The Montgomery advertiser., 1906-12-16
2 THE CHRISTMAS BURGLAR WHO BUTTED IN
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justice to say that I would be inapene- ed by neroenary motives alone"
 Two great tears stood in the Dig blue eyes and threatened to roll upon the soft. smooth cheek.
 Raymond tried to remain firm, but why the devil did women resort to tears in an argument?. Silly things, they req soned with their hearts always.
 "oh, beg your pardon If have mis- taken your motives or have done you an injustice to ypa say, l apologize.
 There was a short silence, while the freIight lit up the faces of the boy and girl--truly two very melancholy Vis- ages for Christmas eve.
 The young man consulted his watch. Don't forget we are due al the theatre in five minutes. Get on your wraps
 Do you think I will go with you and sit through a miserable evening" when it is corAie opera and I shan't dare to laugh. No wont-I won't"
 But l won't release you from the engagement-you made the date with me week ago and I insist that you go Remember it's the last night. You will not allow me to act the cad by not escorting you. l gusas you'd go with McAllister."
 "oh, we'll" laughed the girl, nervous IL fly, 'Tll humor you and go. Wait, shan't detain you long" Presently she returned a beautiful vision in white satin and lace. On her aair rested a diamond coiffure that ! sparkled in the soft light; altogether | the most fascinating creature this young man ever looked upon. For a 1 moment something tugged at, his heart strings and made him feel that he must throw pride to the wind and beg for forgiveness. for her .s take him back | fa hay haurf Rlf nOf -Vsf
 They stepped Into the carriage and were driven rapidly to- the theatpe. A l pleasant evening was. spent in spite I of their strained relations, as they were compelled to admit tC themselves on returning
 They dined at a favorlte cafe and when the pair reached Miss ormond's home, the hour was late. Raymond. az the night was very cold, accepted her indifferent invitation to come in and get warm. There was the faintest hint of fire in the grate, and for a minute the young man stood warming his fin- gers. The girl indiffe Fently turned her back upon him. By now he was getting used to being snubbed. He was enjoy 1 ing 1t immensely.
 Well, l must be going, Grace
 Miss Ormond, If you please" T say l must he eoing-Grace-as have krpt you up 600 long already"
 So I was thinking" You might treat a fellow a little more civil--when it's goodbye for the last time. you know"
 "I don't see that it should cause you a pang of regret-after you are willing enough for us to part" i He caught her hand in his--such a little delicate, aristocratic hand it was, and she tried to draw it away. It was no use--she had not the strength.
 You might at least be mercful, even if you are strong; ,let me go." ! T will nOt-untH l tell you some thing"
 i You will or I shall scream" l He caught her in his arms and kiss i ed her just in time to smother q faint cry of Heb. help
 Again and again he kissed her. And she struggled bravely.
 Then it was that the Christmas E Irg l lar came in with a rush He had been waiting for Raymond t. go home and had heard the girls resistance. l Rushing up ne cried: shall I knock h!s block off, Miss?" ! They both loked up at what they thought was Santa Claus But instead saw very determined looking. burly fellow with a clenehed hst and q deep sense O. his obligation Co protect the girl from this fellow who was making I her cry.
 it was the supreme moment of Miss oTmonds life.
 Well I'd like to know what right you have to inteFfere?' aha nr'sd