The bootmaker of the Fifth Avenue
page: (TitlePage) [View Page (TitlePage) ]I 4 I p A THE BOOTMAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE, A STORY OF THE PETROLIOMANIA IN NEW-YORK CITY. Bir PAUL PRESTON, AaTaou or-"THE BLACK BAND," "THE PRit E O iE ARENA," a POuU I TAL, HILTON & CO., PUBLISHERS, No. 128 Nassau SIaU. r( J7 / S 1 _ i I " n n J t _t 4 f - _, y , / s, , c Y tL S T= s ' F * i _ r i ' s _ a- i ,. i- " , 4 a ' - - -, - _ ., ; t A -, f _ t IPA '01L # 4 X' ,a-' ;-fit ". - - .e - °._ - ., '+ '*" ,_"+a, rj., "aw -, "y . ,# Y yA 1. ti Y - F J , a s iiS4 " rya i i M ' U . t rr ' f b g F ti 1 y ",i yy V i 1 w " 7 " . T.r " z '1 ' ! h Y Y r t « i ,7 page: 0[View Page 0] Rntered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1866, by HILTON & CO., in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for the Southern District of New York. & I I I i C " y i r I .._...p. r ~s:iv 'rr 's~~s " .,..,. . «t- s " THE BOOT 1MAKR OF E FIF' 5AVENE. CHAPTER 1. "The great, ig ddbeiver,'" quoth another damsel, hanging on the arti of TR5 VfILLAGE INN AT BEAUVIEW. a riistc adniirer, "after all that he has said to bie." "My dear widpw, 'pon my honor, " Well, Amanda," and Mr., Sickles you're the plumpest lguro and= will blushed almostto the tip of hisnose, as prove the lightest dancer for forty miles he ventured to reply to this-serious. so- around.", ie sation, "I nst say that there was a With this compliment Mr. Solomon time, when I did like to 4hink or you Sickle, who borethereputation of being to" 14te, ,iUdage beau of pko township ofjs "The factsis, .r, ,ickle," quoth the Beauview, a locality which isted some widgw Vernon rwvth a spice of. quiet quarter of a century back:amid "the- in= satire in the 4ne pf ' ;her voico, "I a5In terior region of the Jersies, conduct-; araid that your agection aun ppre,eia- du1s partna into the public parlor of tion, araqualities which you Jve, die- the quaint old hostelrie, which graced tributed too freely for your own happi- the township aforesaid. ness, for a rolling stone, as. you know, "You're very coauplimentary, I'm gathers no moss," Lure," returned t blushing Mrs. Ver- Mary Vernon was still gung hand- non, and she averted her eyes tpwards home, edudatud woman, and ha been a group affair ones, who had preceded the'reigning belle of her district, at, a her to the sitting apartment, "but I'm period :hen Join Vernon-'thrivig afraid that you say justss pretty things fa m h n i thE ieg farmer', some three years since, inter- to all the rest of the sex."edt er ofin a nti tri- No I don't," retorted Ir. Sickle, as p osed to i r h umph. Their connubial bliss had how- he pressed the hand of the, fair widow;. af tver, been short lived, for, at the endof with" more than allowable compression the year, the happy husband sickened " I only lie you, that I do; as for the . Y ' of epidermc, and, to the sincere _be- other women folk, I don"t think onr t a t , them-" reavement-of his affectionate-pouse ", How can you say so, Solomon was translated'to another world. Sickle 7, broke in:a young hoyden,'A universal titter followed this sally whose laughing eyes told the story of of the handsome widow, for any alliiou as to the vanity of Mr. Sickle:' amorous ,o ,'interruption. pretensions, as certain tobereceived Welleillsa.e a Jaee- with favor, by the group of giddy sponded the village beau, with an ex- damsels, who had:alternately been the pression of comparative sheepishness, subjects of his prior protestations and " I have,'oi times, thought on you." iamentations. # I page: 18-19[View Page 18-19] THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. "There now, Solomon," quoth the hoyden Mary Jane, "just see what you get, even from a widow--I'd be ashamed of myself." The village beau was slightly $scon- certed, for, upon this occasion of a wed- ding feast, ho had resolved to avail him- most of ppqrtmiy, b phw i eard fthe obdurate widow Vernon ,i to make an cuadurable mark upon those of the 'ma~npy oneswho, disputed with her the p of al eauty.: . ,r. So:rnon Spkle, suddenly brought to the confessional, stammered out a# e,. whi only aggravated the un- pmesauiueacs of his position, especially -e theiatteudant be aof hisinquisitors .uxhibited signs of satisfaction at 'his 'evident distaenforthre. Paruo uit, Solomon," quoth Mi. er ioi kindly, ta l comipassion upon hers cavalai'1 embkfra$sient,"- I will { libvae. y6 from Emny f&t &e waste of omlimet; upon 'm6, for you must kuo* that itis nt uay intention to in- dalgo agai-inr' matrimony." ttick ly for the diversion of attention from the hapless Sickle,"at this precise Juicture, lidere entered the parlor the master of the revels for the day, or rather iight, an important personage *hoso acvent had created a' fatter of lenent among-the assembled belles, nxoas o ascertain the details of the a r hci~g fesvity, which was to tr4 ate wedding ceremonial. L dig and;genitlemen," quoth Mr. vT root, gr9gjsmau and master of cere- monies with dictatorial solemnity," an'eall 'partners,-ain't, you? All g Remnouples, all right oh ? i rhM hatInig Cdsetthe half dozen ion:nd a ainny-of the fairer se #&daup before hitn in h ror:, he cute- Y+ idnted themn off; and deli fated tkll One gertosmn ws 6 s ornd. One gentleman wa's desti tute of a mate, for the fair widow now announ- ced her determination ofno longer con- tinuing her pilgrimage to the wedding feast. "Not going to dinner," ejaculated Mr. Sickle disconsolately. "Why I've got my best team, and the Willow grove 'I ,E n $" p4 . groomsman," and I've got such a rousing dinner, brook fish, lake fish, turkies, chicken, geose--" "You aint got any hare, have you 1" intercepted Mr. SolomanS ickle, who evidently appeared determined to seek consolation forthe widow's absence by a vigorous Assuit upon 'the edibles. Be6ides Soliman acknowledged a pecu- liar weakness for game, and paricularly fo'r'hare, when duly cooked and trun- " Not a hare 1" respoi ded the groomas- an modnornfully. " 'h'at' 'uad;" rejoined 'the village beau, "why couldn't .you get a hare." "Becuse he didn't look for them," interupted deep toned' voies and from the passage way of the inn *'there entered 'a large grin visaged man whose aspect, despite' his youth and striking features, had so ginikter an ek- priuion, that each one of th assembl- pe company seemed instinctively to avoid contact *ith him. "You here, Devine?" ej eulated the groomsman in suprise, "1 I wer'nt invited I know," muttered the farmer sportsman, for Devine bore in his hand a gun, while other impli- ments of the chase were suspended from his person. "But I suppose there is no law against any man showing 'iniself inywhore-even, among boors." a :; a "lBoors!" exclaimed the entire:com- pany, palpably annoyed at the ,unwel- come intrusion of one unQage inal, to the ent4iro assembled group:. "; Yes, boors!" repeate yntuet- ing a sardonic glance upon the grooms- A! man i"toierwise youvugld not lmaye forgotten the rules of decency,.4 x Leave me out.in,,p oldp while yOIu are. pjoyuig yourpe ves ,"W9uld yo have , u iar-a1festIa ". said $4eiioyen ~ry Jggue, wtho igenia of the conpe a 'y appoavel sul |gently geso1nta, tubeard thr )igny ihug 1wP in their path, "by bringing :i.h ura brute. beast,Mwo is always grow ing iake one of his dogs-'p n "That ' so," confidentiallynuirmured SolomanSickel. "A vomuan' tonhne is no slander," riEspoNded DvIins ias h6 broulit "his hand shatplyipou his high 'but tel, -'e1id ii4A9 her kindf61kW htitW alb er ie ins will bonhadifk idhr'P 6f. tithe. fx i tl livaI''aAa i hand, when 'want- ed,''mutreduMa'y ea;pshiini her companion sonewhatrudel o"the' end of the pario'.' dwt'saIeaf'h'tli. brute to amuse those rho iksithii-tat'ii The remainder 'of t .e icoIn e i- latng the example of the determinate hoyden, Mr.Watt r s wva& left to his own nieditations. 1Nis gyes. fiafsid fire, as he noted the evideit'displeasure of hiis neigbons, ho Heither concealed ;nor disguised their aversionto pi re- a ' . 1 -, of '': s p re sncen. 'Bt one alone of th assemoy ui aithtr c'hn'°ia; herIplac,'iiore p ihii- spaedIn the 4ei onstratibx oal1st unainous' contempt. The 4ow Verron,,je elp g oi, thear of Solo- 19 s igo,'repailed a tranquilobsery er of a-aoene as,"ne of no iaterest to her. ° "Mary," quoth Domins, . ,advaneipg to [ the, wi ow as .es ectfully as , hi ; ga ff iutnggs oi d 1Rdeoe,:lihy 4o reto sc nt m tbgb g li9e le "I .noreaspn-fov -so doing," re-, plied. the w gftily, lution," said the sportsman fereyntl, 1 r, twAqbjv i' ,h1t A$I2 ,' *I 7's'ei' for me in ex Om t P in7'fo ,r- s: " miolg~ad,thoschlow rop- {'jiyo hgw onemre 4lpleping'to 'yrmnd,'?u W+le ibs.grated pis teeth asmlim e sokeit*ithiaasb,- Bingone of va ce, some g ouggiass k or man of greater beau 'gpN,, y g eer 'replied, M4m'Wetrxoui, with a deOej7'tnwn sigh ; "I ' # i ~drth erve-fmy hisaidineVidry driinto sa a~d . ,If h r1y"''kep 'ily "Theep wdsras" ertede'ies ith or mant ofgeter bat dn d, ea aon wy you h1a te 'm e aicold 7ua rTI ai rej bi yt j " du dhe' yrd ireto'I r' th a fa'ag e6Wnde "bat adl:e oiply' ea A " hais arha on iiat cmotti wo'fh buy see husband or the th rbr'.'' 7 ly. . Don't add h1 dosy t or it - er fa s..A,.9zyan 4on'J adu6ge in elicit amours or notlil1g, and 'Iam posted wit u regard 9y0ogur intrigues)' 4 ' =Intrigtues4" 7 j adulated the :widow with 'a lookof dikda4d6lnt., E)- 'fYes," eiiaDeviha;lai ig greatatres 'ipopi the'wdrd, yn% . yhiyter your- saif yondhawde Mei 1gt mA b,# my cyes havosibeen aId ' waJ. I b ve seen; the4hildMaryJ'&' , 1filh4ehi '.i es ek4ps. the idowr hinlhing dely. /1 4F rk 41 18 g i page: 20-21[View Page 20-21] THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. 21 "V'es, the child," continued Devina village of Beauview with their pres with a faint chuckle. - "I am a .good ence-" hand to mount guard, always on duty, "That's so," interrupted Walter Dev you know. Poor little infant, dreadful- in, well accustomed to mine host's dis ly neglected, nobody comes to -see itj course, which had been delivered to neither father or mother. But, Mary, I'll very newcomer for the space of at least find oat theiwhole' thing." ten years, "not for any superior accom- Mary Vernon, although annoyed that modation but because there paint any her obnoxious suitor'bad discovered a other in town." secret she would have desired to have Mine host stopped short and darter preserved, thanked heaven, that- his a look of contempt upon his unwelcome watching had not been attended with guest, whilethelady gave a few direct- 'th. diction' of the parents of the in-- ions to her maid to return to the car- fnt she had so mysteriously entertain- riage and there seek some articles of at- ed at her cottage. tire accidentally left behind in the hur- "Walter, you are crazy," said the wi- ry of their leaving the vehicle. dow on recovering her composure. "You must-pardon me," said the lady "You are more crazy than I am, with an amiable expression, while a Mary," retorted'Devins, " and you will smile gracefully illuminated a counten- find it out before many days roll by, I ance sobered down by palpable grief, tell you Ic.a" . * "but an accident has occurred; to my "Why.am n crazyI" and the widow carriage and forcedipe to seek a tempo-, smiled, but gloomily., rary refuge in tWB. hotel. ,You will, "Because you have disdained my therefore excuse m compulsory trees love," responded Walter, and his voice pass upon, your hospitality, until the in-' fellito a low tone each as -the croak of jury be repaired." the raven, "remember what I tell you, "Io annoyance, xpa'am," quoth the Mary. I am something -of a fortune master of the'revels; " we are merely teller. Beware, there as a direful mis- stopping for the moment until all our fortune in your way." wagons are come to carry us to a wed.. "I fear it not,".said the widow deter- ding five miles off. minately,'and1 as if to avoid any far - " Jack is only waitin ' for Black DicM ther'atllsion to the theme of their con- the fiddler," interposed Mr. Solomon versation, is. Vernon turned to the Sickle, unwilling to lose uy oppor tuni- company, retired to the further end of ty'to show off before a 1dy of quality, the chamber and addessed them gaily.: such as was then present 'l "happy all. but poor Solomon, girls are d And when he ome we'll have a you' not afraid of being late to the wed- dancee" interposed the isoyden Mari' dino 'arJane, "first,by way ofkillir gtime; may- bis, madame, is the Eagle Hotel in be the lady would like to take part in 2 the. village of Beauview," interposed good old country dance." the voice of Seth Hicks, the burly pro- "If that's so," interrupte Solomon, prietorof this iral hostlery,ashe some- unwilling to allow his thuder to be what gallantly ushered into the parlor stolen from him. "I'll takd her hand a young lady, habited in fashionable at- for the first set.,' tire and attended by a female domestic. " The lady is doubtless tho tired,' "This house, madam, was patronized by remarked Mrs. Vernon, as she advance- all the presidents of this blessed count- to the new comer and saluted her re ry, who have honored the flourishing spectfully. The stranger smiled graciously, for itj "It's too far off, Walter," remarked was evident that the parties recognized Mrs. Vernon, who was evidently reluc- egeh other, notwithstanding an evident tant for her city friend to accept the pro- anxiety on the part of both to conceal posal and yet perplexed as to the means their previous acquaintance, of conveying indirect information as to " I thank you very kindly," said the her disinclination "away out in the city lady blandly. "I have truly need words." of repose, anp. no.si po ition to break "So much the better," responded in upon your revels," then turning to Walter. "I have no neighbors to over- Mrs. Vernon she cast upon her an in- look my affairs, and I like to exist in quiring glance, and whispered : "Where comfortable solitude." is the child, Mary; is she well ?" "I accept your offer, my kind sir," "At four o'clock," returned the wid- and the'lady bowed gracefully. cw, in a subdued tone of voice, "I will "Nay, don't, Miss Henrietta," whis- bring it with me, to this house if you peered Mrs. Vernon. destre it, madam." "And why not, my dear Mary?" "Ilut this crowd ?" inquired the lady "Because-," and the, widow stopped somewhat anxiously. short as she-perceived that-the piercing "They will depart long before that I glances of Walter Devins were directed time," returned the widow. full upon her. Had it been possible to have disguised "I am not afraid," responded the the fact of a previous intimacy existing strange lady, unable to interpret the between the widow and her friend, the meaning of M try's significant words keen observation of Walter Devins "you will go with me, and beside he would have solved the mystery of their will be anxious to meet me alone, as if low-toned interchange of words. The he mu it." personal appearance of the stranger, "It is not a splendid mansion," ob- her elegant habits and graceful man- served Walter, "such as you have been ners betokened to the 'former, who had accustomed to, but then it is better spent- a portion of his younger days in 'athisdinn whicheisioverruntwit the immediate vicinity of a large city, the evidence of her being not only a boors and gabblers. My offer comes, I person of superior condition, but one assure ycu, madame, from an honest who had moved in the more fashionable heart, to say the best of it." walks of life. s Emphatically beautiful, and not over twenty years of age, tall, well formed and elegant, the lady bore traces of sor- row, which illy accorded with the mag- nificence and style of her appearance. She was nervous and over anxious, ap- parently reluctant to meet the glances of the rustics,,lost in wonder to divine the mission of so distinguished a strang- er in that-quarter of the globe. "If the lady desires rest," observed Walter Devins, as he approached the whispering couple, "and prefers a pri- vate house to this babel, permit me to tender her the use of mine." "In a like spirit I accept it," remark- ed the lady earnestly. Walter Devins was ever an unwelcome guest at the Eagle but on this occasion Seth, the publican, cursed him most heartily for hi.i interference whereby the hostelry,patronized by all the presi- dents lost the perspective emolument to be derived from a town lady and her' carriage suite. Lamentation however was futile and anger thoroughly useless, for Walter was one of that class who despised threats and absolutely rejoiced in a good old fashioned square fight. Consequently casting a sarcastic glance upon tho discomfited landlord, Mr. r t I 20 THE 33OQT, MAKER OF TILE PIE'T'A. 4V N 1TE. 3 f 3 C a S Y :I 3 _i F 5 i t L? %i ,a :- ",3 ' E "i' r .l page: 22-23[View Page 22-23] I I, T~m 6OT4AIEROFTHIFIhAVNE Devinri marshalled theWa'Y toW rds his dwelling'iri the woods;losle'iffllowed by the xstrango lady and her attetdait the wido&.y "Lost that Customer, eh, Seth ?" te- marked Mr. Soloirton Siele, who, noW' that Walter Devine had departed out of hearing, indulged in no very limited abuse of thatidividuul and his general chra:ter.' 'Hes a low, mean spirited, eair, any how," quothMt. Siekles exultantly.' "That's so;"boineidod Mr. Seth Hicks,' as he-was about retiring fromthe par- 16r, "I igeg with'you, sir, and will take a drink with you on the ettength of it." TREi BcOT'AIER ,OF THE FIFTH AV Uv . CHAPTER II. F 1t 11 t TI1IE TRAVELING COBBLER. "Bomd, both- ways,":quoth :olornon; "I dO'understandyou." "Wiser heads than, yours have been, puzzled to make out my abode," coollyt remarked the -strolling bootmender, as, he deposited his baskets containing' his working implements on the piazza,t"for gentlemen of my peculiar turn of thind wears outalmost as many shoes as they can coaiveniently repair. -A travelling cobbler is a man of a particular breed, and, like yno one else. ie's. got no country, no house, no home. He break- fasts in a village, that is when he break- fasts; he dines in a town, that 'is when he dines, and ,leeps in a city, that is when he sleeps." "Ho's the , andering lew, is he 7" in- quired the hoyden Mary Jane. "With a basket too much and a dol- lar bill too little," responded the cob- bIer, casting a professional eye upep the lady's boots., "Poor fellow," said Mary ,iane, "ho can't be l appy without a single dollar." "Yes I canbut not very," replied the peripatetic; philosopher gaily, some- time I have a dollar, and then again I haven't, but betwixt you and I, it al- ways turns out the same thing in the. end." "fio v's that n learned traveller" remarked the' laly. "Whel Ihave 'a dollar, I spend-it in treat ibg 'my industry," rejoined the cobbler,"an'd when I haven't any I work so as to have it -to treat my, , industry with. Some Ipeople say that drink makes a man idle,-but if it wasut for drink Pa sure aI'd never work, that is the short and'long of the matter." "Bravo!"- shouted the crowd, charmed with the argumelht; "pray, my jolly fel- low, what may be your name ?" "Christopher Last," returned the bootmaker good 'humoredly, "the lasts of the lasts, and ever too late in being the last."' "And never last at a drink," suggest, ed Solomon Sickle. "All right, girls, Black 'Dicks' come ! Let's have a dance if you say so." In this wise shouted 'Mr. Solomon Si!kle, somewhat elated by the drink he had swallowed, and still more so by the fact that Walter Devins had with- drawn from their society. "No time now, Sol," returned Mr. Turbot, the director of the revels, who assumed management of affairs, "call the girls, while I go and see after the vehicles. Hold on to the dark, Sol, we can't go wit hot music." Mr. Sickle performed his allotted task with comnnendable alacrity, and within afew moments tl)e guests of the Eagle' were assenlbled upon Ihe broad piazza running in front of that public building. "Boots to mend ! Half soles, heel taps, footed, mended and stitched !" ' "What's that " " anxiously inquired the entire crowd, as upon their ears broke these words, delivered with a species -f jerking emI)hasis. "It's a travelling cobbler," remarked I Solomon, with a knowing leer; "where in the name did v ou come from my fine fellow ?" 'Iome !" curtly responded the peri- patetic mennder of decayed boots. "All right,'' continued Solomon, "where are you going to, my boy ?" "Ihome t" 'is sharply and decisively answered the cobbler. _ii t fy , s i - ,i r , i i _ _ F a i i f . . . i 0 - page: 24-25[View Page 24-25] 24 THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE, "Sometimes I don't drink though," as the method of his dress. Had he remarked the philosophic Mr..Last,; "for been habited in other clothing, none at times I enter upon a practice of econo- would have suspected his humble call- my. - You must know that I, like many ing, so light and gay was his demeanor, others, are troubled with an ambition." so frank and earnest his conversation, "Not to be a congressman," remark- in language beyond his social position. ed Mary Jane with a laugh. - "Yes, my fine lady," resumed the "Oh, no, I don't drink enough for traveller, as he wiped the dust trom off that," replied the cobbler; -"but when his boots, "I am a droll fellow, whose, my father died, he left me a. lot of only weakness is in the pool et. Every ground in. New Yok city. It's away time I start out in search of work I up town and when I get tich enough nake a solemn oath never to return I'm going to build me a (1shap on that without a hundred dollars in solid cash very ground-that's my ambition, sery --that would lay the foundation of my modest, you see." I slop. I have dot up as high as fifty, "To build a shop, is no very great but then unfortunately some big dit thing," quoth Solo mon derisively . lies directly in my way, and if the li- "Did I say shop ?" resumed the cob- quor is good, goody to ready cash. It bler, "if I did it don't convey my idea ain't m y own fault altogether, but that of a shop. It is a palace I mean, with of the settlers of this blessed country green blinds and mahogany sashes, all who have put large cities just in the trimmed round with garlands of shoes." line ct m1y fortune." "A beauty of bootmaker's dream," re- ""Ilow long since you left a large city '" joined Mary Jane. inquired Solomon. "I've carried that shop in my head," "Quitted Philadelphia 'day before cont irued Mr. Last, in no way deter- yesterday, and flat broke." mined to lose sight of the subject, "You must be terribly dry," remark- --ever since I'was out of my time, and ed Mr. Sickle, with alaugh. I'm hound to have it built upon the real "i'll smile with you, my friend," re- soil somehow" torted the peripatetic artist. I started "When were you out of your time, with a sublime thirst, and the dust of my fine fellow ?" interposed Solomon, the. road has improved it. I could, somewhat nettled at the interest taken empty a canal, provided it flowed with by the girls in the cobbler's discourse. whiskey." "About the time I was burn," answer- "We N, you shall have a good horn at ed the bootmaker, "for as long as I can our expense," rejoined Mr. Sickle. remeni br, I've been on my travels with "Glad to hear it," quoth the cobbler, my basket, my tools, my wax ends and "for it couldn't be at in-e, considering my leat her. In fact I must almost say that I have just dusted my boots in a ;hat the first wordls I uttered was in in - large city." distinct cry of any boots to mend !" "And now for the wedding, lads and '-You're a droll fellow anyhow." re- lasses," exclaimed the master of cere- marked Mary Jane with a smile. monies as a couple of, large sized wag- In truth, the wandering artisan, who ons drove up to the inn door; "'it's about appeared a man about twenty-five time to start off, and sharp at that." years of age, with intelligent counten- "My good fellow, we're sorry to part anc(, regular features and full black with you," said the hoyden Mary Jane eyes, was. an eccentric character, as to the peripatt tic philosopher; "there well from the singularity of his remarks is a scat for you in our wagon, a plate T1E -OOT MAKER OF at the dinner, and then we'll danee by the bright moonlight--think of that my philosophic vajgrant." "A Thousand thanks, mf hospitable charmer," replied the artisan, "I will devour the dinner in imagination ana tip it off with a dance of the same ma- terial. But as mine host's Whiskey is of a good quality, I'll drink a stirrup cup in the real liquid." "Try and come this way again," (ulth the hoyden Mary Jantas leading upon the arn of her rustic-admirer, she leapt lightly and cheerfully into the,, huge travelling, van now -ready to d- part. "I'l try it, my flower of the wilder- ness." returned the cobbler waving his hand with an affectation of polite gal- lantry. "Goodby old top, see you again!" shouted Solomon Sickle, as he set about arranging the order of the departure, much to the annoyance of the g:oows- man who vainly protested against this usurpation of privilege. "Now, then," continued the farmer, "music in front, girls in the middle, married men to the rear." Having deposited Black Dick and his superanuated violin, which had fur-- nished dancing music tQ the communi- ty of Ileauview during a monopoly of fifty years, .safely upon the box seat, Mr. Sickle assumed the reins with the air of a master whip. With an encoura- ging shout he started the well condition- ed team, and touched the off horse with a gentle flourish of the lash. 'Goodby, cobbler!" shouted the ani- mated contents of the .ecluie in exuber- ance of glee, to which unanimous fare- well the strolling mechanic simply re- sponded by uttering his ianuiliar cry of "Boots to wend ! halt soles, heel taps, footed and stitched !" "That's the way of klif," soliloquised Mr. Christopher Last, as he resumed his 'THE FIFTH AVENUE. 