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Issued Weekly.

Jfintered at the Post-Office at New York as second-class matter.

By FRANK J. MARTIN and M. STUMM.

Specially icrittenfor “ Once a Week Library.'"

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MAJOR GOLDLEAF OF RAVENSWOOD.

FRANK J. MARTIN

yAND

. M. STUMM.

New York;

(Copyright, 1893.)

*

Major Goldleaf of Ravenswood.

Chapter I. The Wayfarer

About five o’clock in the afternoon of a balmy May day a stranger was seen to emerge from a narrow lane and turn into the Lotusville road. He was mounted on a horse worthy of the affection of any man — be he prince or pauper.

Strangers were objects of curiosity in that region, and the sudden appearance of one was the signal for an unusual amount of gossip. The worthy farmers, surrounded by their families, and sitting under the far-spreading boughs of the stately trees about their homes, were enjoying a much needed rest after the labors of the day, when the stranger passed thhir gates. Many were the conjectures made as to where he was going, coupled with flattering comments on his personal appearance and on the powerful animal he rode.

All unconscious of the gossip he was creating, he rode on, and at brief intervals spoke kind words to his beast, urging him to do his best. Horse and master understood eSjCh other perfectly, and it was not a difficult task for the intelligent creature to realize that he must carry his impatient rider with speed and security to their journey’s end.

The stranger’s face was strikingly handsome and expressive. A high broad forehead was surmounted by a soft black hat well drawn down over the eyes, which were black and soul-piercing.

A straight nose with compressed nostrils, a heavy mustache, a finely chiseled mouth and a prominent chin made his face a noble, passionate one. His hands Avere unusually small, well-formed

MAJOR GOLDLEAF OF RAVENS WOOD.

and with an aristocratic finish to them. He was about thirty years of ag-e and had evidently passed through many trying ordeals as well as days of sunshine and favor. At times his face bore evidence of painful anxiety while again a smile of selfassurance would flit across it.

When he turned into the Lotusville road he was just fifteen miles from that lethargic town. The highway was not exactly what its name implied. It was a rough, undefined road and a journey of h iteen miles over it was sufficient to tax the palienee of the most regular of church members. The stranger was obliged at times to check the speed of his horse, so as to be certain that he was not straying away from the beaten track. There were Ittle creeks to be crossed at a jump, rivers to ford with care, dense forests to pass through, followed by long stretches of meadow-land and thriving farms. Farm houses were numerous in some places, in others widel^^ scattered. The stranger paid but little heed to the country through which he was passing, contenting himself with straining his eyes to see laotusville when an elevation was reached, and in urging his horse to greater efPort.

The journey was an uneventful one until ten miles had been covered. The sun had passed below the horizon and the shadows were beginning to lengthen. A shallow creek presented itself in the way. He had already crossed a number of far more dangerous looking ones and had fared so well, that without second thought he allowed his horse to undertake the task of finding the best point at which to ford. The bed of the stream was composed of small sharp rocks while in many places deep and dangerous holes existed. When within a few yards of the opposite bank the animal missed his footing and only saved himself and rider from falling’ by a strenuous effort. Great as were his exertions, both himself and master were to suffer, for, when the road was again reached, the stranger discovered that his horse had severely

MAJOR GOLDLEAF 05^ RAVENSWOOD.

sprained the knee of his right fore leg. His face darkened for an instant before he dismounted. After examining the injured limb he patted the horse on the head and then started on, leading the animal by the bridle rein. Another mile was covered and the , twilight had deepened into a night softly illumined by the moon, pale and silvery. The stranger suddenly stopped and listened. The horse paused also and pricked up his ears. A few seconds elapsed and the sound of clattering hoofs was distinctly heard followed by the appearance of a horseman in the road to the rear.

The stranger led his horse aside just as the newcomer halted a short distance in the rear and shouted: Who’s there ?

