Middletown transcript., 1912-08-24

were its furnishings at variance with
its architectural elegance; on every
hand soft colors met the eye, in rugs
of ancient pattern; in tapestries, SUBJ
dued; in the upholstering Of Breton
oak A eliminating note was in the
center of the room, where a great
bunch of roses opened wide their
petals.
But briefly, however, the clown per"
mitted himself to survey, or study,
these details of refinement and lux
ury; the swift eager interest that
had shone from the dark eyes gave
way to an expression, lack-luster and
stupid; his countenance once more
resumed its blank, stolid aspect. As
If unconscious Of the anomalous figure
he presented, mechanically had he
seated himself; was gazing down,
when through a doorway, opposite the
one by which the commandant had
left, slender form appeared. Under
the heavy, whitened lids slight
movement Of the clowns eyes alone
betrayed he was aware Of that new
presence. A moment the girl stood
there, her glance resting on the gro
tesque, bent figure before her; then
with a Quizzical lift Of the delicate
brows she entered.
You believe, no doubt, in making
yourself at homer
Crossing to the table, once more
she stopped; her figure, sheathed in
a gown Of brocade of rose, glowed
bright and distinct in contrast to the
faint, vari-colored tints Of ancient
embroideries on the wall. Above, the
light threw a simmer on the deep
FURNISHED gold of her hair; the sweep
ing lashes yelled the half-disdainful,
half-amused look in her brown eyes.
"Or, perhaps, you are one Of those
who think the peasants will some day
sit, while the lords and ladies stand?"
Il don't know" he managed to an
,swer, but got up. only to appear more
awkward.
"You do not seem to know very
much, lndeed!" she returned, her tone
changing to one Of cold severity. mot
enough, perhaps, to perceive the mis-
chief you may cause! That play Of
yours. which witnessed today"
"You! Today? Your Ladyship
was"
YES" imperiously. 81 was there!
And heard and saw the effect it had
on the people; how it stirred all
their baser passions! But you, Of
course, could not know-or care,
only of the sous!-that, In
stead of teaching lesson, the piece
would only move them to anger, or
resentment"
'T-your Ladyship-great lords have
commended the play" Il
Great lords!" she began, but
stopped; regarded her listener and
shrugged her shoulders.
A few moments silence lasted, the
fellow apparently not knowing what
to say, or If he was expected to say |
while. for her part, the girl
no longer looked at him, but at the
flowers, taking one, which she turned |
In her fingers. (
"Your Ladyship would command |
me-"
ITO give the play no more!"
"But-" Expostulation shons from
his look.
'Tn which event you shall be suf-
ered to go free tomorrow"
But my livelihood! What shall I
10, if I am forbidden to earn"
She gave him a colder look 'I have
spoken to the commandant; told him
what l had seen, and that l did not
-hink you intended to make trouble.
Your case will, therefore, not be re.
ported to his Excellency.- Only" with
warning fash. 'if you are again
taught giving the play, you must ex- !
)ect to receive your deserts"
"Of course! If your Ladyship COM
dejectedly.
Il do! But, as an Offset to the cop
'ers you might otherwise receive, 1
will give you sum of money suf1-
lent to compensate you"
Your Ladyship is so generous!" He
nade an uncouth gesture Of gratitude
nd covetousness. May l ask your
how much"
How much?" scornfully. "But l
oppose"