25 basket and made prepa atiois to pro- gress upon his ,journey. It must be confessed that the artisan resumed his tramp with more than ordinary reluct- ance, for the beautiful eyes and the fra- ternal words of MaryJane had made an impression on the traveller, which ,at- tached him to the scene of their in- promptu meeting, as an oasis in the desert of his vagrant life. Scarcely ad the wedding train die- appeared from the sight of the cobbler, watching its descent down the dusty hillside, than a strange gentleman, mounted upon a thorough bred steed, dashed to the-entrance door of the Ea- gle, near which the travelling bootma- ker lingered in seeming meditation on the mutability of mundane affairs. "Is this Ieauview ?" inquired the equestrian, the smoking sides of whose steed showed that he had ridden both long and fast. "I think so," responded Christopher Last, with a familiar nod. "Have you seen a lady pass this way ?" continued the horseman. "A lady," replied the cobbler musing- ly, "you had better believe I have. There is two dozen of them just gone up the road." "They're country folks," interposed the traveller rather testily. They're ladies, nevertheless," re- torted Mr. Last gravely. Undoubtedly," resumed the eques- trian, "but the one I speak of is a lady from the city-with an equipage and attendants I" "Then 1 havexft seen her," and the cobbler shook his head moodily; "be- side I don't belong to this part of the country, as I know of." The equestrian glanced around ner- vously, for it was evident that the ob- ject of his mission had been defeated, and he wAs about departing, reluctant- ly it is true, upon a further prosecu- R-7 _-I k 7 S page: 26-27[View Page 26-27] T2R30A T AKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE, io: d , h r from the hostelry and threw himself form of. Seth 1 prud ite mpatiently intethe saddle, tIt's a funnytworld, this," muttee4 portancoanggeg en the travelling operative, sihe noticed "Wpanto a w omneM"Vquoth teedisa:p earaice of the horseman in "anr w omial~ lerot qth'e e jW d jrectioi, of the'"-denser woods, cir- landlord with aWOmil Jert ot the eye, c jt toti li _ le;.h mr "maybe I can toll something about Lt o e7eihoit the fune it' It' a w ho knowrs.e'? r hefnhe it grows. It's a giat world taking everything into con, The equesthan, ; rcognizing the sideration." And then fixing his bask- worthy host's anxiety secure patron- et firmly to his back, Ithe peripatetic g' to his hmtse, quietly disno Cited philosopher followed in the wake of the anc entered th inn gating while rapidly riding-hot-seman, but a le. stable boy baited 4h'horse, rhose started upon' his resumed travel, -he wasaivo A rsn andlehe proportions'were ejaculated, .through force ,f habit; (ldy comnnz ted u' polh by=Mt: Chrst yi "Boots to einl, half soled, eel tAp- pher Last}:until the rider-re-emer pod, fitted and stitched."p 4 . THRE OO tA ELOFT E IFH VU1 =HAPTER III. "This must be thb spot, although A r strange' place for meeting wi avwo- man ; besides, .there was;w, vonuderful tinge of melancholy in .tbe few, be words, she left iat the-inn; henceI fear some accident has occurrede." The speaker wasgone other.thanu th equestrian, whoe had arriedfor a mo- ment ,at the Eagle Atv al', hanIsoman man, upon the verge of egiiry mgrnhood; every action, every m velnent ,d9qoted a personage of ednuati9n and.culture, a presumption corroborated. by the style of 'his habiligents andthe manppr, of their wear. ,,. . . The gentloznanw s got l1g i4,atetn dance at the tristing place before ethe sound of female vpieg upon his ear. They were, thospof ejp lady ithe c- rage, and ;thowi49gVe:'on, who ac- companiedl her. . "Be, not,,afsld, l sp IAsprietta," said the widow, reassuringly ; "Wafte Devins has gpne to;4 he festival att the willow grove-" . But before. she. coul4 terminate her sentence, the. lady, n ith the keen sight of an expectant, lover,.had caught a glance of the perspp of the equegrian, nervously pacing the gr en swa 11 the groodside. ,:- "hubert, love!" ejaculated the lady, throwing herself in his arms, 27 , "I have obeyed your symnpuions, Hen- riettaJ' remarked{the young ,man, after the first raptorof- a meeting had, ia measure subsided, "but why appoint ap interviews in this lonely spot $'. ""Simply,wy dearestliubert," replied the lady, as tke tears gushed .from her ey' s, and bedewed the hand of the gen- tleman upon .whose. bosom she leaned most affectionately, "because ins,;this wilderness I .ought it would be most appropriate t bid you, the.idol, of my breaking heart, a final, an eternal fare well, "An eterngl farewell S" enlaimed the gentleman in surprise. "Yes,-the hour of our separation hag arrived,"'continued Henrietta with deep emotion,-"it is; in vain to combat the decree of fate.", "But what has. occurred,. dearest," quoth Hubert Vane, as ie pressed hip lips, to the btyw of his beloved, "what lhas wrought this ruin ?" "ly Ether has sent for we, and thy' very day Ietart for New York, having been expelled yes, Hubert, expelled from the house of my aunt, who has discovered that whie I input dreaded," "Pray, Ileprietta, what has, she dis- covered 1." s.ai-the~ongtan warmly, tReveal the terrible mystpry of our age "Your triumph and .m y shamie' qupth the sobbing wonen eas she hug down her lead that the tears might slow nore readily. "Cheer up, then Henrietta," said her loyer endeavogng to hide his agitation. "Worse than #ll," rejoined the lady, "you have deceived me, yes most cruel- ly." "Deceived you, my dearest love!" exclaimed Hubert.ix surprise. "Yes," said the lady, sorrowfully, "wyhe I first knew you t*o short years ago, you had.been involved in, a quar- rel-;n t} duel. You have, beenjcharged with murder, a price is q your head. . ._ i ;C . ' 11 page: 28-29[View Page 28-29] 28 THE BOOT MAKERVOF lTHE ;THAVEN E. ''1f. our 'littlot Uiuett. Hlewevy before lyta infor ')6 lato. jarbwell, .my 49gr} pp T.Relet T - ti {9ar PC ?j t y hedW- e trutions an to the future of ourehid n #;00j 9 ,youd4f1jd itodepesk; my daughter one half to'ygo y etp hlA 1 A i l7T7d h bQa iT~r i 3 ' ' ' i f fi t F 1 & ! _ L y£ r ! } - You have beei betrayed -by a pretend- rested her lover most affectionately, ed friend,-and the officer of justieelare "hence I have taken precautions to af- in buisuit, and now I bid youa long ford you that last, that tenderest joy." farewell." . - And raising her voice she summoned to "Henrietta, Heniitta," Inurmured her ide the widow Vernon,who carried the young mane "what is eristerree in her arms the infant daughter of the without you-.what the4uture without unfortunate couple. your presence ?" " . ." "My child, my child," exclaimed the "Be a man, Hubert," tjuoth the-lady father enthusiastically. exhibiting more ,resolution than her But Mrs. Vernon came not alone with companion, -"I neither buke you or her Precious but den. the adverse cireomstandee'ofour lov. Scarcely had she emerged from the Think only of Sour safety. A carriage cottage gn her errand than her steps awaits you on the outskirts of the wod, were dogged by Waiter Devins, who a faithful domestic will take your horse tracked her. through the forest, and to your former dome'and by the dawn watched amid the underwood every of the sun on the day after to-morrow movement, not only of the widow but you will fid yourself on the waters of of the parents of the child. With a sub- the broad Atlantic; Hubert, save your dued exclamation of joy he beheld the life, mine depends upon it." infant recognized by, the parents for "Never, never, can 7#part with you, there was to his mind both money and Henrietta/ said the young ,man :semi- advantage in mastering -a secret pre- frantically. "NorI will not leave you, served with super-ordinary care. no, from your arms they must wrench "Can you now depart in peace 1" in-. me to lead me even to the scaffold." quired'-Henrietta, as ohe presented the 'Listen, Hubert;" resumed the -lady, little daughter for the repeated em- determinately. "Rememberyou are no braees'of the father. longer a lover; ydn are a ther. In-the "I am more coteat," replied Hubert name of the helpless creature whose fu- Vane, "but the thought distractsne as ture depends upon you-in the name of to who is to bring up our of'spring un- that sweet pledge ofourstolen love. I1 til the hour when I can either return or command you to depart. Forget thy transport the dear one to soie foreign mistress, forget the unhappy Henrietta, land." but remember Our child!" "Fear not on that head," responded "Why, Henriretta," quoth the lover, the'lady, designating the widOow with mournfully, "do you speak to me in her finger, "our darling will be entrust- terms, which agonize my half broken ed to Mary Vernon, my foster sister, to heart 7" whose care she has been committed "I am a mother, Hubert," responded from her birth." the tady firmly, "and' he sole means of "Yes, Miss Ilenrietta," said the wid-- expiating the guilt of our illicit amour ow, almost witA tears in her eyes, "Iam is to dedicate ourselves to the little devoted to your "iterests, and yOur creature-fruit of our willing crime." babe will never want a mother while "Heavens !" exclaimed the young memory remains of your kindness to :nan, clasping his companion to his my poor, dear, husband, iho lays now easts, "to part with all I love without beneath the sod--"= 'yen a kiss for the little ohe-" "I am 'well aware or your attachmen "No, Hubert, that pain would be in- to Henrietta," interposed Hubert Vane, operable," and the voung mother Ca-' 'A T h i'.. f ..... f f h LW f54 U JUW~JiL)V D wealth . 1 t wouiu naveWU eenU mpu dent to have entrusted my affairs with a person in this vicinity I have commit- ted them to the trust of Bernard, the New York banker, whose probity is well known. With him I have deposi- ted my daughter's fortune with strict directions that when she attains her eighteenth year, he shall, in the event of my not returning, make known to her the existence of a sum of Money, which in his hands should accumulate into a princely dowry." As the parent, spoke, he placed in the I hands of the widow a packet of impor- tant documents, charging her to take the greatest care of the papers as sub- stantiations of his assertions. "You have no need, Mr. Vane," quoth the widow, as she placed the packet next to her bosom, "to distrust my lack of caution. Rest assured that as the fu- ture of your child is concerned these papers will be guarded with a most jealous eye." "Alas !" quoth the grief-stricken mo- ther, "I have nothing to bestow upon the little one-nothing, save my honor, and that I have sacrificed for her at the very hour of her birth." "Henrietta, weep not," interposed Hubert Vane, as he viewed most sor- rowfully the spectacle of her desolation, "Heaven be my judge that I am worthy of thy love, dearest of women." Mr. Vane would have spoken longer but the abrupt appearance of an aged domestic announced that the hour of the fugitive's departure was at hand. "Already," sobbed the lady, "and on- "Farewell, all that I love," adly murmured Hubert Vane, almost over- come with his emotions, "may prosperi- ty and happiness attend your future ; you have at least one consolation, you will breathe the same air as our blessed babe." "And yet you will be far away from me," said the wretched mother, kneel- ing at his feet, as she held the infant in her arms. "Farewell, Hubert, farewell pretty angel of love ! How beautiful its smiling face ! Why has heaven sent me this little cherub, upon whom a heart-torn mother can alone bestow the caresses of maternal affection in the shades of privacy. Alia! it is a punish- ment for our crime." "Henrietta," murmured the father cheeringly, "be resigned to fate. Place confidence in the future, in the da-a of hope." "1 am a poor frail woman," mourn' fully and sorrowfully rejoined the af- flicted lady, "my cup of anguish is al- most filled to the brim. Oh, Mary, take precious care of our sweet one. Speak to her of her father and her mother, and how they parted with her." Mary Vernon simply intimated that the time for Hubert's leaving was fully at hand, and no moments were to be lost for his escape. "True, true," responded the unhappy lady, "fare tho well; oh, Hubert-think of me sometimes-of my child forever." With a long, final kiss, Hubert Vane n ,Aa veuno earsfort Ll warOF ,Y t Y i i'':.j{ " 3N t i ;r Fr a h a " 1 E page: 30-31[View Page 30-31] 0 THE -BOOT MAK B OF Tom FIFTElAVENUE. tore hlw elf from the 14o1,of his heart , "Mary Vernon," sa h o )er jth who nour tful4ywatched his departing aiyeu ftgarq Then turning to the widow she pceheilttio infant in1o the arma eiuust b qnn m t f to of iti fdtu're ndhtor, fti -cad of ,e' ev upon ita shower ofOtenderkisse - - ' 4 f 4S CHAPT ER IV, URDfIER IOST FOUL. The widow Vernon was -lost in re- fection -at witnessing the scene of her foster sistes' afifetion. ' The coni- dante of the young lady's unfortunate amour, it 1as natural that 'she' should entertain fe'ings of tire deepest regard for the Child of her ber i trasa;k So sheI wrapped=theloittle 'une ea'efullyin her shawl ' nitintr-rnellyvowed to 'replace the love, which a mother should bear an deptz r, whose "dexstence 'would have ctie' Il blhui hof shade to nia- tie upom the b* of those; pradre'- tt es, tWho'were willing tdi' barter a daughter for gold. etraeineg4Ih n' footstepsin 'the direc- tion ofier7tumble cottage, the widow had snot.rsed a great distance be- e he cncointered the' unwelcome form of Witer iivins, who, by ashort- er cut th rugh the forest; had contrived to anticipate e passe by the main route leami ig to the secluded, village of Beanview. "Which way aieyou going, Mary ?". inquired 4aiter, grt1r., IarVernon sto ige short. ang be- stowed pou the question a glge which'cleay evidenaed, the perturba tion of her nin , Walter Devins repeated ths question ,r a aore ecisive one of voice. "What business. brings yox- here V inquired the ovwilow. .4 " iusies ? .,ngne, only. curiosity,' respo ded Walter iai: careless manner I ramble to sdi, on 'rtor 'ra n rbat brings' you'te this part1 of the woodsany appointment V' "'Go your - o'wx way," "retorted the widow, endeavoring' to'edi169l 'the in- fant; which she was carrying, '14ud I'll go mine." ' ' ' "Along with your Jpad, Mary P" jeer- ingly qubth the farmer, 'a lie, pointed out the child ; "it'denota 'very large child for Its age, Maryg'b6ztlarge enough to'be visible to the nakeddeye. Arse'yon going to deposit that on the grave of your late husband, ehit" aYou are free to sieer at me as you 'will, Walter Devins'," said the widow. "I am perfectly aware, Mary," quoth Fatter, as he uncovered the infant and looked upon its sleeping face, "that the 'chipi is not yours, and it" is on that ac- count that I desire some further light." t me pass on myway," said Mary as she attemipted to'evade'his'touch. "No airs, Mary," rejoinsd Walter plaging his Jiand uponaer laboulder, 'you see. that I an the trogest. Now listen to, merfor Ineithbr Jave tipo nor patience to waste isempty words.", "Then make haste and b done with it," retorted Mrs. Vernon tartly. "You.have no idea of ,baving Pe for a husband, Mary," quoth Walter :pla cing his arm around .t hwidogy's waist, "but it is my ambitmin, as well as ipy determination to honor you with rny heart and .band-in a woxl, it is ne- cessary for the wedding to como of.". "And is this allthat.you have stop- ped me to say t" respqwldo :hO widow, making anothe reit ,to :rid herself from the obnoxioutpresece. "Yes," returned Devins with, a tight- ened embrace, "and I desire the mar- riage on account of: knowing ;the story -of this little urchin. Now don't be surprised when I tell,you that if Is the progeny of Miss ,leurietta DaEnd and Mr. Hubert Vane.,,iow rdoes4t hang '" 'r an' L , t yY 1 p f j THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. I page: 32-33[View Page 32-33] '02 THE BOOT. MA(I OF 'THE F u' VENUE. "ScoundreI,'? exclaimed the vidt with indignation, "youhave been p .' ing thepart of ,an eavesdropper--of a contempt i spy." "I do noh tegret-having done so," re,. eponded Walter, as they advanced to:. iaris the village, 4for. the discovery will make your fortuaerand mine, for I know, the sequel as well as the ogm.- 1mencement of the reance. I am aware thit when thegirileaebee her eighteenth year a' vast estate4omnes to her. It is exactly that stum of inoneysrhich I have set - my-head upon. Now, then here comes thp secret of my affection. If you consent to marry me, we will share the fortune between us, but should ytu re= fuse to be my wife, then it will be minpe, solely and aoie. You omprehend; "Miserable reptile," ejaculated Mr Vernon, in ill-disgised resentment? "would you dare counsel 'me to down- right theft?" "Never mind' about 'names," resumed Walter Pevins, as his eyes dashed tire, in anticipation of his'ill gained; ealthr "but give me a decisive anrswer-right away, if you please. The widow hesitated when Devins darted upon her a glance of fury, which however fell unheeded upon the deter- mined womap. "I am not afraid of you, Walter'Dev. ins," said Mary Veunon in a deliberate tone of voice, "you 'have already had my answer." "Will yon consent to' be my wife "l asked Walter sternly. "Never !" reskonded the widow vith emphasis on -0h106f&r "p "Never!" r jin~d the farmer witha signiflkant intonation. "Never !" repeated the widow coolly and deliberately. "Then the fortune is mine," Eaic 'Walter with a hissing acceit; "give mi 4h 'packet, the documents and thi ehmd." As the man spoke ho latd violent hands upon the widow and endeavored to wrest from her the package of impor- tant documents, which she had conceal- ed within the bosom of her dress. "Help ! help !" shouted Mrs. Vernon at the top of her lungs. "Silence !" muttered Devins, with a threatening growl. "Help ! help" 'r8i~aaid the widow, struggling with her assailant. "Silence,or you died'" saithe ruffhan, as he endeavored tostifle h peech. "Help! help !" gurgled forth the half- .stifled female, with expiringsetrength. "Then die . you stubborn , brute," shouted Walter Devins, at te same time dealing &violent blow;with, the hunting-knife, he usually carried with hitwhich fell with 3n:rderous force upon the breast of the unfortunate wo- man. "Th child, the childI" continued the assassin,makinga vigorous efrt to at- tain the. infant, which the widow till iteW in her a ps with the teuacity'of despair. With a painful exertion of strength, Mary Vernon dragged herself to the edge of the roadside, despite teregi t- ancieofthe'inidkrer, who vainl sought to tear the child from the grasp of the dyingfemale, whoe life-blood, was, ooz- ing out fast. J ust a the assassin was on tle point of succeeding In his nefarious purpose, his startled ear caught sounds.offap- proaching' footsteps. With ;cravenly trepidation Walter Devihs, qiailig'at anticipation of detection, deserted the body of his victim, relinguished the a- complishment of his crime,and fled 'pre- cipitately amid the clustering trees of the forest. $ "Boots to mend!half soled, heel tap- ped, boots and shoes !" and in an in- d stant almost after the escape of the mur- e derer, the rollicking' person of Mr. e t hristopher Last appeared upon the scene of the:tragedy. THE BOOT MAKER O It's a funpyQrld apyhow," solilP, e d the cobbler, "I'd bet my life thlt ard a ry of distress in this dih-c- WdAe i re came from it Help" ngarpcgeQ ry yerion,.her nealm uost extict A woman !'?ex aed the . travel-; artisan, as; le tArned; towards the side edge and behe1d the aleding u of the widow, from Whosej wound blood flowed desperately-, help ,! I" !hocoutincdt growing his y ice heae tionof the road behind)Amin f to alarm -sone. persons folo w iag r him. This done the coI;bler rush-, o the assist4ncq}of be unforpma . ale who ,rvived fagatly as the apj oh of 4 ministering hand. encour- 1 hopeo 'oleviatidg tier woes. ou lirthe trha liing cdbbler, mnared Mary VwithiGerAyl g atmeh aL nan of probity to nhowl I can en- tan important secret." es, yes, my poor woman," return- hristopher eagerly. 'ake then this. child," murmured dying widow, "and this package- e care of it and open it when in her teenth year. The directions are ten on the outside." 3ut its parents," interposed the elling artisan with commendable ence, "give me the names of its nts ?" ' Ior mother is Miss Henrietta Des- d," and the dying female signifi- ly placed her finger upon her th in token of secresy. enrietta Desrmond," repeated the ier as if to make sure of the name. eep the secret secretly," murmur- e widow, faint with loss of blood, ng in her death throes as she noted euder care with which the travel- echanic assumed }care of the in- swear it for the sake of the little P THlE 4FH1YNf 33' ng~ggth~hskalg' p4, rejoijeod t~dth~eaedof ~t}X3lW4 of 14Ar ernon's murder. Almdts "fndy 1dicl s w~te elptie4 o tir tz ts the sy thie yl rge a the terr be ,nature oftherime e- 4'Mary' biVfoh killed 1"efatstd S lindh Siokle 1rileart ue tioii pnd you her eadn the Vig bgIIowa Ontny way to-rejoin ou, . epliid t&i cobbler, "I heard theory 6f listrtsa haid hurried-hither, whreunftmate- ly Arrive c'too late.':s, ' a. ntf "Vho's'chihFj s'that?"malided the. hoyden Mary dan4as'withfeni1l pre-. femce, she irhediae'r atentidn itho 70 'sbl -chargI.tSw ;: T Fy ,y'I'sada3i1~ter, whop 1 am e goinufter.ftr,'Q ed% e1 eebgagg, bestowing an awkward caress on the Mary Jane shook her head in plain expression of her doubt as to the philo- sophic story, when an exclamation of her comrade Amanda, who haebeen in attendance upon the widow, attracted her attention as well as that of the rest ot the assemblage. "Gire her air," quoth Amanda. "Thank heaven she revives-silence! she speaks. Who was it-who did this awful deed?" The murdered wo an, comprehend- ing the importance of the query, appa- rently nerved herself to speak in her loudest strain for the flow of blood and tho gradual .waste of strength had weakened her to such a n extent as to render the tones of voice almost inaudi- ble. I"Walter Devins !" murmured the dy- ing widow, and the words merged into the death rattle which terminated her mortal breath. "Walter Devins !" ejaculated the as- tounded group. page: 34-35[View Page 34-35] THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. 34 THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. ""P4fr Mary Vernon," mournfully sigh d, Solou 1Sickle, equally aston- idehsalamed at the suddenness of the test4hle. rl "It is all over," muttered Mary Jane, feeling the hand of the deceased. "Dead !" solemnly responded Amon- da, as thep tears 4owed from the eyes of nearall thq spectators, sickening at the murderous spectacle. "Yes, my poor woman," soliloquised Christopher- as the villagers gathered around the corpse, carefully lifted it, into a wagon and prepared to start up- on their homeward journey, "I will take the be;tof care of your lovely in=- fant. Mid now my little one, on with our travelS. Yes, blessed jewel, from this day forth you will be my child, that's the agreement, my child " and the coblT"" l" nined his hands enthusi- atically at the very idea of being parent. "Come along then my darling," re sumed the stroling, mechanic, as h deposited the infant with the greatest of care in his basket and attached'1 securely to his person, "'from this da forth, no more whiskey, no mora 'str rap cups, no more morning hours, n .more night drains., Henceforth, w have need of legs for two and lungs fo half a dozen." Taking a final look at the body the unnealed widow, Mr. Christophe Last-wiped away a tear trickling frost his eyelids and then bade a sad a:id af fectionate farewellto thewedding guest whose mirth was now turned to sorrow Then, turning his back upon the scen of woe, the honest artisan started upoi a new pilgrimage of labor. CHAPTER V. THE FIFTH AVENUE 'PAVEMENT. "Well, Jimn, what idid Montauk close at? or how goes 'Quaker City I" With these business-like words, an exquisitely dressed young man,:studded with diamonds and jewelry, accosted another, rather more plainly attired, as they encountered during a promenade on the pavement of the Fifth Avenue towards the close of an autumn day. "Why, my dear Van," returned the gentleman ad dressed, in a tone of fami- liarity corresponding to the manner of his approach, "to tell you the truth I've had a streak of luck. I struck oil-every- where. Greasy Bottom, which I bought at five, turned up a two hundred gallon only last Monday and sells to-day at one hundred and ten, while Bubble Hole, purchased on time, showed a five hundred gallon well, and therefore the stock has run almost out of sight." "That is luck !" exclaimed Mr. Cor- nelius Vanderip, one of the fast men about town, as he gazed admiringly up- on the person of the successful specula- tor, who rejoiced in the appellation of James Short, and had previously eked out a precarious existence as a street broker, "that is luck by all that is holy, wonderful luck! by jingo !" "Nothing of the kind," quoth the bro- ker in an off hand manner, "on the con- trary it's, genius, Van, pure genuine fi- nancial talent." "Then you have made a pile, Jim," inquired Mr. Vanderip, ineffectually &n- eavoriung to ascertaiu %he sum total of profits on Greasy Bottom alon , employing his digitals as multiplior$, "haven't you?" "I'm frank enough to.say that I am easy in my boots," rejoined the broker, with an air of triumph ashe rounded off his sentence with rhetorical flourish- es, "quite a plum, I tell you, and accep- table at that." "Possibly ten thousandor-so, all in a day or two, myo." "Ten thousand ." rejoined the broker with a smile of contempt at the under estimate of his adventure, "make it a hundred thousand and you mny touch something like the bottom of the "mark, Van." "One hundred thousand inside of two days!" ejaculated' Vanderip, institu- ting a mental comparison between their respective conditions, "that is wonder- ful ! But here comes Marcy, I wonder ;how much he struck inihis venture up- on petroleum stocks ?" "You had better * ask him," observed the broker with a curl upon his lip. "D-n petroleum !" exclaimed the new comer with ill disguised vexation, as he wiped the perspiration from his forehead, "I'm broke ,flat all through that infernal scoundrel Stiggins and his bubble." "Broke Marcy," quoth Vanderip with a look of incredulity. "Everything gone," replied Marcy, with a sigh, "the balloon went up. Stig- g ins has sloped, and I'm played out for sure." "Didn't understand the thing," in- terposed the broker, jocosely, "there is never a rose without a thorn. You are like the certain good man who journey- ed, &c., You comprehend, Marcy I" The broker ctgekled amazingly and the enthusiastic Vanderip instantly ap- preciated the difference between an im- promptu millionaire and one who had beggared him in a venture for gain. "Always blanks," resumed g broker page: 36-37[View Page 36-37] r Z 5 ' / THE BOOT MAKER OF 11.h an expression of mock 'sympathy, "where there are prizes, we can't be all rich." "It can't,be helped, I suppose," quoth the bankrupt after a moment's pause, "but then what is a fellow to do with- out credit and all New York has been made aware that I have been turned over." "Won't old Timpson assist you ? in- quired the broker sarcastically. "By the way here comes your lady love, the gentle Arabella." True enough; as the group of [gentle- men were conversing, they were con- fronted by a couple of belles, who pro- menaded the pavement of the avenue, richly dressed and loaded down with laces, furs and jewelry. With, a toss o t the head Arabella Timpson, the daugh- ter and heiress of Gregory Timpson, re- tired liquor dealer, formerly of Cherry; street, but now of the Avenue, presi- dent of three oil companies and a na- tional bank, strutted past the unfortn- unto Marcy, without scarcely deigning to notice his existence. Marcy felt annoyed at this sudden rather unfortunate friend Marcy." change in the demeanor of one, to "Luck has kno ked him out of our whom he had been paying attentions path," responded -the requisite; " be- for over a year past, and whom the gos- side, he has been buzzing. around the sips of the bon ton had as igned to him handsome prima donna of the opera." as his future spouse. Annoying as was "Who has set her affections on the tis obliviousness as to his person the young doctor," said the broker, inter-. bankrupt was more sorely vexed at larding his observations with a series of; perceiving the eyes of his ancient cautionary expressions; "but there is flaue fixed upon those of the successful no telkng certainly anything about wo-- broLker. men-they are curious articles to specu- "Tilt's de =r Mr. Short, whispered late in, much worse than Erie, equal to Arauel:-. o her female collmptanion, but Mariposa." loud enough to be overheard by the "By the way, here comes the opera discarded suitor. And the heiress dame," ejaculated Mr. Vanderip, as smiled and passed on -vith the stride of there came walking down the avenue a- a tragedy queen. large, well formed lady, of foreign birth "Not much trust in Timpson," re- and commanding person, attended by a_ marked the broker sarcastically, "it's train of admiring masculines. very strange how a little money changes To say that Madame Flora was hand. woien's affections." some, would- be untrue--still, the exo 0 TIE. FIFTH AVENUE. Marcy sighed, for he now appreciated the irksonwness of his position, particu- larly as imiany of his former friends per- ceiving the queenly Arabella's indiffer- ence exhibited strong symptoms of imi- tating her example, for in the fashion- able world manners are contagious., "By, by, Marcy," resumed the broker, evidently desirous of ridding himself of a poverty-strickenf dependent, "imeet you in the Gold Exchange., Better luck in that line of venture, old fellow." Marcy:grated his teeth at this-cart allusion to his altered position; the broker smiled slyly and significantly, but Mr. Vanderip in the exuberance of his spirits, laughed with a broad grin. . "By the way, Van," quoth the bro- ker,.conlidentially, "it is currently re- ported that you are enamored of our baotmaker's daughter.". "Why, yes," responded the young beau, with an air of indifference, "I once ertertained some thoughts in re- spect to the young woman, that's all.'" "You have a rival, or rather a host of them," returned Mr. Short; "and most of all there is to be dreaded, our T=-Ig ~o'' MA R b ~' THE -SI ThN - _ . 37 S F''liE 37 pression of her counteanne, the bril- ebepaused fi nhtieitn d dast 'TVn iianey and vivacity of her speech and 1he 'eyes,"then, turning' abruptly a ide, above all, ,the fire and temper of her sho avoided' his inquisitive -glance by eyes, exacted a rimpiression of respect; taking refsg' in a store, the sole one on almost ano itingto comparative ado- the promenade. ration. "Thii'ust be the' girl for whongI am "Mr. Marcy," quoth the songster, ra- :searching,"soliloquised the stranger, as diant with smi.les ; "what is the good he followed in the footsteps 6f the fugi- news with yoe how comes on our suit tive, until-reaching the store door, he with the cobbler'sheiress 7" turned his eyes upward. "It is her in- The merry laugh of Flora, re-echoed deed,",he continued, as he read the by her attendant swains, awoke Marc name insoribed over the store' door- to the presence of the group of syco- "the mission of;my life is accomplished phants who ever rotate around a riling -yes i is the place I, seek. Fifteen luminary. years is ea Jong time to hunt atracb ith ya half-disguied sneer, the bler, but here have uI the very name- young man retorted- Christopher Last." "Have you any tidings o Dr. Mo' The strangerstopped and scrutiized rand?" " t the front of theyshop, in which appear- "Out of sight out of mind .Y 'ur- ,e .n good,'od.charater, the name inured the broker, who had overheard fastening his attention. the conclusion of the sentence-""absent Christopher Last, after diftecn years lovers ado always at a discount." of industry and frugality, succeeded in "People must talk,"~retorted the song- realizing not 'nly' iis ambition, as ho stress, facetiously ; "and as long as we had quaintly es pressed the aim of his continue to strike oil, none shall lament peregrinations, in the shape of that their good fortune." - identical shop which he had erected "Easy come, easy goes," interposed upon the land of his inheritance, but a gentleman forming the group ; "I an adequate revenue for its maintenance have become a millionaire almost with- in ease and comfort. iu ten days, and I do not think I am Immediately upon the murder of the any the happier than when I was com- unfortunate Mary Vernon, the strolling paratively poor, for, as I wandered amid bootmaker turned over a new leaf, for, the plains of Europe, I breathed the having assumed the paternity of the free air of liberty, untainted by the little wait thrown upon the troubled breath of ruin and remorse." waters of life without other friend or "All have not had the advantages .of protector, he conceived it his duty to the happy Delamoro," remarked Marcy, labor honestly and industriously, ade- as the group passed on, leaving the last quately to discharge the duty a mnyste- opeaker to his own meditations, which rious providence had imposed upon were evidently of no pleasant kind, for him. he paced the pavement with an uneasy, A reformed man, sober, laborious and nervous tread, ever contented, Christopher thrived to Just at that moment a young girl, the full measure of his anticipations- blooming in her eighteenth year, fresh, indeed, his industry was rewarded be- lovely and agila, bounded, rather than yond his expectations, for it seemed as walked, along the avenue, so light and though his profits augmented propor- elastic was her maiden step. tionately to his increasing expenses; :or", Confronting Marcy on the sidewalk, at all events, lie found his conditiou page: 38-39[View Page 38-39] 38 THE, MOOT MAKER OF T E'FIFTR AVENUE. vastly bettered, although surcharged with the maintenance and education of the female child, who had now attained the mature age of eighteen years. Happily for Christopher's worldly estate, the little plot of land, the legacy of his parent, situated out of town, as he thought, became the centre of a fash- ionable thoroughfare, world-tenowed as the favorite residence of millionaires, who looked with supreme contempt upon the plebian shop, sandwiched be. tween palatial mansions. Vainly - were threats' and entreaties exerted to rid the neighborhood of so unsightly a tenement. Christopher was too affectionate a son to despise the inheritance of his father; and beside,,although the host of parve. venues, surrounding his humble dwell- ing, despised the lowly calling by which they had previously earned their daily bread, the bootmaker conserved an hon- orable reverence for the trade at which he daily toiled. "Here, then, is the very spot," resum- ed the stranger,drawing from his pocket a written memorandum, which he com- pared with his own observations of the edifice. "A two story frame dwplling, green blinds, mahogany sashes, and, above all, Christopher Last." Turning his eyes towards the second story window, the stranger noticed that there peered through the blinds a pair of keen black eyes, seemingly examin- ing his person with more than'common curiosity. The inquisitive wayfarer quailed be- fore the scrutiny of the young girl, and hastily departed, casting a final, furtive glance upon the window and consulting again his written document. "That is her, indeed,' he muttered, as he wended his way down the street. "Genevieve, aged eighteen, said to be the daughter of Christopher Last." THE BOOT 1MA1 tR OFTEFIP&TH AVEUE. 