“ I am Major Goldleaf, and I am on my way to Lotusville, which I had hoped to reach in a half an hour ; but as I was fording a stream my horse made a misstep and became disabled,” was the reply.

‘‘'Can I assist you, major?” continued thv, horseman as he approached the unfortunate traveler.

“You can, by dismounting and exchanging horses with me, until we meet in Lotusville in a few hours.”

“ I am sorry, sir, but I am afraid that will be impossible as I am going’ to Tone’s wedding and am already late.”

“May I ask who this gentleman is whom you call Tom ? ”

“You were never in these parts before, if you have not heard of Tom Loring. Tom is my cousin, sir, and as all Lotusville is going to witness his marriage to-night, I must be on hand to join in the festivities ; but is your business of so great importance that an hour will ma ke any great difference ?”

“ If it were not, I would be the last one to trouble you, my kind young man. I must be in Lotu'sville in half an hour, while an hour’s delay will make no material difference to you, as no doubt

MAJOK GOLDLEAF OF RAVENSWOOD.

the festivities will continue until to-morrow morning. Will you 'afford me the great accommodation ? ’’

Major, as sure as m^^ name is N'athan Underherry, I would be pleased to accommodate you — but hark ! There are the bells ringing. Do you hear them ? They fill my soul with ecstas}^, and with Moore I can sing :

“ ‘ Those evening bells ; those evening bells,

How many a tale their music tells,

Of youth, and home, and that sweet time When last I heard their soothing chime.’ ”

‘‘Yes; but give me your answer,” replied the major, as the silver tones of the Lotusville bells were brought to his ears on the bosom of the sweet-scented breeze. **

“ Those dear old bells tell me that Tom is about to lead his beautiful bride to the church. I cannot see the ceremony performed, so, major, here is the mare. Take good care of her and I will return the compliment to yours.”

Saying this, Kathan dismounted, and as he did so, he happened to look into the eyes of the stranger. He drew back, for he fancied that he was looking into the hearts of two volcanoes ; volcanoes they were, not of fire and lava, but of passion and determination, and moreover, he had, or at least, so he fancied, seen them before.

His place in the saddle was instantly taken by the major, whose only words before being lost to view, were :

“I will meet you at Lotusville Inn, to-night.”

Hathan shrugged his shoulders as he thought of the mysterious eyes of the major, and not even a thorough examination of the noble coal-black horse left in his care could banish from his mind curious ideas and conjectures as to his mission. He led the horse along the now well-defined road, and began to repent at leisure of having parted so hastily with his own horse. He had traveled

MAJOR GOLDLEAF OF RAVENS WOOD.

about three miles when the sweet Lotusville bells ag*ain broke forth with a joyous peal. Nathan stopped and listened- for a moment, then g*rasped the bridle rein and proceeded.

No sooner had the major mounted Nathan’s mare than he was flying over the road at a speed that g“reatly surprised him. Soon the spires of Lotusville were seen in the distance. Further on, and the snow-white houses and dim lights of the town came into full view. Five minutes more, and the major halted at the door of ^^The Lotusvdlle Inn.”

Dismounting, he had but flecked the dust from his high riding-boots, when he was joined and welcomed b}' the keeper of the inn, Mr. Moosey. Mr. Moosey wore a huge white apron with shoulderstraps of linen tape crossing around ample shirtsleeves of unrivaled purity. His round red-cheeked face was an encouragement to patrons of his meat and drink. The wholesome rotundity of his person was enough to make any one hungry and thirsty for the good things his looks, and in due time his words, suggested.

He ushered his guest indoors after the usual exchange of civilities, and perfected arrangements for the stranger, and special stable care for the mare.

