CHAPTER XXXIX.

A GOOD OMEN.

The six months were past.

Behold! upon a lofty hill, surrounded by magnificent beeches, whose

overhanging boughs make a royal arch of green above the smoothly

graveled drive-way that encircles it, stands a grand old castle, the

very air around which breathes of centuries and aristocracy.

On this brilliant day its massive portals were swung wide open.

A magnificent floral arch was erected over the wide entrance, while

above it, in letters of gilt, is inscribed that sweetest of words,

WELCOME! And garlands and festoons hung suspended through every room and

hall, as if clad in holiday attire, in honor of loved and long expected

guests.

The great drawing-room on the left of the grand old hall is redolent

with the richest perfume, and within it, pacing up and down its spacious

length, clad in her rich and trailing robes, is the fair mistress of all

this grandeur and magnificence—lovely Enid Chichester.

Hope and joy beam in her eyes, a flush is upon her soft cheek, which

creeps higher and higher with every passing moment, while smiles part

her ruby lips, showing the gleaming pearls between.

Suddenly she starts; a happy, expectant look is upon her face, as she

bends eagerly forward in a listening attitude.

Yes, she is not deceived; the sound of approaching wheels, grating upon

the graveled drive-way, comes in through the open hall, and with a

joyous cry she bounds out to receive her friends.

Three heavy traveling carriages drew up before the hospitable door,

their glowing occupants alighted and immediately all was gay confusion;

handshaking until the bones ached, kissing and congratulations.

At last all was over and settled in his or her respective apartments,

and the next two or three days were given up to resting, after their

long and tedious journey.

Enid did the honors as mistress, as she did everything else, gracefully,

and dispensed her hospitality with a lavish hand, her heart overflowing

with excess of joy in the happiness she was contributing and receiving.

One morning, soon after the arrival, she arose early, and descending the

grand old stairway, went, softly humming to herself, into the library,

where she intended to have a quiet hour all her own, before her guests

should come down to breakfast.

The morning sun streamed brightly in through the low, open window, which

led out upon a balcony overlooking the park. With a sigh of pleasure

Enid seated herself in an inviting arm-chair, and lay back among its

cushions, with a smile of happiness upon her sweet lips, wholly

forgetful of the book she held in her hand, and which she had intended

reading, and wholly unconscious that a pair of fine dark eyes were

tenderly regarding her from behind the heavy curtains which draped the

balcony window.

Neither did she hear a step upon the soft carpet, or realize the

presence of any one, until a fragrant waxen capejasmine was suddenly

dropped from above into her lap.

She started then, and looked quickly up, but flushed the deepest

crimson, as she met the earnest gaze of Ralph Ellerton, who was bending

over the back of her chair.

“Why, good-morning, Mr. Ellerton,” she said, striving to cover her

confusion by speaking lightly. “How you surprised me. I thought I was

the only one stirring so early this morning.”

“Pardon me for startling you, but I have been up since sunrise,

‘Over the hills and far away.’

I have but just come in, and stepped out upon the balcony to enjoy the

glorious view.”

“It is fine, isn’t it? Poor papa used to enjoy it so much,” she replied,

sadly, the tears springing to her eyes; then added, “This was always his

favorite resort, and he would sit for hours upon the balcony and gaze

upon the scenery around.”

She picked up the flower he had thrown into her lap, inhaled its

fragrance, and then fastened it upon her bosom.

He smiled slightly at the act, and she, suddenly looking up, caught his

eye fixed upon her, and again the rich blood suffused her face, but she

did not remove the flower.

“Enid,” said Ralph, tenderly, “may I interpret that as a good omen? May

I tell you of my love after waiting so long?”

“There is no need to tell it, Ralph; I knew it long ago,” she replied,

in tones as tender, and with an irresistible frankness.

“Darling, your tones tell me if your words do not, that you return it,

unworthy as I am,” he said, as he passionately clasped her in his arms.

“Yes, Ralph, I do; I loved you before I left that horrid cavern, and it

almost broke my heart when I thought you the husband of another. But

even after I found you were free again, I would not encourage you to

speak the words which I knew were on your lips, for I wished to try you

first, to prove the good I felt there was in you.”

“Bless you for your frankness; but you will perhaps be surprised when I

tell you that my heart forgot its allegiance to that other the moment I

first beheld you.”

“Then why did you persist?” hastily interrupted Enid, raising her

radiant face in surprise, then blushing scarlet again as she remembered

it must wound him to be thus reminded of the past.

“It is all right, darling,” he returned, noticing her confusion, and

clasping her again to him. “I wish you to know me just as I am. I

persisted in the evil I had begun, merely because my will and my pride

would not yield to my heart. But I cannot express the gratitude I feel

for the gift of your precious love. I know——”

“Now, Ralph, you are not to talk that way any more. You have done wrong,

and you own it and repent of it. It is enough. None are perfect, and I

have my faults, as you will find out one of these days. I love you just

as you are now, not what you may have been a long time ago, so please

don’t disparage my lover to me any more,” and the bright-eyed little

maiden held up two pouting lips.

She received what she wished, and then Ralph asked, tenderly:

“And you will be my wife, Enid?”

“Yes, Ralph.”

“When, darling?”

“Whenever you wish.”

“God bless you, my precious one; let it be soon, then, for I need you

much, and I think you know it.”

They conversed some time longer, and when the breakfast bell sounded,

and their friends descended, the day was decided upon.

