Vernon County censor. [volume] (Viroqua, Wis.) 1865-1955, 1917-02-21
FIFTH EPISODE
Love and War.


Liberty then stepped into the room.
She found Pancho stretched across
the table, while the Major was bend
ing over him with his fingers clutched
about the Mexican's throat AS she
stood just inside the door, her gaze
fixed on the two men, a shot was heard
outside. The Major hearing it, re-
Taxed his grip and, turning. discovered
Liberty. Immediately he released
Pancho. who managed To get to his
feet. still clutching the Majors notes.
A deathly silence followed as the girl
looked from one to the other.
The shot which was heard by the
trio inside undoubtedly saved the life
OF Manuel, and the man who saved
him was none other than his arch
enemy, Rutledge. Bob had been stand
ing in the shadows near the entrance
10 the courtyard, after leaving Liber-
ty. when he saw Therese approach
Manuel. A heated conversation fol-
lowed He saw Manuel shove her
away from him several times, but each
time she returned.
As Rutledge watched he saw the
hatred in the eyes of the Mexican for
the girl who accepted his cruel treat.
'ment with sincere affection in every
line Of her countenance He could not
hear their words. but he knew the Mex
lean was In rage, for he paced nerv-
ously back aud forth, clenching his
fists as Therese hurled threats at him.
Then he saw the girl creep up TO Man
uel and whisper something in his ear.
Instantly the fellow. turned about and.
raising his fist, was Just about 10
strike her when Pedro, who had been
lurking behind one Of the bushes, ran
up and, snatching his knife from his
belt, raised it above the Mexiean's
back. AS it started TO descend Rut-
ledge raised his gun and fred. IL was
an excellent shot and sent Pedro's
weapon TO the ground. The three
turned and saw the ranger, who
walked up TO Manuel
81 always thought you were a cur,
and now l know It, said Bob as he
showed his gun back in its holster.
But Manuel only sneered at his ri
val and then, swapping his fingers at
the ranger, walked into the house.
What does this mean. Pedro?'
asked Rutledge
For answer Pedro looked down into
the eyes Of the .htened girl who
had rushed into lis arms for safety.
and then led her d way.
In the meantime the Major and
Pancho We're trying to explain their
actions 10 Liberty. Finally, when she
saw what a poor mess they were max
ing of the whole affair. she crossed
over 10 the Major.
Major, ! overheard what you were
talking about, and ~ She paused
for a moment III have decided 10
marry Manuel"
The Major took her In his arms. II
can't believe this. my dear child" he
said in smBZement
ut is true" she said softly. 'But
Manuel and were afraid. so we
that is we wanted 10 be mar
ried before you left
well, I'll be bl0wed :" shout
ed the Major, rs he looked down into
the big eyes that were upturned 10
him. You explain this 10 me" he
continued. Il don't think you are
telling me the truth"
Some other time, Major; not now"
answered Liberty.
Il cannot let you marry this man"
said the Major thoughtfully. III / did
the spirit Of your father would return Z
to censure me. You will never know /
a moments peace with this man. He 7
will not treat you right, Liberty. ] +
have never liked the sneaking look he
carries around with him"
Major. / cannot explain everything
10 you, said Liberty. az she raised her +
head and raised her handkerchief to
her eyes. "All / can say is that I'm
going to marry Manuel. II Is my wish
and, knowing that you have always
tried 70 please me. rely upon you not
TO stand Ia my way now
Liberty" De said with tone OF
sadness in his voice. III this Is ycaf
wish ] reluctantly give my consent:
rat ] want you ia know that this Is
he hardest thing you have ever asked
OF me-" Then lie tenderly placed his