The stone-floored room seemed dark and shadowy in its dim light. The well-seasoned rafters were only here and there visible as the light from the flickering blaze in the fire-place touched them. The major seated himself at a heavy oaken table in the center of the room, and was served with a glass of the host’s best Aylesbury, which he called for, that he might wash away the dust of travel and refresh his energies. As he smacked his lips in evident satisfaction, he remarked the absence of the loungers usually found in such places. Indeed, the room was deserted save for a young woman who sat knitting in one corner, making a pretty silhouette against the light of her candle.

MAJOR GOLl^LEAF OF RAVENSWOOD.

The bells pealed forth ag'ain^ and the stranger inquired the cause of all the excitement in the village.

Ah, my dear sir,’’ replied the host, Tom Loring, whom everybody knows, is being' married to Edith Pettingill up at the little stone church. The whole town is out to-night, and I venture to say that Louise, my daughter, whom you see over in the corner, is the only lass in-doors. I suppose that the young couple will live in town during their honeymoon, and yet imagine themselves in Paradise.”

^^Yes, mine host, they walk in Paradise to-night, yet w^ho can tell but that one year from to-night they may feel as though Paradise had given place to hell?”

The major, during this speech, kept his piercing eyes fastened upon Louise’s, and she seemed to shudder as he made this enigmatical remark. This was his first positive recognition of her presence, although' she had, upon his entrance, returned with a courtesy his chivalrous salutation, made with a flourish of liis looped-up riding hat. Now he seemed to be tr^dng to solve the sad, almost wild look in her eyes, as black as his own, while he took in every detail of her trim figure, including' the coquettish lace cap on her shining dark hair, the dainty kerchief, crossed over her gently agitated bosom, and the trim dark skirts just touching her low, heelless shoes. His was a masterful survey, as he sat with his long strong limbs well spread out, his broad shoulders thrown back, and his head held down, so that his gaze met hers from under his heavily arched brows. Just then, the merrj^ peal of the bells, announcing that the wedding party was about to leave the church, broke the spell that seemed to hold them both. The major slowl3^ withdrew his gaze, and stroking his mustache, announced his intention of going up to the church. Then he passed out, and was soon lost in the crowd.

MAJOR GOLDLEAF OF RAVENSWOOD.

Louise approached her father and asked :

Father, who is that man ? ”

Why, he is Major Goldleaf, a highly respected gentleman who has hut recently settled in these parts.’’

Did you notice anything peculiar about him ?”

"" ISTonsense, my child. Go to bed and don’t imagine foolish things.”

Louise was still quietly at her work when their guest returned.

Chapter II. The Wedding

The Lorings could trace their family back to tne landing of the Pilgrims on Plymouth Rock. They had paid homage to English sovereigns and had shed blood freely upon the battlefields of the Revolution. At times they had been wealthy, and they had also felt the pangs of poverty. Yet throughout all, aristocratic tendencies and family pride were maintained at great sacrifice to comfort and purse. The most prominent pew in the little church had been occupied by them from the bright S^nda3^ on which the edifice had been dedicated to public worship. Every Sabbath morn, in sunshine or rain, the elder Loring, flanked on either side by members of the household, was in his place devoutl^^ attending services. Sunday after Sunday, year after year, decade after decade, this picture remained in substance the same. When an elder Loring crossed over the Dark River, and his ashes were laid to rest with those of his ancestors in the little church^^ard, his place was immediately filled by the oldest son. Children married within the family circle and in this wa^^ the ties of kin were effectually confined. This had the effect most natural to expect ; the family began to grow numerically weaker with years, and perhaps the mental caliber and ph^^sical strength began to show signs of deterioration.

MAJOR GOLDLEAF OF RAVENSWOOD.

Be that as it may, the Loring family had dwindled down to two — mother and son. The father had died a year previous and had left to perpetuate the family a son noted for hut one thing* — an everchanging infatuation for some one of the weaker sex. A tall, irregular form, fair wavy hair, light gray eyes, a sharp nose and compressed lips were the distinguishing features of Tom Loring. The greater portion of his time fv^as devoted to catering to the whimsical wants of the susceptible maidens of the surrounding districts. Before he was twenty-five (he was now thirty), he had created sad havoc with the affections of a score of them.