Ralph led his promised bride directly to his father and mother, and

proclaimed the good news; and then breakfast had to be delayed, much to

the annoyance of the worthy housekeeper, half an hour, for the joyful

congratulations of all that happy company.

After breakfast was over, Enid, with a very mysterious air drew Dora and

Vivien away to impart a very important bit of information, as she called

it, to them, namely:

That she was to be married in three weeks.

“I know,” she said, as both the girls held up their hands in dismay at

the limited time, “that it usually takes six months, at least, to

complete the trousseau of a fashionable young lady; but I think I can do

better than that; and then, poor Ralph is so sad and lonely, I am going

to humor him in this. You both must be my bridesmaids; and Vivien, would

you be willing to stand up with Mr. Weimher? I don’t think he would

object to you,” said the sparkling girl, mischievously.

Vivien blushed and stammered, and then broke down entirely. At last she

saw it was no use to try and hide it longer, and made a clean breast of

it, confessing that she was engaged to that same gentleman.

“Ah! you rogue, I mistrusted you long ago,” said Dora. “You little

goose, why did you try to keep it so still?”

“Because I wished the consent and congratulations of my uncles, first.

Mr. Weimher spoke to them yesterday, and we were to acknowledge the

engagement to-day. But you see how you have robbed me of my secret, you

heartless girls!”

She laughed gayly, though the tell-tale color still remained upon her

fair face.

Just then there was a rap upon the door, and a maid entered saying that

Miss Dupont and Miss Moulton were requested to step into the library for

a few moments.

The two girls twined their arms about each other’s waists and

wonderingly obeyed the summons. In the room designated they found their

lovers, who, likewise having been informed of the approaching nuptials

of their hostess, now importuned their own fair brides-elect to consent

to don the matrimonial bonds upon the same day, and thus make a triple

wedding of the affair. Both demurred at first, but finally the ardent

gentlemen overcame all obstacles, and, consenting, they immediately

vanished to communicate the news to their fair hostess.

Enid was in raptures, declaring that theirs should be a wedding, such as

was never heard of before in the annals of Chichester history.

Then ensued three weeks of such bustle and confusion as made worthy Mrs.

Judson, the housekeeper, nearly distracted, and the servants were kept

flying hither and thither from early morn till dewy eve.

* * * * *

The bridal morn broke calm, clear, and beautiful. The hour appointed for

the ceremony arrived, and the three beautiful girls, clad in their white

gleaming robes, with no ornaments save nature’s sweetness—pure and

fragrant orange blossoms—were ready to confide themselves for life into

the keeping of their hearts’ chosen ones.

Three chariots, each drawn by a noble pair of milk-white steeds, bore

them from the Chichester mansion to the distant cathedral, where the

bishop waited to speak the irrevocable words, and where anxious friends

were waiting to witness the brilliant wedding.

Ralph and Enid led the way up the broad aisle to the foot of the sacred

altar, and the words were spoken which bound them to each other for

life.

Then Fredrich and Vivien pledged their vows, and likewise received the

benediction of the holy man.

Last, but not least, Robert and Dora joined their hands and

re-pronounced the vows uttered in childhood, and which had been so

faithfully and fondly kept through sorrows and trials, and in defiance

of all disappointments and opposition.

Never had the lovely girl looked more beautiful, nor her lover more

strikingly noble and handsome, than at that moment when, in solemn,

earnest tones, they repeated the marriage service that gave them anew to

each other.

Faithful hearts they truly were, and faithful we know they will ever

remain; and there in their happiness and love we will leave them,

bidding them a long farewell, trusting that the lives of each and all

may be a succession of blessings, so bright that they will never fade

until the greater brightness and glory of heaven and eternity shall

burst upon them, enveloping them in endless bliss.

[THE END.]

“A GODDESS IN EXILE; OR, THE SPANISH PLOTTERS,” by PHILIP S. WARNE, will

be published in the next number (81) of THE SELECT SERIES.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

------------------------------------------------------------------------

BERTHA M. CLAY’S

LATEST

Copyright Novels,

IN

SELECT SERIES

AND

PRIMROSE SERIES.

FULLY ILLUSTRATED.

Select Series. Price, 25c. each.

=No. 22—A HEART’S BITTERNESS.=

=No. 28—A HEART’S IDOL.=

=No. 36—THE GIPSY’S DAUGHTER.=

=No. 37—IN LOVE’S CRUCIBLE.=

=No. 39—MARJORIE DEANE.=

Primrose Series. Price, 50c. each.

=No. 1—ANOTHER MAN’S WIFE.=

=No. 9—A WOMAN’S TEMPTATION.=

=No. 11—BEYOND PARDON.=

These novels are among the best ever written by BERTHA M. CLAY, and are

enjoying an enormous sale. They are copyrighted and can be had only in

THE SELECT and PRIMROSE SERIES.

For sale by all Booksellers and News Agents, or will be sent, post paid,

to any address in the United States or Canada, on receipt of price, by

STREET & SMITH,

P. O. Box 2734. 31 Rose Street, New York.

JULIA EDWARDS’

LATEST

COPYRIGHT NOVELS

IN

The Select Series.

Price, 25 Cents Each. Fully Illustrated.

=No. 30—PRETTIEST OF ALL.=

=No. 35—THE LITTLE WIDOW.=

=No. 38—BEAUTIFUL BUT POOR.=

=No. 47—SADIA THE ROSEBUD.=

=No. 65—LAURA BRAYTON.=

These novels are among the best ever written by JULIA EDWARDS, and are

enjoying an enormous sale. They are copyrighted and can be had only in

THE SELECT SERIES.

