The Bon Homme County independent. [volume] (Tabor, S.D.) 1904-1913, 1911-04-13

ment. Retribution is the only certain
thing in this world"
"Oh, you're no worse than the aver
age man. But the average man Is jolly
bad" Bennington added gravely. But
you. Dick: I'm not worrying about you.
Perhaps the writer of that letter sees
good in you that you can't see yourself
good that Is liz you but of which you
are unconscious. One thing. you have
never besmirched the talents God gave
you. Everything you have done has
gen clean and whoiesone-like your
self"
II wish I could believe that! But
I've had no ties, Jack, none. You can't
keep TO course without a compass.
The real good in life. the good that
makes life worth while is the toll for
those you love love nobody, not even
myself But this girl rather woke me
up. began to look inward. as they
say. 30 far I've not discovered much
good. I'd give good deal to meet this
writer"
Doubtless you will find her charm
ing"
Suddenly Warrington turned upon his
friend. But what l want to know is,
what brought you around here this
time o. night? never knew you to do
anything without a definite purpose
That's precisely what I've been
waiting for you TO lead up TO. The
truth is Bennington hesitated. His
hand. idlJ trailing over the desk came
into contact with something smooth
and soft. 1t was a pair OF white Kid
gloves, n woman's. Absently he drew
them through his hand. He was only
half conscious of his action, and he did
not observe Warrington's sudden agi--
tation. "The truth Is, I've gone and
done it. I'm going to be married In
June, and / want you to be my best
man."
warrington's hand went out impul-
siyely.
hOh. felt II in my bones when your
card came in" he said, re-arranging
the glasses. Lucky woman! Long life
to you. Jack, and long happiness"
Thank you, Dick" Ceremonial re-
currence OF drinking a healthy
"Now, out with 1t. Who is she, and
all about herr"
Dick, I'm genuinely sorry, but I'm
still under bona OF silence"
More mysterics!" cried Warrington,
with evident discomfort.
"OnIy for week. when, IL you say.
We'll have breakfast here In these very
rooms"
Done Only must say you're a bit
nara on me tonight.
I'm sorry"
Let me see: I'll describe her for you.
Beautiful, accomplished. an American"
Right you are Why don't you get
married yourself?"
Bah! No, Jack. doubt IL shall
ever be lucky enough to find the one
woman. I've been so busy that I've
never had time to hunt for happiness"
Bennington wandered about, from
nj RI no
dagger, there turquoise in the matrix,
and again some inlaid wood from Sor-
rento. From these his interest Travelled
to and fingered over some celebrated
autographs.
Happiness is peculiar thing" went
on the dramatist. us it far less dis
| tinctive than fame or fortune. They
sometimes knock at your door, but
/, happiness steals in without warning,
and often leaves as mysteriously as 1t
comes.
Bennngtons cigar had gone out. He
| leaned upon the desk and took his light
| from the chimney.
Cant you bunk here for the night
| There's plenty of ROOM" said War
Impossible, Dick. leave at mid
| night for home 1 must be there to-
morrow morning. I'm afraid of trouble
| In the shops.
why the deuce don't you get rid Of
| the shOps?"
They're the handiwork Of my faith
| err, and I'm proud to follow his steps
| Bennington's eyes were no longer at
peace; they sparkled with defiance.
| Half past ten!" suddenly. II must he
going. My luggage is still at the hotel
| God bless you. Dick"
Their hands met once again.
you know, Jack, that love you best
OF all men,
you are sure there is no woman"
Warrington laughed easily. "Ah, II
| there was woman! l expect to be
| lonely some day"
Bennington put on his hat and gloves
and Warrington followed him into the
hall. Once the prospective bridegroom
| paused, as IL he had left something un-
said, but he seemed to think the better
| Of silence and went on.
The door closed, and Warrington
went slowly back to his desk, his mind
filled with pleasant recollections OF
youth.
TT is quite evident that you forgot
me-" said the woman, faint mirthless
smile stirring her lips. 'Itsw was very
close in there. and couldfhear moth
ing" She placed a hand on her fore
head, swayed, and closed her eyes for
second time.
"You are faint" he cried, springing
toward her.
1T il nothing" she replied. with a
repelling gesture. John Bennington.
was 1t not?"
Yes" His eyes grew round with
wonder.
II was going to keep it secret as long
as I could, but see 1t Is useless. He
| is the man have promised to marry"
| Her voice had a singular quietness
Warrington retreated to his desk.
bennington. You are going to
marry John Bennington" DULY.
| He sat down abruptly and stared at
| her.
CONTINUED Next Weekly