He, as had his ancestors for upward of a centur}^, lived in the old Loring mansion just on the border of Lotusville. The ‘^mansion” had originally been a small farmhouse built quite a distance from the road. As generation followed generation, so did additions to the house, and always in the front. When Tom Loring became its master he had quite a large, and even in those days, an oldfashioned homestead. The additions had brought the entrance to within a few feet of the road. The two gable ends of the front section faced east ai:kd west, while the front windows looked out to the south. Without, on either side of the main entrance stood a majestic hemlock. Bar to the west rose a forest of oak ; to the east one might see, after climbing to the highest point of the roof, the turbulent Atlantic as its waves beat madly upon the rock-lined coast.

To the south, flourishing farms and green meadows made the view a pleasing one, while to the north rose the steep roofs and the spires of Lotusville. A delightful place to. live and one in which any one might justly take pride.

The Pettingill family was a comparatively^ recent addition to Lotusville society. It consisted of a father and mother well advanced in years, and a daughter, Edith, about twenty-one years old. They

MAJOR GOLDLEAF OF RAVENSWOOD.

were refined people with a goodly share of wealth at their disposal. The Petting’ill family could not boast of a long line of venerated ancestors, but it could claim the enjoyment of peace and contentment. Their plain substantial home stood on a strip of table-land overlooking the sea. A few acres of well-tilled ground was the only estate held by the Pettingills in Lotusville ; but it was frequently Avhispered that John Pettingill was connected with a large mercantile establishment in Boston, and being desirous of leading a secluded life, had retired to this romantic spot. Facts sustained this theory, for at short intervals businesslike individuals would arrive at Lotusville, pay short visits to the Pettingill home and depart as quietly as they had come.

It Avas on one of these occasions that trouble first caime to them. One of Mr. Pettingill’s friends brought with him to LotusAulle, Frederick Luetz, a Prussian nobleman who was visiting America for pleasure. He was charmed with everything — the country, the people, and especially with Edith. He prolonged his Ausit, paid assiduous attention to hei* and finally asked her hand in marriage. She gave it, subject to the approval of her parents. When the 3mung Prussian solicited the father's consent he met AAdth an emphatic yet polite refusal. He lingered long, but to no avail. As a last recourse he proposed fiight to Edith, Avho scorned the idea . He then became A'ery angry and returned to Boston after politely cursing all. Edith did not worry ver\ much over the turn affairs had taken, and in 1 he course of a fetv months the incident was almost entirely forgotten.

Shortly after this event Tom Loring entered tl.e lists as her suitor. OAving to his A^acillating character he was not favorabl.y looked upon by Mr. Pettingill as a proper wooer for his daughter ; but Avith Edith it Avas different. She manifested a decided preference for him, and despite the efforts of her parents to the contrary, she persisted in appearing in public with him. Their courtship was

MAJOR GOLDLEAF OF RAVENSWOOD.

interrupted for a time by a little scandal in which Tom and Louise Moosey, the innkeeper’s daughter, figured conspicuously. Tom disappeared, to return when the difficulty had been adjusted. When he came back Mr. Pettingill refused him admittance to his‘ home and forbade him to speak to his daughter ; but Edith overlooked the frailty of Tom and through artful schemes the love-making was continued. Tom showed a disposition to reform his ways, and when he actuallj^ did so, Mr. Pettingill yielded and gave his consent to their marriage, after receiving man3^ promises. Then the Loring mansion was subjected to a general overhauling, and invitations to the wedding were issued ; in fact the details were arranged and successfully carried out with a nicety worthy of the efforts of the good people.