For sale by all Booksellers and News Agents, or will be sent,

postpaid, to any address in the United States or Canada, on receipt of

price, 25 cents each, by

STREET & SMITH,

P. O. Box 2734. 31 Rose Street, New York.

MRS. GEORGIE SHELDON’S

LATEST

COPYRIGHT NOVELS,

IN

Select Series

AND

Primrose Series.

FULLY ILLUSTRATED.

Select Series. Price, 25c. each.

=No. 16—SIBYL’S INFLUENCE.=

=No. 24—THAT DOWDY.=

=No. 43—TRIXY.=

=No. 44—A TRUE ARISTOCRAT.=

Primrose Series. Price, 50c. each.

=No. 10—STELLA ROSEVELT.=

=No. 12—LOST—A PEARLE.=

These novels, from the pen of our gifted author, who writes exclusively

for us, are among her most popular productions, and hold the front rank

in first-class literature.

For sale by all Booksellers and News Agents, or will be sent,

postpaid, to any address in the United States or Canada, on receipt of

price, by

STREET & SMITH,

P. O. Box 2734. 31 Rose Street, New York.

The Select Series

OF

Popular American Copyright Stories.

[Illustration]

No. 79—THE GAY CAPTAIN, by Mrs. M. V. Victor 25

No. 78—VASHTI’S FATE; or, PURIFIED BY FIRE, by Helen Corwin Pierce 25

No. 77—THE THREE BLOWS; or, LOVE, PRIDE AND REVENGE, by Karl Drury 25

No. 76—A PROUD DISHONOR, by Genie Holtzmeyer 25

No. 75—THE WIDOWED BRIDE, by Lucy Randall Comfort 25

No. 74—THE GRINDER PAPERS, by Mary Kyle Dallas 25

No. 73—BORN TO COMMAND, by Hero Strong 25

No. 72—A MODERN MIRACLE, by James Franklin Fitts 25

No. 71—THE SWEET SISTERS OF INCHVARRA, by Annie Ashmore 25

No. 70—HIS OTHER WIFE, by Rose Ashleigh 25

No. 69—A SILVER BRAND, by Charles T. Manners 25

No. 68—ROSLYN’S TRUST, by Lucy C. Lillie 25

No. 67—WILLFUL WINNIE, by Harriet Sherburne 25

No. 66—ADAM KENT’S CHOICE, by Humphrey Elliott 25

No. 65—LAURA BRAYTON, by Julia Edwards 25

No. 64—YOUNG MRS. CHARNLEIGH, by T. W. Hanshew 25

No. 63—BORN TO BETRAY, by Mrs. M. V. Victor 25

No. 62—A STRANGE PILGRIMAGE, by Mrs. J. H. Walworth 25

No. 61—THE ILLEGAL MARRIAGE, by Hon. Evelyn Ashby 25

No. 60—WON ON THE HOMESTRETCH, by Mrs. M. C. Williams 25

No. 59—WHOSE WIFE IS SHE? by Annie Lisle 25

No. 58—KILDHURM’S OAK, by Julian Hawthorne 25

No. 57—STEPPING-STONES, by Marion Harland 25

No. 56—THE DAUGHTER OF THE REGIMENT, by Mary A. Denison 25

No. 55—ROXY HASTINGS, by P. Hamilton Myers 25

No. 54—THE FACE OF ROSENFEL, by C. H. Montague 25

No. 53—THAT GIRL OF JOHNSON’S, by Jean Kate Ludlum 25

No. 52—TRUE TO HERSELF, by Mrs. J. H. Walworth 25

No. 51—A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN’S SIN, by Hero Strong 25

