Connecticut western news., 1920-06-17
The Girl who was Loyal

The Girl who was Loyal
 On a beautiful day in June 1917, a young woman was awaiting a train tc carry her to her home in New York. She was a teacher, by name Rita Shultz. Her appearance de- rooted good taste, and her face was attractive. She had straight black hair and dark eyes, which looked very tired, as though she had been working strenuously.
 There were two reasons for Rita's weary looks. First she was worn out from her years work, and second, the anxiety which filled her mind at all times over the reception she would receive at home, haunted her wherever she was.
 The Shultz family were of the German race, but had come to America to avoid the military laws which would compel their sons to serve in the German Army. Rita was the youngest of the family and was educated in America. The let ters which she had received from her parents during the year dis tinctly told to whom they were loyal in the war in which the United States was then engaged. It was with the Fatherland that their allegiance was all ways placed.
 These thoughts were occupying Rita's mind as she awaited her train and it was very hard for her to de- eide to tell her parents that her loyal support was with America. But how much worse it would be for her, who had taught young Ameri- cans about our wonderful country, to prove unfaithful!
 At last the train came and Rita had started for home. The journey was long and tedious; but at last she reacher there where she found her brother Hans ready to greet her.
 Hello Hans," said Rita.
 Hello Sisterw My but it seems good to see you again. At last I have found some one with whom I can talk without hearing that the Tanks did this or the Tanks did thatw
 "But Hans if you only could understand conditions. Didn't we come to America to get away from the bondage, for so it may be called in which we were kept. And now the United States has given us pro- tection and we enjoy all its privi- leges. The least we can do is to re- main loyal" said Rita.
 "Ohw You're just like all the rest of them! And never expected it of you! I always thought you had mind of your own," replied her brother.
 Rita remained silent the rest of the way home, knowing how im- possible it was to reason with her brother, and then latter sat beside her sulking.
 When at last they reached home, Rita was gladly welcomed by her parents and two other brothers. A hot dinner was ready for her but she, knowing what the revealing of loyalty to the United States would mean could not enjoy it. ..
 After dinner MT. Shultz and the boys talked over the present day affairs and finally MT. Shultz said to Rita,
 "The Fatherland can depend on us, can't it Rita?"
 "As for you yes, replied Rita. But my conscience will not allow me to uphold Germany after the hor- rible crimes she has committed"
 At this MT. Shultz became very angry.
 Unless you pledge allegiance to the Fatherland I shall disown you forever" said he. "I give you an hour to decide"
 "The hour would not waver my belief in America and her cause", said Rita, 'T shall leave in the morn ing"
 Rita was as good as her word. She left the next morning for the town where she had been teaching, but with a clear conscience, and a lighter heart.
 "Our hearts, our hopes are all with
 thee,
 Our hearts, our hopes, our prayers,
 our tears,
 Cur faith triumphant OCT our fears, Are all with thee, are all with thee.
 Elizabeth Lee, June 9, 1920.