Shortly after Major Goldleaf left the inn, he found himself in the midst of the eager throng that surrounded the liffle stone church in which the matrimonial knofc was being tied. He accosted a young man who informed him that the whole town, or at least the greater portion of it, would, upon the departure of the bridal party from the church, go up to the Town Hall and properly celebrate the event as was customary on such occasions. He then pushed his way through the crowd and succeeded in securing a position in the vestibule, where in the flickering candle light he could closely observe the bride as she passed out.

He had but a few moments to wait before his curiosity was gratified. The bride, leaning on the arm of her husband, passed quite close to him, and he was much surprised at her beauty and simple elegance. He was quick in noting the striking difference in the characteristics of the newl}^ made husband and wife. The apparent contrast of temperaments seemed to afford him satisfaction, for his face, otherwise seriously expectant, lighted up for an instant. He remained at his post until the crowd had left the churchyard, and then slowly

MAJOR GOLDLEAF OF RAVENSWOOD.

descended the steps, muttering : She is beautiful — very beautiful.” Paying slight heed to the boisterous crowds of young people in the streets, he returned to the inn and found Mr. Moosey and his daughter still retaining undisputed possession of it. Seen the wedding. Major Goldleaf ? ”

^^Yes. I had the pleasure of seeing the wedding party as it left the church. Judg^g from the enthusiasm of their friends, I should* think that the young couple must be quite popular.”

“ The fact is. Major Goldleaf, the young lady is as good and true a lass as ever lived, while the less that is said about her husband the better.”

The major, who had been watching Louise, noticed her face darken while her father was speaking. In the most unconcerned manner he said, I wonder what this young’ man has done that is so ver^^ wicked ? ”

Enough, sir, to bring down my curse on him as well as those of a score of others.”

Louise rose and left the room while her father was uttering these words. Turning to his host, the major replied, "" The wicked run so far, and no farther. If the young man has reformed, give him a chance to set matters right ; but I am hungry and prefer victuals to gossip. I will remain here two or three days and want the best room in the house.”

The landlord was beside himself with joy at this, and rushing out after his daughter he ordered her to prepare a lunch, not forgetting to caution her to pa:y strict attention to every desire of their guest, just as he disappeared, the door opened and Nathan Underberry entered. Advancing to the major he asked : Major, did you arrive m

time?” •

Goldleaf arose and grasping his hand replied : '‘^Yes, thanks to your generosity, I was enabled to be here at the appointed hour. I know that you have taken excellent care of my horse. You will find yours in the stable being well looked after.

MAJOR GOLDLEAF OF RAVENSWOOD.

Now take this for your kindness and then for a lunch before you go out to celebrate.’’ Major Goldleaf slipped a diamond ring- on Nathan’s fing-er as he spoke, and taking him by the arm led him to a table. At first Nathan declined the ring, but accepted it after much persuasion on the major’s part.

“^^Are jmu well acquainted in these parts, major?” asked' Nathan as he seated himself, am sorry to say that I am not.”

^^Then you must be, and there is no better time to do it than the present.”

^^How can the pleasant task be accomplished so easily?”

Come along with me to-night. I know every one in town. We will go up to the hall and mingle with the crowd. Tom and his wife will be there, and rest assured that we will both have a dance with the bride.”

This was what Major Goldleaf hoped for but did not expect. He ordered some wine, and together they partook heartily of the tempting lunch that was spread before them by Louise Moosey. An hour later they entered the Town Hall and in a brief space of time Major Goldleaf had received an introduction to two-thirds of the people present. He made a ver^^ favorable impression on all, the ladies in particular. Nathan circulated freely among the merry people, stopping every few moments to inform those who gathered about him that his friend Major Goldleaf was a wealthy gentleman who had settled in the neighborhood of Lotusville. It is not to be wondered at that the major attracted the attention of every marriageable maiden present. They gathered in little groups and discussed him. "^He is charming,” said one of them. He dances perfectly, is so graceful, and, dear me, did you ever see such beautiful eyes? ”

^^A case of love at first sight,” interrupted a voice from behind. The little group turned and laughed merril}^ at this remark, which had been uttered by Nathan Underberry.