No. 50—MARRIED IN MASK, by Mansfield Tracy Walworth 25

No. 49—GUILTY OR NOT GUILTY, by Mrs. M. V. Victor 25

No. 48—THE MIDNIGHT MARRIAGE, by A. M. Douglas 25

No. 47—SADIA THE ROSEBUD, by Julia Edwards 25

No. 46—A MOMENT OF MADNESS, by Charles J. Bellamy 25

No. 45—WEAKER THAN A WOMAN, by Charlotte M. Brame 25

No. 44—A TRUE ARISTOCRAT, by Mrs. Georgie Sheldon 25

No. 43—TRIXY, by Mrs. Georgie Sheldon 25

No. 42—A DEBT OF VENGEANCE, by Mrs. E. Burke Collins 25

No. 41—BEAUTIFUL RIENZI, by Annie Ashmore 25

No. 40—AT A GIRL’S MERCY, by Jean Kate Ludlum 25

No. 39—MARJORIE DEANE, by Bertha M. Clay 25

No. 38—BEAUTIFUL, BUT POOR, by Julia Edwards 25

No. 37—IN LOVE’S CRUCIBLE, by Bertha M. Clay 25

No. 36—THE GIPSY’S DAUGHTER, by Bertha M. Clay 25

No. 35—CECILE’S MARRIAGE, by Lucy Randall Comfort 25

No. 34—THE LITTLE WIDOW, by Julia Edwards 25

No. 33—THE COUNTY FAIR, by Neil Burgess 25

No. 32—LADY RYHOPE’S LOVER, by Emma G. Jones 25

No. 31—MARRIED FOR GOLD, by Mrs. E. Burke Collins 25

No. 30—PRETTIEST OF ALL, by Julia Edwards 25

No. 29—THE HEIRESS OF EGREMONT, by Mrs. Harriet Lewis 25

No. 28—A HEART’S IDOL, by Bertha M. Clay 25

No. 27—WINIFRED, by Mary Kyle Dallas 25

No. 26—FONTELROY, by Francis A. Durivage 25

No. 25—THE KING’S TALISMAN, by Sylvanus Cobb, Jr. 25

No. 24—THAT DOWDY, by Mrs. Georgie Sheldon 25

No. 23—DENMAN THOMPSON’S OLD HOMESTEAD 25

No. 22—A HEART’S BITTERNESS, by Bertha M. Clay 25

No. 21—THE LOST BRIDE, by Clara Augusta 25

No. 20—INGOMAR, by Nathan D. Urner 25

No. 19—A LATE REPENTANCE, by Mrs. Mary A. Denison 25

No. 18—ROSAMOND, by Mrs. Alex. McVeigh Miller 25

No. 17—THE HOUSE OF SECRETS, by Mrs. Harriet Lewis 25

No. 16—SYBIL’S INFLUENCE, by Mrs. Georgie Sheldon 25

No. 15—THE VIRGINIA HEIRESS, by Mrs. May Agnes Fleming 25

No. 14—FLORENCE FALKLAND, by Burke Brentford 25

No. 13—THE BRIDE-ELECT, by Annie Ashmore 25

No. 12—THE PHANTOM WIFE, by Mrs. M. V. Victor 25

No. 11—BADLY MATCHED, by Mrs. Helen Corwin Pierce 25

No. 10—OCTAVIA’S PRIDE, by Charles T. Manners 25

No. 9—THE WIDOW’S WAGER, by Rose Ashleigh 25

No. 8—WILL SHE WIN? by Emma Garrison Jones 25

No. 7—GRATIA’S TRIALS by Lucy Randall Comfort 25

No. 6—A STORMY WEDDING, by Mrs. Mary E. Bryan 25

No. 5—BRUNETTE AND BLONDE, by Mrs. Alex. McVeigh Miller 25

No. 4—BONNY JEAN, by Mrs. E. Burke Collins 25

No. 3—VELLA VERNELL; or, AN AMAZING MARRIAGE, by Mrs. Sumner Hayden 25

No. 2—A WEDDED WIDOW, by T. W. Hanshew 25

No. 1—THE SENATOR’S BRIDE, by Mrs. Alex. McVeigh Miller 25

These popular books are large type editions, well printed, well bound,

and in handsome covers. For sale by all Booksellers and Newsdealers; or

sent, _postage free_, on receipt of price, 25 cents each, by the

publishers,

STREET & SMITH,

P. O. Box 2734. 25 to 31 Rose Street, New York.

The Secret Service Series.

DEVOTED TO STORIES OF THE DETECTION OF CRIME.