39 "Your daughter has just come in, boss," re doned Nicholas. d'"Then send her to me., and be Iv ly about it.". CHAPTElR VI. THE BOOTMAKER AT HIS LAST "What a crowd of loungers, maje and em ale loafers, all with coal oil in their heads; a pretty raft of them. And to thinkk that heaven showers golden fa- yors on the heads of such a worthless I set. It don't make no Odds to me though-I've got my gold mine in Gene- vieve * 14 this wise spoke Christopher' Last, as he entered his store o, -the Fifth ave- nue, having in his'arms two huge bun- dles of goods, in the carriage of which he had played sad havoc among the richly dressed belles 'and beaux who thronged 'the fashionable 'promenade towards the close of the autumn day. "Hullo, Nicholas Strap," resumed the bootmal er, ps' he donned his apron, and took his seat upon a work bench, convenient to the counter, "'where the devil is thatthick headed booby Vu "Here I am, boss !" and'Mr. Nicholas Strap, an overgrown apprentice, nearly out of his time, shuffled into the store from the rear door. "Where in the name of thunder have you been?" inquired the bootmaker, as he fastened his strap beneath his foot: "Getting supper for Polly the parrot," curtly replied the apprentice. "All right," responded Christopher,' as he adjusted a' piece of leather to the side of a boot he was about to repair- "where's Genevieve ?" "Boss is in an uncommon temper," quoth Mr. Sharp to. himself, s.he emerged from the shop; "wiodpr how he got such an angel as my .awept mise tress up stairs; I wish I was a boss for her sake." "Good day to you, honest Christo- pher, ever at work, I perceive." The bootmalker lifted his head to'ne- tice the new comer entering his shop, and returned his salutation with afa- miliar nod. "Can't do anything better, ,r ,.Ber- nard," quoth the :artisan, addressing the wealthy banker as one of his faes, "and you know it." "Yes," rejoined the banker, with a smile; "butrall work and no play -wakes a sad life of it. Christopher, I want to speak to yowi for a minute." 'At yourgervice, sir," replied the bootmaker,:rising mqmentarily from his toils; "possiblythese double soles were a trifle too.tight." ; , . ' Not at .all, Christqpher," remarked the banker ; "I have a littlilggusiuess matter to propose to you," and le smil- ed obsequiously. "A business matter !" ejaculated. the artisan, abstracted y. "Have yon . o eonfidenee in met" quothB3ernad, abstractedly. "No-no!"returned Christophe' "but here cones sxyJitt Geu vIp; I gave got seen her before to-dp F ;yggigli excuse me, MenarG. Goot ,; my dearest 1" and_ the voice of 44e artisan stopped short. }"Good day, father," quoth'the young beauty, as she rushed towards :,the worthy mechanic, and, throwing herself into his arms, would have imprinted a kiss upon his lips, when he tenderly stayed her, but not until he had wiped his mouth with his coat sleeve. page: 40-41[View Page 40-41] THE BOOT 1.y -OF moment;.dearest,''said -the bootmaker, as he resti ainedher whetr upoi! the point of emibracinghim, an,. til I take a good look at my flina;rL Yla iren't groWn a-aiorsel sineites- terdy !' ant to, the- astonishment oof. li dhuhter; thworthy man withdrew' Worn bder arm s, -n -gazed at-her in rude S drrtiatien. sIlow pretty she is, Ber, nard," said the mechanic, after a mo-j nent's - hesitation4 f'Perehance too pretty for my -sake," and Christopher siglied, fand turned .his .head - aside to 1tmidal'a' pushing tear drop. "ON d' kind-father !" exclaimed the' young girl, again throwing herself into -1eafi s,bfl her parent, and tendering' hui t kMse, which Christopher, after a &eri+e'b i-election, avoided in-the vei'y same manner in whieh he had done "What'h funny fellow' is that boss-ot inin'in auteIred Nicholas, who' had watched his 'every movement ; 'Qhe lets ;one et iOalmost tohis cheeks;and then he'S'afraid Of being hissed by his own daugher. 4oi'tPT wish 'shd try one on me !" and Mr. Strap blushed. "Well, 'Berhard," said the bbotnaker, as h1 eyes still lingered upon the bean- tiful p Ada of the'graceful girl, ; you have some business to propioie. -Iarai glad of it for -never have I stood i greater need of work, Iassure you.- I thought I wotildbeco e:rich." "Rich!-"' ejaculated, Bernard, fully convinced -that 1 6t ootmaker had specuIa tid 'successfnlfl -,on'his own re- epoislbility. - N 4 for my 4 u sake," - continued Christd19Her affeiaoately, "butfor that of my darling Genevieve.',See, you are always"present to my:mind, and here is the reasdtirwhylI askeddfyou hadgrown silete yesterday-"- - , As the bootm'akor sspoke, he pointed to one of the' two bundles which he had personal y carried into, the store, while the-grateful-beahty thanked, with U4A expressive eyes, her kind, reflective p, rent. "Heretofore you have ever made you own clothes," resumed Christopher Las as he undid the bundle and exposed inspection a very handsome dress, wit' its corresponding clothing; "but thi time, Genevieve, .I desired that yo should have a gown upon which yo have not wearied your sight in ad vance." , "What a beauty !" exeaimed the gir enthusiastically, as she flung herse upon the donor's neck ;°."I must ki father, for this." ' have a care !" quoth ihe artisan with the greatest difficltyreeasin himself from tire anaiden's grasp; "yo "Fit for a queen, an just ipy colors!' responded Genevieve aily. "I'm glad to hear it;' rejoined Chzis- topher, with; thcAir of one relieve from sone oppressive ;care, "tor I wa devilishly afraid.tha 1Jmatlo some nis take, as I am not used to these cali jobs." The artisan then turned; 4 opene thg other package, while Mr4 Bernar exanlined the style And quality of the garment which Christopher had pro. cured for his charge. "He must be ricb," mutteed Bernard to himself, "to be able toafford 9ii kind of stuff for his daughter's use.", "Now, Mr. iernard,, quoth the me- chanic gaily, "jnst one minute to ex- plain to Nicholas the condition of the work which is to be called for.. Rehold this lovely patch elegantly dissembled, ,which is placed onj the boots of: Mr. Fairword's, a dandy, ;who;passes foi rich and yet patetres his boots; but-that is to correrspond with -hismrkept- e' Why, Christopher," interposed the banker, "youncarry envyour trade upon purely philosophical principles." "I !" responded thd artisan; "I only make ; ofei ob vations, that's all, Without taking int coznsideration th e petty mieries entrusted .to ;us, it,,is worth os awhile to fathom the deeper mysteries the world would hide freom us. I can tell tl ohapeter of people from the Mnnner in which they tread. For in trce, here is ayir of boots wittiout'an bottom i, the ehanl . PIl wager tha they belong to the dainty eirk who, attends upon the millinery store around the corner. The fellow is false hearted, and will rob his mistress before Christmas.' The booktmaker looked at the bottom of the boots, and tossedthem aside with a Contemptuous smile, ii IIis =ap- prentice picked' up another pair and presented then for comment. "Those, Nicholas," resumed Christo- pher, with a laugh, "belongs to a man anxious to raise in the world, a vain egotist. See, he wants double soles and two very high heels. Do yon hear, Nicholas ; the would-be crane wants very high heels." "I'll fix hi high enough up," re- sp'onded Mr. Strap, with an emphatic gesture ; "and if he does come down it will be with a run." "But here is a shoe for a study," con- tinued Mr. Last with augmented enthu- siasm; "the sole worn squarely, trod upon all over, not a turn to the right or left. That belongs to al straight for- ward man, one who walks upright in the eyes of the world. If I am not mis- taken it belongs to Dr. Stephen Mo- rand." "Yes, ho is an honest mau indeed," whispered Genevieve, somewhat ex- citedly, as a blush passed over herwhite forehead. "And who is this.Dr. Morand ?" in- quired the banker. "Dr. Stephen Morand," responded Christopher, " is a young physician, with a noble heart, to whom I owe an eternal debt of gratitude ever since he saved the life of this dear angel of our i(T1E IOQT MAKER OFTHE F'IFH VNJE. 41 41 household. - Yo Jvabiimlikewise, do you inotr-rh;hij -wo= a good provi- dence sent to yorwi4," -.- "Love!" said the young beauty, "is a very strong word, father.',' . "Yet ought we not.tolve those," re- joined the bootmaker, "who snatched us from thehaws of death ? There ain't so niany worthy of oin affection as to exhaust the stock on iand. "Assurey not," said e banker; "bubaykerg-; "but young ladies have peculiar whims as to the true state of nobility and of humanity. Gnevieve sighed, fob the bootmaker touched upon tender ground; and had the girl confeased ,the truth, she would have frankly admitted that she loved the young physician more deeply than her parent, unversed in the ethics of love, would have suspected. "Possibly Genevieve may think the less of him," said the bootmaker, anx- ious to extenuate her presumed omission in courtesy, for it was now three years since he attended upon her, and nearly all that time he had been absent abroad. Nevertheless, as he returned some two months ago, she should have encoun- tered him some time." " Yes, yes," interposed the young lady, apparently anxious to divert the conversation to somre other and more congenial theme, "I have seen him through the blinds when he stops in to pass an hour with you." "The poor fellow is evidently ufi cr - ing," continued Christopher, wholly en- grossed with the physiciaa's good quaii- ties, "he looks sad and melancholy ; I fear his povert' troubles him - I ana sure of it." The cobbler smiled momentarily in internal enjoynient, for he had thought of a plan of relieving the physician's embarrassment, by inventing some ima- ginary patients, whose fees were real; and to that end had dispatched that very day no less than three letters pur- page: 42-43[View Page 42-43] 42 THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFT, AVE TItE. porting to emanate from fictitious per- sonages, -all concocted by- himself,' and promising liberal gifts. "With his talents, poverty will not continue long," observed Genevieve ; "and when we love, papa, riches do not claim exclusive attention." "Adorable girl," enthusiastically ex- claimed Christopher, '"the beauties of your person are 'only excelled by the nobility of your mind. Hold, Gene- vieve-the honesty of thy speech de- serves a downright kiss." To the astonishment of Nicholas the apprentice, who had witnessed the avoidance of an embrace for the years of his service, he beheld his master pass his sleeve across his mouth and advance towards the willing, maiden, to bestow upon her a salute. But suddenly he checked himself, and turning around to the banker, he said to him- "We have business in private." Nicholas clapped his hands in amaze- ment, while Genevieve, although accus- tomed to her father's humor, retired in comparative disappointment to her chamber, where she seated herself by the window, and cast many furtive glances into the street in the hope, of catching a glance at the young physi- cian among the throng of wayfarers passing along New York's most fashion- able and aristocratic promenade. V CHAPTER VII HONESTY THE BEST POLICY. "Now, then, Mr. Bernard, we are alone." In this wise spoke Christopher Last, as he threw aside his strap and apron, after the withdrawal of his apprentice, before whom the bootmaker maintained the endless appearance of work. "Now, Christopher," said the banker, throwinghimself into a phair and cross- ing his legs in a statesmanlike 'manner, "I have come to ask if you will dispose of your property hereabout." "Who ;wants to buy my shop?" in- quired the bootmaker curtly. "Some speculators desire to establish an exchange on these premises," re- marked Bernard; "and upon my re- commendation they will offer yQu a very handsome price, better than you suppose." "Well," quoththe bootmaker, reflec- tively, "and this done, whereabouts am I to look for a workshop, convenient to my customers ?" "You will have np longer cause to work," remarked the' banker, "for you will be sufficiently rich, although not extravagantly so.", "And, Bernard, is it to amuse me with these golden dreamsthat you take the pains of remaining in my humble resi- dence " "Have you no desire to possess money i" inquired the banker. "In the first place,' Bernard," replied the artisan, tranquilly, "I have never had sufficient acquaintance with the article to become deeply enamored of it, at least to the jeopardy of my peace of mind." "But, honest Christopher," retorted the banker energetically, " you shall become acquainted with the glories of gold coin; yog will throw the lapstone and wax end into the street, and flouiish 'as one of the leaders of ton. With the proceeds of this sale invested in oil stock, you will become rich, very rich. It will be but the work of a day or two. .I will sell your property and invest it in three or four well regulated compa- nies, and your fortune is'made." "Ti-tol-derol-de-ro!". whistled the honest shoemaker; "you make me laugh with all your'speculations. If you only knew how happy I have been, how hap y I am within these four walls, you won d never attempt tt make me quit this good old shop. All the speculators in the world can never change.-my cha- racter ; and let each follow our own trade--they like money and Ilike work, and with me there is nothing like leather." "But, Christopher, hear me to the end," urged the banker. "There is no use talking, Ber-nard," responded the artisan; "Words cannot alter my determination. Suppose I should have a fortune, what would I do with it, who don't know the art of squandering money without making an ass of myself. And, Berhard, would you have me make a fool of myself like the hack driver, who, becoming sud- aenlyrich by-a lucky investment in Pit Hole stock, bought him a carriage, and when in the Central Park, instead of getting inside with his wife, mount- ed the bO, in accordance 4itl his pre- vious'habits." "But, Christopher," intei-rupted the banker, forseeing the inutility of his TJ1 1300T MAKER OF TILE FIFTH AVE14t1E. 43 page: 44-45[View Page 44-45] 44 THE BOOT MA.Et OF arguments, "you are universally known for your common sense.". "And for that reason, Bernard," re- torted the bootmaker warmly, -Idao not wish to sacrifice my reputation., I thank you for your kind intentions, but mist bid you good evening-my gtt g knife demnandumy. attoution, and i is not his habit to be kept waiting." "But, Christopher," quoth the bank- er, very much nettled at thd failure of his negotiations, "reflect upon tle pre position, and I will call again to learn your final determination. All in goon time, you.know.' "Always happy to see you, Bernard, "gaily responded the artisan ; "we will, enjoy a social hat on this or any other subject."{ "The fllow," muttered Bernard to himself, as ho prepared to. depart "either dissimulates or is a keen specu- lator, sharper than the rest of us. He =ias moncy, that is certain. How can we'get'the mso. ofit, that's the ques- tioi. Tlc ising his hat respectu'lly, the proud Lttasker addressed the med chanic-Py and by, Cliistopher." "Toi" inible, obedient servant," said the bootmaker, returning.tbe rich; man's pa tippy salutation with grotesque solemnity; "you will not forget to call' when you pass,,flrmurd No soipxrpiad t he banker departed, than tho honest bootmnakpr reasued his cotune and implements of toU; and seating .himself uppoq his wlWworn, bench, commenced hammeringh away with all the egergp of his earlier youth. To encourage himself in his toil, Chris- topher burst forth into, a popular re- frain, at times pausiipg. in the middle of a stanzas to give utterance to some re- filectien suggestedib the interview witt4 the moneyed man. "Very likely, to, sell out my shop I" muttered Christopher, giving an obsti- nate nail a terrible whack on its-head ; "and invest in paper bubbles, which t {, THE BOOT;MAKER:OF TEE FJFlTII AVENUE. 45 Christopher smoothed the rufle il fa- "iFvery body ;"seems anxious to pur- tlhers of his pet, and plisced1I" ierIe9 lbriCaey shop," qiothi theo1hootmupLor. her gilded cage, whi) e NieboThaivydtIed lt ohtuself, withouIav ag his sea TE FIFTH AVENJE. the irnpison'iet o hik4 td it w " IftI Well, g1fine fe1pw coi 9e e - .a co iosur ho e~sig uditoffend*%ato hi judge's 1 y; ydid youica ?reben are often worth nothing. Striking oil cidividnal reseAt entaganat lifidra ter p may be a profitable job for most whal- a .i .creVegrancy beyond'tle ceiffhesaf .t'Abo t, wiat ray fmeo,lag "I, retot- ers, but with bootmakers it is better to or a thsoevetdnythe otsiin dtelypgip gecore stick to the last, and raise hope with a the stoieivh'c nly tI tt fioim et tthe BJ l : t cu, eft}A of both waafttratd'bytliernttdi himself rho added "tQh1 QnUQ 1O Hereupon Mr. Christopher Last, han- of .a richly res ed 1:y, glbs 'perl Mrs. Littleton." ing driven the obdurate nail almost out ceded by a hands'omly liveeied dme "I iangructed p to inform you," of sight, recommenced his melody, and tic. responded the lady, "that yoy being a e - "Talk of the devil," mutterediNiho- next door neighbor was a source of d9ep progressed this time to its conclusiontr without stoppage. las, as his anger wheast*k iedy the anoyance. "Pretty song that, ain't it, Polly ?" aparition of the judge's ladyand her ' Somebody said soiietl ing of that inquired the bootmaker, turning 5his servant, thopr-prieti-ess and the cham- kind, 'nterposed the cobbler. head around to vi his' parrot on its p oo ontinud the ne'sife accusto e perch. "Hullo, Nicholas," ChritopherLast paid io attentibnuto with .a ,shrug of hershouiders vhat he continued, as he perceived the bid the pompous invasion of hi shdp by' wa the gngwer, which ni wan fhied .to be missing; "where i} she-Wiere is his aristBe&ate ineighbor, the wife bf to communicate 7" Folly I" the hohotattle justice itekt door, byre "Well," rehpied the mechanic, pats- ". y, boss, I'lastrangle her,' sure," suming work, he=lbored a way, accom- inin ihis toil, but gtill inaiutaiiig his grumble4 the apprenttle, holding in his paring his 'operation ith suutches seat on the work bench,'ith }i no' areas the bird Polly, "by all thiit', holy from swell known ditties. repeat to yodr Adryslip;13lsi i, til itmia, I'll doit, The judge's lady," as the IIUl)Ourltble as your being my next door neighbb' clStrane Plly yo m 'ex- Mrs; Littleton adeigviifrtdlydesntidtote did bmii6%uoy , did 'hdsire to claimed i enraged li wt , amoith' hai uf'thoyduba el in sho "Qod fq 4ti !"wjoPne hlas in a peuotiage sfeWvyea's about lbe ot'hir- :'Vrg ed sir,* said thergistrates undisgpisgal m,; "not so boss ; eits tieth, of marked andiegiat .f!'taves t 4f6,;ith i ughltfbw. - hli em y tlhat, I i -l sranglee-tho a stylish tgfifte i ith att i ug tjge:tes 'MoreE7Icr" fhA'''c ind tli d.rty little dog nxt door, whonli have rior, bearing, however, most distinctive with a pleasant smile, "I am at a loss caught trying to ra nFolly down.' signs of melancholy. With patrician- too conceive the manner of annoyance " The dog belongafo, the judge's like tread,,sh ceteied tlhe sore of the -o you." lady," interrupted iu istoapher! ;.hope shoemaker, casting around her looks of "But if you are offered as large a sum that the anirpal has; don't poor Polly no disdain, scarcely deigning to best w of money as you could anticipate," oby alarm ?" .,.., even.a nod of recognition upon its pro- served the lady, somewhat puzzled to "Not as yet, thar:klieaven," replied prietor, who, as if regardless of the meet the objection. Nicholas, with a siner ,hug of the udistocratic jrescnce, continued on his "Money !" retorted Christopher, with holders a c ut there's no owing song. h. sneer; " Genevieve once read me a pco I, ~te bootmak- "How .this fellow's eternal singing story of a king giving a cobbler a thou- or, carefshg the bird After qe- annoys le," murmured the judge's sand pounds to stop his singing. At vieve aniid' tepheW anil, th're's io- lady ; "this perpetual quiet vexes me the end of the week he brought the thing on th; earth for lich I ha 1 the heat t." Then raising her voice money back. I think you had better warmer ffecro Thlt's solL to an audible pitch, the Honorable Mrs. keep yours in hand." bird." Fo Littleton addressed the mechanic, "Has "Still," quoth the judge's lady, "I re- "If that dog chies her agahi,'4in- my business agent visited you I I in- peat, the 'neighborhood is vexatious to terruited the apprence, "nther the ructed him to make ani oiler ifr the ie, and therefore I will buy your judge's lady r her big thief' of afoot- purchase of your shop. Did lie attend shop." man will -preventm6 't-rom' tternninat- to thbe matter ?" - " Ihonorable madame !" said Christo- ing the vermin 'n the spot." "Now into your cage, Polyldar said then cobbler," and don't let me cat ch you going about agadding'again" page: 46-47[View Page 46-47] r THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. pher, with a dignified tone of voice, "there is only one -point of trouble be- tween us, and that is a quarrel between your spaniel and my parrot. Well, suppose I shbald say to you, 'your. spaniel wants to kill my bird, therefore sell your mansion.' Yot would ensured. ly laugh bi my face; atud yet, from some equally fantastic reason, you want me to sell my shop." "Will no sacrifice content you ?" in- quired the lady earnestly. "Now listen, madam," resumed the bootmaker, with marked suavity, "I have acquaintance in this quarter od tl e town, who drop in upon me almost every, night, and Ihave no desire to live at a distance from them; now it is evident that you or your friends shall buy them out, so that they move likewise." "You are determined to remain, I. perceive," said the judge's wife, with ked emphasis;" then be it as you please." "As you please, -madame," returned the bootmaker, proudly ; "iyou bear a proud name, own a magniacent man- sion, boast an honored husband d-you are rich, respected And happy." The judge's lady smiled satirically at this fial allusion. "Yes, madame," continued Christo- pher, unmindful of her interruption, ''you have friends in. every part of the city, you will find them or they will run after you; while Polly my daughter and u yself, we hav nong save in this quarter. Hence, let us rest in peace. If my songs annoy you, then I will sing them in a whisper;,for I must sing, even if the queen was here." "You are an honest man," remarked the ledy, as she prepared to leave the shop;, "retain your shop and its plea- sant associations ; from this day forth orders will be given tomy people never again to molest you. Good by, my joy- ous neighbor." "Let us strive to live in neighborly harmony," replied the artisan, as -the. honorable lady emerged fropi the hum- ble shop of her neighbor, and ascended the steps of her palatial residence. "It's a funny world this, any how," quoth Christopher .Las$,, as he resumed his toil, and recommended hissong;,"but it don't lie in their power to make an honest man sell his inheritance, for the sake of pomp and vanity in others." THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. 46 47 CHAPTER VIII. TE YOUNG DQTOR. "Well, doctor, how' stiff anid proud you walked past our house this morn- ing-put on ears enough for an oil doc- tor." Doctor Morand was forced to smile -at the rude familiarity with which. the honest bootmaker saluted his? ritor, as the- physician entered the sh16p, so re=, cently honored by the presence of the- aristoci-atie wife of their judicial nuigh bor. "Proud t" responded Dr. Morand, a young -man of fashionable attire and polished manners; "0, not, nOt as bad as that. I may have been thoughtful, for indeed I felt very melancholy." - "Melancholy, and on what account?' returned Christopher, in an eticourag: ing tone of voice ; "are your patients all cured, or is this section of the town- too healthy to' breed epidemics t In that case set up to regulate the oilfever. and no quack will ever be more riume- riously followed by the good folks of the avenue." "It is a disease of the brain beyond medical treatment," remarked the doc- tor with a smile ; "if it kills some vic- tims, others thrive on it." "And have you, too, passed over to the enemy,":observed Christopher, with a look of astonishment-"I thought you a man of sense,. "The enemy !" quoth the young man, with a smile '"when I take iunto con- sideration the rapid fortunes accumu- lated by, speculato and the, pitifil stums deled forthl t weuof talent, I am perplexe4 o think whicl are the ene- mies to, our race." "You are bitter, Stephen," returned the cobbler, "and should be taken care of by some man of more than ordinary common sense." "What, have I not to complain of for- tune'?" observed the physician, enthu- siastically; " I have grown pale over books ; I have sought intelligence in leagues of travel; I have courted both glory snd happiness ; I have found neither; but on the other hand, Iam advisedl to pass more sleepless days in prosecuting a bootless mission I" "Have courage, Stephen," replied Christopher, with an air 'of honesty-, "prosecute your works, and you will be a great physician," "Yes," rejoined the young man, with a dubious shake 'of ,the head, "it may be so; but while awaiting thedawn of reputation and' renown, Iremain plung- ed in poverty}and misery." Dr. Morand stopped short in his speech, and paced the floor nervously, for the thought of his poverty recalled to his mind the Impossibility of a suc- cessful competition for the affections of Flora unless backed by that potent aux- illiary. The shoemaker noticed his abstrac- tion, but attributed.it toa very different cause. "I have something to dispel your mi- sery," quoth Christopher. "What can that be 1" inquired the physician. "Ready money," replied the me chanic. "You are aware that I request. page: 48-49[View Page 48-49] THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE.i ed consultations for some=of my rela- tives. Well, this very - irntng I lhtWr received advices from them enblosing the money:" "But Itbought they were poor peoe' ple," observed thef-doctors "They ate the ibore happy finco dtt:: der your'treatieont, 'end e 'ilerg to. pay f' it, notetra nga tir 'at lib '- rally, as the only medical .inai i the villagehappens to be a h6r ' doetf; Uncle Thomas sends : ten dollar bill ; anothe'froth his'brothel, 'wh'o has the' rheumatism ; a third from his sister, who haO been cuied of the erysipelas, according to your prescription." "Cured through one, prescription," ejaculatedthe docor in astonishment, while tho'antitanlughd At hia ingeb ions fabrication. "Yes, cured," rejoined the bootmak- er; and ho spoke the truth, for the good old soul had been teo yars beneath the sods-"Agrand etnua total of thirty dollars, which I am chaged to remit to' you . The doctor remaiued-perisive 'during all this time, and ecianically took the letters from tliuIandro'f Christophgrf n'%ting ie' ' ferfli e ,'he was astunished dhfibtg'tlhein all'writ ten in a sinihir' tyle& of eliiograp1iY, which the: perj lexei Christopher at= tempted' to- exphdi vay:byiasserting that if tthey- them'selmvs 'otld redd and write, t elo o wAs no reason - to stppose iliat every ne elSe was adbrned by the- sam.a4tcenmphltinont. . lent jsdge of the good man's sheer' (d isn poinetnti wheni Dv.:Morand pDr- cinptrl dyclihbed acceptingrtheapr9 , tied coiitents of the epistles. e a "They are poor people,'! said the doo- tor, in a melancholy tone of voice, as memory of ,im own poverty flashed upon him, "and I cannot conscientiously-take, from wages won by the sweat 6Qfth brow." - Christopher Last was doubly discon- carted, for he perceived that either the i genuity of his device was penetrated, that the smallness of the sum ren- Bred its acceptance a matter of hesita- tion; for the worthy bootmaker failed to comprehend the small estimate which -4en, accustomed to commingle with the 4shionable