Hutchinson gazette., 1900-01-25

The Justice Of the peace availod HIM
self OF tho opportunity to dwell upon
Mr.. Harrlson's wealth, discussed the
possible losses which the war might
lnilict upon his property and express
cd his belief that large portion OF
his fortune was invested elsewhere,
The doctor listened attentively, but
this did not prevent his scanning the
vicinity still more closely than be-
fore. He seemed trying to nx every
bend In the road, every distant land
mark upon his memory, and the house
with It's doors and terraces received
the same scrutiny.
"A fine estate" he said, do you
think Its vicinity to the city will af-
ford II protection? havo the con-
trary opinion, for II is an open Sc
cret that the march OF the Union
forces is directed here"
Impossible! How do you know"
cried Thompson, starting from his
corner of the carriage in terror
81 heard II on my journey to the
city"
II heard, on the contrary, that their
march was southward, otherwise GER
tainly should not have left town"
The doctor smiled mischievously at
the timid little gentleman, who had
turned pale with fright.
"Why, the troops will not interfere
with a justice OF the peace. At the
utmost, you could only be obliged to
unite some loving couple within the
enemys lines, In the bonds Of matri-
mony."
"Jest as much as you choose" said
Thompson, angrily, II want nothing
TO do with the enemy AT any rate,
I'll inquire about that rumor, and, for
the present, remain In the city, which
can only be taken by regular SIEGE"
The carriage now stopped at the
house, the gentlemen alighted, and the
doctor dismounted from his horse,
throwing the bride to negro who
hurried up.
Don't unsaddle my horse" he said,
carelessly. II must 80 back to the
city as quickly as possible, and at any
rate shall leave before the other gem
tlemen."
He let the two men precede him and
fingered as II by accident, on the
steps, looking after the servant
An unmistakable expression of sat
isfaction fitted over his face as he
saw that the animal was led to a
stable close by the house.
Edward Harrison received the new
arrivals, and the loquacious Mr.
Thompson instantly presented Doctor
Blackwood, sparing the latter any ex'
planatlon by relating in detail the
cause Of Doctor Green's absence, Then
he introduced his clerk, pale, ef'
Terminate fellow, whose manner was
excessively timid and deferential, ant
OF whom no notice whatever was TAX
en-.
Meanwhile, during the last half houl
Edward had had time to regain hi
composure. These visitors must, O.
course, obtain no glimpse OF the ca
tastrophe which had happened here.
He expressed in courteous phrases
his regret for having troubled thu
magistrate in vain, his uncle's condi
tion had changed 80 suddenly for thl
worse that 1t was impossible to hav,
the wedding take place that day Mis-
Harrison was in state of the ut
most anxiety and excitement. Then
turning with the same courtesy to tn
physician, he added.
"You are welcome, Doctor Black
wood, though fear you can give u
no consolation. We were prepared TO
the worst long ago, yet a physician
presence is always a satisfaction
suppose Doctor Green has told yo,
about the case?"
"Yes' replied the doctor, who's
sharp keen eyes raised steadily on tn
young mans face. $50 l should llk
to go to the sick room at once. Pray
don't trouble yourself. prefer to Sc
the patient first alone, and will the
inform you of the result of my exam
! ination."
ITO be continued.)
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