No. 40—RUBE BURROWS’ LEAGUE, by Marline Manly 25

No. 39—THE VESTIBULE LIMITED MYSTERY, by Alex. Robertson, M. D. 25

No. 38—THE LOS HUECOS MYSTERY, by Eugene T. Sawyer 25

No. 37—A WOMAN’S HAND, by Nick Carter 25

No. 36—THE GREAT TRAVERS CASE, by Dr. Mark Merrick 25

No. 35—MUERTALMA; or, THE POISONED PIN, by Marmaduke Dey 25

No. 34—DETECTIVE BOB BRIDGER, by R. M. Taylor 25

No. 33—OLD SPECIE, by Alex. Robertson, M. D. 25

No. 32—ADVENTURES AND EXPLOITS OF THE YOUNGER BROTHERS, by Henry

Dale 25

No. 31—A CHASE ROUND THE WORLD, by Mariposa Weir 25

No. 30—GOLD-DUST DARRELL, by Burke Brentford 25

No. 29—THE POKER KING, by Marline Manly 25

No. 28—BOB YOUNGER’S FATE, by Edwin S. Deane 25

No. 27—THE REVENUE DETECTIVE, by Police Captain James 25

No. 26—UNDER HIS THUMB, by Donald J. McKenzie 25

No. 25—THE NAVAL DETECTIVE’S CHASE, by Ned Buntline 25

No. 24—THE PRAIRIE DETECTIVE, by Leander P. Richardson 25

No. 23—A MYSTERIOUS CASE, by K. F. Hill 25

No. 22—THE SOCIETY DETECTIVE, by Oscar Maitland 25

No. 21—THE AMERICAN MARQUIS, by Nick Carter 25

No. 20—THE MYSTERY OF A MADSTONE, by K. F. Hill 25

No. 19—THE SWORDSMAN OF WARSAW, by Tony Pastor 25

No. 18—A WALL STREET HAUL, by Nick Carter 25

No. 17—THE OLD DETECTIVE’S PUPIL, by Nick Carter 25

No. 16—THE MOUNTAINEER DETECTIVE, by Clayton W. Cobb 25

No. 15—TOM AND JERRY, by Tony Pastor 25

No. 14—THE DETECTIVE’S CLEW, by “Old Hutch.” 25

No. 13—DARKE DARRELL, by Frank H. Stauffer 25

No. 12—THE DOG DETECTIVE, by Lieutenant Murray 25

No. 11—THE MALTESE CROSS, by Eugene T. Sawyer 25

No. 10—THE POST-OFFICE DETECTIVE, by George W. Goode 25

No. 9—OLD MORTALITY, by Young Baxter 25

No. 8—LITTLE LIGHTNING, by Police Captain James 25

No. 7—THE CHOSEN MAN, by Judson R. Taylor 25

No. 6—OLD STONEWALL, by Judson R. Taylor 25

No. 5—THE MASKED DETECTIVE, by Judson R. Taylor 25

No. 4—THE TWIN DETECTIVES, by K. F. Hill 25

No. 3—VAN, THE GOVERNMENT DETECTIVE, by “Old Sleuth.” 25

No. 2—BRUCE ANGELO, THE CITY DETECTIVE, by “Old Sleuth.” 25

No. 1—BRANT ADAMS, THE EMPEROR OF DETECTIVES, by “Old Sleuth.” 25

For sale by all Booksellers and Newsdealers, or will be sent, postage

free, to any address in the United States or Canada, on receipt of

price, 25 cents each, by the publishers,

STREET & SMITH,

P. O. Box 2734. 25 to 31 Rose Street, New York.

The Sea and Shore Series.

Stories of Strange Adventure Ashore and Afloat.

PRICE, 25 CENTS EACH.

No. 28—TEXAS JACK, by Ned Buntline.

No. 27—CAMILLE, by Alexandre Dumas, fils.

No. 26—RED DICK, THE TIGER OF CALIFORNIA, by Ned Buntline.

No. 25—DASHING CHARLIE, by Ned Buntline.

No. 24—BUFFALO BILL’S LAST VICTORY, by Ned Buntline.

No. 23—BUFFALO BILL’S BEST SHOW, by Ned Buntline.

No. 22—THE STRUGGLE FOR MAVERICK, by J. F. Fitts.

No. 21—ROCKY MOUNTAIN SAM, by Burke Brentford.

No. 20—THE HOUSE OF SILENCE, by Dr. J. H. Robinson.

No. 19—THE IRISH MONTE CRISTO’S TRAIL, by Alex. Robertson, M. D.

No. 18—THE YANKEE CHAMPION, by Sylvanus Cobb., Jr.

No. 17—FEDORA, from the famous play of the same name, by Victorien

Sardou.

No. 16—SIBALLA, THE SORCERESS, by Prof. Wm. H. Peck.

No. 15—THE GOLDEN EAGLE, by Sylvanus Cobb, Jr.

No. 14—THE FORTUNE-TELLER OF NEW ORLEANS, by Prof. Wm. H. Peck.

No. 13—THE IRISH MONTE CRISTO ABROAD, by Alex. Robertson, M. D.

No. 12—HELD FOR RANSOM, by Lieut. Murray.

No. 11—THE IRISH MONTE CRISTO’S SEARCH, by Alex. Robertson, M. D.

No. 10—LA TOSCA, from the celebrated play, by Victorien Sardou.

No. 9—THE MAN IN BLUE, by Mary A. Denison.

No. 8—BEN HAMED, by Sylyanus Cobb, Jr.

No. 7—RUY BLAS, by Victor Hugo.

No. 6—THE MASKED LADY, by Lieutenant Murray.

No. 5—THEODORA, from the celebrated play, by Victorien Sardou.

No. 4—THE LOCKSMITH OF LYONS, by Prof. Wm. H. Peck.

No. 3—THE BROWN PRINCESS, by Mrs. M. V. Victor.

No. 2—THE SILVER SHIP, by Lewis Leon.

No. 1—AN IRISH MONTE CRISTO.

For sale by all Booksellers and Newsdealers, or will be sent, postage

free, to any address in the United States or Canada, on receipt of

price, 25 cents each, by the publishers,

STREET & SMITH,

P. O. Box 2734. 25, 27, 29 and 31 Rose Street, New York.

[Illustration: LAKE ERIE & WESTERN RAILROAD]

LAKE ERIE AND

WESTERN RAILROAD,

Ft. Wayne, Cincinnati, and Louisville Railroad.

“Natural Gas Route.” The Popular Short Line

—BETWEEN—

Peoria, Bloomington, Chicago, St. Louis, Springfield, Lafayette,

Frankfort, Muncie, Portland, Lima, Findlay, Fostoria, Fremont, Sandusky,

Indianapolis, Kokomo, Peru, Rochester, Plymouth, LaPorte, Michigan City,

Ft. Wayne, Hartford, Bluffton, Connersville, and Cincinnati, making

Direct Connections for all Points East, West, North, and South.

THE ONLY LINE TRAVERSING

The Great Natural Gas and Oil Fields

Of Ohio and Indiana, giving the patrons of this =Popular Route= an

opportunity to witness the grand sight from the train as they pass

through. Great fields covered with tanks in which are stored millions of

gallons of Oil, =Natural Gas= wells shooting their flames high in the

air, and the most beautiful cities, fairly alive with glass and all

kinds of factories.

We furnish our patrons with Elegant Reclining Chair Car Seats Free on

day trains, and L., E. & W. Palace Sleeping and Parlor Cars on night

trains, at very reasonable rates.

Direct connections to and from Cleveland, Buffalo, New York, Boston,

Philadelphia, Baltimore, Pittsburg, Washington, Kansas City, Denver,

Omaha, Portland, San Francisco, and all points in the United States and

Canada.

This is the popular route with the ladies, on account of its courteous

and accommodating train officials, and with the commercial traveler and

general public for its comforts, quick time and sure connections.

For any further particulars call on or address any ticket agent.

H. C. PARKER, CHAS. F. DALY,

Traffic Manager, Gen’l Pass. & Tkt. Agt.

Indianapolis, Ind.

PROVIDENCE & STONINGTON S. S. CO.