world, place upon sums dhich, in the eyes of operatives, are regarded, if not as miracles of wealth, Ut least as auxilliary to happiness. "Stephen speak to me frankly," said- Christopher, as he paced his store anx- iusly; "how much is it necessary to a cure your welfare ;saghere lacking a large sum-a hundred dollars or so I" "We will noteojverseion that point," retarned4Pe physician ; " and pardpn, lbonest Chgiptopher, a aadac9 c which .1 should havehpd thec urgge; to;nonce l before so kind a heart as thine." ertoerds," 'paid Chmatopher rese l toly I ow you -ariuane 'than I I bal ebe 4l1e to pay ycu. It is hot,' t ien, ng rf one, two or dfivnl uu deddpll i, ay 4e wi thotitand " And the kimnl::nehlanica vateb4ded-.eh ex- pression of the physician's face as he, 4 ' ,h' gghedsthe doctor;;autobly i "A thiogand(l larsl' itorposed thp bootmakeyfjzysly; "th's veryeasy easily ob agsmd. if your fo ure depends 11 on nuyipyphity." " m.'rwhon\?'' inquired Dr. Moranid with garuist e. Troni. we " repgjated the cord-, ainer withta d)erisiv wpile,; "I have ac . n cs, ; clongs, who appear n'ogg igeggeypaggvl~o pugd be plro Id tb call Christophei Last their debtor :yae, btnW pgs lents, whom 13Ih ve rem t si t e d l i o led ." "Yoe .aramat , 'Christopher," said the physician, in evident ,astouiluhnut, 4ud ig , n idle faUCcs,.d('htr'3 T11E BO T. MAKJ '=JI O? -flj 4.,I iT E I J. 49 dreants. Uold !" he cortinued;'as he took tle hank I ills from the letters-and passed treur through his hand;'hkwe the trut h, the sole idea to vhiai mdst attach nr self. In thee fee i =datiand drink for a month to cone ;' and' he added, with an illy disguised em tic n, "hurrah for the greenbact--tikr ae my salvat ion !" Christiopher looked upon the physi- cian with 1an air of stupefaction ; for the worthy boot maker was unable to com- prehc::I the eccentricity of the young man's movements, especially when he grasped tie hand of the houest Chris- topher, and shook it most heartily, and almos- imperceptibly guided from the shop of his benefactor. The generosity of Christopher had awakened a new sensation with the young doctor, and lie now experienced a biting feeling of anger at his poverty strickent condition, which precluded his aspirations to the favor of the hand- so-ne opera singer, courted as she was by some dozen of the wealthiest and most distinguished beaux of the town. Christopher Last, while he noticed the depression of Stephen, attributed it to a fir diferent source ; for the good man, apprehending that he detected a passion for Genevieve lurking within the doctor's heart, ilattered himself that if he did not succeed in wooing her himself, n could bring about an union between destined lovers. "Poor fellow," soliloquised the boot. maker, wThen he found himself alone, casting a languishing glance upon the depart ing form of his protege; "he at- empt s to laugh and yet sheds tears, for his sorrows are breaking his heart. ie. aust have the money. Yes, but a thou- and inodlars in cash ! Where can it be raised I I have somet hIing saved, but mt enr vr ;" la oe btooItwker whis- :led for very lack ot thoughts, as the -j 48 sn 4 f cadri is 1 warr, ] - ot'vg. !" reoicingly ejaculated Christ phersas a luignonsiea struc him. "I'll sell the house to "6ithr the specnltors or to the judb' lad. Tien asu den felinu6#r mrss tiitlh- ed-Mi lt t' liestitediita action. "Bah 1 im'S fonrtephen, wbe yWed. oJr ene - "Here, boss," quoth Nicholas Strap, entering the shop suddenly, "is a shoe of Miss Genevieve's, which wants some stitches in the solo." The bootmaker took the work imme- diately from the apprentice's hand, for that discerning youth, aware of the af- fection of Christopher for his 'laughter, refrained from a labor which gave his master infinite joy. "You know that I love my daughter, Nicholas ?" "I'm neither deaf nor dumb, boss," returned the apprentice; "but there is one thing that bothers me. Why dog't you kiss your daughter?" "Who's put that stupidity into your head ?" asked the bootmaker, angrily. "Now, boss," replied Straj, "there are folks who look upon you as a very neglectful father. Notthat you decline providing her every want, but then you never kiss her. For =instance, to-day, when you bought her these pretty fix- ings, and the poor soul was dying for a kiss, and at night when she parts with you in a voice reaching to your heart, you follow her with your eyes, but never a kiss do you give her." "You pester me, booby," said the artisan, with vehemence ; "I'm a father after my own style, and that suits my own humor." "Each man according to his own taste," rejoined the garrulous appren- tice; "that may suit your humor, but if I were in your lace, I woulIn't stand on mee' triiks--Fd h iss her fronwmorn- ing till night." "Yea kiss my Geaeviave !" kowl.4 page: 50-51[View Page 50-51] 50 THE BOOTMAtER 01 the bootmaker, raising aloft the shoe- hammer in a manner threatening'rto' Strap's nerves. "That is, if I was her father," apo- logetically responded the apprentice. The worthy Christopher was appeas- ed; but a sigh passed through his TRlE PF'IFTH AVENUE. bosom. -It seenyed to h m for the m. ment that te secret, of Genevieve's nativity had escaped him, and he dread. ed the idea that upon learning the truth as :to her birth, t he girl might divert her love from her over anxious protector, when ske ascertained that he was no longer her parent. THE BOOT lAKEL OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. "Youwere born in the village of Clif- ton?" "I should not be surprised - as well there as any where else." "You have a daughter ?" asked the ettanger most seriously. "Yes, I have a daughter," responded Christopher, losing his patience. "Sixteen years of age f" resumed the Visitor, with calmness. 'Somewhere about that age," and Christopher looked for his lapstone. " That's all about her that I want to know," quoth the stranger. 4 Then go where you come from and he -" the shoemaker stopped short. "Yes,,but I'm not donQ with you," remarked the visitor with suavity. "Geoahead then ; for there's an end to every man's powers of endurance." "You lost your parents when you were young." " Plain truth, and not worth deny- ""Whek you were about twelve rear of age ?" "About that time," replied the boot- maker with a sad countenance. "Although you hate the appearanee of being thirty-tifree or thirty-four years of age," remarked the' stranger, with a very strong ironical'emphasis, "you are in reality about thirty." "Yes," replied Christopher, abstract- edly, ~"somewhere tietr thirty or there about".-theni 4dlenly raising up hd head he eoitinued-3'thirty ornot; vhat is they end you are driving at in this matter " "Nothing particular, Mr. Christopher Last," responded the stranger, in his slow and measured tones; e"Gnevieve, your daughter, is eighteen; you, her father,, are thirty-two. consequently you wdre a parent at the rip& ago of fourteen-too precocious, I think, Vi . Last, for even these.fast days and baby wives. CHAPTER IX. FATHER AND DAUUHTE.' "A word with you, if you plese." Christopher, ever working. lifted up his head, and saw before him a stran- ger, whose. countenance bore a singu- larly repulsive expression. "On business ?" curtly inqui ed the bootmaker, laying down a last.. "With you, yourself," retorted the stranger with a grim smile.. 'Rights and lefts,'" continued Chris toplier, glancing at his visitor'shoots with the air of an expert--"those boots weren't made in this town!" "Our matter does not relate to boots,"' remarked ; the stranger ; "I have come to converse with you on particular and private business." "But I don't know who you are," re- turned the cordwainer, dryly. "You will have little trouble in mak- ing my acquaintance," observed the visitor, with a shrug of the shoulders, " especially if you permit me to en- lighten myself upon some simple points which interest us both." "W.hat I~ the first point to begin then ?" a ked the shoemaker. "Your name is Christopher Last i" inquired the stranger. " So sajd -my sponsors )i baptism. What's next?" replied Chr stoplier. 51 F 5 r , r ti t 1 " 5, " r " - ' 1..bF _, as. t k i ). c . " " 4.\,, ra: . i yH" - '? scRaat c r r.. aG tT s+Yr'r4Y i +* f r + page: 52-53[View Page 52-53] 52 I THE~~~~~1T -OT VEhQ~ ~I~~J~f~ YNUE._ "Possibly," returned the boo keser, rather taken aback by the turn the e , amination hAd taken1' "now iis py turn to examine you; "and, yon vil.loblig me byleting me knQw -- . "Nothing for the igonent," quoth the stranger--"so good day." "I insist upon your staying, as I wish to speak," urged the bootnaker.' "Bosh!" replied the' strange gentle- man-"you desire no more gossip about' the birth of Genevieve thnal I do. o am a physiognomist. I made avagei with a friend that you passed yourself, off as older than "yu really are, and that you were too- young to 1e this young lady's father.' I have gained my wager, and ht'o the honor of saluting you." As the mysterious stranger wended his way through the door, the artisan, amazed at his impertinence, wasstempt- ed to hasten after him, in the hope of ascertaining his name and business. Just then the remembrance of Stephen's money pressed upon him, and he-called to Nicholas to, give him express direct, tions as to-the raising of money. - . "Listen, Nicholas," said Christopher, tartly, "and pay prtieplar uttenlon. If Mr. Barnard calls, it ori uhim that I have reflecteI, and.jnue him to in- vest for me all my spare cpsh-onechuin- dred and eighty-twp dolfer4-,mind, one hundred and eighty i? and .the worthy cobbler repeated Qveg the ynopatsone half dozen times,. well~l;owingthe in- herent stupidity of his apprentice. " One hundred and eighty,",quoth Nicholas, to himself, after his master, had departed, in the &pin hopofeatch- Ing his visitor; "my boss is gone with, the current and taking to string oil ; just to remember the amount, I'll chalk it op the counter." Mr. Nicholas Strap had some idga of figures, for those he made were legible ohiefly on account, o their size ; but his theory of calculation did not em- race the calculation of units and (deci- *nals by our arrangemen Conseqtently the counter upon 'which our genius in- $cribed his 180, presented the siingular inscriptionn 10080, as representiig his oss' spare cash or available capital. Mr. Nicholas Strap had scarce com- pleted liii mathematical problem, when the banker appeared ret the shop door, and anxiously inquired whether Mr. Last had arrived at any conclusion. " Wholly, Mr. Bernard," responded Nicholas, "we're in the current and are ,naturally bound to make our fortaues- that's so, sir.' "He consents to sell or to lease his shop a" inquired the banker; "Yes, to do everything to augment our capitals." "Capitals ! I don't understand you, my fine fellow." "Easy enough ; the boss is gone forr the funds," remarked Nicholas, with a' deterininda air ; "you can buy stock for him right away." "Then I was , ot deceived," murmur- ed Bernard to himself; and then he added aloud-- " how much available capital has he1" "All chalked upon the counter there. One --" 'Ir. Nicholas Strap would have con- tirued further, ahd explained his own figures in a worldly method; but at that instant the noise of a falling body, the scream of an affrighted parrot, and the growl of a snarling dog, proceeding from the rear, announced to thevigilant pro-, tector of Miss'Polly that that lady had again been made the subject of ass-cult from the pet spaniel of their' neighbor the judge's lady.°t. r Left to his own deciphering, Mr.,Ber- nard quickly made out the; fgures, and murmured to himself- "Ten thousand and eighty 4oltars in ready cash, for me to 'invest the whole in anticipation of a rise; if 'the ,ulls' P, TILE OOT MAIi1OF lE FIFTH AV'N . aliar's rd b e rne hier retreat cut tp by t i iitS 6i s tion is pe oMarcy's athletic fdiii betv~eenh e ; ust atthat Ino cut G nev ove land the rer door.'y tered the store from G ret, o "What do ' sty anel?" quoth sere g the stor ersa ) t e it aspect the young ' an, with allt}the tills'flf ' serving thtbnfe tl e itrppe eR ihrMplil 9 % oa- fully ; but the ,pan of busAL'ess gi "too m, ,h , whe IW much, egrosse in his calcuatignos at blh; to tell you that you are beautiful the moment t a .to notice the p you t diBactio of the young and lovely beauty. that I mean thatcharnis like thine 'shall "Yes, my dear child," quo Bernard, no longer be 'hidden benath boddice after a few seconds of medig'tiop; Ber and cotton drapery !" nd"Marey ap- nard will bring you a handsome, very preached tie girl. handsome dowry." "ot a step further!" said Genevieve, Although Gene ievo was young in' de rerately, "or I wt call for help." years, she was possessed of maure dis "you ill do vrong," observed t eretion, consequently' the '4rds df r. libertine "for I will :ma t gtdiie Bernard, which slitinterpfeted in their who dareds to intf in ur pgrdonal proper ueaniu, aliireldlkit to think iImattens., that her father, the staid ltnd steady Genevieve h e,d ,ceeply and sank architect of his and her fdrtuine, had trembling into a chair. plunged ii the Vortex' of stock' gam' "Come4 my dearvne, calm. thyself," bling. resumed Marcy,ashe took a placeflear nWhat-Wha t6 ne, this very hand- the aff ighted maiden ; -Ifwhy repel me some dowry' "soliloqulised the-young in this mannerI If it is for the sake of lady, as alit g tt d flerself l ,the siop; appear i the o % 'dooil; nd "j$s will' not Tukase the heart of now let'-xhan few mihtes of sedio s atephen--itV Williot lesseil'4he distance co versati 'n.f which separates a learned doctor and a "In the naie of iee, ei," 'muf .-a shoemaker's .Iaughter !' inured Geniyive, :aa theotegra gushed Geneiee Wat8sO ee pIoccu pied by in warn.floodsafromdrev downcastteyes, her ieilctioisg that"she failed to Wotice "whaitve I done 'to aithoriz'e&youiin the entry of a well-dredd ,entleinan, addressing mo iwidltinsulting wor4s." who sorneiwhat rudly touched 'her on " Insulting+worda! ": ejalated the her hutder. . beau, with simulated indignation -. Genevieve no soone- experienced the "when. I ve btrte to assure you of my intrusion, than, with'tscream of 'timi- adoration, yotubrand my declaration as dity, she i&llfor refuge towards the tear' an insult.;,'What charming coquetry!- apartmrentsa hundred times the nmoreexqtlsite-dis "Tut ! tut! my fair damsel!" qndth- gaised'beneath tears." Marcy ,foriitas the bankrupt eiquisite, "Suffer me to reti ej or I will call my who, having watched through tbhe l father." dows of the shop,availed himself of the "Be only reasonable,'M rejoined Marcy, absence of its proprietor to follow up, "Kad'hear how I lovdybu." the fugitive girl ; "if you fly at my - 'Genevieve would'havof inted, but prach,%. shall neve r de t."' ' sb ingiUlned that ahe'lleied the'ip. "Well,' sir,;P deinainded 'thelmuidenl, proachif fbotsteps'df'herofather andlR with an au4 of tffeshded dignity?"" 4hat his ton~hmiiy~h thedor.~~' dd yon waidt'wkh m'cl" fdr sh'found' "One kiss before we part, my charm, page: 54-55[View Page 54-55] 3+4 TH BOT, MAKER OF HE{ FIFTH AVENUE. er," ao thelptina seized the maiden "Be .it so, and take the risk !" ex- in his rf~criy to wrest the dew claimed thede iicInife, as'he disengagd f-om her virgin lips. . himself from the arms of his daughter "npaud --unhan e !j' shouted''a~deae'threilikingly towards the G a eipve, iago ny heart. peiro f-her ineslter. "Never ptil I gait myei !" rejoin- Bliui fti-on hand suddenly stayed ed Marcy, too much carried away b' the arin of the shoemaker. tie excitempnt of his passion to observe Betveit the combatants stood the the entree of phristopher Last, who, frame of the myisterions stranger. who upon perceivinglhisdanglter'sjeopardy, had previously confoundeil Christo- rushed frantically to her; rescue, aid pher'% cdia 'to fiB paternity oft the dealt the agressor a powerful.blow. Female, w ose defense he ndv espoused. "Scoundrel!" fairly bowled the'boor- ",Christopher Liat," said tih' visitor, maker, as the exquisite reeled beneath 'in deep' yet accents, "yu may thank th effects of the bIopghich alnopt our stga} that I have arrived in time lai him prpstr ite. ty' toavprt prta disaster." "a r r" jcilated Geivieve, in- Wh you itprere in my af- etinctively clinging to her parent. g, tiis.",igrud Chiiopher. " Christopher Last, the cobbler . .am t .?eddling in your d.ft'airs," quoth Marcy, reco ed lis equili- ''.u bro sir," te 4- ' ' . returnedlthe stranger,' sterulv; "this brium. f i, . "'Yes sir,"rejoined the ordwainer, matter "#purely jer gnal to Miss Gene- veheiently - "cobbler ovaM cobbler, vieve." you have dared to insult 'ur=daugh- "Yes,'gtorted ths shoemaker; "and ter U' . 'aa eae. this econg}grg1A l ?-r" - "I am4 a gente1is,n, aespaible for "Mr. ans:r" ,int sdrhe satran- uyctions," replied the li hrtie; !you ger, paying no attentqop t theshoe- have only to inquire at the,.iftJithAYe- maker's, ,ngr, p worg with you for nas Hotel forr. Marcy.'T ". your pki, e." "You a gentleman! andBpeal to the "With me 1" jacuated the, beau; code of honor for thetcim of insulting but the .manner oftlianyiterious man's a female" said the °artisan, bldly- speeg breptmieda determination to ad- "my gentility is of amiere *acred- aha- mit # ~depi . raoter, fogj have' the 'honor 'of being' a "Geney eve," qqqth Christopher, as father 3"- he noticed the couple retire to a corner "Splendid I" ejacula eglarcy, leri- of the shop, and felt himslf unable to sively; " a magificentapeech ijbut I penetrate the mystery of lhis nwel- think it may * l e stolen 'from a New come- guest's behavior, "I dread some Bowery melodrama." misfortune ;" and then the pertugsted, "Depart, sir," entreated Genevieve, artisan fell into a sullen revery. hanging on Christ9phei's bosom. - . Marcy,",said the straugse, "yoU "Depart !" repeated the shoemaker, loye this ;onaglady', :" q castinghis eje sup op his lapstone "by_ "I envy pgsssasion of hertat all gone, I say, or I fear, me that 1uny even,', replied. tlh beau; tambign- train Y94et he po ,' a , m o ely " You« the"ten Wdo yo ?" rcsomle. "But," "i ir. posed the question MpoyecewgPpgely;. "thatalt lmi "shos# ~it ,proye the ,Genevieve vas eumatanees, and. -I now prefer a ore bout from one of the, prondgat fatniliep, 'nain..", , a , inthe 'lapd and heirgse yo gouestate ol I THE BOOT RON P TE F IFTkI:AVENUE;: i t i . } 7I F F at least one hundred thousands del- "A hundred thousandd liars!" ja- culated the bankrupt dandy,; "then .my happiness would be converted in to good speculation.", The pair, watched by the nervous, mechanic, who balanced in his mind the propriety of revealing to the yoga maiden thealong pent-up secret as to her birth, conversed for some minutes in tones 'inaudible to th ootmaker's ear; but as they separated, tho over- lheard the mysterious straoger declare to his new made companion- "Genevieve will be your, wife inside of fifteen days !" CHAPTER X. THE REVELATION OF TiE SECRET. "Twice have I attempted t commu- nicate with Genevieve to roved1every thing to her, but each time' the woirds stuklin my throat. Not only will' tell the secret of her birth, bit thdt e~ei of my own heart. She niay ladgh4at me-mock me-but she must know how deeply, how sincerely I adore htei ! In, truth; the worthy bootmaker h .d made two several attempts to unlhosom himself to his fair charge. 'he first timn lie found himself too coarse and vulgar to aspire to the' hand of the belle ; on the second, he conceived himself too ugly to compete with the gaily attired suitors ever floating;around- the shrine of beauty. Determining upon a final effort, Mr, Christopher Last resolved upon array-. ing himself in his finest habiliments. Accordingly he summoned to him Ni- cholas to officiate as his valet de chan- bre, who appeared in the little parlor of the bootmaker's d welling, cautiously bearing the hest garments of the arti- tan while blubbering piteously. "Here it is, boss,"quotltha t tice, wiping his eyes with his Engefes "What's the natter ?" inqquired Chri. topher -" what are' you' blubbeting for?" "0, boss," mourned the.weeping Ni- cholas, "she is so very sick.' "Is Geneyieve sick?" demanded the artisan earnestly. "Polly, boss, Polly," responded Mr. Strap, still weeping. "What's that to me" inquired Chris- topher, tartly. "0, boss, the pretty parrot," retorted Nicholas, in a tone of reproach. "Youare right Niclholas,"replied the bootmaker. 'It wasn't that I alluded to. I thought it was-=-never mind-i is nothing. " Nothing !". ejaculated Nicholas,'. in- disdain; "one iblov tof a elawtineach wingsand two in the. ek-'-that's omie- thin I say , "That cursed spaniel again !" mut- ';'The ,assassin.!" exelaimed the ,ap- prei ice; "but I have got him thistie downin the cellar, and if anything happens to Polly --" " Do nothing to 'the dog unless poor Polly dies." " That can't be," returned Nicholas, "as I have sent for Di. Moran'd to come directly, without letting 'him know who for." During this conversation Mr. Christo- pher :Last suiceeeded in ar'aying him- self with his finest and costliest gar- ment, yet surveying himself-n the glass, displaying each portion of his 'person, andcriticising his' entire ap- pearance, the bootmaker grew discon- teuted, as he lacked that air of graceful elegance which he had noted in the army of beaux who daily passed by his sho 'Nicholas,;is this my best coat ?" in- quired tho mechanic testily. "Bless your'soul, boss, it is your au- per-extra Smytlay one." page: 56-57[View Page 56-57] : t, P T1W1'OPT TAKER' Ol NTIF1 1'I AVENUE. "N ielud StrapyV 'day ,wli1ea 6 arks an era in your life, for 'M~oss 4" 1 have. sot itWacart to reveal to you a 'Iow(d yead it nay;looks " secret." x'";. %a 'fq ai e splen didhboss--more that "A eret! 'eceulated lhe maiden, splendid !" alairied at his serious tone. 1,i dpn't meat1 the clothes only-hew '" Yes, a secret concerning your alX ,it tiC fIue4" Ibirth" * Xery: eleau -imenself 'lecn -I "My brtl' repeated tlhe duensel, mean, very expressiv#." gazing at Christopher in yonder.' T s.is t'is the triiiNicholas 1" "Yes," resunod the bootniaker, with "IFact is, b'ss," exclainedl11Ir. Strap, evident ti'rpidation ; "I am 1now forced ex1hiigly, tjl I were. a woman, I'd to tell you" eaevieve, that you are not marry yon toi-morr'ow. Upon my soul; nmy daughtci.' I oul, boss." ,."Not your daughter!" ejaculated the Christolher Last wayaalelighted. and-young girl ; "that is impossible. 0, no, vigcoathi self, iw"the ghls, with evi- no, no. Say to nie truly. Say to me dtisftietp, especially as Micho}- that I am your child !" lak badffparfed to apprise, Geuevieve "No, Genevieve, you are no child of of his desire for ani interview, upon mine." which Ilngthe 1futl-c of his destiny. Genevieve burst into tears, and threw ' Who knows' solitogised the boot- herself upon Christopher's neck. mkias he pacedthis parlor; " when "The daughter of a bootmaker," said she learns that I am not he ftather,-she the honest working man, "it is not so may perhaps Xixerieuee as ieen a; sor- proud a pedigree as to mourii its loss." row as I do at the thought 4f Ont's ''lBut who is left to love me now 7" ratiy ;' Yd iilybed she mnay hay'to ue: "I, Gesevieve-here, now, herediter 'Cdiistdbhie l 'en iio longer be your and forever more." daueghter,'but can' be your vi--!' 0, ' Will you promise never to forget dear, if sho should say so !" me ": 'Good i'orrow, father," quoth Genet "Yes, Genevieve, I solemnly swearto vieve, as e entered the chamber, raw remember and to love you," said Chris- diant .itlh jo ogye smiles; "how hand- topher, as he raised his hand heaven- som, ou are looking, , . ward "And as I can no longer love o u f1 n1 me so?" remarked the youfas i father, be it then as a friend, bootai lter, dylightedly. a br other, as a -" and the bootmaker "yes, your clutheaeate well made, and paused abruptly. it you beautitully.", "Always as a father," rejoined the "It is the celhes then that mates damsel--"that love is to sweet." my beaut ," icd Christopher- sighed, . "Well," replied Christopher," sorely for it struck i~m that hisbeauty rested disconcerted, "if that is your will.", uponp shim foiidtion. The girl observed the worthy man's '"ut I loved youm much better before halt concealed annoyance, and im- you1itd them, father." plored him to continue the narrative of c"hipten, Genevieve,".omenced the her nativity, mechanic, after sundry hemas, ha'd and "The story is short," resumed the throat ceanisings, "on days of cere- bootmaker, with a deeply drawn sigh. mony we should put on our best clothes, "I received you from the bands of y our and it .is for this -reason- that I haeo nurse and foster mother as shze lay at dressed mnyself to-day. Yes, this is a the point of death. She confi .~a to me f I If oily theMame etta Desmond, vadinly searohbi At fihe sanm ii documel~nts;Whj your eighteen month hence.' " And you charge of me, woman mst n expended up( cares--yoii ha sweat oft your this as my due believed fait] daughter.", YMOnlhe con delbtedness is Christopher 'i done moi-e f o a"ssy not eo with a feeling "When i resumed the0 -cl , I ,as o devil-may' o iin for wtisj my earnings , ,at thehea4 o self, 'reform one - leave dresses;' and you m47bei "Heavpn1 ejaculated th " Later grew.up larg bonnets, gg my smaller v lute .eompagU the land qf grow in happ "Yopu hav ness to rue," she benei ove and befeowed "Dry you anl~dyour te I THE BOOTMAKElR O' 1 TNE N'iff1 ANEN 6f your motherHenri- break Ihi heattbf' a 'doantin.