Shenandoah herald. [volume] (Woodstock, Va.) 1865-1974, 1875-04-01


time.
About six months after Adrian 4
return he received letter from one of
his classmates, a young man who for a
brief time had attended the same course
of lectures with himself, and was q
graduate of the same college in France.
His name was De Vaux, and though
Adrian had only known him about a
year, he greatly admired his talent.
Socially, there was about him sort
of mystery, a reticent, reserved manner
though well acquainted, caused a
feeling Of distrust or suspicion, a
something that seemed to say, 81 am
acquainted with this man, and yet
know nothing of him."
He wrote Adrian that he wished to
visit America, and remain a year,
perhaps two years, or permanently if it
suited him."
He came, and received a hearty
welcome. Adrian introduced him to
his friends. To Col. Sumner, who had
travelled extensively, he proved very
congenial companion.
He was splendid chemist, and his
rare research, and scientific knowledge
of this magnificent branch alone,
charmed and almost fascinated the
stately old gentleman. He became a
constant visitor, and valued friend
/ He knew from the first of Adrian's
betrothal to the beautiful Leila, but to
all appearances he never thought of
her. hardly noticed her presence, only
to observe the usual forms of politeness.
Buta close observer would have
noticed the dusky red light that
CLEANED from beneath his long black
lashes, when, believing himself I'M
noticed, he would sometimes allow his
eyes to rest for a moment on the
slender, graceful, well-developed form
and bright piquant face of the lovely
girl.
AS for Leila, she once remarked to
Adrian that the sight of De Vaux
made her feel chilly, she declared she
could think of nothing but serpent, a
hateful crawling reptile, whenever she
saw him, at which Adrian looked
l.~. ;nac 1no sauIy nIsJuugeu MS friend.
COL Sumner was an old fashioned
gentleman, and adhered strictly to the
the rules of hospitality.
Thus it was that guests, whether
their visit was of long, or short dura
ton, never left bis house without re-
ceiving refreshments.
Leila's presence was usually required,
and on these occasions, De Vaux with
true French politeness, would always
present her glass of vine.
For months together De Vaux,
would drive almost daily with COL
Sumner, to whom his society seemed
almost indispensable; so agreeable and
fascinating could he render himself
when he chose to do so.
He seemed to maintain his extreme
reserve and reticence only so far as
concerned his own individual affairs.
A few months after De Vauxs
arrival, Adrian proposed to open an
Office together.
There WAS but one physician in the
place, an aged man, and an old friend
of the family. He warmly seconded
the wishes of the young mans family
and friends, that he should remain in
his native town.
Adrian consented willingly, for
several reasons, the chief of which was,
that by SO doing he could be near the
object of his affection.
De Vaux was valuable partner, and
| in q few months the two young
practitioners were able to control con-
siderable practice.
Months passed of unalloyed happi-
ness to the young lovers.
The time was set for the marriage,
every preparation was being made for
the wedding, such as befttcd the
fair and beautiful bride.
But as the days wore on, it was no.
ticed that Leila grew pale, nervous,
and restless. At first this excited no
alarm, but she continued to grow
worse; she seemed to lose all her
sprightliness Of manner, to grow thin
and very pale. She complained of
great weakness aud lassitude.
Col. Sumner at last concluded to
seek ADVICE. But the family physi cha II
shook his head gravely, the attack
seemed so sudden and rapid and as
remedy after remedy failed utterly, he
was almost in despair, and acknowl
edged that he was completely puzzled.
Adrian was greatly distressed, as the
symptoms, continued to grow worse.
De Vaux prepared medicine to be
taken three times day. and her father
persuaded her to take it, though she
complained of feeling weaker after
each dose.
| vIYl - .~o..1J 400 Lid frsorIc bovn