[Illustration: logo]

PROVIDENCE LINE

STONINGTON LINE

BETWEEN

NEW YORK & BOSTON,

Providence, Worcester,

AND ALL EASTERN POINTS.

PROVIDENCE LINE.

(May to November.)

The longest water route and shortest rail ride (only 42 miles) of any

Sound Line. Steamers the peers of any in the World. An orchestra on

each. Parlor Car Trains direct from Steamers’ Landing to Boston and

Worcester. Connecting for all points in New England. During the season a

Parlor Car Train runs from Steamers’ Landing to the

WHITE MOUNTAINS

Without Change.

Steamers leave Pier 29, N. R., daily, except Sunday, at 5 or 5:30 P. M.

STONINGTON LINE.

(Throughout the Year.)

This is the INSIDE ROUTE, and especially safe and comfortable in Winter.

Connects at Stonington with THREE Express Trains for Boston, Worcester,

and all points North and East. Steamboat Express to and from Boston has

reclining chair Parlor Cars without extra charge. This is the only

direct Sound route in Summer to

NARRAGANSETT PIER

and WATCH HILL.

Steamers leave New Pier 36, N. R., daily, except Sunday, at 4:30 or 5 P.

M.

Send for Book of Summer Excursion Tours and Rates

to O. H. BRIGGS,

Gen’l Pass. Agent,

J. W. Miller,

Pres’t. New Pier 36, N. R., New York.

[Illustration: “_The D&H_”]

THE

Delaware

AND

Hudson

Railroad.

THE ONLY DIRECT ROUTE TO THE GREAT

ADIRONDACK MOUNTAINS,

Lake George, Lake Champlain, Ausable Chasm, the Adirondack Mountains,

Saratoga, Round Lake, Sharon Springs, Cooperstown, Howe’s Cave, and the

Celebrated Gravity Railroad between Carbondale and Honesdale, Pa.,

present the Greatest Combination of Health and Pleasure Resorts in

America.

THE DIRECT LINE TO THE SUPERB SUMMER HOTEL OF THE NORTH,

“THE HOTEL CHAMPLAIN,”

(Three Miles South of Plattsburgh, on Lake Champlain).

The Shortest and Most Comfortable Route Between New York and Montreal.

In Connection with the Erie Railway, the most Picturesque and

Interesting Route between Chicago and Boston.

The only through Pullman Line.

Enclose Six Cents in Stamps for Illustrated Guide to

H. C. YOUNG,

2d Vice-President,

J. W. BURDICK,

Gen’l Pass. Agent, Albany, N. Y.

[Illustration: CH&D CINCINNATI, HAMILTON & DAYTON R.R.]

THE FINEST ON EARTH

THE ONLY

Pullman Perfected Safety

VESTIBULED TRAIN SERVICE

WITH DINING CAR

BETWEEN

CINCINNATI,

INDIANAPOLIS,

AND CHICAGO.

THE FAVORITE LINE

CINCINNATI to ST. LOUIS,

Keokuk, Springfield, and Peoria,

THE ONLY DIRECT LINE

BETWEEN

Cincinnati, Dayton, Findlay,

Lima, Toledo, Detroit,

THE LAKE REGIONS and CANADA.

PULLMAN SLEEPERS ON NIGHT TRAINS.

_Parlor and Chair Cars on Day Trains between Cincinnati and Points

Enumerated, the Year Round._

M. D. WOODFORD, Vice-Pres. E. O. McCORMICK, Gen. Pass Agt.

THE PRIMROSE SERIES

OF

WORLD’S BEST FICTION,

Comprising translations of the best foreign fiction, together with the

works of popular =English and American Authors=.

ISSUED SEMI-MONTHLY. PRICE, 50 CENTS.

=No. 1—Another Man’s Wife=, by Bertha M. Clay 50

=No. 2—The Belle of the Season=, by Mrs. Harriet Lewis 50

=No. 3—Doctor Jack=, by St. George Rathborne 50

=No. 4—Kathleen Douglas=, by Julia Truitt Bishop 50

=No. 5—Her Royal Lover=, by Ary Ecilaw 50

=No. 6—Jose=, by Otto Ruppius 50

=No. 7—His Word of Honor=, by E. Werner 50

=No. 8—A Parisian Romance=, by A. D. Hall 50

=No. 9—A Woman’s Temptation=, by Bertha M. Clay 50

=No. 10—Stella Rosevelt=, by Mrs. Georgie Sheldon 50

=No. 11—Beyond Pardon=, by Bertha M. Clay 50

=No. 12—Lost A Pearle=, by Mrs. Georgie Sheldon 50

=No. 13—The Partners=, by Alphonse Daudet 50

=No. 14—Sardou’s Cleopatra=, by A. D. Hall 50

=No. 15—The Lone Ranch=, by Capt. Mayne Reid 50

=No. 16—Put Asunder=, by Bertha M. Clay 50

=THE PRIMROSE SERIES= combines the highest art of bookmaking with the

best fiction that can be obtained. For sale by all Booksellers and

Newsdealers; or sent, postpaid, on receipt of price, by

THE SELECT SERIES

OF

POPULAR AMERICAN COPYRIGHT STORIES.