$&r after houaI hobve hen a ikTieii, in adminin of herhe iutb , rg f'r fifteen long years. the mWdhanic ejacillated '" htslovely nt she etrnttedlme whi an nngeL !" ich youCate to mead cn Tlichead hf poor ChristoipliiBecame ih' birth ddy-that i .a turned, as ho'gaz o lis s e taeld of filial atfeetin. He lehned over the face have contented to titke of telb faine, and, carried away by " responded th6 young the excitementit cf the moment, was on ffeelitnately ; "you lmahe tho-point of iiplant ing a ferent kiss on me the abt6 teuiief upon her lips." The frenzy ov ixcite- ye lintirislid i with the went exhausted itself, as, with i deep brig -o-ad I accpted ;il sigh, the devoted protect oi-, r c;llihg , because I th6.ig'ht and to mind theit' relations, reliquishiedhis hrually that I' was yonr project. " And now when I 'think upon i trtry ,the balanieeof i murinure Genevieve,mu in19 'soe- agendt ie," remarked tin1g must have happened 'or you to iths a sigh, "for o i a reveal a scieot which you have so long me than I have for you' ,oi"caled from me." "You are eight, Gcne'ieve,' re"pd o 5 ned eev'v' ed Christopher, with a tinge madness, of ijr i"sometuing has occurred. ' In et , our opted you, my dearest " position can no longer i'enaii teh'same, bootmaker more, cheer e e . vciermy' ear one.' a roving blade, a species "Must I then leave "yon?1" iniquired care subject, with pa s- the maiden, affrighted. ey, which set aay all "Would' such a martin bring you But when I awvmyself sorw, Genevieve?" if a family, I sapi tq iqy- "Iowean you ask sudh a'qu stidh 1 fr $3 sake of the littl# rejoined the young girl, thh tearS ni'st- off whiskey to put -0o ing, afresh- from thedroopihg eyelids. so . v drink that "Cad you bdhievo that I can habitiate e eei u ,Phappy." myself to living away froth h orie vhhtis s you, kind father," brought mc up from irfdneyL-fism one- e grateful gir. '- in whose single person I have found , ghen, ny Genevieve conjoined all family ties ?" ' en an larger; and wanted "Then listen to ne, Genevieve, and vge a; .1caks, I reduced pause in your judgment," said Clristo- iep, A:schargcd my disso- pher, reassumiig a portion of hisi ordi- j nas and settled down on nary equinimity. " WhOn T adopted IIay father, that she may you I was but 'i my ciitedikh jcar; iness and content." toil, trouble and a vagrant life gave me e been an .angel of good- the appearance of at leaSt-twenty-five. exclaimed Genevieve, as Without difficulty I was mecegnised as y the neck of her-guardian, your father, and proportionately as you * it with, tears. grew tip, I tried my best tO grow old, ir tears,, for if you smile and hence I have not taken as much ars, naughty guil, you will care of myself as I could. Despite all page: 58-59[View Page 58-59] I -dE BOOTI MAKEB F THE FFTH AVENUE. precautions, you; have becopne a eautiful yqung girl.much faster than I could grow infirm., ene. comes it in our quarter that people wonder, and give themselves up to eqandeL., To an- ticipate anoymce, to dissolve the miys- tery, I am compeed&t obo frank, 0e- nevieve, you are eighiteeu and father- less ; you need take to yourself a hus- band, and I sought to kinwif in mak- ing a choice I had no voice in the nat. ter. That's all." While the excited bootmaker was progressing with his haransue, which he had rehearsed for over a half day, he strove to catch the expression of the young girl's countenance ao the index of her inclinations. But Genevieve merely remarked that it was an abrupt question. "I have asked you to open your heart to me," continued Christopker, harrow. ed in mind as; c.onflicting, doubtop- pressed him. "Iave courage and speak. Is there no one whom you love suf. ciently to honor him with your hand in marriage. Speak fiiankly, Genevieve." "Well,"; responded the girl, " since you require me to speak frankly, Imust say that tbgry e i.Q0 love--,---" "Who is hey?" inquired Christopher, the sweat st nding. on his brow, and quivering at every joint with excite- ment. "What sort, of a man is lie-.. young, handeome, or of what quality?" "He is, young, handsome-very hand. some, they say," .replied the maiden; "and above all, he islearned and talent- ed." The countenance of the bootmaker turned perfectly pale as he fabric of his matrimonial castle crumbled into thin air. "Have you anything to ask ?" i u- quired the maiden, blushing.. "No, that's enough," quoth Christo- pher, excitedly; .then, suddenly recol lecting hi.ngelf, he adiJed -"You hoaive not mentioned his name." "I Aare not," responded th girl, with a shake of the ,ead. "0 , heavens, Genevieve,", said the bootmaker, with an air ofdesperation " hlas your choice been auch an un worthy one that your future husband is too ignominious to be named ?" "0, no, my dear friend,",tearfully re- torte41Gensvieve, "Stephen Morand is a most worthy, a most chivalrous .and honorable man.", "Stephen Mgrand t" and the artisan, sighed, for mention of his name excited en'otion qof both pain and joy. "Is he aware of your choice ". . "Not at all," responded the maiden enthusiastically ; "indeed. I can hardly tell how my love begau... The care be', stowed'upon me three years back by; Dr. Morand originated a profound af fection for him. When I became con- valesdent, and before could express my gratittile in proper teraps, ho de- parted on his European travels. Absent in person'he was spiritually present;to my ey s. Befoit me floated that tran- ~quil physiognomy, that sad and gene- rous face, whbhi brought calmness to me amid delirium' of fever. Possibly my little head was too much troubled with contemplation of a memory so affect- ing" The shoemaker could scarce restrain confessing bin admiration with the gra- titude so artlessly bestowed upon the young physician. "But when ,since two months," con- tinued Genevieve, sadly, "I hve learn- ed of his ret urn among us, my soul has experienced an untoward vacancy. VWhen I saw him pass by my window I wasseized with a violent emotion, so violent t that the world swam before my yelib&, and I seemed wafted to the oAbies in fulness of joy. As I make this avowal, I cannot conceal iromn you how - my heart beats whed' I speak of hn - how 1 tremble should you'condema this love: for, my friend, should you have TiE BOOT M4 l 1. li'FlF"Al J, condetedthis=alliande, Inwoldhave abandoned it, should it prove mhy death.". As Genevieve spoke in tremulous ac- cents, with her eyes upon the floor, the worthy bootmaker,' internally agitated, had taken offkhis dress coat ahd dwist- coat and replaced;. thet with hitordi- nary working apparel "Genevieve," said Christopherin a tone of agitation, as he girded on is apron again, "you are fight iunloving him, very right." "You approve of it," said the girl and yet you 'Aied tears, bat,56 i haps, I luitl bbrced to leavd jnoyo for; ever. It is; therefore, impossible for me to Imatry-la it not, my dear friend" " Not at all, Genevieve," Christopher, disguising his emotion "on the contrary, it shall take place, for he is a husband adapted for you- he is young, handsome and learned. I will arrange the matter; but are you sure you love him most truly ?" "For three years past," returned- the maiden, seriously. "Then count upon me ; " and the voice of thesatigap ,ted. "Thanks, thanks, dear father," quoth Genevfd4e dt tis if_$dn il allow p' t e py e othend of fatheid" "Allow -you,"sald thy boot iekr, "it Is tt1 of sanctity. %A A1 riS' a1 +* '5f~ i ! '' 4 t ' i 7{ ; ' Y ''. y A ? It t* - ' f 1p. '1A t IV ! i Y ; f s Ca +r t C x , ! j A 1 i83 wd '' ., , , . . , F i, c r 't t ' _ s [r l# e [ [ t F ' '4 " h _ . d' r ? , 4 { 5 t [ [ r ' A 1 , . } i'_ 1. V k, - I page: 60-61[View Page 60-61] I precaut' beautiful Tom: BOOT WAKER OF T~JI1,FYIFTU AEUE. CHAPTER XT. THE;fWfIEL OF FOnTUN_ L "How, 'atupi fool, to think that she could be -n love with such s-you I Yes, poor dupe of vanity, let zn enyself as others see me, with my coarse fea- tures, squab form and horny hands!" Mr. Christopher Last placed himself before the looking glass, and, after sur- veying himself a dozeif times or more, arrived at the conclusion that he was no beau, but decidedly a boor Then he consoled himself with the reflection that Genevieve would ever regard her- self as his daughter, which would be honor enough. "Poor Genevieve," soliloquised the bootmaker, in a vain endeavor to dis- pel the clouds oppressing his spirit ; "you shall be happy." . "Boss, here's the boot of the judge, next door, it wants half soling," quoth the shoemaker's apprentice, as ho en- tered the shop, when, observing that Christopher had discarded his fine; clothes, he ejaculated -" What's hap- pened, boss, to make such a change in your looks?" Christopher took the boot, threw it listlessly into his work basket, and, ^with a few gruff words, walked sharply down the avenue. " That funny, any how," murmured Nicholas; "boss is as put on his fine clothes to stay in 4 doors, and his apron to go out -doors." 41 And while Mr. Sharp 'was endea or ing .to solve this domestic misery;' he was suddenly aroused from his-medita- tions by the entry of the 'banker Ber- nard, bearing in his hands sumo seiP't of printed paper, which torthe aippven- tice looked;like enlarged bank notes, "Is Christopher in?" said the banker gaily ; "his fortune's made,.my friend; y,'s, -sir. I tell yon. the bulls are always "t don't know much about a butcher's shop," replied Nicholas. You . don't understapd," sai4' the ban k #ettishly ;;"11lgo re t ,wppgs3il e citement-eyeryt g y'n aup4,al- most out of sight - it is gpig u[;pn ngais~iil~going, anIg mad suckp . chases-stock for mere nothing, and now worth above five hundred. Petro- leum, sir, always risky at short went firm at long, and I have secured stock in the most reliable flowing companies; you hear?" "Yes, I do hear," mutter( d Mr. Strap; but what's short, and what's long?' "The fact is, that a regular fever has broke out," said the banker; "oil is the only thing people will touch, and as each well strikes stock runs from zero to the clouds. Yes, Nicholas, it seems to me that all Wall street is floating about in a big balloon." "I'd like to see it," ejaculated the apprentice incredulously. "I Invested Mr. Last's entire funds," observed Bernard, blandly. "And what's the boss got to show for them ?" inquired Nicholas. " Shares of stock that yesterday cost ten dollars and to-day will sell at one hundred !" replied the banker; "it was a brilliant stroke, Nicholas, and bought on time. I carry them myself." The apprentice stared at the man of finances in stupid amazement, for the language of Wall street was as empha- tically an unknown tongue to hhu as was that front which Joe Smith tran- slated the b;ble. THE BOOT MA1 E O THE FIFrii AVENUE. But Nicholas was'tooafirdd iindi "Wh re these papes? vidual to couress his igitorancdhtso,1after the col let testily. fa#rg the' banker'ith series of "Certideates of stock," replied, the hasii ntuand lios, he' ended of is ob- banker "whch you can sell firash sevatiohi bg giviiig'i i vo ,nt rap own; but I must attend the second on the back, accompanied byn oener- biard, o good day, Cinstophle, and getic exIlWiiiation of "fldlif for duo!" may your good luck continue." "I can't wait 1ogt,"' uoti e thc 41'r6 man f business tried not a banker,gimin the eerifflte the mol et 6#er, but 4darted' ihrongh the apprentice; " 'hike ietatund nfor my door Vitt that peculiairly brisk tread conamissiou the $800 ard' ier6 is the atd nervo s istep which is attained only yield of our speuiation, $16-0;00, in by man of volatile habits. one hundred'certi Utes,aften shares Mr Last'I 4 nperplexity, stood each, $100 par-yeiider tid " '" gazing at theliN i iknure, i tzile The apprentice, acafticites in his hands, the very image Theappentcealarmed attbeng the, custodiiniu o' so vasi aiiit znt, per- ofbewildemenit. emptoriABdeelided c'priehendirg au - I '"What in the name of thunder b' thing which iiiight fncurhe chance off Bernard been talking about I" Imuter- responsibility.' , ed the boo'tnaker, partially awakening "Then vail Christojher, for'Y'i in a from his stn or.; hurr:," qotlBarntd. "W' 4 8lh e 'sags you arc rich, bosi," "Ho wotdn't e ne atklich~iis;'significantly i "ie down town.' :;, '. g 'expl4ned it to i ii- -fu're Worth de "Then ell i, lsdau ter,0 .must' hundrd'toitusand'dois!"r be going.' * "cYOu nt-o'ai us ," i' torted thearti- S,1'TwontrO yo any good& ; but 'to san,'losirig histenoe: ; oblige you, 'll calilier." "Am 1, boss ?"rdjoied hI ir. Strap, But bebrehe had me'to'erforniis who paid 'ery little ;ttention- to' his errand, theiboo nakt±'enteed'thfe shop, employer's yagAries,'beecause Inuder- greatly refreshed by liisalk;cool, eitlm stand those things and you do't. e's and collected in'hikdbmeaudr ,Andi with been in themarketan4 sebr thb bul, few'traes'of his fdm i, eroiteeit, gd they have'up~ and down, you kh . "My- dea.Ciirstoph& ;'" ekelaimed The fact °is9,'those pieces of pat ier the banker;delkirii ad attoiished aiti- worth a thousand dollars."' san by the-"land, "ut- bspeci tonlas,' "How many aier there ?" proved d i {I hen.rd. 76 1k e "One hundred ; tlh t's what MIr Bo- heard 6f th f'tei" iaard said-there w is"- '- , "And l e ,ought ail this with ons;hu - "I-no I'' responded Last ; " opt I'm dAnd i.ght dllars t otafraid FI'a }boon vaccint d;ha 4o and.nighty dollars? h ntecils a d dobe saedrd ;had " Of cone le did," siq N cholaa, the chills, and bil't ae ur' airy y ,,th fetter tQocount t1nuibe& of feveiru e tele ents, spread tthem out on the "Pooh !"retorted'B'rh1d}, e 0 it' counter. cally-; "tli~ tunalaFeb'dern~ic;Tii1ii. "c orthyattheyrdy 'e, tted Here it fr saii~fyduf ltrk sp Ohrisieih to himselfas he resumed passes ni~ dt it#ldi' 4xderatios. his angt on his work 'ln'alie ha - You are iii4, ~.hrrtj , 'very rih- mencked his ftcculstonmCge iY - Wil d0 YOU can gin a do5Vr to you odanglier, s;;me thing in the wiWAo iua'n and marry'%W'id'tfe i-oudest ads- Ihappy, and that's rrbout all i wa{o -ocat who flourishes about on." "' is now-a4." " ' 9 s '.l * 1 0. t y i i t rAti i, ti 1 fi v 4 1 3t t 4 i a It ' 7 S t3 tiilr fir, f X41 z { v , L ip f ,i 5 Y 3 a t page: 62-63[View Page 62-63] '-w- THE BO.1i. .KE OF T IEFTH AVElUE. ," ejaculated Nicholas,}with an. "tbhe ,said phere was sonsBing .spression' of astonishment op.his un- wrorg abopt your head.", couth featur a, "going to work;now-that ' "ot bout, the6bead '1egoth theobhQgt- you're rioh." mkerpily, " l at's thesamemaausel. "Why nodt" retorted the mechanic; 1y thg wp, tbere an apge i your "I'm used tio'it; but where's niy ham- complaint-?'} mer?" "Alas,ym;Nnd friend ajaar,s with nle And while looking after ,t is uensil, alter not fob the hatter." he overttrned the,,pile of egifiesa,s " ey,gto,alLig.hahagge !" 3 turning then widecast vpyr thl.floor.; "Thefeat.sof 4lladin are long since "Hullo !"shouted Nicholas "what past, neyprte ~bg enacted." .re you after" "We'}a ee appa t that," said the arti- "Looking for my hammer," replied sanz a ie tool g his bundle of stock the lootmaker pnqquiily. certifigaes-"what's that heap of rub- "who is ill, that you sentfor me?" bish worth ,'".N inquired Dr. Stephen Viorand, entering "Petroju.n stock !", ejaculged the tie shop hurriedly, "iis rpot Gene- Physiciar in anement. "Matropoli. vipve ?" . . . a tamqExcelgior, ev ry company at par. ., e personalaparance of the yng I have just passed an hour$ 4e Stock "physician aEsurediy justide4, the euli- Exchange. A ppe t feyer rages with of' both tlhe botmaker aurd his respect to oil stpks, ,1d tlhey told me daughter. He was tp'1, .finely.forpued, that shareswere par; therfore this fptrician-like -casA of coyntesance, paper is worth a thousand dollars." with a high forpesed, an4, p spieri"g "o yquthinkyufan bange one of eye. The entire expession of $o9 man these into a thousand in greenbgcks l" was such as to besesik the dignity, a d br imore perplexed respect of his-felloWs. 'than ever as to ,qwipreheid ing theme- "Yes,Doetor Stephen," apologetically thQdhpro ymMr. Bernard& had 'suc. inteeposed the apprentice, " I sen1 for ceed inicomplishingsno formidable yo,. " it ain't :Miss Genevieve that's a finappijl mizqql~e. a-- : .siel sbut Polly wantsttending too~ I ""Why, certainly,' eponded Dr. Mo. rather game bosa s wsqts -setting tight rand, "and probably a deal more." Likewise, Ever sibemor'ning his head's "And yesterday, Irthink," remarked been turned;" A thte lhootmalme witha ulght-nile,'"you "Get out; you simpleton," exclaimed observed that ( few thoisand dollars the artisan angrily.. woul4 render you the happiest of muor' "Yes, boss," calmly returned the ap- tals. You are ewel~ 9suyed upon thae prentia'. And-as he retired tb theater, head t". a. lhe uttered exlatmatiens of condolenee, " Yes, ertainly; ;but where is th that so worthy an Individual as his money to com~ from" ,, master should cohre to a conditioaof "Well, take ten of these pieces o lunae through the sudden possession paper," said the shoearker; "suffer of a very considerable fortune. pgt devil tq ppy one whoshas saye " Well, my 'friend, " inquired the the life of a ,bgipg the dearest to h' young physician, after the apprentice heart, to borrow this tra$' ing amount bad left the shop; " what is this that which can be returned whenever it i Nicholas mentions?" convenient. Accept, I l eg of you "0, nothingw- mere moonshine -the your future depends upon t; therefoi MeItw's direamaing." hesitate not.". 1 THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. "My dearest friend," said the-physi- cian with emotion, "it is a seaerifice which I cannot allow you torinakeL4-this deprivatioii of a handsome fortune shall be no work of mine." "It is but a drop, in the bucket, re. sponded the artist n calmly, taking up the bundle and showing his friend the immense amount of shares; "ydtt see that I am no very smallstockholder.v" "Is' this no dream I"f murmured the physician, as.his eyes fairly glistened at the sight of so much wealth--" whence, all this fortune ?" "It has been fairly gained," resumed Christopher blandly "I have} ben smitten by the oil fever, and haverOcowv' ered from its effects. You-peree'ivethat thin wheel of hazard favored me. , Will you persist in refusing to participate'ir my happiness I"V "No ; I will accept your kindness." "Thanks, thanks," said the bootmak- er ; "you have taken a loadfrom off my breast, which gratitude badinspired there.";d - "It is I," rejoined the physician, after a pause, "who should thank you, tvho have restored to me hope, yeseveuiife itself." "We are quits then," remarked the, shoemaker, and he chuckled to himself at the idea of the still richer treat he hand in store for Stephen. "Here then have I fortune, 1eury-for a day at least," quota Dr. Morand4 en- thusiasticalIy; " I would have g s. my life in exchange for this unexpected blessing, for with this fortune I can ap- proach her upon terms of equality with' the greatest of my compeers." 'Her? where is she TI" interrogated Christopher sharply. "Pardon me, my dear friend," said the doctor with animation; "but I have not told you. A woman worthy of ad- miration, who, with all her renown, beauty and riches.appeared suddenly to me, overwhlne4 ts I:s}-with trouble 6l and obscurity,' like a meteor in the darkness of midnight. ThiWorthy shoemaker,aghasttatthisa confession of the y shoemake'& al6ve, sighed, for it pained him grievouslythrt he hom Genevieve loved should bethe slave much less the suitor of any other woman. "I will narrate the story of our love," continued the physician, growing nibre and more enraptued;""I will teil yah hdm and where we met ; how Since'the day I first saw herlabor has been irk- some, and I rest neither day nornight. Since that moment I have experienced but one ambition but one need; and that is, the sight of this] angel.' And to you I will owe this happiness." "And do you really love her?" asked Christopher, sonMwhat abruptly "Can you ask me such a question," replied:Stephen emphatically, "whose whole life has but ,one aim, but one thought." "Poor Genevieve'!- murmured the artisan to himself "Yes, my friend," resumed the phy=, sician, "now that I can appear in her presence, every ibitant that has passed away appears to nme as a century Of titre- wasted, of happiness lost." Dr. Morandtbok his hat and afose to depart; but th thought of his liga tion again retarded; to r6ie 4 e sions &,gratitude;which the'hohettine- chaniie~ccived with a heavy heart "Genevie're, " sofiloquised Chkisto- pher, after Stephen had taken his' der partte, "you are not more hapfy than I. am," Misfortunes ,never come singly ; so says the ancient adage ;' and Christo- pher had scarce recovered from the shock of Stepher's confession, than his repose was broken by the'sudden entry of Nicholas, down whose cheeks the tears coursed in rapid rivulets. Mr. 'Strap was the very picture of (ief. L i 'P i t z! a , i S ' il, i t - , - page: 64-65[View Page 64-65] 64 THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. "floss," said the apprentice, with Laing accents, "the footman of our negibor, the judge's lady, has comefor the dog, whom he heard barking in our cellar." "Well, then, give itto him," respond- ed the bootmaker. "No, boss, I won't, because --" "Because what ?" "The parrot is dead." "Poor Polly !" said the artisan, with a sudden movement of surprise ; is the poor bird killed-Polly dead !" . i "Yes, she is, boss ; I had the nonor of receiving her last sigh." "Poor Tolly," soliloquised Christo- pher, with a moan; "she was so kind, so gay. Ske was the joy of our poor shop, and now she is. dead. It is as plain as day, all happiness has flown from our house as wealth entered the door. Everything I loved has gone from mne-Genevieve, Stephen, and now this pretty pet. Poor Polly ! You will say to the footman ---" "I have already given him his an- swer. boss." - "What was it ?" "I told him I would give him his dog when he brought back life to our poor parrot. He said he would go for a po- Uioeman, and I told him that he would Aind the dog hanging by the neck behind the door when he came." "You have done right, Nicholas." "To make matters sure, I'll hang the puppy right off, for fear somebody would come.". "No, Nichol ;, Let's w ain turn the matter over." CHAPTER XII. MOTHER AND DAUGHTER. It was decidedly fortunate for thelife of Carlo that this clemency ruled th council charged with his fate, for but few' p'tes elapsed before the storf j'I r ed.and there entered thesho no less a distinguished visitor than the Honorable Mrs. Littleton, proprietress of the-threatened animal, who, finding the mission of the footman a decided. failure, condescended to personally in- tercede in behalf of the pet spaniel. The judge's lady came into the store with as much haughtiness as on the yesterday, and passed directly to the proprietor without deigning to notice the apprentice, although ho had been expressly named as the arch-conspira-. tor against Carlo's life and safety. " Does my presence astonish you, neighbor ?" observed the lady, as she remarked the expression of surprise greeting her advent. "The conversa- tion we had yesterday has given me a gp odopinion of you. I have institq - ed inquiries concerning you, and I as- certain that you are a most estimable man, very popular, and liked by your . customers. On this account I have made no scruple in coming to you in pers- You had a pet bird which my dog hi. killed. I have, perchance, unintention- ally, caused you a poignant sorrow. In what way can I modify it?" "You have been very kind to take all this trouble, madame," responded the bootmaker politely ; "but, what have you to offer me ? Not money. I have more than enough of that already." "If money is of so little account," rejoined Mrs. Littleton, as a smile illu- minated her sadeountenance, "can there I be nothing which you may desire and it be within my power of gift V" "I ask for nothing, madame," said Christopher, sadly; "there is nothing I long for. I am an unhappy man. Well, when one is deserted of everything he loves, he feels miserable." "To use such language," remarked e the lady, by way of conversation, "one e should have a profound sorrow, which a cannot originate in the loss of a bird, e dear as it was to you." , S "Yp, e a w',yeied4 th9e 1 . maker, "there is something else which affects me and renders :ne very un- happy." "Un bosomu yourself, my honest friend," quoth the lady, the memory of her own sorrows rendering her sympathetic. "Yesterday we were enemies, to-dan when you are unhappy, we are friends; at least, permit me to consider you as one," "I appreciate your goodness," said Christopher, touched at the kindness and coiidescension of his aristocratic neighbor ; but I fear it is not within your pe wer to lessen my misery." "Who knows," rejoined Mrs. Little- ton ; "but I must know the causic." "In a few words, madame, you shall have it," said the bootmaker, cogitat- ing as to the true method of enunciat- ing his sorrows. "In the first place I have adopted a little girl-a love of a child--" "The beautiful creature I have often times seen laughing, dancing and sing- ing around i " inquired the judge's lady. " Yes, madame, the very same. I passed as her father," replied Christo- pher, with a sigh. "I loved her as if it was really so ; but to-day, to my pain and anguish, I am compelled to part with her !" "How comes that?" interrogated Mrs. Littleton, with interest. "Because," returned the bootmaker, unable to repress his emotion, "she has grown up, and gossips have taken hold of her for scandal. You see I have not augmented -in old age as she has done in grace and beauty, and because, you must know, rather than have the tongue of scandal raised against that innocent angel, I think it better that we two should separate." "Noble and disinterested man!" very warmly spoke the judge's lady, " how kind and considerate to guarantee the purity of that young dependent crea- ,ture beyond reach of suspicion." "And, moreover," continued Christo- pher, warmed into confidence by the lady's sympathetic condolence, " there is another point vWhich grieves me, but which I am almost ashamed to disclose to you - "What can that be?" inquired the lady encouragingly. "Well, madame," responded the boot- maker, with a blush, " imagine that I had the vanity to believe that when she found out that she was' not my daugh- ter, she might conclude to become nmy wi- , but the idea was silly, very silly, was it not, madam?" The lady smiled, for she detected the fact of the bootmaker's love. "Yes, madam, it was very silly ; but. then people often live on stupidities ;" and Christopher sighed audibly ; " be- side, now that she has learned that I am not her father, some steps must be taken to ensure her security for the fu- ture, not so ?" "I admire your foresight," returned Mrs. Littleton. 'But ' hat am I to do with the dear creature ?" "Have you any objection to placing her temporarily in a' convent, where she can be treated as my daughter by one of my relatives ?" "Alh, madame," said the bootmaker, gratefully, "if such a thing be advisable and for the best, it would be a kindness to do it." "It would be for the best assuredly," responded the judge's lady, "and I will give you a line of introduction for the superior of the convent of the --, Miss Desmond." "Miss Desmond !" ejaculated the ar- tisan, in surprise. "Yes, my aunt," responded the lady, "who, being the superior of $he sisters, is naturally unmarried, and preserves her nmidcen name, Miss Margaret Des- mond, in accordance with the wish of oar family." 1 16' THE BOOT MAKER OF, THE FIFTH, AVENUE. I page: 66-67[View Page 66-67] F'f 66 THE BOOT MAKER OF "Margaret ! that is not the name!" resumed the bootmaker, earnestly. "There are other Miss Desmonds- perchance you may know some." "Assuredly." And the lady smiled at the artisan's importunity. "Henrietta?" again inquired Chris- topher-"do you know her ?" " Henrietta Desmond," replied the judge's lady, Axing her keen, sharp eye upon the working man-"I am Henri- etta Desmond !" "You, madam," ejaculated Christo- pher, in wonderment. "Doubtlessly," returned the lady; "but why this expression of astonishment ?" " Pardon me, madam," continued Christopher, apologetically, "and I never to dream of such a thing - how stupid I've been !" "What means this singular behavior?" demanded Mrs. Littleton. "Simply," responded the artisan, " I have been hunting after you for fifteen long and anxious years-that's all." x After me ?" and the lady was lost in bewilderment. "Next door neighbors," moralized the bootmaker ; "and neither of us had airy suspicions as to the other. No wonder you interested yourself in the fate of the little one. It was the cry of nature ; and there can't be stifling of the dic- tates of blood." "What mean you ?" exclaimed Mrs. Littleton ; " speak, and explain the mystery of your yQrds-speak plain." "Do you remember the forest near the village of Beauview ?" "Beauview?" reflected the lady, "yes; yet but long, long ago." "In that piece of wood," quoth C'ris- topher, with marked emphasis, "fifteen years ago, you parted for the last time with Mary Vernon." "Mary, my foster sister !" interrupt- ed the lady, nervously, "to whom I en- trusted my-more than life." r1 THIE FIFTH AVENUE. "A-a-," and Christopher hesitated, while he bent his manly glance upon the features of the fair one, "ta child, born out of wedlock !" "Yes, a child-my child !" ('jaculatgd Mrs. Littleton, in undisguised anxiety ; '"now you aught of that child-where is she?" "Madam, accident threw me upon the road when the unfortunate Mary V r- non was murdered," said Christopher, with a sigh-"with her dying strength she committed the child to my keep- ing !" "0, my long lost child!" moaned the lady, desperately, " how many tears have Ished over my poor little one's hapless fate "-" " Silence, madam," interrupted the artisan, pointing significantly to Gene- vieve, who entered the apartment, but paused abruptly the moment she per- ceived the lady of the judge convers- ing with her presumed parent. No sooner had Mrs. Littleton cast her eyes upon the blooming girl, than the recognition of her nativity, became an obvious necessity. ° "That is her, Is it not ?'' wispered- the jude's lady to Christopher. " Yes, madame; but do not betray your secret." "My child-my long lost child !'1'inur- mured the judge's lady, with diffielty restraining herself from rushing into her arms. "Madam, hush, " said Christbpher, warningly; "can you publicly ivow that girl to be your daughter? Will the Honorable Judge Littleton recognize her as his offspring, or brand her as y6ir bastard 7" Mrs.' Littleton looked aghast. The words of the bootmaker, although very harshly expressed, conveyed a-strong moral lesson. Abashed, but not angered, the aristo- crat accepted the rebuke of the ple- biani, aud cast down her eybs, - fai I I THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. 