Wausau pilot. [volume] (Wausau, Wis.) 1896-1940, 1904-10-18
CHAPTER XvIII.-tContinued.)


There is another estate further up
the river. believer" resumed Fox.
Yes answered Mari; "there is one
ten miles up, owned by Lopez Ga-onne.
say Ten miles up-I mean his boundary
is there. His dwelling is over fifteen
miles
Il thought | should 90 up there"
Laroon would have asked more ques-
tiOns, but at this juncture the meal was
prepared and the guest moved to the
table.
The pirate captain had noticed not only
some pecuharities in the voice and face
OF his guest, but the effect that had been
produced on Paul. He had seen it all,
even to Il look which Mary herself gave
the newcomer. After the man had taken
his seat at the table, Laroon CON menced
to pace up and down the room, end when
he was where he could look upon his
guests f;tce, he did so most keenly. At
length He stopped Il his walk and beck
oned for Paul to follow him, at the same
time taking d lighted casdle from the
mantel and leaving the rom.
Just as the youth closed the door after
him the guest had finished his repast,
and with Il quick, decided movement, he
arose and moved close to Mary's side.
The maiden did not shrink from him nor
shudder, for there was something so nat
uraily kind in his countenance, and then
he wore such an appearance OF modesty
and goodness that she felt rather drawn
toward him by some inward force.
You are child of Mr.. LaroonT' he
said. inquiringly, as he sat down by her
side.
Il am-am-yes. | suppose ward"
the maiden answered, with some embar-
rassment.
But not a very happy one. l should
say" remarked the man, at the same
time placing his hand upon her Shout
der.
Il have been sick. sir said Mary,
feeling sure that he alluded to her looks.
All physical bodily ailment? Then
Your mind is we'll In spirit and soul YOU
are at peace"
Mary started and Gazed fxedly into
the mans face There was something
Ike smile upon it, but it was very
sad and melancholy one.
'Mayhap l know not your meaning"
she at length murmured. She could not
feel offended with him, for his very look
and tone forbade it.
The guest cast his eyes about the room,
~ If TO assure himself that they two
were alone together. and then said:
Il have been informed of some cir
cumstances which led me to suppose that
you were not very happy her". Have l
been informed correctly!'
Mary burst into tears. The question
touched upon spring that opened ey-
cry wound afresh.
The stranger drew one of her small,
white hands within his own, and then he
drew her head upon his bosom. 1t was
very strange movement but Mary did
not resist it, No. she piilowed her head
there as though it were her home, nor
did she seem to think that he was a
stranger who thus supported her.
Weep not now, my child" he said, in
tones as sweet as a mothers voice. IF
the pi-captain should return and find
you thus, he would wonder at it."
And do you know, then. my guar
dams character?" asked Mary, raising
her head quickly, and speaking earnestly.
Il do know Mari Laroon well, and |
know his business. But let that drop
where it is. | can perhaps help you"
And you have known me before?"
uttered Mary, half imploringly.
Not exactly; but | think l have
known these who did once know you. /
promised person that if ever l came
across you, l would help You if it lay in
my power and l suppose L must now
keep my promise"
What do you know Of me or mine?
oh. tell me if sou can!'
"-sh! Here comes Laroon. know
nothing that would benefit you now to
know. But take hope. l must leave you
in the morning, but / shall return. l
have come all the way here only to help
you, and l tell you thus early of my
mission that you may have more to hope
for. Be careful now, and do rot let him
see that you have learned anything. All
may depend upon your secrecy and care"
And so saying, he resumed his seat,
awaiting the appearance of Laroon.