No. 81—A GODDESS IN EXILE, by Philip S. Warne 25

No. 80—THRICE WEDDED, BUT ONLY ONCE A WIFE, by Mrs. Sheldon 25

No. 79—THE GAY CAPTAIN, by Mrs. M. V. Victor 25

No. 78—VASHTI’S FATE; or, PURIFIED BY FIRE, by Helen Corwin Pierce 25

No. 77—THE THREE BLOWS, by Karl Drury 25

No. 76—A PROUD DISHONOR, by Genie Holtzmeyer 25

No. 75—THE WIDOWED BRIDE, by Lucy Randall Comfort 25

No. 74—THE GRINDER PAPERS, by Mary Kyle Dallas 25

No. 73—BORN TO COMMAND, by Hero Strong 25

No. 72—A MODERN MIRACLE, by James Franklin Fitts 25

No. 71—THE SWEET SISTERS OF INCHVARRA, by Annie Ashmore 25

No. 70—HIS OTHER WIFE, by Rose Ashleigh 25

No. 69—A SILVER BRAND, by Charles T. Manners 25

No. 68—ROSLYN’S TRUST, by Lucy C. Lillie 25

No. 67—WILLFUL WINNIE, by Harriet Sherburne 25

No. 66—ADAM KENT’S CHOICE, by Humphrey Elliott 25

No. 65—LAURA BRAYTON, by Julia Edwards 25

No. 64—YOUNG MRS. CHARNLEIGH, by T. W. Hanshew 25

No. 63—BORN TO BETRAY, by Mrs. M. V. Victor 25

No. 62—A STRANGE PILGRIMAGE, by Mrs. J. H. Walworth 25

No. 61—THE ILLEGAL MARRIAGE, by Hon. Evelyn Ashby 25

No. 60—WON ON THE HOMESTRETCH, by Mrs. M. C. Williams 25

No. 59—WHOSE WIFE IS SHE? by Annie Lisle 25

No. 58—KILDHURM’S OAK, by Julian Hawthorne 25

No. 57—STEPPING-STONES, by Marion Harland 25

No. 56—THE DAUGHTER OF THE REGIMENT, by Mary A. Denison 25

No. 55—ROXY HASTINGS, by P. Hamilton Myers 25

No. 54—THE FACE OF ROSENFEL, by C. H. Montague 25

No. 53—THAT GIRL OF JOHNSON’S, by Jean Kate Ludlum 25

No. 52—TRUE TO HERSELF, by Mrs. J. H. Walworth 25

No. 51—A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN’S SIN, by Hero Strong 25

No. 50—MARRIED IN MASK, by Mansfield Tracy Walworth 25

No. 49—GUILTY OR NOT GUILTY, by Mrs. M. V. Victor 25

No. 48—THE MIDNIGHT MARRIAGE, by A. M. Douglas 25

No. 47—SADIA THE ROSEBUD, by Julia Edwards 25

No. 46—A MOMENT OF MADNESS, by Charles J. Bellamy 25

No. 45—WEAKER THAN A WOMAN, by Charlotte M. Brame 25

No. 44—A TRUE ARISTOCRAT, by Mrs. Georgie Sheldon 25

No. 43—TRIXY, by Mrs. Georgie Sheldon 25

No. 42—A DEBT OF VENGEANCE, by Mrs. E. Burke Collins 25

No. 41—BEAUTIFUL RIENZI, by Annie Ashmore 25

No. 40—AT A GIRL’S MERCY, by Jean Kate Ludlum 25

No. 39—MARJORIE DEANE, by Bertha M. Clay 25

No. 38—BEAUTIFUL, BUT POOR, by Julia Edwards 25

No. 37—IN LOVE’S CRUCIBLE, by Bertha M. Clay 25

No. 36—THE GIPSY’S DAUGHTER, by Bertha M. Clay 25

No. 35—CECILE’S MARRIAGE, by Lucy Randall Comfort 25

These popular books are large type editions, well printed, well bound,

and in handsome covers. For sale by all Booksellers and Newsdealers; or

sent, _postage free_, on receipt of price, 25 cents each, by the

publishers,

STREET & SMITH.

P. O. Box 2734. 25 to 31 Rose Street, New York.

.AN ENTERING WEDGE.

[Illustration]

THE

STANDARD

COCOA

OF THE

WORLD.

The Messrs. VAN HOUTEN have put an entering

wedge into unhealthy domestic economy,

by advertising a pure, soluble cocoa,

as a substitute for tea and coffee. As

inventors and original patentees of

cocoa, the VAN HOUTEN’S have introduced

it so thoroughly all

over Europe that “VAN HOUTEN’S

COCOA” has become

a household word. The

end of the wedge

which has been inserted

here is

fast making

way for the

“leading

Cocoa of

America.”

THE

STANDARD

COCOA

OF THE

WORLD.

Van Houten’s Van Houten’s

Cocoa. Cocoa.

Van Houten’s Cocoa, “Best & Goes Farthest.”

Van Houten’s Cocoa, “Best & Goes Farthest.”

Van Houten’s Cocoa, “Best & Goes Farthest.”

☛ It only needs a single trial to convince any one of the superiority

of VAN HOUTEN’S COCOA. Please insist upon your grocer or storekeeper

ordering it for you, _and take no substitute_. It is put up in

one-eighth, one-quarter, one-half, and one pound cans. ☛ If not

obtainable, enclose 25 cents in stamps or postal note to either VAN

HOUTEN & ZOON, 106 Reade Street, New York, or 45 Wabash Avenue,

Chicago, and a large sample can will be sent, postpaid, _if you

mention this publication_. Prepared only by VAN HOUTEN & ZOON, Weesp,

Holland.

