The Washington times. [volume] (Washington [D.C.]) 1902-1939, 1909-03-20
=BETTY'S BOARDER:

Nelson stood watching Wharton, who
glanced from one side of the room to
another as if seeking a method of es-
cape. He wore the helpless expression
of a man who feels that his last chance
for clenlency has disappeared.
He took a step toward the door. then
returned TO the center of the room.
where he stood clenching his lists and
striking his head in . perfect frenzy Of
fear.
While he was trying to determine
,, what he should do, the heavy footsteps
of the captain were heard coming down
the hall toward the dining room door
The next instant the police official, fol
lowed by Betty, stood before him.
Good evening. Mr.. Nelson. AS for
you, Wharton, L guess you know why
I've come
The words were delivered in a deep,
commanding voice which was not to be
mistaken. Before he could finish. how
ever, Wharton made one spring toward
J the window which Nelson had opened
in order to secure fresh air for Betty.
He crawled out quickly on the ledge.
1t was done so rapidly and was such
surprise to every one that they were
overcome with establishment for a mo-
ment-
This did not last long, however. for
loud cry, followed by the fall OF some
thing which struck far below in the
areaWay, told them that there had been
an accident.
exclaimed the captain, as he rushed to-
ward the window.
Not that window, captain" said
Nelson. That opens out on nothing
! which has the fire escape. Wharton
must have made a mistake
The captain made his way out on the
| iron landing.
! call nv chauffeur. Mr.. ellison is
outside, too added Nelson. Take my
machine and get the man to the hos
pltal as soon as possible l will look
after Mrs. Wharton"
He turned around just in time, for
rustic OF skirts told him thai Betty
was preparing to follow the captain
down the iron ladder.
Nelson seized her firmly by the
You can't go down there" he said.
IT'S no place for you. The captain
will do everything"
DO you think he is badly hurt?'
mo doubt Of it," answered Nelson
He couldn't help being pretty badly
done UP after such a fall
he listened, but there was no. sound
| from below with the exception OF the
voices of the men who had gone to
Wharton's assistance.
"Oh, was too harsh with him. cried
Betty.
mo. You said the right thing. There
was nothing else for you TO do.
didn't tell you all, but you will grieve
all the rest Of your life II you don't
| know everything. The whole truth is,
| he was planning to leave you for the
| other woman Forgive me for telling
ycu this. but it's best you should know. %
| "Oh." said Betty. How terriblep
Yes. ellison can prove II 10 you. He
/ found il out"
Betty said nothing. She was merely
| wondering what the future held IL store
| for her when Nelson took 10th her
| hands tenderly in his.
| said. You have had more than your
share: But it's all over now, I hope.
over forever and ever"
| He placed a hand against each Of her
| cheeks and lifted tie sorrowfm lace
with It's saucy nose Her eyes were
still wet with tears.
You're going to be very happy,
Am IT. said Betty. doubtfully. Il
| don't see how that can ever be"
/ But I do said Nelson as he looked
at her so long and so tenderly that She
| was forced 10 drop her gaze II do,
| for / intend 70 spend my life in max
| ing you happy We viii make Up for
Betty looked at him with wondering
| eyes
Perhaps 7 shouldn't say this to you
| now, Betty" continued Nelson, "but ]
! love you, and I have loved YOU from
| the moment you stood "A the door when
| j came TO apply for rom and board.
| You are the little girl I have been
| looking for all my life. I knew you
| existed somewhere, and I believed that
| the day was coming when I should
Some girls had one charm. Others
had others that / admired. but none