‘‘ Nathan, what charm do the eyes of your fascinating friend possess?’’ spoke up another. ^^They completely charmed me and,^! have not yet entirely recovered from their influence.”

Here the conversation was interrupted by the announcement that Tom Loring and his bride had arrived. The crowd surged toward the entrance, while Major Goldleaf remained in a position where he was able to view the entire scene. When the newly wedded pair appeared, the applause was long and hearty. The hand-shaking lasted half an hour, during Avhich he found ample time to study the bride, in whom he became deeply interested.

After making sure to be one of the first to offer his congratulations and requesting two dances from Mrs. Loring, Nathan sought the major.

In his erxcited condition he could not find him, but when he did he grasped his arm and said :

Major, I’ve been running all over the hall to And you. Come and let me introduce you to Mr. and Mrs. Loring. They will lead in the next dance, and then you will have the following number with the bride.’’

Major Goldleaf was introduced, and after tendering his congratulations, mentioned the fact that Nathan had prompted him to ask the favor of a dance with the bride, all of which was highly acceptable to Mrs. Loring. A few minutes later they were gliding over the floor, while Nathan and Tom v/atched them. '

^"Capital fellow, that Major Goldleaf,” said Nathan.

^^He acts as though he were a finely polished gentleman,” replied Tom.

‘^He has plenty of money, and lias settled in Ravenswood. I imagine that he is the right kind of a friend for you, Tom, and^ you know that you are in need of just such a one.” ,

MAJOR GOLDLEAF OF RAVENSWOOD.

You are nglit, and I will do my best to cultivate his friendship/’

See that you do,” was Nathan’s advice, as he slipped away from Tom, in order to have a few words with an old sweetheart, in an opposite corner of the hall.

When the dance with Mrs. Loring was at an end, the major begged to be excused for the evening, as he was fatigued, so he said, after his long journey. Nathan parted with him after obtaining the promise of a meeting on the following day. Major Goldleaf returned to the inn, and found Mr. Moosey sleeping comfortablj' in a great armchair.

Chapter III. Nathan Underberry

After Major Goldleaf had bade him a good-night, Nathan Underberry redoubled his efforts to make his presence agreeable to the ladies. He was a “diamond in the rough,” and at times showed his great lack of polish, as forthcoming events will prove. Although he had a regard for the rights of his fellow beings, yet if he could gain a slight advantage over a neighbor in a game of chance, he would avail himself of the opportunity with a keen relish. He fell an easy victim to the fascinations of the fair sex, and, in this way, cut quite a figure in Lotusville society. Women filled his cup with delicious draughts, that toned down the coarse ingredients of his nature, which would at times have asserted themselves to his detriment. He lived chiefly for three things : society, gaming, and his horses. The two latter were held subservient to the first.

At eleven o’clock on the following morning, he entered the inn and inquired for Major Goldleaf. As that gentleman was in his room, Nathan was ushered into a cozy little parlor, while the major was being informed of his presence. Nathan’s

MAJOR GOLBLEAF OF RAVENS WOOD.

complexion had suffered somewhat from the .dissipation of the previous evening*, hut otherwise his appearance was a marvel of neatness.

He entered the parlor and found Louise Moosey sitting at a window, knitting. With a courteous salutation he took a seat quite close to hers. He was in that transient state when every fair face causes a fluttering of the heart— a momentary spell of love. Of a redundant disposition at his worst, ]iis frequent and violent declarations were listened to with patience hy those to 'whom they were addressed. When he entered the parlor he had hut one sweetheart ; when he drew his chair quite close to that of Louise he had hut one, yet a different one. In that short space of time his fancies had revolutionized themselves, and the sweet face that had enraptured him on the previous evening lost its charms when compared with the one now before him. A determination to win Louise rose within him, and without the slightest douht as to his success, he entered into a conversation with this end in view.