The Forrest City times., 1908-12-18

unconseiously, and Esther tried to be lieve that he knew nothing of his pain. l Four more men appeared with laden blanket; this was a winding sheet. The men spoke no word, and were uncoy- cred Their burden too. they bore on to the last car. Three more followed. one walking feebly. supported by the others. the conductor and brakeman of the supply train. He was pale, hat less and coatless. with scarlet stain on neck and collar. Yet he was con scious, speaking freely. Don't mind me- he was saying.
 Alfred" Esther sprang toward the trio, and caught one limp hand swinging by his side
 He strengthened with sudden vigor; wave of color warmed his pale cheek. Stella Stella," he repeated, and stood still, gazing at her.
 Put him in here!" she cried, now awake, and ready for action. I'll take care of Mr Vincent-make him comfortable"
 I'm not hurt" Alfred interrupted, its scarcely a scratch! l must help the boys in the other car. They"
 The conductor interposed. "Obey orders, Vincent You're used up. We've help enough in there. You've done your part.
 The two men, not needing his pro test. lifted him into the eabbage-car.
 Now. Miss Anthony. let me help you in."
 No, not now, thank you. I've something to do first. You're not ready to start. are you?"
 ''No it will be a half-hour anyway; we must make one more trip to the wreck"
 'I can get in by myself Don't think about me" Even the conductor. accustomed to command, yielded to the finality in her voice, and hurried on.
 Can you sit against the car side few minutes, Alfred? You won't faint?"
 "Faint?" he secuted Indeed no. But where are you going? Don't leave me. Stella,' he called a little wildly as she stepped back pace.
 Perplexities, embarrassments, were forgotten. In this solemn moment of tragedy they resumed their old rela. tions, unquestioning.
 I'll be back in a minute. Herei You may keep this for mel" She tossed him her hat "A hat is a pretty sure anchor for woman, isn't it2" she said. smiling up at him, and was out of sight around the end of the train.
 She could not help the gayety in her voice. The world was alive once more. Life was beautiful in spite ot the grewsome sights in the ear bs> yond. Since she could do nothing for them she would not think of them Alfred was here; hurt, yes, but not unto death, not even to great pain. For one little moment she would self. ishly hug her joy.
 Down in a little swale, just before they had halted, she had noticed the bunch grass growing long and rank She flew at it, tore it up, handful by handful. till she had high pile. which she gathered in her arms and carried to the car. Pitching it in, she was of again, needless of Alfreds protest Three times she made the short jour. ney, pausing at the door after tho third load to catch her breath.
 Aren't you coming in this time. You must let me help you" he said, partly rising, but falling back.
 No. no, Don't move! You aren't able to- and if you do I won't come,- she replied emphatically, though her face was shining. Turn your head away, and don't look till I say Here,
 T can't turn away from you, Stel. la!' he said whimsically, yet tender ly; and her eyes dropped. Still. she did not move,
 -"Oh, come, dearest. won't you' Don't wait so long. Ill-Iu turn My true love sent me letter to turn back my head Did you ever play Green Gravel when you were a little tad? My head is turned back"
 Esther never knew how she maa- aged the climb through the great gaping door, yards above the slopins ground still, she was there, standing before him.
 He spoke no word, but gazed up into her tender, bending face. Light speech that had bridged the first tense moments was impossible now. Pain misunderstanding, pride, prudence, even the years, fled. She loved him. loved him! Nothing else counted.
 Lean down. Stella. sweetheart.-