Waterbury evening Democrat., 1906-05-29


 soldier--Mr West, as you say, called him spy. There was. probably. too, some allusion to Aaron Burr, which my friend construed as an insult I glean, further, that this MT. West is suspicious of our presence here at the fort. This idea, groundless as it is, we must take swift pains to remedy"
 The last sentence, with it's slight touch of hauteur, failed to impress the commander, who, fussing and fuming, gave few sharp orders to subordinates. Then he turned to her:
 "I am much obliged to you, Mrs. Creighton, for this information. The ball is nearly over. have given orders for the appearance in this room. at it's close, of the parties concerned. Do you care to wait here and see the resuit?"
 Mrs. Creighton kept her seat, await ing developments.
 The colonel excused himself. and for a few moments she sat alone, watching the door, It was suddenly opened-the man whom she heard denouncing Wins low entered, and after him his compan- ion. The former, unaware of her pres ence, gave vent to volley of conjectures as to the cause of the summons
 Upon a discovery of the ladys pres ence he flung himself down, muttering low.
 Shortly after, Winslow appeared In the doorway, with Lavender on his arm. 'sWhy, mother the latter said, gayly, "how solemn you look! And Lieut.. West? An. then, perhaps we are called as witnesses in court-martial?"
 But. subdued by the tense, expectant air of the others, she took seat in won- dering silence.
 In the midst of an oppressive pause the colonel entered.
 Browning, he seated himself in the largest chair, and twisting his undisci- plined mustache, proceeded at once to the subject. He told how information of the proposed duel had come to him, and concluded by pounding smphatical- ly on the arm of his chair.
 But, thank God, I know my business, and can stop this disgraceful affair. The guardhouse and reduction for you, lieutenant; as for you, sir" and he turned sharply to Winslow, "I am only sorry that you are not under my au- thority. Though you have forgotten the duty you owe your host, will try to remember that you are my guest. :" The commander collapsed in his seat, his flabby frame exhausted by the effort to keep his rage within bounds, For now fairly warmed to the subject, and in sight of the culprits, he was as eager to administer punishment as he had at first been willing to condone.
 There was a pause, then Winslow spoke: ITO you. Col. Mitchell, wish to apologize. if have trespassed upon your kindness. But, pardon me, there are things to which one cannot submit tamely. AS an officer and a gentle man, you will understand, and give warrant for my conduct. I am grieved, however, for the annoyance to you and the ladies'" and with a bow. at once proud and deferential, he took his seat.
 Lavender listened. pale and trem. bling. What had happened? She looked from one serious face to an other, her own clouded with alarm. Mrs. Creighton fastened grave eyes upon the colonel.
 Lieut.. West toyed with his scabbard belt in gloomy attention: his friend whispered: See how the old man turns from red to redder yet His moods are more kaleidoscopic than usual 'Tis the shifting of many glasses. eh?" and he nudged the other playfully. But the presiding officer turned upon him with a sudden stern ness. "Silencei Now. then, Lieut. West, have you any excuse-any reason to give why I should not summon a court-martial to inquire into your case?"
 Rising, the soldier saluted. When g glove is thrown at my feet. sir. pick it up, and the consequences be-Imean,I do not take time to consider the con sequences. he saluted again, and dropped 10 his chair.
 A flash of approval crossed the su. perior's officers face at the bold reply, but he quickly changed it into a frown, and clearing his throat with a sudden "ahem," that startled everybody, ad. dressed winslow.
 Pray explain. sir, your provocation for the challenge"
 winslov was on his feet in an in- stant. The title of spy is one at which the tamest blood must revolt The least heroic one of us must give the lie to that word"
 He paused. but remained standing, glaring. white and furious. at the svaggering subordinate.
 He called you a spy?- the colonel asked. Then as Winslov merely bowed. he demanded: By what au- thorityi West, do you make that state ment--'
 But winslou interposed hotly: T beg your pardon. but inquiry into his reason seems to temporarily justify the odious term IL Is but right that you demand retrsction without further dis eussion. which I. on my pert. decline" '''It does no. argue well sir. that you resent an investigation Then he addressed Mrs Creighton: You brought news of this. madam be good enough to tell all you know