The Montgomery advertiser., 1904-04-10

spoke of?' asked .le major. wen be just in time to meet the ~eople coming up from the afternoon express, which is always interesting you know.' "Of course one is always interested in | ones neignpor," assented Mrs. Castle | ford
 There come the people now,' said the major. They were in a by-path which gave a good view of the broader moving, T don't see anybody I know, | he added.
 | But do," exclaimed Mrs. Castleford looking toward the foremost group.
 ''Whew!" calculated the major. Bob And under the impression that he's in g walking match"
 What does he mean by coming here? demanded Mrs. Castleford. | "Er-well, the old story, suppose, hesitated the major. But 1t won't dc him any good-I'll start him for tht Philippines tomorrow. The young ras cal!'
 "1f he aims to see Isabel he will not do so while I am away" said Mrs. Gas tleford, turning to resume her walk | She may dlsobey me in some minol ways, but she will not see him under tht | circumstances. Isabel does not forge that she Is a Spotdolph."
 "oh. Bob will make no attempt to set your daughter in your absence" said the major, in a confident tone. He has had some training. Besides-er-you remem. Der Bob's a Spotdolph. too.'' l Mrs. Castleford smiled in spite of her self. Then the seriousness of the mat. | ter asserted itself and she changed the subject to prevent any further violence being done, to the family.
 I'm beginning to regret that trip to Europe. I'd prefer to stay here, where I've passed so many delightful summers, " she said.
 I'm very sorry that you have to go, " said the major, and paused, leaving it a question as to just why he was sorry They strolled on along the cliff path talking quite like old friends, till Mrs Castleford announced that 1t was time to return. The major suggested that they turn through by-path which would l lead them farther from the river and to a pleasant lane by which they could reach the hotel. On their way to this lane the path led them across the main | road for vehicles. At this point there was a sharp turn in the road, with over- hanging trees on either side. Mrs Cas- | tleford was a few yards ahead as they stepped into the road, and as she did SC she half looked back and continued talk ing to the major, who was paying the closest attention. Without the least warning big touring automobile came around the curve at high speed. The driver saw the major first, and sweryed to one side to pass him. The next mo- ment he must have run down Mrs. Cas- tleford. Then the major sprang forward, clasped her in his arms and lifted her out of harms way. The vehicle was so close that 1t struck him a glancing blow and be fell on the bank beside the road. A feeling of faintness came over him, and he closed his eyes. Then on his fore head he felt the soft touch of hand. He opened his eyes, .t the command of himself regained.
 Tell me you are not hurt" said Mrs Castleford in a low voice, her hand still on his head.
 Mot at all," answered the major with forced composure. She took away her hand. Except that my head feels rather queer" he added, taking her hand and again placing 1t on his forehead. Then he suddenly started up. ''No, I'm all right" he exclaimed. Are you hurt? I was afraid you would e."
 ed. in voice which now trembled per- ed, in voic ewhich now trembled per- ceptibly. Just a little upset by the sud denness of 1t. I'm sure you saved my life"
 Nonsense. I led you into tho danger. Can you walk up to the shade?"
 He took her arm and guided her to a seat on messy bank beneath a tree a little off from the lane which they were aiming to reach. Some one will soon be along the road" he said, and I will send for carriage. I don't like to leave you here alone"
 "Oh. that will be unnecessary" she re- piled. After a few minutes rest I'm certain l can walk to the hotel"
 Then the major sat down on the bank rather closer to the widow than he had been before he rose; and for a long time. considering that they were practical peo- pie, they sat there and talked. There came pause, and the major looked up and said:
 missed a great chance after that automobile knocked me down."
 What do you mean?"
 Ought to have played possum for about twenty minutes and made you Keep your hand on my head
 Major Kent" began the widow, se verely, but she was checked by a mo- tlon or his hand. He pointed up the lane. She looked and saw Isabel and Bob com Ing along the path in earnest conversa- ton. The major and his companion were nalr concealed by a spreading rhodo- denoron' but it Is doubtful If the others would nave seen them under any circum- stances.
 By George" said the major in a low nnina hnf