MADAME ROWLEY’S

TOILET MASK OR FACE GLOVE

[Illustration:

The Toilet Mask in position to the face

_To be worn three times in the week._

]

is the _only natural beautifier_ for _bleaching_ and _preserving_ the

_skin_ and _removing complexional imperfections_.

It is _soft_ and _pliable_, and _can be easily applied_ and _worn_

without _discomfort_ or _inconvenience_.

The _Mask_ is patented, has been introduced ten years, and is the _only

genuine_ article of the kind.

It is _recommended_ by _eminent physicians_ and _scientific men_ as a

_substitute for injurious cosmetics_.

A few Specimen Extracts from Testimonial Letters.

“I am so rejoiced at having found at last an article that will indeed

improve the complexion.”

* * * * *

“Every lady who desires a faultless complexion should be provided with

the Mask.”

* * * * *

“My face is as soft and smooth as an infant’s.”

* * * * *

“I am perfectly delighted with it.”

* * * * *

“As a medium for removing discolorations, softening and beautifying

the skin, I consider it unequaled.”

* * * * *

“I find that it removes freckles, tan, sunburn, and gives the

complexion a soft, smooth surface.”

* * * * *

“I must tell you how delighted I am with your Toilet Mask; it gives

unbounded satisfaction.”

* * * * *

“The Mask certainly acts upon the skin with a mild and beneficial

result, making it smoother and clearer, and seeming to remove pimples,

irritations, etc., with each application.”

* * * * *

“It does even more than is claimed for it.”

=COMPLEXION BLEMISHES= may be hidden imperfectly by cosmetics and

powders, but can only be removed permanently by the Toilet Mask. By its

use every kind of spots, impurities, roughness, etc., vanish from the

skin, leaving it soft, clear, brilliant, and beautiful. It is harmless,

costs little, and saves hundreds of dollars uselessly expended for

cosmetics, powders, lotions, etc. It prevents and removes =WRINKLES=,

and is both a complexion preserver and beautifier. Famous society

ladies, actresses, belles, etc., use it.

Valuable illustrated pamphlet, with proofs and full particulars, mailed

free by

THE TOILET MASK CO., 1167 Broadway, New York.

THE COUNTY FAIR.

By NEIL BURGESS.

[Illustration]

Written from the celebrated play now running its second continuous

season in New York, and booked to run a third season in the same

theater.

The scenes are among the New Hampshire hills, and picture the bright

side of country life. The story is full of amusing events and happy

incidents, something after the style of our “Old Homestead,” which is

having such an enormous sale.

“=THE COUNTY FAIR=” will be one of the great hits of the season, and

should you fail to secure a copy you will miss a literary treat. It is a

spirited romance of town and country, and a faithful reproduction of the

drama, with the same unique characters, the same graphic scenes, but

with the narrative more artistically rounded, and completed than was

possible in the brief limits of a dramatic representation. This touching

story effectively demonstrates that it is possible to produce a novel

which is at once wholesome and interesting in every part, without the

introduction of an impure thought or suggestion. Read the following

OPINIONS OF THE PRESS:

Mr. Neil Burgess has rewritten his play, “The County Fair,” in story

form. It rounds out a narrative which is comparatively but sketched in

the play. It only needs the first sentence to set going the memory and

imagination of those who have seen the latter and whet the appetite

for the rest of this lively conception of a live dramatist.—_Brooklyn

Daily Eagle._

As “The County Fair” threatens to remain in New York for a long time

the general public out of town may be glad to learn that the

playwright has put the piece into print in the form of a story. A tale

based upon a play may sometimes lack certain literary qualities, but

it never is the sort of thing over which any one can fall asleep.

Fortunately, “The County Fair” on the stage and in print is by the

same author, so there can be no reason for fearing that the book

misses any of the points of the drama which has been so successful—_N.

Y. Herald._

The idea of turning successful plays into novels seems to be getting

popular. The latest book of this description is a story reproducing

the action and incidents of Neil Burgess’ play, “The County Fair.” The

tale, which is a romance based on scenes of home life and domestic

joys and sorrows, follows closely the lines of the drama in story and

plot.—_Chicago Daily News._

Mr. Burgess’ amusing play, “The County Fair,” has been received with

such favor that he has worked it over and expanded it into a novel of

more than 200 pages. It will be enjoyed even by those who have never

heard the play and still more by those who have.—_Cincinnati

Times-Star._

This touching story effectively demonstrates that it is possible to

produce a novel which is at once wholesome and interesting in every

part, without the introduction of an impure thought or

suggestion.—_Albany Press._

Street & Smith have issued “The County Fair.” This is a faithful

reproduction of the drama of that name and is an affecting and vivid

story of domestic life, joy and sorrow, and rural scenes.—_San

Francisco Call._

This romance is written from the play of this name and is full of

touching incidents.—_Evansville Journal._

It is founded on the popular play of the same name, in which Neil

Burgess, who is also the author of the story, has achieved the

dramatic success of the season.—_Fall River Herald._

=The County Fair= is No. 33 of “The Select Series,” for sale by all

Newsdealers, or will be sent, on receipt of price, 25 cents, to any

address, postpaid, by =STREET & SMITH, Publishers, 25–31 Rose st., New

York.=

------------------------------------------------------------------------

TRANSCRIBER’S NOTES

1. Moved advertisements from the front of the book to after the ad

section at the end.

2. Silently corrected obvious typographical errors and variations in

spelling.

3. Retained archaic, non-standard, and uncertain spellings as printed.

4. Enclosed italics font in _underscores_.

Thrice wedded, but only once a wife · 第 39 / 39 章