Greene County herald. (Leakesville, Miss.) 1898-current, 1903-05-08
BASIL'S IMMIGRATION.
A Story on the old Theme.


He pressed the fragrant note to his
lips, and, with serene smile, leaned
back in his chair.
1t was more, much more, than he
had ever dared to hope.
Only few words, written in dain-
ty feminine hand on sheet of tinted
note paper, yet Basil We're, having read
thought himself the happiest human
alive.
Meet me in st. Saviour's Church at
noon tomorrow MARIE"
The messenger who had brought the
epistle having gone, Basil gave himself
up to an hours sweet contemplation
of his love.
Marie Somerville was the only
daughter of wealthy. but proud, law
yer, who had made up his mind that
no one in the three kingdoms was too
good for Marie.
Marie, however, inheriting more OF
her mothers gracious sweetness or
character than of her fathers stern
and harsh demeanor, thought other
wise, and would have none of the
many suitors, that the latter provided
for her choice.
Then one day she met Basil We're, a
young subaltern in an infantry regi-
ment, who from the very first time of
meeting had determined to WOO and
win the pretty, blue eyed daughter of
the lawyer.
Opportunities for seeing each other
were not frequent, however, and many
were the subterfuges to which resort
had to be made in order that they
might enjoy each others society.
Half an hour before noon Basil sat
patiently in a secluded seat, hidden be-
hind one of the massive pillars of the
church, waiting for Marie.
At every step he raised his head and
watched those who entered.
Noon came, and the great clock
overhead chimed out the hour.
'She will be here in moment" he
said to himself, hoping that the next
worshipper would appear in the person
of his love, but all in vain.
The suspense seemed long, and the
waited.
That she would come he had no
doubt, but what had hindered her?
The half hour struck.
Almost before the echo had died
away a voice sounded almost in his
ear.
"Basill"
Marie had entered small door be-
hind him, taking him unawares.
Il could not come before, Basil;
have been detained"
my own Marie, pray do not excuse
yourself. l am proud to wait"
Hush, Basil! Remember, we may
he heard here. My brother is coming"
Your brother?"
"Yes He said he would be back in
half an hour. They suspect me of meet
ing you"
would they prevent our intercourse
Marie?"
IF they could" she answered. But
we must not let them. If we are care
full and ever on the alert we shall not
arouse suspicion
you do not regret your love"
How can you ask, Basil! That
were impossible." Marie answered
with a solemn look. Should l be here
otherwise?"
mo, Marie, but l wished to hear it
again from your sweet lips" he an
sweyed
Just at that moment the clock struck
one. With a start Marie arose.
Look! Francis has seen u.s." she
cried, as young fellow rushed after
them when they walked out of the
church.
They quickened their pace, but were
too late. Francis touched Marie on
the shoulder.
What does this mean, Marie?" he
asked bluntly. who is this fellow"
"Francis!"
"Marie's eyes flashed upon her broth
er. Anger was plainly visible on her
features, the graceful contour of her
face becoming more visible in anger
than when in repose How dare you
speak of my friend like that?"
Your friend, Marie! You must be
mad! Surely, girl"
He could hardly utter his thoughts.
He gave fierce scowl at Basil, who
stood near. Surely, girl, you don't
call that your friend?"
The insult did not pass unnoticed by
the subaltern. His hands itched to
clutch Francis by the throat, but Ma
ries restraining influence held him
back
Take no notice of him, BASIL" re-
turned Marie with hauteur, turning her
back on her brother HE is not re-
sponsible for his words
ooh, OH" sneered Francis. $50
that's your game, is it? I'll soon make
the fellow cry .Peccavi.' I'll warrant"
Basil turned upon him.
BASH, take no heed, there's a good
fellow" whispered Marie to him; "he
IS my brother, remember"
The simple words were enough for
the subaltern. With sulky growl he
walked on beside Marie, wishing him
self for once, without his love.
But Francis was not to be baked in
his designs. Stepping up to Basil he
caught him roughly by the shoulder,
Here take yourself off," he cried.
Basil took no notice. This aroused
the demon in his aggressor.
He raised his fist. will you clear
Off" he cried madIy.
Marie interposed her body between
the two men, clinging tightly to her
brother. With cry of rage he flung
her ruthlessly from him and struck out
at Basil.
AT the moment Basil stopped slight
ly to catch Marie and received the
blow on his temple
He staggered back All his widest
passions aroused at this mad attack.
he doubled his fists and stood on his
guard.
Marie had by this time recovered