The Winslow mail., 1913-09-13
CHAPTER XIX.
A Full Confession.

mere were TWO more dances Sched-
uled on the program. The last of
these had begun before the infantry
sergeant returned, and, apologizing
for his long absence, resumed his du-
ties at the door Across the room,
Hamlin's eyes met those of Miss Nc
Donald, where she danced with an
unknown officer; then he turned and
elboWed his way to the street The
hotel opposite was all hustle and con-
fusion, the bar-room crowded with the
thirsty emergency walters who had
rushed about the hall completing final
preparations. The Sergeant, intent
on his purpose, and aware that the
band had ceased playing, lodged past
these and entered the parlor. 1t was
already occupied by four men, who
were playing cards at a small, round
table and smoking vigorously, entire
ly engrossed in their game. None of
them so much as glanced up, and the
intruder hesitated an instant, quickly
determining his course of action.
There was little choice left. The girl
would never make an appointment
with him except through necessity,
and 1t was manifestly his duty to pro-
tect her from observation. Two of the
men sitting there were strangers; the
others he knew merely by sight, a
tfn-horn gambler called Charlie, and a
suffers clerk. His decision was swift,
and characteristic.
Gents" he said, stepping up, and
tapping the table sharply, you'll have
to vamoose from here"
What the he'll the gambler
looked up into the gray eyes, and
stopped
That's all right, Charlie" went on
Hamlin coolly, one hand at his belt.
Those are my orders, and they go.
Hire room upstairs if you want to
keep on with the game. Pick up the
stuff, you fellows"
But see here" the speaker was
upon his feet protesting. THE old
man told us we could come in here"
"The old mans word don't go for
this floor tonight, partner. It's rented
by the post officers. Now mosey right
along, and don't come back unless you
are looking for trouble-you too, Fat
ty."
Right or wrong there was plainly no
use continuing the argument, for Ham
Inns fingers were upon the butt of his
revolver, and his eyes hardened at the
delay. The gamblers inclination was
to oppose this summary dismissal, but
a glance at his crowd convinced him
he would have to play the hand alone,
so he yielded reluctantly, swept the
chips into the side pocket of his coat
and departed. leaving behind him a
trail of profanity. The Sergeant
smiled, but remained motionless until
they disappeared.
"The bluff works. he thought Sc
renely, unless they make a kick at
the office; some peeEed, Charlie was"
He stepped over te the window, and
held back the curtain. A burly figure
occupied the bench, with feet upon the
rail. Even in that outside dimness
could be distinguished a black beard.
The very man, and the Sergeant
chuckled grimly with swiftly born
hope that the fellow might create a
row. Nothing at that moment could
have pleased him more He blew
out the parlor light, partially closed
the door, and stepped forth on to the
porch.
Say, you" he said grufly, dropping
one hand heavily on the others shouI-
der. did you hear what l said to
those fellows inside? Well, it goes
out here the same. Pack up, and clear
the deck"
"Reb" dropped his feet to the floor
and stood up, his bearded lips growl-
ing profanity, but Hamlin gripped his
wrist, and the man stopped, with
mouth still open, staring into the Ser
geant's face. All bravado seemed to
desert him instantly.
"Who-who says SOP" and he
stepped back farther into the shadow.
81 do, if you need to know" pleas
l.