol'
with what effect he could not tell.
/ s'Dick," said Mary's brother, "I'
creep out at the back window,as the red
seem to be all at the front, and go all
get help" And without waiting for q
answer, he opened the window and Il
himself out.
Mary was standing at the bedside, ,keeI
ing watch over her boy, a pistol in on
hand and knife in the other
Now, heaven help US, Mary hel
they come," said Dick, raising his riff
The next instant Che door fell in.
Dicks rifle and pistols echoed
quick succession, and three Indians fel
while another crawled toward the doc
with Mary's bullet in his leg
'Ha! cur of mixed blood, / see you,
said Dick, welding his rifle furiously.
Eyes, Walaro keeps his oath 70
and your pretty squaw need expect n
; mercy from me-" AS he spoke, he boul
ded toward Mary with outstretche
arms. She raised the knife to defen
/ herself, bat he was too quick for her
In an instant he had her bound at h
feet. AT the same instant Dick W.
struck down by blow from war clu'
and before he could regain his feet |
was overpowered.
1t was with some difficulty that Wal;