The Maryville times. (Maryville, Tenn.) 1884-1944, 1893-08-09

not have had him speak 1t, because 10
deny him would have hurt me deeply,
and I should have been compelled to
say no. His conduct had been a revela-
ton to me. It brought to me a knowl-
edge that filed my soul with sorrow.
/ knew that Charles Cornell loved me.
To be loved by a man like that ought
to have filed me with Joy instead of
sorrow, for such love is the greatest
boon woman's heart can desire. 1t
would have made me happy, reader,
but for the knowledge that his love was
In vain. did not, and was sure l
could not, love him in return.
During the rest of our walk not
word was exchanged between us. Upon
reaching my lodging Mr.. Cornell went
In with me, and having an introduction
to Mrs Bond, entered into conversation
with her on general topics. He seemed
to be perfectly at ease, but he did not
address me during the hour that inter-
vened our arrival and supper. After
supper he asked me to walk with him,
and went, though l trembled lest he
should again approach the subject on
which he had SO nearly addressed me.
However, my fears proved groundless,
for during all our walk, which lasted for
nearly two hours, he talked naturally
and freely, confirming his conversation
chiefly to the local land troubles with
which he had to do.
He seemed to be thoroughly imbued
with the question, and attached great
Importance to the effect the western
farm mortgage system was likely to
have on the welfare of the country. l
knew nothing whatever relative to the
matter, but listened interestedly
while he talked, because any subject
was of interest under his discussion,
and further, because while he talked on
that subject he was certain not to take
up one that would have been less
agreeable.
SIS the prospect of compromise be-
tween the creditors and debtors any
more promising than it was when l
was at your house?" I asked.
~ can hardly say as to that" he re-
piled "There is very little change in
the relations of the two classes. Yet I
hope that the outlook is better. Some
Of the creditors are reasonable men and
willing to give their debtors o chance
to bridge over the difficulties arising
out of the crop failures Of the past two
years; and some of the debtors are
reasonable enough to meet these men
half way. But the trouble is, there are
some men on both sides who have no
reason, but who, if they cannot dictate
the terms, will have no compromise at
all"
''Such men as that Anderson" I sug.
gested.
Exactly" said he. "Anderson's lead
ership has done us vast amount OF
harm. But hope it may prove less
potent for evil now. Many of the set.
tiers have turned from him and taken
up with more moderate ideas. l think
that within year or SO he will have
lost his influence almost entirely. 1t is
coming to be pretty generally under
stood now that his whole purpose is tc
use the settlers as the means to put
himself in Office, and the people are
tired of that kind of leaders,. They dc
not care to follow the leadership of men
who espouse their cause simply to win
votes"
'Patriotism that needs to be stimu-
lated by good Office and a large salary
is not the kind the people desire al
PRESENT." observed.
mo, they have had sufficient of that
class of patriots. But here we are at
your door. will say good night, now,
as l am sure you are tired. will sec
you again tomorrow. Good night"
He fingered Il moment as if he would
add something more, then turned away
and walked rapidly down the street
casting never glance back. l stood
on the steps looking alter him, think
ing what noble, broad-shouldered mar
he looked, and what grand husband
he would make for some woman.
felt that his wife, whoever she might
be, must be proud of him, and the
thought almost made me jealous of the
future Mrs. Cornell. thought how
easy it might have been for me II
love him had not known VIII Hanley
and very nearly regretted that it wa!
not all different. 1t appeared to me
that it would be very pleasant to b.
very comfortably situated in mic,
home, surrounded by peace and plenty
and blessed by Charles Cornell's love.