The citizen-Republican. (Scotland, Bon Homme County, S.D.) 1???-19??, 1911-04-13
ment. Retrloution is the only certain

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 in you but of which you
are unconscious. One thing, you have
lever besmirched the talents Goo gave
you. Everything you nave done has
been clean n understandable your
self"
Il wish 1 could believe that! But
I've had no ties. Jack, none. You can't
keep to a 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, So far I've not discovered much
good. I'd give a good deal to meet this
writer
Doubtless you will find her charm
ing
Suddenly Warrington turned upon his
friend. But what 1 want to know is.
What brought you around here this
time o. night? 1 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. idly trailing over the desk, came
into contact with something smooth
and soft. 1t was a pair of white kid
gloves, a woman's. Absently he drew
them through his hand. He was only
half conscious of his action, and he did
not observe W~arrington's sudden agi-
tation. "The truth is, I've gone and
done it. I'm going to be married in
June, n l want you to be my best
man.
Warrington's hand went out impul-
sively.
ooh. I felt it in my bones when your
card came in he said. r~e-arranging
the glasses. Lucky woman! Long life
to you, Jack. and long happiness!"
Thank YOU, Dick" Ceremonial re-
c%urrence of drinking a healthy
Now, out with it. Who is she, and
all about herr
Dick. I'm genuinely sorry, but I'm
still under bond OF silence"
More mysteries!" cried Warrington.
with evident discomfort.
"Only for a week, when, If you say,
Well nave breakfast here in these very
rooms"
Done. Only I must say you're a bit
hard 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, I doubt If 1 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
object to object. Here he picked up a
dagger, there a 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 a peculiar thing went |
on the dramatist. rs it far less dis
tinctive thar fame or fortune. They !
sometimes knock at you door, but |
happiness steals in without warning, |
and often leaves as m~ysteriously as it
comes"
Bennington's 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
rington.
Impossible. Dick. 1 leave at mid
night for home. I must be there to-
morning. I'm afraid Of trouble
why the deuce don't you get rid OF
the shops?"
They're the handiwork of my faith
er, and I'm proud to follow his steps,
beIIlfLfStCuS eyes were no longer at /
they sparkled with defiance.
nafi-past tent suddenly. Il must be
going. My luggage is still at the hotel. !
God bless you, Dick"
Their hands met once again.
You know, Jack. that 1 love you best
OF all men
You are sure there is no woman2"
Warrington laughed easily. "Ah, II
there WIS e woman! / expect to be
lonely scrne day"
Bennington put on his hat and gloves
ard Warrington followed him into the
paused, as If he had left something un-
said, but he seemed to think the better
IF silence and went on.
Tbs door closed. and Warrington
went slowly rack to ais desk, his mind
filed with pleasant recollections of
youth.
1T IS quite evident tina yn. ee-Ss. |
noe said the woman. a faint ~narthless
stirring her lips. 1T was very
close in there, ~ ] could hear aosh-
ing She placed q hand on her fore
head, swayed. and closed her eyes for
a second time.
-1ou are faint" he cried, springing
her
1T is nothing. she replied. with a
gesture. John Bennington,
MAS * act %.
Yes" Ills eyes grew refund with
Wonder.
II was going to keep It secret as long
i could. but I see it is useless. He
is the ma / have promised to marry
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 Week.
tMEl