The Laurens advertiser. (Laurens, S.C.) 1885-1973, 1898-03-22

VA @eh'S'' Nv up Ill IIC DtIh ana look
around. 1t will be rather quiet after
the scenery, you know, but want you
to forget yourself for awhile. Get cou-
troll of your nerves"
81 will"
'"That's a brave girl. Well straight
en- out this business very soon if can
get hold Of it at the right end. Leave
1T all to me and devote your energies to
growing strong" Storcr pressed his
lips to her hand and went away, haunt
ed by her white, sunken features.
Tho damned scoundrel' he NUT
tered as he pursued his way. "Her ia
ther must be brutol Cursed set to
use girl like her so cruellyl Now,
then, Jack Storor, stop sitting in judg-
ment upon others. You don't know all
the circumstances. Go to work and
mend matters if you cam
Storer walked about until his nerves
were quieted, eating his lunch in q
strange restaurant for the sake of dis
traction, and returned to his office to
meet business engagements that occu-
pied him the whole afternoon. He lin
gered at his desk, however, and sum-
moned Dawson.
"When the others are gone, Dawson,
want to speak to YOU"
Dawson nodded and went back to his
corner in the general Offices. For months
he had acted as confidential clerk to MIR.
Storer, having shown himself we'll
qualified for tho position. He therefore
presented himself in duo time, prepared
for his private instructions. Mr.. Storer
was sitting facing tho door, and he
pointed to chair, keeping his eyes on
Dawson 8 face.
Dawson, you have been doing con.
siderable extra work for US Of late and
doing it in very satisfactory manner.
OF course we like to be just with tho
men. and we can't promote where there
is no vacancy. However, we might get
around the question. By the way, are
you married man?''
"No-I'-
Dawson's embarrassment was re-
markable. Mr.. Storer waited for him
sympathetically
II want to marry, but II couldn't
on my present salary. In fact-I have
been looking for better place. 1t is
not easy to make profitable change. )"
You are engaged to bo married,
infer.
Eyes, am"
Dawson's flush was pitiable.
What would you consider suffi-
cient salary to marry upon? Please state
1t here in round figures"
Dawson did as directed, slowly and
nervously.
"You see," continued Mr.. Storer.
II appreciate your services and prefer
to retain them if an advance will salts
fy you" He glanced at Dawson 8 state
mont. "Well, that seems to mo reason
able. Now, If accedo how long will it
take you to get ready for your marriage?"
Dawson seemed Overwhelmed with
surprise, confusion ant nervous excite
ment.
81 don't know. should have to see
several persons That would involve
an absence Of a few days".
"From town?"
Yes, SIR.
THAT means an extra expense besides
the delay?"
"Of course"
81 think I can assist you, Dawson,
materially. If am not very much mis-
taken, you are engaged to very old
friend Of mine, Miss Gertrude Bald
win"
Dawson's face lightened, then sud.
denly clouded with anxiety and per-
plexity.
~ had no idea"- he murmured. then
broke down.
She 2s in town, continued Mr.. Stor-
er Il met her today, and Judge from
what she tells me that her engagement
is Objectionable to her parents. The sim
pie thing to Go is for you and Gertie to
get married and take your happiness
into your own keeping. She is lovely
girl. have known her since her child
hood. If you will make the proper prep
arations, I will act as her guardian and
give her away. Make arrangements for
morning wedding in we'll known
church. Take little trip, come back
and settle down. The rest remains with
you. How much money will you want?
I'll give you the check now and let me
know as soon as possible when this
wedding oan take place. I'll tell you
tomorrow where to call upon her."
Dawson made vain effort to talk.
Nov. Dawson, If you think that I
am doing you service I'll tell you how
to amply repay me--keep this interview
a sacred secret. shall do it for Gertie
Baldwin's sake y.
1t seemed to Dawson THAI the room
was going to and fro. His head dropped
on the desk. When no raiskd it, Mr..
] aknrof had disannoarad q Fsx, l,,as = /. 1n,,o