The silver messenger. (Challis, Idaho) 1890-1912, 1906-08-28
BIanChe'S
Love Affair

Seymour Chaplain was the sun VI
one of the wealthiest and aristocratlc
merchants of Philadelphia. He was
not particularly bright, so his father
determined to send him to college
Shortly after his arrival in New
York he made the acquaintance OF an
actress whose dramatic ability was
confined principally to her pedestrian
performances. Her name was blanche
Blanche soon discovered that hel
admirer was the scion of wealthy
Ind aristocratic Philadelphia family
ind she determined to set her cap iol
pim. AS Seymour was very suscept~
;ble young man, she met with but littF
difficulty. Her motives were strictly
honorable, as her object was matri-
mony. In the meantime, however, she
was not averse to accepting presents
from the enamored youth. She also
allowed him to pay for the champagne
they mutually enjoyed. In fact, her
condescensions went so far that she
allowed him to carry her pet poodle
when they took a stroll in Central
park. 1t was generally understood
that they were engaged.
Mr.. Chaplain, Sr., was very liberal
in supplying his sons wants, but the
extraordinary demands made on him
finally excited his anxiety. A report
came to his ears that his son had pre-
sented an actress with a very expen
sive diamond ring Seymour was
somewhat surprised when he receivet
letter from his parent to the effec,
that he, the aforesaid parent, would be
in New York next day, as he desired to
see himself how much progress the
young man was making in his studies
Seymour showed the letter to the OBJ.
ject of his affections.
Don't despair" he said; "the course
of true love never did run smooth AS
soon as we are married we will sur
prise the old gentleman and ask his
forgiveness. He will grant it on the
spot, and you will be admitted into the
most select circles of Philadelphia So
ciety."
This was what Blanche wanted very
much, but she had her misgivings.
On the day following Blanche had
just returned to her rooms from a re-
hearsal when there came a knock al
the door.
Come in"
An elderly gentleman wearing eye
glasses and other garments, of course
and a very aristocratic air, entered
His worst fears were realized.
My name is Chaplain, of Philadel.
phia,-the father of Seymour Chap.
lain,' he added significantly.
please be seated" said Blanche
with shipper.
you love my son."
And he loves me-" said Blanche
with downcast eyes. She made an eff
fort to blush, but if she succeeded the
result was not visible, as the paint OF
her face was too thick.
And l suppose he wants to marry
you," said the visitor, smiling ironicaI
ly.
Eyes, sir" replied Blanche, de
family
I will probably have something t.
say about that. will be candid witt
| you. Seymour win never marry Won
gave my word to an old friend year.
ago that Seymour would marry hi.
daughter. A Philadelphia who be
longs to one of the first families neye,
goes back on his word. You must re
turn his presents; 1 will buy then
from you" A
Blanche was absorbed in thought
There were numerous New Workers
who would squander thousands upol
her, who would even fly with her t,
Europe, if she were free.
You have my sons diamond rim,
on your finger now. tits an heirloom
will give you $4,000 for it. 1t il
only worth $4,000, but I'll give yo,
five times its worth, provided you re
linquish your rights on my son. sal,
old Chaplain. Ha
MY love for Seymour is wortl
more than all the priceless gems O
the orient"
well, say $4,000. will write GU
a check"
Never, not for millions"
"I'll give you $4,000"
Blanche was silent. We'll, L mus
be going" said old Mr.. Chaplain
opening the door
"Say $4,000 and it's bargain.
said Blanche.
Mr.. Chaplain returned to the tabl
and sat down. He produced his Chez
book and with a fountain pen file
out the check for the amount in fayo
of the bearer. Blanche handed hin
the ring and the old gentleman too
his leave. # rE1
An hour later Seymour Chaplai
made his usual daily visit
$50 you have come to bid me fare
well, Seymour, but the $4,000 chez
your father gave me is poor comper
sation for your love-" and she signe
heavily. -
MY father! He amt in New Yor
at ALL He telegraphed that he coul
not come until tomorrow. What ar
you talking about?"
20. my diamond ring! My damon
ring!" shrieked Blanche. 81 though
it was your father. Where, o wher
is my ring?"
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