Wood County reporter. [volume] (Grand Rapids [i.e. Wisconsin Rapids], Wis.) 1857-1923, 1907-02-28

''No doubt" he said, dryy eff one does not sub
scribe to the creeds he is written down hereto Yet
Wayland if we ride forth to a savage death tomorrow,
will meet it with more faith in Christ than l.
The years indeed have not left spotless but have
never wavered from the truths my mother taught me-
In an instant my own thought spanned the leagues
OF forest to my distant home; and Choked back sob
within my throat.
1t IS our mothers love that makes all better men,"
said gravely. and whatever may befaI us upon the
morrow, that God of whom they taught us will be true
The words are spoken in the right spirit he re-
turned, sobery, and have the soldier ring like best to
hear. If it chance that we both forth from this
venture in fe should be most glad know you BETTER
cts rather my wish to begin friendship before that
time of trial" said eagerly and with extended hand
The young mans strong and thoughtful face lighted
up; but his eyes were resting upon the form of the
sentry above US and he did not speak. "Ronan?' /
questioned somewhat doubtfuly, Il have long wished
10 ask you the OF the friction that apparently
exists between Captain Head and the officers of this
garrison; but have felt it none of my business. |
cannot but realize you not in his good graCes al
though he appears to me to be brave and capable man.
"He is bOth," the instant and manly reply;
fOr all that be has constantly turned for counsel in
military matters to others than his officers In
stead of conding his orders us and asking judgment
upon his plans, he has been swayed from the beginning
by Indian advice; and it is only natural for
such unjust and dSCOurteOuS treatment Moreover,
each move thus far made has proved to be mistake"
'He does indeed seem strangely headstrong," [
admitted reluctantly recalling to mind the words
uttered in the room beyond my bed; "but surely his
conference with the chiefs has resulted well'
The young officer turned quickly and faced me, his
eyes full of emotion. "That remains to be decided"
he exclaimed. "Such old frontiersmen as Captain
Wells and John Kinze say that pledge only hides black
treachery. They urged him most earnestly, for an
hour reconsider his decision and give up the
immediate evacuation of the post. But he fully believes
he put faith in those lying, murderous hounds
yonder So certain is Kinzie of trouble that be has
to march forth with US, sending his family away
by boat in hope that his influence may hold back the
savages from open attack while Wells declares that he
will ride forth with backened face as becomes Miami
who goes to certain death in battle. These men are
FOOLS strangers to savage warfare and Indian deceit
yet in spite of their warning, Captain Heald per
sist driving forth into the very angs of the wolves
Brave ay, he is indeed brave the point of rashness
but this bids fair to be fatal bravery to all of us, who
must obey his orders"
AS lifted my eyes, beheld, crossing the parade
through the of equipment scattered here and
there, De Croix and Mademoiselle. With half
muttered excuse, drew hastily back into the pro
teCting shadow of the stockade; and they slowly
passed, heard him testing lightly, and saw her laugh
ing, with a side-glance up at his face
ITOT1T