American Falls press. [volume] (American Falls, Idaho) 1907-1937, 1912-09-05
CHAPTER XIV.
Again the Lady.

l must think rapidly, and act as
quickly. Yet, if what Grant had said
was true, that he had already posted
guards on each side the house, then
escape by daylight was practically i'm
possible. From all l could see there
was no concealment close at hand,
and while the fellows were without
arms, yet their numbers were sufficient
to make any attempt at running their
dimes extra hazardous. And l had much
at risk, for if taken ii would be as a
spy, and not a mere prisoner of war.
There was no place for concealment in
the library, but there might be up
stairs, in the attic, or on the ROOF.
The chance was worth the trial, and
there could be no better time for such
an experiment than while the three ofi-
GERS were at breakfast. Whatever
servants remained about the house
would be busily employed also, and
probably l should have the entire up
per portion to myself. Deciding to
make the venture l had my hand on
the knob of the door, when it was
opened quietly from without, and |
was startled by the sudden appearance
of Peter. Whatever excitement may
have prevailed among the other mem
'bers of this peculiar household this
model servitor remained with dignity
unruftled. He surveyed me calmly,
rubbing his bald head with one hand.
"You will pardon the delay, sir" he
said calmly. But circumstances have
arisen changing the original plans.
Will o kindly accompany me-"
But where, Peter? l don't wish to
be seen by these new arrivals"
"Have no fear, sir" condescending-
ly, and with an authoritative wave of
the hand. The officers are at table,
and will know nothing of our move
ments."
l followed meekly enough, and he
led the way up the broad stairs to the
second story, turning to the left in the
upper hall, and coming to a pause be-
fore a partially opened door. A glimpse
within made me deem it a music room,
although I could see merely along one
wall.
you will enter, sir, while 1 return
to the guests below"
With one glance into this perfectly
expressionless countenance, half sus-
picious of some new trick, | stepped
across the threshold. The curtains
were drawn, and the room seemed
dark after the sun-glare of the hall.
advanced a step or two, almost con
vinced the apartment was unoccupied,
when a voice addressed me.
Under more favorable conditions,
Major Lawrence, it would give me
pleasure to welcome you to the hospi'
talities of Elmhurst."
swung about as on a pivot and saw
her standing with n hand upon the
high back Of a chair, her blue eyes
smiling merrily. felt the hot rush OF
blood to my cheeks, the quick throb OF
pulse, with which l recognized her.
was so surprised that, for the instant
the words l sought to utter choked IN
my throat.
You have not suspected" she
asked. "You did not know this was
my homer"
Nothing was farther from my
thoughts" l exclaimed hastily. All
knew of your home was that 1t was
situated somewhere in the Jerseys. But
wait, perhaps l begin to understand
the lieutenant who brought me here
MS voice has been echoing in my ears
all night in familiarity. He is some
near relative of yours-this Eric?
oh, you have overheard? YOU
Know the name through hearing cap
tain Grant speak?"