67 least some untoward glances-might re- plied Genevieve, "tenderly, most ten- veal prematurely the secret preying derly." upon her very soul. "And should she ever be found ?" in- "The judge's lady, our neighbor, Ge- quired Mrs. Littleton timidly, "could nevieve," remarked Christopher to his you pardon her crime in abandoning daughter, in his ordinary tone of voice, you ?" "has come in search of her pet spaniel. I have narrated to her, in course of con- versation, that which I have previously communicated to you, and she has been pleased t6 take 'a great interest in us, in you, Genevieve. She has even cnde- scended to look out for some p lace where you can go to --" " Good heavens ! " ejaculated the, young girl, alarme4_at-the idea ; "has it become necessary for us to separate,; to part from you?" "13e assured, my dear girl," respond- edthe judge's lady, with an accent of sweetness, which ruin upon the heart of Genevieve in exquisite melody, "that if you desire it, you c.au remain with this noble man, whom you have hereto- fore and justly regarded as'your father.' "Thanks, dearest madam, thanks," ejaculated the maiden ; "for he has been my entire family; his tender affection has almost made me forget that I mourn- ed the absence of a mother's love." "Yes, my poor child," remarked Mrs. Littleton, with difficulty restraining her emotion; "you'have grown up deprived of the solicitous care, of the endearing embraces of a mother. ° Perchance, stung by her desertion, you may have cursed her memory 1" , "No, madam, " replied Genevieve, with a burst of melancholy, "I thought it her misfortune to be separated from a child she-would love ---" . "Yes, yes," rejoined the lady, sadly, "it was her misfortune, my-" . "Have a care, madam," whispered Christopher in a low tone of voice. "Had you known your mother, would you have loved "s "With all the force of my soul," re- "I have no reason to condemn my un- fortunate mother, " responded Gene- vieve, "could I ever be happy enough to embrace her, I would throw myself on my knees and pray her to forgive me the agonies which she has experienced since the unlucky day on which she was forced to throw me on the mercies of the world."4 "2oble sentiment," ejaculated Chris- topher proudly. "It is I, madam, who has trained that celestial creature." "Ai, my friend," whispered Mrs. Lit- tleton to the meehanic, "how can I ever repay the 4ebt of gratitude due you I" "Genevieve," quoth the shoemaker, anxious to divert the conversation into another channel, "we must not detain, Mrs. Littleton any longer. Go, dearest, and seek her little dog-her pet," - "Yes, father," responded the girl, in- stantly obeying her mandate ; while upon the ears of the artisan the fami- liar acknowledgment of paternity rang as the dying notes of a passing melody. CHAPTER XIII. MATER NAL LOYE. "0, my daughter, my daughter !" ex- claimed the judge's lady, as, relieved from the presence of the young woman, she gave herself up to a paroxysm of emotion; " what power has maintained me in resisting parental affection to this point I know not. For fifteen years I have bewailed her loss. For ten years has my destiny been linked to that of a w lau, not. her father-ten years of use- less researches, vain tears and heart- . reudin. - " ..' f page: 68-69[View Page 68-69] THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. when in my presence, I am debarred from clasping her to my bosom, of cov- ering her with my kisses --'' "Well, well," interposed Christopher, reflecting that lie never once indulged in the luxury of a paternal embrace -- "you may kiss her; but then don't tell her who you are ; for, see you, it will not do to avow this child at this precise juncture of time." " That is most true, my worthy friend." " Especially," resumed the shoemak- er, "as she has not yet attained her eighteenth year-at her birth you were unmarried ---" "Alas !" interposed the lady, with a heart-drawn sigh, "the father of my child died in a distant land, far away from her, from me, and from the land of his birth - an exile from family and country." "Mourn not," quoth the artisan con-, solingly, "she has found another who loves her to distraction, and we will both watch over her, will we not, mad- am 1" And Christopher bowed respect- fully. "By the blessing of heaven, we will," quoth the judge's lady ; and the proud aristocrat took the plebian artisan very warmly by the hand. "Hush !" observed 'Christopher, with a gesture indicative of secrecy, as Ge- nevieve re-entered the apartment, bear- ing the little spaniel in her arms. So sudden was the entry of the girl, and so lost way Mrs. Littleton in cou- templation of the charms of the young girl, that she neglected to withdraw her hand from the grasp of Christopher. -Jow, my honorable lady," said the bootmaker, noticinZ this omission on the part of his visitor, "is it because he returns you a pet dog that you press the hand of a mechanic ?" "She must love that pretty spaniel, must she not, Genevieve 1" "The judge's lady has spoken such rI kind words as to my poor mother, that I know her heart to be overflowing with love. Here, madam," said the young girl, presenting the animal, "here is your pet-it has not been harmed by being with us." The Lion. Mrs. Littleton advanced to receive her spaniel; but' as she ap- proached Genevieve, the young girl failed not to remark that her entire frame was convulsed by a trembling motion. " See, Genevieve," dexterously re- marked Christopher, to account for their visitor's palpable excitement - "how affected the lady is' at refinding her pet !" Then, pointing to Genevieve on the sly, he added-" I give you joy, madam, at finding a lost treasure." The judge's lady recovered her com- posure, but cast p longing eye upon the 'maiden, which Christopher perceived and comprehended. "Well," said t'he bootmaker, signifi- oantly,"as you love your pet so tenderly, let us not hinder you from caressing it; and to reward Genevieve for her care of it, please give her one--one little kiss." "Certainly, to please you !" and the proud lady, with tearful eyes, extended wide her arms to court the embrace of the damsel. "Me !" quoth Genevieve, hesitating to approach; "will madame please - " "Yes, yes, she asks to kiss you ;" and Christopher gently pushed his ward into the arms of the lady, who pressed tho girl to her bosom, 'and implanted a succession of rapid kisses upon her ala- baster brow. "You re weeping, madam," remarked Genevieve, with evident amazement, as she dissengaged herself from the lady's embrace. 'I weep i" rejoined Mrs. Littleton, attempting to disguise her emotion. "Certainly, you are weeping," quoth the bootmaker, calmly, "and who can blame you ? It is funny how women do 680 THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. 69 love these four legged animals, just as CHAPTER. XLV. if they werechildren. ci " AN OPERATIC SOEE. The rattle of a carriage and the bustleO I of its stoppage attracted the atter.Iion "Flora certa nly receives well," quoth of Christopher, who went to the store an elegantly dressed female of the opera door and as quickly returned, atd wiiS- to another of the' same class; "but I pered in the ear of his visitor. wonder wh'o she has on the string for "Madame," he said, recovering frot his ruin iin these haleyori-days." the impropriety of his behavior, " it is Assembled within'the gaily dedbrat- the carriage of your husband; and much ed saloon of the rcignringqlueen of the as I appreciate the honor due us by opera, numerous male leaders of the ton your remaining here, allow me to sug- and ladies of ie operatic profession gest that the judge may be astonish- wer enjoying themselves--souie in con- ed --" versation, arid others at, the various "O, yes," said the lady, alive to the gaming tables, gracing the apartment. terror of his remark, "I wiljoin himIt was one of those evening receptions instantly. I will not say farewell to given by the momentary lionflss of' the you, dear child, for this is but our first fashionmble world, at whose feet were interview - we will meet again, and bowing the would-be rulers of the fash- often." ionable world. With a rapid movement, the judge's "In faith," interrupted a fair song lady, with averted eyes, passed through stress, "I don't know'the victim.' the shop door, unwilling to bestow a '"Then I will tell you, ladies," said -arting glance upon Genevieve, whom Mr. Marcy, whose elegant costume be- she left in the centre of the apartment, lied the rumor of his hopeless bank- still holding the little spaniel, -nominal ruptey. object of her regard.-4 "Who is the individual ?" inquired "What a splendid woman !" exclaim- the exquisite Vanderip. -; ed Christopher, enthusiastically. "Listen, aind I'll speak," interposed "0, yes," said Genevieve; "but she Mamrcy. "Kinow ye that for fifteen days has gone away without the dog !" past all tie ton have been excited to as- "J'u t so," said the bootmaker, same- certain who is the golden bird which w h at perplexed, "I see it-the joy at our charming friend Flora is engaged in titding her little pet has been so great, plucking with her dainty 'white hand9. ,N es, so great, that she has left it behind Some say he is---" r r ;" then perceiving that Genevieve - "The president of a national bank ?" A1118 () the point of following their visi- "The editor of a metropolitan jour- r..', he arrested her progress with the nalt" . i"r t ai u-."Never mind, Genevieve, "Neither," said Marcy, with a shake take charge of the animal." of the head, "not rich enough." suit ing the action to his words, the "A retired common councilman ?" bhn.mcst botmaker took the little pet in "Amember of the assembly " his arims and started off to convey it to "Better still," remarked Marcy, "but hi,, neighbor. not yet up to the mark." "'Poor child I" quoth Christopher, as "A county supervisor I" he cast a glance upon the maiden. "now "A petroleum director 1" m it I have found her mother, I must "A truce to guesses," quoth Marcy, rrender to her the one she loves." in an authoritative tone or voice, "save _1 I page: 70-71[View Page 70-71] 70 -THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. to this gentleman.. Now, :sir, what say you, Mr. Vane ?" The person addressed was none other than the stranger whp had so uncere- moniously visited the shop of Christo- pher Last, but who now appeared under the name of Delaniore amid thiscom- pany, clad in, the heiglht of fashion, a species of monarch amid the knot of fast men and petroleum millionaires, who graced the parlor of the ruling di- vinity in envious rivalry.. "I think," rejoined the stranger, with a sardonic mile, "that our considerate hostess could ruin the whole lot com- bined." "But I think that all of you are mis- taken," said Bernard.. "Perhaps it is you, old money bags?" observed Marcy. "The curmudgeon has too many mil- lions;" interposed the stranger for even the scie ntific Flora to gnaw her way through them." " To conclude conjectures," said a handsome young lady of the opera, "who then has Flora on the. high road to financial perdition ?" "Now,-my friends," said the hostess, advancing to the centre of the group of friendly scandalizers, "X will explain the mystery. The only one I am ruin- ing is-is myself i" The entire crowd looked at their en-' tertainer in astonishment. "It is an extravagant idea, is it not?" continued the prima donna, lightly shaking her long, glistening curls,bound to her brow by a diadem of diamonds and precious stones; "but what better want you? I am tired of being adored -I desired to be bored a little, and that is the cause of my ruin. I was discon- tented with being simply loved. I. loved in turn, and from that fatal hour I have gone on devouring my funds." "That's an idea worthy of a tragic queen," remarked Marcy. "And all this sacrifice," interposed Vanderip, with a sneer, "on account of that medical popinjay, Dr. Morand." "As well as upon my own," retorted the lady of the house. "It would not be on mine," said Van- derip, curtly, "that you would conde- scend to be guilty of similar extrava- gant caprices." "You may believe it!" and the musi- cal laugh of Flora rang far above the silvery tones of the female group en- circling her. "What has he done more than the rest of us i inquired a beau, "0, nothing," replied the opera dame, "only he has abuse and wit," "Has he struck oil?" interposed Marcy, with a mocking laugh. "It requires neither sense nor wit to do that," answered Flora. "Brt we have inexhaustible stores of both those unsaleable commodities," remarked Vanderip, with an affected accent. "Possibly so," rejoined the operatic divinity, "and they will ever remain unsaleable in your hand, for you never show their publicity." "The soiress, suppers and sociables Flora has given, must cost her a hand- some sum," observed a charmnwg come- dienne. "Zuline, you arq right," returned the hostess, who had overheard the remarks - " but I have dreamt of love as it should be -not in gilded halls and brown stone mansions, but in a cottage, a lowly cottage by a mountain stream, and to that end I am selling off all my town and other property." "What a prodigal thought," remark- ed Mr. Marcy. "It was my superfluous jewelry," re- sumed Madame Flora, with an air of nonchalance, "that paid for our first week of revelry. Eight evenings ago, we consumed at supper my boudoirand parlor furniture ; and now my horses. I carriages and plate are dancing merrily around us. In fact, this is a farewell festivity at this mansion, for this very morning I sold it." "Yo 4 are crazy, Flora," exclaimed Marcy-"mad as a hare."' "It is nevertheless true," 'observed Bernard, the banker ; 'and that is the reason why a little while ago I told you you were all mistaken."' "Well," ejaculated Marcy, "it is a brilliant idea, this rural one. I ow gor- geously we will patronize Flora in her cottage home." "It is so lovely,.so divine,.so pictur- esque this being in the :country," re- marlked a young operatic,syren who al- *Nys sang the shepherdesses. 'Especially when it rains," observed "Dogs it ever rain, in the country " inquired the hostess, languidly. "Never, never," observed Mr. Marcy, exultingly; "when the ground is slightly dry it is watered by troops of pretty shepherdesses, in silk petticoats and embroidered jackets, who water the earth with silver plated watering pots adorned with green ribbons." "Bai! " muttered Flora, moodily ; "rain is a nuisance when one has no carriage, whether town or country." 'What a falsifier it was who said - 'lucky at cards, unlucky with women,"' quoth Dr. Morand, covering a gaming table at the other end of the apartment around which had been congregated the most inveterate of fashionable game- ste' s. "I have been playing ove;r an hour-without the loss of a single dol- lar, The proverb is false, is. it' not, Madame Flora?7" "Meu can test the capacity," remark- ed the lady, coolly. "In both capacit es I have been too fortunate," said Stephen. "You are a blessed individual," ob- served Marcy,; "I, my dear fellow, can never win, for I have nothing more to lose." TUE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. 71 "Are you really a bankrupti"inquir- ed, the physician. - "Nary a red!" respne aMy] with... ~ a slang phrase "A beautify i confession!" remarked Delamore,,who had preserved a stolid retineneo/of speech up to this moment. "You are well aware that within eight days will restore to , on ten times at lefst more than you hive lost. You !" "xclaimed the assembly. 4"I, myself," replied Vane, with an affected pomposity. "Is that true1"interrogated Bernard, the banker, who was evidently a credi- tor of the' bankrupt; " will Marcy be able to liquidate 1" "I will pay all his debts," declared the stranger decisively. "And who, pray," inquired the bank- er Bernard, "is to pay all your liabili- ties, Mr.-Mr. Delamore I think you called yourself?" "Yes, Delamore," said the stranger with a smile ; "my dear fellow wait for a little while longer. You wanttoknow who it is who will have the honor of liquidating my debts?" "Precisely," responded the banker- "that is the momentous question." "You'd be astonished to hear, it, I know you would." "Perhaps I shall," returned the bank- er, "therefore I want to know." No one else but your honorable self, Mr. Bernard." "Me !" ejaculated Bernard, as he in- dulged in a laugh. "it is no laughing matter," resumed the so-called Delamore, "it is a mere matter of figures. how much, think you, one hundred thousand dollars, placed in able hands eighteen years ago, ought to be worth to-day-how much, my honest Bernard ?" " One hundred thousand dollars in eighteen years!" murmured the banker, whose laugh subsided into an ejacula- tion of wonder. page: 72-73[View Page 72-73] 72 THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTHAVENUE. OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. "According to my figures," returned Delamore, pressing up his assault, "it must be near upon five hunsdred thou- sand, cli ?" "Explain yourself, sir," observed the banker in a low tone of voice, as hi frame fairly shook from agitation of mind. You may possibly be acquainted with the parties who entrusted -" "Silenice !" wit ispered Delanore, with a imysterious gesture, 'IHere is neither the place nor thyo time for an explana- tion. I know all perhaps." Befom e the banker could recover from the sudden amazement into which he had been thrown by the enig natical language of the stranger, Dr. Morand tappet him gently on the shoulder. "Come, Bernard," said the physician, "you are low spirited ; he joyous; life is brief; and what is a banker good for without setting an example of merri- ment. By the way, Flora, is it not the hour for supper,or my appetite deceives me ?" "Pardon a delay," remarked the host- ess, with her serenest smile, but I await the coming of a new guest-a distin- guished stranger." "-Who is lie 1" inquired Dr. Morand, somewhat nervously. "A Pennsylvania Dutchman, I be- lieve," said the queen of the opera, and a quiet leer twinkled in her fall black eyes, "an arch-millionaire, who solicit- ed an invitation in the most eccentric of styles." For the amusement of her company, the fair prima donna read a note couch- ed in the follov ing singular phraseo- "M1.tdam : Rumor says that you in- vite the most distiugnished eauty and weath of ,the town. Having recently sti tack oil on C n extraragatt scalerI ant atile to devour one luutred thousand dolturs a day. Can this not give me the favor of your friendship?" Yours, &c." " One hundred thousand dollars a day !" ejaculated all. "That's thirty-six millions five hun. dred a year !" excliimed the banker. "These Pennsylvania Dutch men own whole rivulets of petroleum, raw and refiled," remarked Delamore sagely. " That's so," rejoined the banker; "but what is the signature ?" "What's the oily emperor's1litle ?" inquired Stephen. " Itis signed, simply," replied Flora, after some half dozen ineffeci ucal at- tempts to deciper the letters-."Van Der Last." "Van Der Last !" ejaculated the com- pany ; "what a name!" I The doors ot the reception chamber were thrown open, a lacquey in slplo " did livery advanced through the pore talks, and announced, in a loud tone of voice---"Mr. Van Der Last!" ' CHAPTER XV. T HE TEST OF TflUE LOVE. "That's me, Van DerL ast--the real, original, simon pure Van Der Last!" Into the parlor of the opera divinity entered no less a personage than Mr. Christopher Last, arrayed in all the brilliancy of a fell blown fop. Loaded down with chains of gold, diamuon.a and precious stones, giving himi he ap. pearance of a peripatetic jewellers' shop. Upon assuming his new dignity,\ the worthy artisan had expended his inge- nuity on an over elaboration of his person. His clothes were embroidered vi h gold and silver, and strewn with pearls, rubies and other valuables. In tact, Mr. Last had purchased the cos- tume of a foreign ambassador, and caus- ed it to be adorned with additional em- bellishments. The assembled guests g gthered in mute wonderment around this .)trange figure, and several seconds ela psed be- Fore the company recovere. rat the surprise, and then ill greeted the ec- centric apparition with loud and pro- longed peals of merriment. "That's him !" exclaimed Delamore, with a sarcastic smile. " What a guy !" ejaculated Marcy, joining in the laughing chorus. "It's Christopher Last, the bootmak- or," said Dr. Morand. "Yes, that me," quoth the artisan, with a mock, polite bow; "I own to the corn ; but how the dickens did you know me in this harness?" "A bootmaker !" exclaimed the ladies of the opera, holding up their hands in holy horror at the idea of such contami- nation. nanwihat !" exclaimed Madame Flora, indulging in a hearty peal of laughter ; "is my distinguished friend a boot- maker ?" "Yes, ma'am, at your service," re- sponded Christopher frankiy. "1Never- theless be of good cheer. I have struck oil in the deepest well, and have a hen- dred thousand dollars to spend iw' 1 day. I ata what you may call a genteel, if not noble, working man." "By my faith," quoth Marcy, with a shrug of the shoulders, "as times go, one can scarcely know who is ripit and who is poor. Accept my compliments, my most noble mender of boots." "As I don't take anything for noth- ing," returned the artisan, "I'll mend your bouts for nothing-I understand your affairs." "But, my worthy friend," interposed Bernard the banker, "you said you had one hundred thousand dollars to expend in one day 1" "Well, I did," replied Christopher; ."and Iwill say so again. "But your entire wealth is but on c hundred thousand." "Can't I spend that in one dayI] gained it in that time!" "Thaw's so," ejaculated the banker and ho went off into a profound revery "My dear friend," observed Dr. Mo- rand, "I did not think you so rich." "Possibly," replied the bootinaker ; "but capital accumulates rapit'ly in oil stock ;' and then Christopher added re- proachfully-"We have not seen you, Stephen, for over a fortnight." "But why do you call yourself Van Der Last ?" "To make my entry among the fash- ionables, I found Lust, although good for a bootmaker, entirely too vulgar for a rich millionaire, so I went to a heral- dry man and got made into a noble man with a coat of arms thrown is for a fifty dollar greenback. He traced my pedigree back to the bootmakers of Hol- land, and christened me after the Van Der Lasts, own cousins to the Van Der Pevels who were sheep was:ers." As the worthy parvenue spoke, he moved about uneasily, for his clothes were anything bit a good fit, and the pantaloons somewhat incommoded his pedestrianism as he affected a slight swagger. "You don't seem to be easy in your fine clothes," remarked Marcy. "The fo-x, is, that these clothes was not ma de for me," rejoined the boot- maker, cam it.y--"I bought them because they were covered with finery. A man with greenbacks in his' pocket has a right to have gold on his back, other- wise people vouldn't know it." "Yes, but yoa cut a funny figure," said a lady with a smile. "Better to laugh than to cry,' re tort- ed the shoemaker, sarcastically. "You t folks earn your living in trying to please pcople,and why can't I spend my money in making others laugh-it's about the same." ".It is a jolly idea that of your com- ing here," observed Vanderip, sly ly. I "You think so, do you ? Nobody questions your right to think," auswer- ed the bootmaker. "By the way, Stephen, where i the 1 THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. 73 page: 74-75[View Page 74-75] 74 THE BOOT MAKER OF TIDE FIFTH AVENUE. lady of the house-I should salute her." I will present you," said Dr. Mo-, rand, leading the way to the chair where was seated Madame Flora. "Madame, Mr. Van Der Last." "1 -:a enchanted to see you," said the hostess, gracefully. "I believe it, ' returned the artisan, vainly endeavoring to finish a low bow; "madam," he added, after -a moment's pause, "excuse my not making a bow; but the fact is, these pantaloons weren't made for me, and they're a little too tight about the -" A scream from the horrified fair sex abruptly terminated the sentence. Christ opher cast his eyesover the ob- ject of Dr, Morand s-adoration, and in- stituted a mental comparison between her and Genevieve, and, as may be ex- pected, the balance was struck in the latter's favor. "You're a splendid woman," observ- ed the artisan; " no wonder you turn the heads of the opera goers; you ought to, ma'am." "You clatter me, Mr. Van Der Last," said Flora, with a faint smile. Just then the music of a quadrille broke upon the ear from an adjoining apartment. "Gentlemen," said the lady, rising from her seat and extending her arm towards the artisan, "the last sett be- fore supper. Mr. Van Der Last shhll I have the honor of dancing with you1" "Dancing !" quoth Qhmristophei-, giv- ing a nervous twitch ofids pantaloons, "I am sorry to say that these panta- loons were not designed for dancing purposes. Excuse me; and the next time I come I'll be in the full rig of a ballet dancer." "As you wish, my eccentric friend ;' and Flora, advanced towards Stephen. "Pardon me, madam," resumed the mechanic, anticipating the doctor's ac- ceptance of the lady's implied iavita- tion ; "but allow me to have a moment's conversation with this gentleman." And as the bootipaker spoke, he pass. ed his arm through that of Dr. Morand, who was under too many obligations to the artisan publicly to resent this vex. atious interference with his mistress. "With me," observed Stephen, cast- ing a glance upon his hostess, who could scarce conceal a smile at witnessing her admirer's embarrassment---"O, certain- ly ; that is, if Flora will allow of it." "No, gentlemen, do not allow me to interfere with your arrangements," re- spon(led the opera queen, with a gra- cious wave of the hand, as she passed into the adjoining apartment to direct the revels of her guests and to regulate the order of their dancing. "You are now happy, my friend," said the bootmaker, as he and the physician paced the deserted chamber, "in the company of this lady. "You love each other like a pair of turtle doves." "Of all hearts hers is the most sensi- tive, the most disinterested." "Of her disinterestedness," resumed the bootmaker, with a tranquil smile, "there can be no question. Neverthe- less, it loes not prevent her from ac- cepting some love tokens-some trifles in the way of jewels." "That's quite true." "Well, :wd what have you gained in exchange 1" " Tb t's a question touching our hearts," replied Dr. Morand. "It i.; a bad speculation if you have gained nothing tangible in return," said Christopher, in an off hand manner of speech. "You aiti inquisitive," retorted Steph- en. "When, I am happy, it is a new joy for me to speak of my happiness. See how cry cordial is our affection. Be- held the first souvenir of her passion for ine-a ribbon, taken from her waist." "Value one dime!" quoth the shoe- maker, examining the dearly , prized token with the eye of a commercial ex. 'pert,an operation which the young phy. THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. 75 sician vieed with supreme contempt ; grand total, eighty cents. Debet by "and what did yoq give in return - a 'cash paid for jewelry, one thousand ijlit"eoeseven hundred dollars-balance against "A ring set in brilliants" responded you, sixteen hundred and ninety-nine the physician. dollars and twenty cents, which charge "Value not less than five hundred to profit and ross." dollars," remarked Christopher. "Brit, Mr. Last ---" said the physi- "Never mind about the price," re- cian, argumentatively. turned the doctor sharply. "Van Der Last, now I'm in the fash- "Well, and what else has she given ionable world, and it is all the same observed the bootmaker. to you. I rather like the Van Der, it's "Behold the souvenir which I esteem so sweet and noble; but d-u these'pan- the most," quoth Stephen, showing a taloons, they're awfutight, It is with glove 'which he took from his bosom, this-Van Der and my treasures--that "aud chiefly on account of the manner I intend carrying ofi your beauty:-" in which Flora presented it. It was atj "You, a shioeimal er !" interrupted the last ball, given by a leading per-, Stephen, witi a Thugli. sonage of the avenue. Surrounded by , "Let those huigh who win," respond- admirers, by worshippers, she was pres- ed' the mechanic. "I know my own sed to make her choice of a cavalier. power, and will venture on it. Now I Feigning embarrassment, she closed her will.bet you what you will that within eyes and tossed this glove, as by chance, four days I will return to you all your into the, air. It fell near me, and I love tokens, 'trinkets and what' notes could perceive from the sweet smile, the which have cost you so heavily." charming movement of her. rosy lips, "4Within four days!' said Stephen, the gracious leer of her soft black eye with a smile. as I picked up the perfumed glove, that "Yes; what will you bet I can't,' re- it had reached its destination, and been torted Christopher, seriously. sent on an errand not from chance "What shalt be the wager?" inquired alone." the young physician. "That's a pretty romance, this tale of "The wager on my part shallbe what- a glove," remarked the bootmaker in a ever you please," replied the bootlnak- business like manner; "has she given er with suavity, "on your. promise of you anything else ?" . relinquishing all pretensions to the lady, "Yes, my skeptic," replied Stephen, provided I bring you back all presents "this lock of her hair." not within four days, not --" "Yes, hair is very dear," resumed the "0, you admit then that it is --" bootmaker, "and brought in exchange interrupted Stephen. a set of jewelry, value one thousand "Too long a time," responded Chris- dollars." topper, gravely ; "in four hours at the The physician, gazed upon the me- outside ; I rather admire quick work." ehanic in evident wonder. "Your assurance borders upon subli- "You see I am posted, Stephen," said uity," said the doctor, indulging in a Mr. Last deliberately. " And. now let prolonged fit of laughter - "in four me strike a balance for you. Credit by hours forsooth." one ribbon, ten cents ; a spoiled glove, dear at twenty cents ; and a lock of --- hair, which may have come from a sbar-- ber's shop, extravagant at fifty cents- I ! t r ' . page: 76-77[View Page 76-77] THE BOOT MAKER OF TU FIFTH AVENUE. CHAPTER XVI. LOYE AN1D REASON . "What is the subject of your mirth, gentlemen ?" The beauteous epera songstress re- entered the reception chamber loolding a hundred fold more lovely as the exer- cise of the dance had heightened the brilliancy of her complexion, while her naturally expressive features were em- bellished by a radiance of enjoyment. "You may well ask," responded Dr. Morand, with difficulty repressing his ringing laugh; "but, my dear, I'm sorry, very sorry, it's not allowable for me to enlighten you-indeed it is not." "If you desire to apprize Madame Flora, " interrupted the bootmaker, with continued gravity, " I have no objection, I assure you." " What, really," inquired Dr. Mo- rand, with a semblance of incredulity, "have you no fears on that head ?" "On the contrary," returned Christo. pher, "it will be a favor." "Ir that case," resumed Stephen, "I will make a clean breast." "What is all this ceremony about ?" asked the fair hostess. "Well, my dear Flora," quoth the doc- tor, in a facetious tone of voice, "you will scarce believe it, but Mr. Van Der Last is smitten with your charms, per- fectly prostrated by the glances from your eyes ------" "With my charms, Mr. Van Der Last 1" exclaimed the singer. "Yes, madam, it is so," said Christo- pher, with commendable gravity. "Your manifold beauties have over- turned his reason," continued Stephen, with burlesque intonation ; "your grace has touched his heart." "Can such a catastrophe happen ?" lat ghingly asked the fair one. ' Yes, madam, that is the case," re- sponded the artisan. "His impetuous orders defies all ob- stacles,"resumed the doctor, "and In has sworn ;hat you will be iilove with him before-before- beg pardon for is impertinence - the lapse of four hours !" "Four hours!" and the oper" queen laughed mischievously. "Yes, madam, it is another fact," quoth the marble-nerved Christopher. "How, Mr. Van Der Last ?" spoke Flora, between her laughing fits; 'with- in four hours-is not that entirely too long a time 1" "Just about the time, I think," said the artisan calmly. "You think so, indeed ?" quoth t'he still laughing beauty. "Nevertheless, however, Dr. Morand has assisted to shorten it." "I, my dear Van Der Last?" exclaim- ed the physician. "Assuredly," resumed the bootmak- er, preserving his accustomed gravity ; "I would have been at a loss as to the manner of approaching the divine Flora upon so tender a matter, but you have broken the ice for me, and avowed my passion in tender words whiicli I never could have invented. The lady now knows the object of my attentions- from this moment I journey alone." "Come, then," said Flora, with a smile, "in the forward march." "Yes, if it suits the gentleman's hu- mor ; "and as he spoke the bootmaker wade a gesture motioning Stephen to the other room. "If I can comprehend a hint," said Dr. Morand, good humoredly, "that is- an intimation that I had better be oil., "Precisely the object of my demon- stration." "Well, Flora, what advise you ?F" quoth the physician, smiling. "In faith, my dear," replied the fair singer languidly, "I am so bewildered, to see myself captured by Mr. Van Per Last ---". "Very wel1", reqnded Dr. Morand, F / 76 reindulging hi hilarity, "you counte- nanco the conflict. Mr. Van Per Last I leave you in occupation of the field- open your batteries. It" is a very royal joke, and I hope you will enjoy it like fy Flora." . . The happy lover made a low obeig ance to the object of his adoration and quitted the apartment. "Well, Mr. Van Der Last," commenc- ed the hostess, as she assumed a seat upon the tete-a-tete, aced motioned her guest to her side, "the hostilities are declared ; behold me on the defensive ; comnenco firing, or must I surrender at discretion upon summons ?" "I am predisposed, madam," said the bootmaker, maintaining his erect posi- tion, and rubbing his legs with his hands. "Has the gentleman the rheumatism?" inquired the lady. "Not at all," returned Christopher, seating himself after some contortions upon an ottoman at his syren's feet. "If I should venture, Madame Flora, upon love phrases, I feel that I may, through sheer inexperience, make myself ridi-l culous ---"' "Maybe so," returned the singer, with nonchalance. "Then I will speak straight to the point," resumed Christopher, in a na- tural way. "There is one thing in which I am not ridiculous, not even in your eyes-I am very rich --" "My dear fellow," retorted the syren, 'I have laughed in the face of people who have been equally rich with you- of men who could not boast one-third the impudence you possess -- "That was the reason they did not succeed.