Waterbury evening Democrat., 1906-05-26

derstand. Until our mock trial of to- day had no knowledge of any suspi- cion against the character of our un- dertaking, its chief, or those engaged in 1t. As peaceful citizens under the flag we reached your island, intending to join in the settlement of new lands in the southwest. Call us pioneers soldiers of fortune-what you will, but traitors -ah, it is too absurd!"
 Then, more seriously, he added: T am in the dark as to the specific charges. It appears, however, that Col. Burr and your husband are sus- pected of design to overthrow the ex- isting government and set up another in some vague part of the south. I cannot account for all this farrago of nonsense and bubbles, except on the score of political intrigue. And most of us are helpless to fight that"
 Then you are not politieian?" the lady asked, smiling at the warmth of his manner.
 No, madam, God save the mark! l am an emigrant-a homeseeker."
 There was lull; she looked about the desecrated room
 T deeply grieve, sir, that have DO hospitality to grant-no home. Mir. Blennerhasset went away two nights ago. He disliked the stealth, the se- crecy, but would not wait for the laws delay. Next day the militia descended upon us, and we have since been at the mercy of these lawless administrators of the law
 And what excuse do they offer for this outrage?"
 They tell us that the presidents proclamation has reached Wood coun- ty, and they must carry out his orders to stop our reasonable designs MT. Blennerhasset foresaw this, and we had arranged that was to follow in our family boat to the mouth of the Cumberland. This is his meeting place with Col. Burr, and from there we were all to go south together"
 All" Before Winslow's mind rusned a swift picture of the girl he had seen braving the bayonets and men. "All' must include her.
 He inquired, tentatively: And Miss Creighton?"
 "She and her mother are my guests: my plans must include them. But, alas! for those plans since I am re- fused the boat. pleaded, commanded ito no avail. The authorities at Ma,i- etta are frightened by Jenferson's vague proclamation, which tells little, and threatens much. They have re- fused me the use of my own boat. I know not which way to turn" and hunted, desperate look crept into her tired face.
 Winslow sat In . brown study for . moment. Suddenly he spoke. Come with us. Our boat is not g fine nor a ,commQdious one. but Its best Is q your service. Come s'--s-
 Overcome with relief, the tears filled her eyes. 'T am weak. and cannot thank you. You are kind, and kindness is luxury we soon learn to do with
 
 out. But while thank you, cannot accept your offer. Besides my sons, l have two guests. cannot leave them"
 You need not leave thcm," Wins;ow urged. "I will explain your situation to my comrades. but for their consent l can vouch. We will find room for everybody-such as 1t is."
 Mrs. Blennerhasset's sensible. earn est face relaxed In grateful smile. She took his hand in silence.
 Then let us consider it settled" he said, cheerfully. 'and prepare to s.art at dawn tomorrow. To champion ladies in distress will give new zest to our enterprise"
 "I see, sir. wayfarers. even traitors. though you are called, you are to be knights-errant, too"