The Forest Republican. [volume] (Tionesta, Pa.) 1869-1952, 1893-01-04

Although the Colonel's words and
manner were indeed bellicose when he
delivered this ultimatum, the occasion
which prompted the outburst, like the
gentleman's title, had no actual military
foundation. The affair vas purely
civil in its nature, and the Colonel had
only as much license to speak after the
fashion of field officer as belongs to
a man who has once been q loyal and
enthusiastic member of the militia. 1t
was quite true, however, that he had
suffered less than most men from the
cruel perverseness of things which con-
front US in this life. Born rich, healthy
and virtuous, and endowed with
charming capacity for stunning dis
agreeable things; he had lived his life
thus far in the most optimistic manner
possible.
just now, however, his stronghold of
serenity was threatened with vigorous
assault. His only son had sent word
from remote Yorkshire parish that he
was on the point of marrying the eldest
of family of seven daughters, the
property of the vicar, clergyman
whose peculiar theological preferences
had relegated him to obscurity and a
stipend of f100 per annum. 'She's
the sweetest thing imaginable" Geof-
frey had written, with the dna discrim-
inatlon OF lover. "Just wait until we
reach New York aud she shows on the
avenue"
The Colonel lost no time in cabling his
most emphatic paternal dissent. He re-
ceived an almost immediate reply to place.
the effect that the marriage had taken
This intelligence put him into state
that was exceedingly uncomfortable
while 1t lasted, but it did not endure.
Perhaps the time-worn expedient of dis
inheriting his refractory heir did not
occur tc him, for his indignation ex-
pended itself in message devoid of
congratulation, IN which he requested
his son and Mrs. Geoffrey to linger in
definitely at the vicarage. He
intimated that an carly applica-
ton for his PARENTAL blessing would
prove to be for them real ignis fatuus,
but he tempered the severity OF the state
ment by sending a check for sum which
should have done wonders in allaying
the sting of paternal displeasure.
1t was real grief for the Colonel
the most poignant he had known since
the death of his cstimable wife,
which had happened long before Geof-
frey was capable OF inficting any serious
domestic wound; but he had much TO
console him, and, most fortunate Of all,
he had a hobby; it was the most delight
fully and absorbing and self-engrossing
distraction that man can have-he was
an amateur organist.
It must not for an instant be believed
that he was a mere wanton triaer with
the noblest of musical instruments. His
whole soul was in it, aud he was be-
lieved by his friends to be q virtuoso.
His musical suppers were the talk Of the
town; TO be hidden TO them was tuneiul
surfeit, and not TO know them unmelo-
dious gnashing of teeth. Il was a de-
light as well as an apparent necessity for
the appeasing OF the constant yearnlng
OF his musical nature for him to direct
the music in large and fashionable
church.
He was at this particular moment in
charge Of the music at ST. Nero's where
he assumed the entire expense of the uu-
dertaking, and supplemented his gener-
osity by having the organ rebuilt to
meet his particular requirements. The
music was quite as elaborate as any in
town, and the diversion went far toward
easing the pang Of GeofIIey's unhlial con
duct.
But tho season advanced. and the
ultro-fashionablc woIshipers Of st Nero's
deserted their temple and fed tosummer
resorts.
1t was then that the Colonel began to
bestir himself to secure an assistant, for
he did not suffer his passion to interfere
with the still potent magnetism Of New
port. He advertised; there were many
who were willing, and time was ap-
pointed for comparative trial. When
the moment arrived tho Colonel stole
away to the darkest corner OF ST. Nero's,