-, "You flatter yourself." "Moreover, those people," continued the bootmaker, "had a mind to keep their money--on the other hand, my weaJb is a source of annoyance to me." "A source of annoyance 1" repeated Madame Flora. "Yes, madam," replied Christopher ; "and I entertain the idea of diseneum- berImg myself right away." "Would you negaar ypurself 7" in- quired th iatr songstress. "That is my determination," coolly replied the bootmaker ; and as I desire to retire to my old business, I wish to make myself thoroughly dry before the end of three or four days. You see I've work before me." "A fortune like yours !" said the singer incredulously. '"Do you think that it would be won- derful not to be able to get rid of all that within four or five days " "Let us see," said the syren, with a serious look, "are you really inclined to make way with your wealth as you say , "I," quoth the mechanic, determi- nately, "I pledge you my word and honor that I shall become in four days as poor as a beggar or-a cobbler ; and the best proof of my sincerity is the fact of my addressing myself to your assistance -"' "Not bad, that idea," said the song- stress; "and I avow to you that under other circumstances and at another pe- riod, all that you have told me might have plunged me into a revery ; but at the present moment it is --" "The present moment?" inquired Christopher, sharply. "At this present moment," quoth the operatic divinity, "I love --" "You love !" retorted the bootmaker; "you are mistaken-that flirtation was a pleasantry which has lasted some fif- teen days, and having run its race, it is full time that it was finished." " And for what reason I" inquired Madame Flora. "Because I have secured," responded Christopher, "the most amusing and malignant means to enrage your little 77 THE BOOT MAKER OF TIlE FIFTH AVENUE, 11I't' page: 78-79[View Page 78-79] 78 THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. friends at the opera, who are already making sport of you." Making sport of me at the opera ?" inquired the % dy, testily. "To be sure," replied the bootmaker, maliciously. "They say that you have sold your horses, because you could not maintain them; that you spoke of going to live in the country because you have no longer the withal to flourish in the city; nd that you have put on the sem- blance of loving simply to avoid impu- tation of being loved by some of your former admirers." "And all these stories are told of me!" murmured the lady, vexedly. "I have heard them myself in the green room," responded the artisan; but this time the honest Christopher indulg-' ed in a pure fabrication, for he had as much knowledge of the moon as of the operatic green room. "In fine, they've promised to crush you out of your lux- uries as you have served them hereto- fore." "Will they? We shall see about that." "We shall see," continued Christo- pher, sarcastically, "you ruin yourself to make a sensation. Is it not better to create a much more profound excite- ment in ruining me ?" "Ruining you ? "said the singer; "are you really worth the trouble?" "You will never find better work," replied the artisan; "11 am seeking for some person to throw my gold out of the window ; some one who will cause the whole race of extravagant females to die out of pure envy ; some one who will devour ten thousand, fifteen thou- sand, twenty thousand of greenbacks in each and every hour. Leave these en- vious growlers in th3ir mire, and soar above them upon golden wings." " Ah, my good friend, " murmured Flora to herself, "a hundred thousand dollars in a day. What jealousies can be wrought by such a ruin! But tell me frankly why tempt me in this man- ner?" "Why ?" repeated Christopher, with a smile ; "go down into your stable, and you Will find that tile horses vend- ed by you have been purchased by me.' Ope.) these caskets," here the mechanic drew some jewel cases from his pocket, "and you will find the pearls and dia- monds which you have sold, and pur,. chased by me. In fine, cast your eyes over this document which reconveys to you this mansion, sold by your orders, purchased by mine." "Can this be possible ?" quoth the opera syren, as she took the title deeds into her hands; "he must love me to distraction." "Distraction !" repeated Christopher, gaining courage as he observed how ef- fectually his temptation was ,working "that is nothing near the word. Yes, Flora, for a long time past my hearthas been enflamed, consumed, burnt up in my adoration of you !" 'r The bootmaker paused, for he had ex- hausted his set speech, while the pers- piration stood in drops upon lis brow. Suddenly flinging himself at the Yeet of .the syren after the most approved man- ner of the stage lover, Christopher cqn- tinued-"Flora, Iswear, at your feet, at your delicious feet, Flora, dearest angel, light of my soul, at yourfeet.* Christopher suddenly ceased, and gazed in rapture upon theshoes covering the feet he so enthusiastically eulogized. After a pause, he added -" About the neatest pair of rights and lefts I've seen in many a day." "What is that you are saying V"- ex- claimed the astounded Flora. "How elaborately worked," continu- ed Christopher, still lost in admiration of the shoemaker's tact ; "they are not shoes, but jewel cases." "Good heavens!" exclaimed Flora, "the artist reappears-he is adoring my shoes !" and the lady laughed heartily .. "Yes,. pardon me," observed the 'e- chanic, recovering self-possession, "Ali, THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. exquisite Flora, I swear-radiant Flora, swear !" "Raise, raise} my dear fellow," com- manded the singer; "come from your knees, otherwise one would think that you are taking my measure." "Not a bit of danger, madam," said Christopher, sadly; "in looking upon your features allhope of work is banish-' ed." "A very pretty compliment, Mr. Van Der Last," quoth the hostess, with a gracious smile ; "but excuse me 'if IY speak frankly to you. - Let me assure you that I love Dr. Moran d even yet, and that I do not detest my good friends of the opera. On these accounts, there- fore, you must pardon me if I do not accept your offer." "Well, well," returned the bootniaker sedately, "confidence begets confidence -let me assure you, madam, that I do not entertain for you the least particle of love; but I love Stephen dearly., He is a noble young man, whom it is the duty of us both to save'--" "To save !" ejaculated the operatic queen, in amazement. "He must be drawn from this life of disorder," remarked Christopher, feel ingly ; "from this course of life-use- less, aimless, profitless and honoriess- through which he forfeits'the esteenI of others and respect for Ihimself. In a word, his salvation must'be' wrought !" "But in what particular have I aided in his perdition ?"- "In what,. my poor friend ?" quoth the bootmaker, with a tone of generous' dignity, "you only see the happiness of' to-day-you, who have only smilingly to extend the hand to see it filled with gold; but we who earn our daily bread by the sweat of our brow, we think of the future. Now then what is the pros- pect before Dr. Morand " The artiste moved nervously on her seat, but interrupted not the thread of the discourse, which Christopher de- livered with effective emphasis., 79 "He is gay, brilliant and happy,". re- sumed the artisan, "with fine clothes upon his back and money in his-pocket, all-of which comes neither from hisfa mily nor his labor. Tell me, is this honorableI He is the lover of an ar- tiste, and instead ol his ruining himself to please her, which would be solely .a misfortune, it is she who is ruining her- self to gratify him, which is shame- "Opinions may differ, sir," interpos- ed Flora, evidently touched. "Whenyou have ceasedto love him," said Christopher prophetically, "and let me tell you, that will -be. before long." "What warrant lve you for saying thus 1" inquired the lady. "It will be before long," repeated the bootmake. "You will;Pot love for any length of time a man degraded in your eyes, and you will shed bitter tears for having, yourself, been th cause of his degradation. Yes, you weep in anguish, for you have a good heart." "I weep-I, a mere actress !' and Flora was unable to master, her agita- tion. You have good heart, as I well know, for I have worked for poor peo- ple succored bf your chrity-have I not ." The fair artiste blushed, and averted her head as if to avoid tlie coimpliment; but the troth-is, that-'the fair hostess was heart-sore and ill at eas&- as the words of the honest inechanic struck her ear. "Well, the day of your separation will arrive," resumed, Christopher. "Stephen will continue fo love-you, in- asmuch as he has sacrificed everything for you. But as he has lost the habit of labor, without which he can have neither consolation or resources, some one of your good friends of the theatre will some day say to you with a laugh : 'You remember your, old lover, Steph- en-well, he has killed himself.'," p e? rlyyt _ j Y ,f 1} f "f y ' +L a l r r s page: 80-81[View Page 80-81] THE BOOT MAKER .OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. "Killed himself!" ejaculated the fair singer, with a movement of terror. "Yes, madam, that will be the inevi- table termination of the affair," quoth the artisan, growing more and more se- rious. "You see I have spoken to you frankly. Now shall it terminate other- wise?" A moment of suspense followed this pointed query.. Flora, intensely agitat- ed,seemingly by contradictory motives, moved nervously in her seat ; while the honest mechanic cast his eyes upon her imploringly, as if exhorting her to a final declaration. "My dear friend," said the singer, after a moment's deliberation, "the af- fair shall terminate otherwise than you anticipate." " And what is your solemn conclu- sion ?" asked Christopher. "From this hour we separate," replied the artiste firmly ; "lead Stephen away from this house-I will never see him again !"1 "0, madam, do not deceive me !" ex- claimed the bootmaker, his joy contrast- ing strangely with the lady's grief, "for you know the full extent of the favor you have conferred on me. gle existence depends upon and your will--not one but Not a sin- your cour-. two. Nay, it may be three saved !" While the tender hearted actress, overpowered by the violent reaction of her feelings, sunk back for rest against her lounge, the delighted bootmaker, overjoyed at having obviated, as he supposed,.the only obstacle in the way of Genevieve's marriage, threw himself upon his knees before the lady, and, seizing her hand, pressed it to his lips in grateful acknowledgment of her sac- rif ve, "You are a noble woman !" quoth the bootmaker in undisguised enthusiasm ; and he again kissed the hand of the songstre s, whom he regarded as a bene- factor to his own hogsehold. CHAPTER XV[L CUPID'S WINGS CLIPPED. "Bravo ! bravo! the.'fii-st bit of acting ever seen on any stage'!" Dr. Stephen Morand, returning from the ball room, viewed the spectacle be- fore him as a species of ludicrous inter- lude, contrived for his surprise or vex- ation and acted as by preconcerted ar- rangement between the leading parties to the scheme. "Stephen ! " murmured the singer, with palpable emotion, as she ventured to turn an affectionate glance upon her admirer. "Courage !" whispered Christopher, as he arose from his kneeling position; "I have wagered with him that you will give me the ring and bracelet, which he has hitherto presented to you." "It shall be done," rejoined the lady, her heart throbbing violently. "Mr. Van Der Last," said Dr. Mo- rand, who comprehended that the scene before him was. no work of fantasy, "this is downright treason." "Treason !" ejaculated the bootmak- er, with a smile.. "Without doubt,'' responded the doc- tor, attempting to shield his resentment behind a parade of hilarity, "youshould have employed for the capture of Flora the arguments of a financier, and I find you puffing at her feet like a comedy lover " "What right have you to dictate terms ?" retorted Christopher, with as- sumed anger, so as to give the cue to his fellow performer ; " what matters the manner as long as we attain success l" "You need not vindicate your beha- vior, Mr. Van Der Last;" and the heart of Flora smote her as she played a part of duplicity so uncongenial to her na- ture, but consonant with her sense of duty ; "when a person acts with that delicacy and refinement which has cha- racterized your every action,oie can af- THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH -AVENUE. 9 ford to brave the railleries of the en- vious, the puerile, the discarded." " How say you, Flora?" nervously inquired Dr. Morand. . "I say," replied the singer, tranquilly, "that Mr. Van Der Last is a man of wit, humor and common sense-a most noble heart." "Is that your settled conviction?"'re- torted Stephen, with a sneer. "He has demonstrated to me," con- tinued the actress, noting the effect pro- duced by her words, "that our intimacy is a folly." "That's so!" chimed in the bootmak- er in a low tone of voice. " A folly I'' exclaimed Stephen, in amazement. " Come now, Flora, you are joking-you know how sincerely I love you, and --" "It is on that very account," rejoined the lady, with calmness and dignity, "that I speak to you in soberness of spirit. "Am I dreaming I" murmured the young physician, astounded at the se- rious change which matters were as- suming, "speak, then, fully and freely; "hesitate not, but decree my doom." ."He has caused me to comprehend," resumed the actress, tear drops starting to her eyes, "that this folly may per- chance become a fault,.if not a disaster, and that it is our duty-that of both of us-to put a termination to its longer continuance."' "Yes, yes ; and you," said Stephen, turning to the artisan, "have demon- strated by your fine arguments all this to her comprehensionI" "Yes, she comprehends it thorough- ly," returned Christopher gravely. "I am anxious to learn," quoth the doctor to the lady, ironically, " what pressing reasons, 'what unanswerable arguments Mr. Van Der Last has been able to advance to determine your line of duty." "Frhaps they may not be satifactorr to you," returned Flora, affecting to smile. "But perceive to what lengths went his delicate foresight. I was com- pelled to sacrifice some jewels. See, he, hag brought themfback." Stephen blushed ; for in the jewel case produced by the bootmaker, he re- cognized the brilliants and rubies which but a few days before the singer had disposed of to raise money for t eir mu- tual extravagances. It was a first tingle of a budding shame. "Yes, these are my fao'ner property," observed the actress calmy. "You per- ceive this ring which I wear upon this finger ; I regret to be compelled to re- move it, but it must be so. To von, Mr. Van Der Last, I make over this ring in exchange foryour disinterested kind- ness." As Madame Plora spoke she removed the love token presented to' her by Stephen, and supplied" its place by another given her by the artisan to whom she remitted the first jewel. The young physician gazed in astonishment at this operation, so unexpected and so aggravating, and premonitory of his inevitable destiny. The bootmaker ac- cepted the transfer with silent stolidity, merely venturing to implant a kiss upon the hand of the beautiful donor. "And my bracelet," continued Flora, as she opened a second case presented to her by her new guest, "those beauti- ful emeralds which I mourned over so oftentimes in silent sorrow, and return- ed to me. Hold, my dear Mr. Van Der a Last ! How can I repay you, for I am sure that the pretty trinket I now wear will scarce compensate you for your outlay in regaining my cherished trea- sures." t "The bracelet I gave her !" muttered Stephen, in agony of spirit, as he ob- i served his former lady love tranquilly 3 pass over to the mechanic that souvenir of affection which she had promised y eternally tower fophis sake, and whiel 81 '1 , 1 page: 82-83[View Page 82-83] THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH A ENUE. Christopher pocketed with the most im- placable nonchalance. "Enough, enough!" exclaimed Steph- en, with a groan. "Flora, you have be- trayed me !" And then turning his grief into anger, he continued, vehe- mently - "I comprehend everything ; and if there is anything that can con- sole me for this unworthy treason it is the choice of a person you have made to replace me." "Rail against me to your full bent," returned Christopher, meekly; "it don't make much difference; I am used to it, Stephen." "Somepday or the other, Stephen," said the lady, with a deep melancholy, palpable upon her beauteous cointe- Dance, her utterance choked by half subdued sobs, "you will comprehend and appreciate the motives for my ac- tion, but now they must remain, at least. for a time, a mystery to you. Stephen, fare thee well !" The lady dropped her eyes, for her heart was overtasked at the sudden gra- vity of the task she had imposed upon herself. Waving her hand as a sign of adieu, she was about to retire from, the chamber, when her feelings overpower- ed her, and her pent up emotions found a vent in the unrestrained flow of tears. "Flora ! Flora !" exclaimed the phy- sician, attempting to detain the de- spairing singer, "you will repent of this cruelty.", "Never!" exclaimed the lady-' ycu will bless me for this wound." 'Madame Flora," interrupted the bootmaker, catching the singer by the arm, speaking to her in a semi-audible tone of voice, "you have forgotten the reconveyance, according to contract." "Contract !" ejaculated the lady - "what mean you ?" "I surrender to you your mansion," responded the bootmaker, handing over to her the title deeds and reconveyance of the property she had on the morning sold =i you-have=earhed it nobly " "You are mistaken, sir," rejoined the actress, with an air of offended dignity, "I have earned nothing-my ways are those of the heart, and my reward will be paid me in the future." With a deliberate and collected ac- tion, the fair hostess tore the reconvey- ance of her forfeited mansion into a dozen fragments, and politely handed the title deeds back to the disconcerted doner; then,-with a graceful wave of the hand, she bade adieu to her guests, en- tertained for the last time. "Cruel, heartless, sordid woman !" muttered the physician, as he Viewed the departing jgure of his late mistress. "Nothing of the kind," said the boot- maker, approaching his friend. " Be- lieve me you are but a mere boy in the ways of the world. Your study has been confined to books.. Suddenly you find yourself thrown into the vortex of fashionable existence ;and you believe that everything glittering around. you is gold. It is'natural; but you Perceive how false the idea. Desert this world of art-return with me. Certainly this woman loves you not-and who-knows but that in a less artificial sphei e you may find some honest and noble girl who may love, if she does not already." "And who would deceive me at trea- oherously as did this last.". "That is not true," said the artisan, emphatically. No, sir; you calumniate my angel of innocence-my Genevieve." "Genevieve 1" inquired Stephen - "what is the meaning of all this ?" "I will tell you frankly," quoth the bootmaker, "that' it was not to please Madame Flora that I came here, but to separate you from her. Now then, Stephen, turn your back upon vanity and let ua depart." The young physician listened to the advice of his mentor, and was about to retire, although with deep regret, frosts the mansion of his enchantress, when h and the mechanic found theinselve8 THE BOOT MAKER OF surrounded by the entire group of dan- cers and card players, male and female, with the exception of the hostess, who, feigning an excuse to her guests, had retired to her boudoir to seek consola- tion from the pangs of a .wounded vanity. "Mr. Last," said the stranger Dela- more, "I have been searching for you." "You, again," returned the bootmak- er, abruptly ; "what do you want I" Christopher surveyed his interrogator with a look of contempt, intermingled,' however, with some expression of dread, for there was an occult influence exert- ed by the man over tht mind of the me- chanic, which at times disconcerted the most sagacious of his resolutions. "I come on the part of my esteemed friend Mr. 1arcy," said the stranger, while Mr. Marcy bowed at mention of his name, "to lay before you for con- sideration a most important proposi- tion." "A most important proposition !" re- peated the mechanic. "I am fully aware," resumed Dela- more, "that my friend, unaware of her relations, has been guilty of several wrongs, or errors of judgment with re- gard to Miss Genevieve; but should that gentleman, connected with many of the first families of the State, present him- self to demand her hand in marriage, do you not think that he has extended to her the reparation worthy of a gen- tleman, repentant of his prior indiscre- tions ?" "I refuse the proposition," said Chris- topher decisively-" the hand of Gene- vieve has been already promised to a capable man." "To whom has she been affianced?" demanded Delamore. "To Doctor Stephen Morand," re- sponded the mechanic. "To me ?" said the young physician inquiringly, while the crowd evidenced their astonishment by a series of half- suppressed murmurs. TIE FIFTH AVENUE. 83 "To Doctor Morand?" ejaculated Do- lamore, vehemently - " to the lover of Madame Flora, the actress 1" "No, sir," said Christopher. "Gene-' vieve will be married as I have inform- ed you." "She shall marry," shouted Dela- more furiously, "as I desire-do you unerstand that?" "By what authority," inquired the shoemaker, blandly, "do you base your mandate ?" "I am perfectly acquainted with the sovereignty you exercise over her," quoth Delamore. "I am aware that you have found the child upon the inanimate body of an unfortunate female ; I am aware that since that day you have de- voted to her every species of paternal care, for which you will be well paid ; nevertheless,1owever devoted you have shown yourself, you are not after all but her guardian-mind my words, guard- ian." The bootmaker looked upon the speaker with a species of astonishment, for he appreciated the truth of all he said. "aMy respected friend," whispered the stranger in a low tone of voice, " I am the father of that interesting child !" "The father of Genevieve," quoth the terrified Christopher; "how say you! Are you the father of my angelic child?" "To-morrow, sir," said Delamore, "I will be at your house with proofs to sub- stantiate my assertion-documents and writings." "Documents and writings !" repeated the artisan, astonished ; "to-morrow, then, I will meet you at my house - hence be sure to bring all your proofs with you." "Yes, to-morrow!" replied Delamore; and the words rang through the arti- san's brain with the whirl of a winged 1 arrqv. "Her father!" murmured Christopher to himself, as, taking the arm of Dr. 82 I' ii 4 1l page: 84-85[View Page 84-85] 84 THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE,- Morand, he forced that gentleman to re.- tire precipitately from the, fascinating chambers of the divinity of the opera. "Her father ." murmured the artisan, when, having gained his own abode and fung himself upon his couch for rest after an unaccustomed night's excite- ment. But he courted sleep in vain. Before his eyes constantly hovered the form of the strange and mysterious De-. lamore, whose frowning visage and harsh, grating voice boded little good for the future of the angelic Genevieve. CHAPTER XVIII. IMPOSTURE. "What means this mysterious com- munication, and who can be its author? Stephen the acknowledged lover of an operatic singer. No--no ! it cannot be possible ; for if he could condescend to love a woman of that stamp, I never could love him." The bootmaker's adopted daughter sat in the little parlor over the shop, holding in her hands the mysterious epistle which nad given her so much vexation and annoyance. Vainly she endeavored to identify the handwriting -ineffectually she attempted to eradi- cate the impression the perusal of its contents had created. The heart of the young girl was pained ; and conviction as to her lover's falsity usurped full possession of a mind struggling to ex- tenuate presumptive infidelity. -1f, however, it should not prove true," quoth Genevieve to herself for the sixteenth time,when the door open- ed and her meditations were broken by the entrance of her aristocratic neighbor, the judge's lady. "Mrs. Littleton !" ejaculated Gene- vieve, astonished at so proud a visitor condescending to honor their abode with her presence. "My child !" quoth the lady kindly, although in evident perturbation- of spirit, "where is your father-I must see him immediately, for I wish to-con. verse with him." "My father ?" responded the young girl ; "I will call him for you." Leaving the lady, the young woman courteously summoned her parent, who, apprised of the presence of his neigh- bor, immediately hastened to ascertain the reason of her presence. "Mrs. Littleton !" ejaculated Christo- pher, astonished at her unexpected visit and observing a flush of excitement mantling over a countenance naturally placid and marble-like. "You have sent for me, Mr. Last," said the judge's lady, as she cast her glances around the little parlor, as well to assure herself of being be, enad the reach of eavesdroppers as of being con- fident of Genevieve's departure; "your message alluded to your'having receiv- ed some intelligence to communicate. I have hastened hither with all -possible speed. Pray what is it?"' The lady paused, breathless with ex- citement. "Madam," responded the bootmaker, with equal precautions against possibi- lity of surprise, "it is a Serious matter, which requires the exercise of courage and energy." "Great heavens!" exclaimed the lady, turning red and pale alternately, as the blood mounted to her cheeks, "has any- thing happened to Genevieve, that you in this wise terrify me ?" "No. Still she is menaced with dan- ger !" replied the artisan, whose rug- ged features appeared equally pallid with the lady's. "Danger !" repeated Mrs. Littleton, hysterically. "In the first place, madam," resumed Christopher, in a tone ofthesitancy, "her father is still living !" "Her father !" retorted the lady, with an air of incredulity. THE BOOT MAKER OF THE, FIFTH AVENUE. " Yes, her father - Herbert Vane !" s reasserted the mechanic. "That is impossible !" responded the judge's lady, with an air of decision- "the report of his death has reached evenhHere ; and it was only on confir- mation of that disastrous news that II yielded to the solicitations of my father and became the wife of the Hons. Mr. Littleton. Of this I can safely assure l you." f "Your information ias been false 1" rejoined the artisan emphatically, yet respectfully. "Herbert Vane is here in this very city. I have seen him this very day, and exhibited convincing proofs of his identity. I am as sure of his being the father of Genevieve as I am of my own existence. It is beyond doubt, madam." "0, my God, can this be true!" quoth the lady, balancing, between grief and joy, and half distracted by conflicting emotions. "Does he yet live, my Her- bert, joy of my heart, light of my soul?" ."And, continued the bootmaker, with- out paying attention to the interrup- tion, "it behooves you to see him, to converse with him, madam; for he is about to bargain away the hand of your daughter to a bankrupt, a roue, a liber- tine, a man named Marcy, notorious for his debaucheries, his debts and his scan- dals; and yet to ihis miserable repro- bate, this social outcast, Herbert Vane has agreed to bestow his daughter in marriage." "It is impossible ! " exclaimed the lady, with evident signs of aversion to the idea-"No, sir ; Herbert Vane was too noble, too chivalrio a man to make such a choice. He is too lofty a soul, too proud a spirit to jeopardise the ft- tare of his child. No, sir. I repeat, Herbert Vane is too honest a man to be guilty of suchconduct, so unnatural, so heartless in the extreme." "He may have been such fifteen years ince," remarked the bootmake feel- ngly ; "hut it may chance that his tra- vois and a vagrant course of life oan have changed his heart." "If he has sanctioned this marriage," observed the lady, warmly, " H.rbcrt has been the dupe of some designing villain !" "Well, madam," responded Christo- pher, despondently, "it may be as you say. You may have the power to unde- ceive him; but it is beyond my persua- sion, my prayers to alter the determi- nation of that austere and domineering man." "O, heavens, whatcan I do?" mur- mured the lady. "Your tears, your exhortations and entreaties," interposed the mechanic tenderly, "Inay melt thathoart of stone. If he ever loved yqu dearly, as you sup- pose, he cannot view the sad spectacle of your sorrow without relenting from his design." "Yes, yes," enthusiastically exclaim- ed the judge's lady, "I will see him-I will pray to him-I will sue for his par- don. Bitter as must be the pain of our meeting, and degraded as will regard the mother of his child, may God wit- ness, I must see him !" "In that case compose yourself," said the bootmaker, blandly. "I have sent for him, and he will be here in. a brief space of time." "Here 7" inquired the Hon. Mrs. Lit- tleton in great agitation. "Yes, here, in this very chamber," replied Christopher. "And so promptly," ejaculated the lady nervously. "The hour is at hand,"-urged the ar- tisao, "have courage." "I have faith in God's will," respond- ed the lady, nerving herself to the con- templated task. "To meet after fifteen years of cruel separation, it is a fearful thought. To contemplate a criminal past,to conjure up memory of my shame IT J+ . f ,± L yy De , ; , i -A 'I rte 1 / } I (i l t -( s _i ,q 1{i" ft t A d ' , i . ,!. 