Western Kansas world. [volume] (WaKeeney, Kan.) 1885-current, 1917-05-31
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
to 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
y
line of her countenance. He could not
hear their words, but he knew the Mex
lean was in a rage, for he paced nerv-
ously back and 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 to
Fri 10 xx-hn hod
lurking behind one of the bushes, ran
up and. snatching his knife from his
belt, raised it above the Mexican's
back. AS it started to descend Rut-
ledge raised his gun and fired. 1t was
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 1 know it, said Bob as he
showed his gun back in it's holster.
But Manuel only sneered at his ri
val and then, swapping his fingers al
the ranger. walked into the house.
what does this mean, Pedro?'
asked Rutledge.
For answer Pedro looked down into
the eyes of the frightened girl who
and then led her away.
In the meantime the Major and
Pancho were trying to explain theil
actions to Liberty. Finally, when she
saw what poor mess they were max
ing of the whole affair, she crossed
over to the Major.
Major, L overheard what you were
talking about, and - She paused
|
marry Manuel
The Major took her in his arms. &c
can't believe this, my dear child" b,
said in amazement.
1T is true" she said softly. "Bu
Manuel and I were afraid, so we {. .
that is we wanted to be mar
| ried before you left
well, I'll be blowed" shout
ed the Major, as he looked down int
the big eyes that We're upturned t
him. You explain this to me-" h
continued. 81 don't think you ar
telling me the TRUTH
"Some other time, Major; not now,
answered Liberty.
Il cannot let you marry this man,
said the Major thoughtfully. IF di
the spirit of your father would retur
| 10 cenSure NE. You Will never knON
a moments peace with this man. II
will not treat you right, Liberty.
have never liked the sneaking look b
carries around with him."
Major, 1 cannot explain eyerythin
to you," said Liberty, as she raised he
head and raised her handkerchief t
her eyes. "An 1 can say is that II
going to marry Manuel 1t is my wis
and, knowing that you have alway
tried to please me, rely upon you NJ
to stand in my way now
Liberty" he said with a tone {
sadness in his voice, 'if this is yor
wish I reluctantly give my consent
but want you to know that this
the hardest thing you have ever aske
of me-" Then he tenderly placed b
arm about her and pressed his lips
her forehead