1 t ' I l qe 1 f 1 7 '{ i i . t ii {'11 { 4 ! ,i Est,' sue;' ' , ; , } , '+'f. , I t F F page: 86-87[View Page 86-87] THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. and to realize the anguish of a sacrificed happiness." The lady paced the parlor with hur- ried strides as her speech became more and more incoherent, as the indistinct outlines of a future came before her imagination, threatening annihilation of her hopes. Yet the idea of rescuing Genevieve from a certain ignominy, came to the assistance of maternal af- fection, and the mother gained strength to vindicate her child. "0, God !" exclaimed the judge's: wife, as the tears of bitterness rolled down her cheeks, "give me fortitude to risk this trial. Herbert, I have never wronged or deceived you. But," she added, with a deep drawn sigh, will he belheve my protestations ' "Madame, he is here." As the bootmaker spoke, he threw wide the entrance door of his parlor, through which stalked, with well-as- sumed dignity, the athletic form of De- lamore, habited in a rich and over-ela- borated walking costume. As he passed the portal, Mrs. Little- ton rushed ferishly towards the figure of him whom she had in years gone by so enthusiastically and unwisely loved. "Herbert !" exclaimed the lady, fling- ing herself into his arms, but after east- ing a glance upon his countenance, she drew back in ill-disguised dismay - "who is this man I" "Who?" said the bootmaker, in per- plexity, 'is it not ----" "Again I demand !" said the lady, with augmenting energy, as her eyes flashed fire, "who is this minn?" "This man," replied the stranger,with coolness and deliberation, is a gentle- man, who has the honor of being Hu- bert Vane." "You Herbert Vane!" responded the lady, contemptuously. "Doubtlessly, madam," rejoined the stranger, austerely. "You are an imposter, " quoth the judge's wife, decisively. "That is a grave accusation," re- marked Delamore. "And, nevertheless, most true," add- ed Mrs. Littleton. "Who dares make such a charge against me?" inquired Delamore, be- stowing a contemptuous smile on his accuser. "I do," said th judge's lady, defiant- ly, "and I public declare and will ever maintain that you are neither Hubert' Vane nor the father of the girl known to us as Genevieve." i "Take care, my honorable and re- spected lady,'' retorted the stranger, with malignant emphasis upon his words, "there is but one living being in this wide world who could sustain so sweeping and definite an assertion; and that being is the woman who rejoices as having been the mother of the found- ling." Mrs. Littleton sighed audibly ; for in this semi-enigmatical threat, sufficient was conveyed to show that she was in the power of the stranger were she com- pelled to avow the secret of the girl's nativity, which had been concealed for so many years, and was now in the keeping of a dissolute adventurer. "The Hon. Mrs. Littleton," resumed Delamore, in a careless manner of speech, "was originally, ~if I believe rightly, a Miss Henrietta Desmond." "Lost!" ejaculated the lady, as a cold shudder passed over her entire frame- then reassuming courage, she continued; in her ordinary tone of voice, as the stranger smiled at her agitation. "I am ignorant, sir," she said indig- nantly, "as to what interest you have in the contemplated marriage of Gene- vieve ?" "' A. very great interest, indeed," re- sponded Delamore grimly-"in fact, it can be with difficulty computed in del lars and cents." "Neither, ca I compass the design," resumedrj4lh14 dy, growing more and more collected as she progressed in her harangue,.'"which you have in exhum- ing this terrible secret, which you have obtained byeomeostratagem. But lis- ten, sir. If it is money you desire, de- i and from, me em, twenty or even fifty thousand do,1s al?.that I am worth-" "You place too much value on my in- ,terestedness,"{ responded the stranger, sarcastically ; 'but,; madam, you must excuse me, as I have pledged my wordy and honor to Mr. Morey that the mar - r4age shalltake place-so you perceive it must,!" "Never, sir, never !" quoth the lady, in a decided manner. "But how can you prevent it ?" in- qufrd Delamore, with a threatening expression of cou;itenance ; " I have it Within my power to reclaim this child which is aeuied to you. Reflect, I en- treat of you, upon the delicacy of your "But should I refuse to surrender her up '' said Mr. Littleton. , "Yes, if we should'refuso to :give her up ?" chimed in the bootmaker. "Then, madam," replied the-adven- turerer, boldly and haughtily, "since time has effected such changes in my features as not to be recognizable in your eyMe, it may not have wrought the same -wonder on my parchments and documentary evidences,which this gen- tleman has already viewed. In a word, I shall be compelled to resort to law to enforce my rights." "Your rights ?" inquired Mrs. Little- ton, astounded at the imposter's con- tinued assumption of another's charac- ter. "Yes, madam, my rights'!" repeated Delamore, with a vigorous demonstra- tion, of energy. By the -way, before your husband, the judge, must come the investigation of my pretensions-so you see that it will be a purely family-mat- ter ---" "This is most iniquitous," muttered the lady, sorely vexed at the idea of having her first fault reviewed by a de- ceived husband, from whom knowledge of the past had been cautiously con- cealed. "Yes, madam, to your husband," con- tinued Delamore, in a menacing man- ner, "I will remit proofs of my pater- nity. And will you dare-contest them? Will you have the hardihood of pre- senting yourself before your liege lord and declare to him that I nor any other man is not the father of your child °" "Pity-for heaven's sake, have pity on me !" and the aristocratic lady threw herself upon her knees to implore mercy from the persecutor-"break not the heart cf a fond, a doating, sorrow- stricken mother ! I plead pardon not for my own sake, but that of my child ! Listen to me, and have mercy on the weakness of my sex !" "My faith is pledged, madam," quoth Delamore, with vindictive-animosity - "Genevieve must marry Marcy !" "Your heart is then steeled a ainst our prayers," again pleaded the judge's { lady, "and there is no other means to avert shame and ruin ?" "And do you not tremble, least you may find some honest man," interposed Christopher, advancing to the imposter, "who may crush you out of existence like a venomous beast-like a-" "I fear nothing, my chivalric' boot- maker," returned Delamore, with a look of supreme disdain, "and least of all from you." "We'll see about that," responded the artisan. "The law protects me," resumed the stranger. "Now, madam, in an hour hence I will return for your definite answer." The man of mystery folded his arms, and sting a keen but galling glance, strode rapidly from the apartment, leaving the plebian artisan and his aris- THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. 87 86 " " Frw 1 t , Y F 4 1 k i t i c t t f i , rl i k - t; } r F yy ,,r yi yr 111.E page: 88-89[View Page 88-89] THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. tocratic patron in a state of profound "among those papers of Herbert Vane consternation, at the inevitable conse- may be discovered some proof as to the quences of the stranger's revelations, imposition of this man, v ho has un.. should he persist in his nefarious ad- doubtedly appropriated others to his venture. own use." "Is there no power in my right arm "It may be so," remarked the lady, to confound this miserable reptile ?" dubiously. inquired the artisan anxiously, as he "These documents," resumed the followed the retreating figure oftthe im- bootnaiker, after a momentary pause, poster with his eyes, and witched his "should not be read under fifteen days, every action With the zealous vigilance for I have taken especial pains to ascer- a cat bestows upon her prey. "Shall ho tamn the exact period of her birth, and be allowed to annoy and harrass us with find that upon that -day Genevieve at- impunity t" tains her eighteenth year. Well, is it "My dea- friend, be not discouraged," advisable to await the prescribed term, said the judge's lady, as she walked the or shall the package be opened thief very floor lost in meditation ; "this man is an day, if through it we can save the imposter-but how are we to prove the I child ?" fact He has undoubtedly stolen the "Assuredly, my dear sir," replied the papers of Herbert Vane ; but what are judge's Ldy, "the safety of Genevieve we to reply to him when he shows them should anticipate all other considera- authenticated, as they must be." tions. In the name of Herbert Vane I The lady wiped away her falling absolve you from any obligation you tears. / have assumed. Should it prove to be "My poor child," she murmured, al- the means of eradicating this misfor- most' inaudibly, "I have but refound tune, rest assured that the father will her o behold her unfortunate,sacrificed pardon the saviour of his child." And to I know not what conspiracy, which I the lady sobbed as she thought on the am powerless to frustrate. Is there no past. means of escape for my darling ?" "Then be it so," rejoined Christopher, "Madam," said the bootmaker, tap- "and let us be of good hope. I will run ping his head knowingly, "I have a immediately to Bernardthe banker, who little idea, and who knows but that has been charged with their custody. something may come out of it ;" and In his presence the papers can be open- Christopher stopped to perfect his ed-and may heaven give us the sue- scheme. cess we pray for !" "What is it I" inquired the lady, in "May the good man succeed I" mut- evident anxiety. tered the Hon. Mrs. Littleton, as Chris- "When poor Mary Vernon bequeathed topper departed upon his errand. "0, me, with her dying breath," replied the Gad, grant that the machinations of this bootmaker in due sincerity of heart, vile wretch mury be frustrated, for in "the trust of bringing up Genevieve, Thy keeping have been entrusted the she committed to my charge a portfolio destiny of this poor child, whom to this of docu'uents,with strict directions that natal hour have I dared to recognise as it should not be opened until the child my own, my dear daughter!" had attained her eighteenth year." The mother made a mental calcula- tion to ascertain the date. ------- "Possibly," continued the artisan, 88 CHAPTER XIX. CONFESSIONS OF TILE HEART. "Mother-my mother ! and the privi- lege de::ied me of outspeaking my heart to her who gave ie birth. Why should she blush for me even if I have been the offspring of love. But I will save her from further shame, for she has suf- fered too deeply '" While Mrs. Littleton was pacing the apartment, lost in the contemplation of the distressing events hourly compli- cating around her, the fair and gentle Genevieve noiselessly entered the little parlor of the artisan, and watched her parent's actions in the deepest of solici- tude. Her resolution was instantly taken. "What ails thee, my dear child?" murmured Mrs. Littleton, as she clasp- ed Genevieve to her bosom, noticing that the young girl was pale, trembling and melancholy; "why have you cause for tears'? Come, tell your poor mo- ther, who should weep for two." "1I have at this moment no cause for tears," quoth Genevieve, affectionately casting a loving glance upon her parent -"on the contrary, this appears the brightest moment in my existence." "You have doubtlessly received some tidings of Dr. Morand 7" inquired the lady, endeavoring to compose her agi- tation. "No, no, madam, it is not upon that account," replied the girl. "Nevertheless, you love him," re- marked Mrs. Littleton, feelingly ; "and must be delighted at the near approach of your -marriage." "That marriage willnever take place," rejoined the maiden, with more than ordinary warmth of speech, as her eyes sparkled in intensity of will, "I have no desire to be the bride of Dr. Mu- rand." And upon what account ?" question- ed the mother, anxiously. "Because he loves another," replied Genevieve, curtly. "But who has told you this?" inter- rogated the judge's lady. "I am aware of it," observed the girl, evidencing that strong will and mature deliberation distinguishing an inde- pendent character "my resolution is taken, and I will not marry him !" "Have a care, .my child," cautiously. interposed the parent, as she caressed her I eloved; "take not a step for which you will have cause for regret hereaf- ter-act with caution and reflection." "I have done so, mother," quoth the girl, bending her head for consolation on her parent's bosom; "I have thought over the matter more than once-I have weighed my future and yours ; and for very good reasons I am determined to adhere to my choice." "And pray, dear, what are these rea- sons?" inquired the mother, with a smile of precaution, "what have wrought so wondrous a change in the affections of youth ?" "Think not, mother, that I regret the step," responded Genevieve, exhibiting a sagacity and penetration far beyond her years; " on the contrary, I have scarcely known Stephen for the past three years. That I loved him, it is true ; but that for which I loved him, was his honesty,his courage under diffi- culties, his energy during privations, and his unquenchable: thirst for knowl- edge. But the possession of money de- stroyed every one of these virtues. It has breathed into his soul egotism, cor- ruption, selfishness and vanity. Mad- am, I could never love such a man as he has turned to be.'! "And has your father knowledge of this resolution ?" "No, madam." "What wi.l the good man think?" said Mrs. Littleton, "who has battled so en- ergetically against every obstacle, and against even the impulses of his own 89 \ t R I)' ~ page: 90-91[View Page 90-91] 90 THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. heart, that this marriage should be ac- complished." " Against the impulses of his own heart !" uttered Genevieve, in wonder. "1Yes, Genevieve," responded her mother, gravely, "this honest artisan, who has nurtured and brought you up, viewed your progress toward woman- hood with admiration. He regarded with the affection a parent bestows upon a child ; then little by little the value of that love changed - secretly he adores you as a suitor!" "My poor father!" ejaculated the, young girl, despite herself. "One day," resumed Mrs. Littleton, "he went to you to unburden his heart; then he learned that youloved another. The worthy man stifled the knowledge of his secret within himself, and wiped away his tears with self-sacrificing re- solution; for he said to himself-what matters how much I suffer if Genevieve be happy." "Noble and generous friend !" mur- mured the young girl; "and I to be ig- norant of all this. Alas, how many hours of care and of vexation may I have caused him! But, mother, know that in forgetting Stephen, I have made another choico,which may please him." "Another choice?" inquired Mrs. Lit- tleton, nervously. "I have set my choice upon a man ;" and Genevieve blushed deeply, "who loves me; for he has told me he does-" "And who is that man 1' interrupted her mother. "Mr. Marcy." "Mr. Marcy!" repeated the lady; "the thing is impossible. Genevieve, you are imposed upon." "No, madam, I assure you ---" "You have been imposed upon, Ge- nevieve," repeated the lady energeti- cally ; "I appreciate your conduct, my dearest girl-you, would immolate your- self to save my reputation." "Do not believe it to be so," sobbed the maiden. "Deceive me not,Genevieve," resum- ed Mrs. Littleton, with augmented ve- hemence - "you are about to sacri- fice yourself; for, alas! you have learn- ed the name of your mother !" "My mother !" and Genevieve vainly endeavored to dissemble. "Madam, I do not thoroughly comprehend your meaning." "And yet you tremble, you weep !" retorted the lady, smilingly. "0, Gene- vieve, will you persist in denial, when these arms are open for thy reception? Feel you not the mandates of nature I', "Mother-dearest mother ! You are indeed my mother !" and the young girl, overpowered by emotions, threw herself, half insensible, half frantic, into the open arms of her newiy-found rela- tive. "My daughter, my dearest daughter!" quoth the lady, as she embraced the lovely girl ; "well worthy are you of my love; for the first action, upon dis- covering the secret of your birth, was to devote yourself to her salvation. But I will not sanction so lofty a sacrifice on the contrary, I am resolved at all hazards to secure your future happi- ness. Hence this marriage with Marcy shall no., t ke place -- hear my words, Geneviev shall not take place !" "And, madam, how are you to pre- vent it?' Mother and daughter started at hear- ing these sinister words, as ill-omened as the croak of the raven. It was the voice of D-lamore, who had glided si- lently into the apartment during the moment of distraction which followed' the recognition of paternal relations. "Prevent it !" ejaculated the judge's lady, nerved to desperation, "easily. You have threatened to lay your case before my husband. Come, then, and let Mr. Littleton adjudicate between us. Indeed, sir, I demand that he be con- sulted." THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. 91 "You demand, madam," said Dela-, ment; but ere she withdrew she bestow- more, with a smile. ed a glance of scorn upon her hereto- "What say you, mother I" interrupt- fore defiant tormentor. ed Genevieve, in alarm. "I tell you plainly," returned Mrs. Littleton, determinedly, "I will avow CHAPTER THE LAST. everything to my husband. He may drive me from his home-hemar even AN AGREEABLE SURPRISE. kill me-but you, Genevieve, shall be saved. Yes, my child, your welfare "Well, sir, what do you want with must be secured at all hazards." me 7" "No, mother, I desire no such misery Delamore, the stranger, spoke harsh- in your case." ly; but it was perceptible that he was "It is the exaltation of madness, miss," ill at ease, and nervous as to the nature said Delamore--"when your mother of the bootmaker's communication. In comes to reflect -'' truth, there was a confidence, a tone of "Think you that after suffering this exultation, insidiously conveyed in the child to have undergone fifteen years of words of the mechanic, which mate- abandonment," interrupted Mrs. Little- rially damaged the effect of the arro- ton, "I will consent to condemn her to gant swagger which the adventurer had a life-long misery of tears and wretch- persistently assumed. ednessI No, sir. I will authorize no "Five minutes of interview, that's such martyrdom. My daughter, your all," replied Christopher, as he retired day of sorrow is past-mine is to come." to the entrance door, which he double "0, mother, let me implore you upon locked. my bonded knees," interposed Gene- "What are you doing ?" demanded vieve, falling semi-prostrate before her Delamore sternly. parent, "do not ruin yourself on my ac- "Locking the door," returned the ar- count --" tisan boldly ; " your communications "Not another word;' said Mrs. Little- are so interesting that I am resolved to ton firmly, raising Genevieve from the keep every one else from hearing them." ground; "this is the penalty of my first "Make haste, then," said the stran- fault-your welfare will constitute its ger, "for I must be going." reparation. Sir, tihis child is not yours; "If you only knew what I am about no, sir, by the law it is mine. Reclaim to tall you," interposed Christopher, your rights, and I am fully prepared to "I am certain you would be in no hurry. avow my shame." I believe you stated that you are [Her- "Blame only yourself, as the than- bert Vane?" derbolt must fall !" - " I have so stated," returned the The stranger advanced towards the stranger. judge's lady as he uttered these words; "Will you swear to that fact?" but the lady braved his threatening "I'can prove it, which is a thousand glance, when she found herself sustain- times better." ed by the protecting presence of the "Well," continued the bootmaker, bootmaker. producing a portfolio of documents, "as "Excuse me, ladies," quoth Christo- you are-Herbert Vane, you may possi- pher, in an off-hand manner ; "and if bly recognise-these papers. That's your you consent to .await a little while and handwriting, is it not I" allow me a few minutes' conversation "It is mine." with this gentleman, I am certain that "You identify them," resumed Chris- we shall come to some understanding." topher,. in a business-like manner - The eyes of Mrs. Littleton brighten- "they are the same which you commit- ed, fot she conceived that the enthusi- ted to Mary Vernon." asm of the bootmaker foreboded a "Mary Vernon!" ejaculated the stran- triumph on her part. ger, trembling, from head to foot. "Have you discovered any evidence?" geWhen you confided Genevieve along she inquired in a whisper. with them," added the bootmaker, no- "Possibly," returned the mechanic ;. ticing the effect produced upon his au- "only lead Genevieve hence." ditor by the mention of the murdered The matron took her child by the woman's name; "that was fifteen years -4ggdgad eggdotedlherfrom the apart- ago ." page: 92-93[View Page 92-93] 92 THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. "About that time." (I"Christopher Last," said the stran- "Let us glean-the tenor of these do- ger, trembling at every joint, "you de- cuments, " said Christopher, opening sign to intimidate in-you'd not have one of the parchments and placing it blood upon your hands. You are not a beneath the eyes of the imposter; "but man to slay another." as it is in your handwriting, you had "As sure as there is a God in heaven," better read -" raising aloft his trenchant blade, "and Delamore endeavored to avoid con- you are Herbert Vane, I will slaughter plying with this mandate, but observ- you like a fattened calf." ing the artisan resolute, he read as fol- -Mercy-mercy !" shrieked the im- lows:-- poster, in despair. "I leave for my child, in the hands of "Are you Herbert Vane I" demanded Bernard the banker, the sum of one Christopher. hundred thousand dollars, which in the "I am not," replied the stranger, course of eighteen years will be aghast with fear. worth ---" "You avow being an imposter !" con- "Never mind details," said the boot- tinuedl the shoemaker. maker, authoritatively, "it willbe a "I do most honestly," rejoined Dela- very pretty dowry for the little one-so more. skip towards the end." "For fear of mistakes," added Chris- The stranger mechanically followed topher, "we may as well put that con- directions, and continued- fession down in writing-it will save "Perchance I may never again see my trouble hereafter." child, for ---" "I am ready," said the stranger, ab- "That is the interesting point," in- jeetly. terrupted the mechanic. The bootmaker, still maintaining his "For I am compelled to fly from the threatening attitude, produced pen, ink land of my birth, an outlaw, charged and paper. Then forcing the imposter with murder, and a price set upon my to assume a seat at the table, dictated head --" to him as follows:-' The bootmaker clapped his hands. "I acknowledge to have attempted "If I understand the law," said Chris- falsely to personate Herbert Vane, de- topher deliberately, "an outlaw is at ceased in Europe ten years since; and the mercy of any man, for he brings his I admit that the documents in my pos- price dead or alive. In fact, it is op- session were stolen from him, and used- tional whether he is captured living or by me for fraudulent purposes." defunct---and I prefer this last." "Very good so far," said the artisan ; "Would you murder me t" demanded "all it wants is your signature - your Delamore- true name. By the way, where were "Not murder, that indeed would be you bora 1" illegal," calmly responded the boot- "I was born in the village of Beau- maker, "merely exterminate, as we do view." 0 a mad dog or a poisonous reptile-that "Then you are the man I have been is what I have a right to do, and that is looking for," rejoined Christopher - what I intend doing !" sign your true name-Walter Devin !" "You dare not, vile mechanic." "That is not my name," said Dela- "We'll see about that ;" and the boot- more. maker drew forth his long, sharp and "I know better," replied'the artisan, pointed shoe knife, such as he used at preserving his assumption of menace- his trade ; "you see that I will kill you "your life depends upon the truth." scientifically, as an accomplished shoe- "It is sighed," quoth the imposter, maker." pointing to the signature. "You dare not shed my blood," said "Quite correct-Walter Devin I" and the imposter imploringly. the mechanic smiled grimly. "I dare not," returned Christopher, "Anything further to detain me ?" "when you would assassinate every- asked the stranger. thing I love. Now look me in the face, "Not on this particular business," and comprehend that I am decided. On replied Christopher, going to the door your knees, Herbert Vane, and prepare of the apartment, which he opened po- for death. You listen, I tell you, on the litely. verge of the grave." Walter Devia advauwed t mak ble THE BOOT MAKER OF THE FIFTH AVENUE. leave, but the athletic frame of the boot- maker barred his passage. Suddenly placing his head through the portals, the mechanic gave a shrill, clear whis- tle. At this summons the little parlor be- came filled with a throng of spectators, foremost among whom stood two detec- tive officers, backed by a couple of me- tropolitan policemen in their uniforms ; while the rear was brought up by Ni- cholas Strap, who apparently enjoyed the scene with the relish of his master. "'Gentlemen," quoth Christopher, pointing to the culprit, " this man has signed his confession of being an im- poster." "Genevieve," quoth Mrs. Littleton, joyously, "this is not Herbert Vane." "I admit it," said the stranger ; "and let me depart in peace." "Your society is too precious," inter- posed the bootmaker, authoritatively ; "I have discharged my duty to the liv- ing ; I have now a duty-to avenge the dead !" The assemblage turned mechanically towards the speakeT. "He has moreover declared," contin- ued Christopher,as he pointed his finger towards the imposter, "that his true name is Walter Devin. Ignorant that the woman he so basely assassinated was living at the time of his flight, that rhan knew not that, with her dying breath, she named him who slew her. I now demand the arrest of Walter Devin, whom I brand as the murderer of Mary Vernon !" "Mary Vernon !" muttered the cul- prit, pale from excess of fear. "He has not forgotten her name," re- sumed the bootmaker, "although fifteen years are past. Officers, perform your duty !" The lapse of a few instants sufficed for the police to manacle and carry off the assassin, more dead than alive. " Christopher, my honest friend," quoth the judge's lady, after order had been restored within the artisan's hum- ble domicil, "you have been my saviour and that of my darling child," "Heaven has aided me,", responded 93 the mechanic respectfully. "And now Genevieve can marry Stephen Morand." "No, I will never marry that man," interrupted the girl. "And why not?" in quired Christo- pher, perfectly astonished. "Because I no longer love him;" and Genevieve blushed deeply, "because I love another." The enthusiasm of the bootmaker vanished-his limbs tottered beneath him, and he would have fallen to the floor, had not the stalwart arms of his apprentice sustained his sinking frame. "All my labor lost !" exclaimed Chris- topher, with a sigh. "Hear me to the end, my dearest friend," interposed Genevieve, taking the mechanic's hand, "I am resolved that our relations shall undergo but a trivial change." "What say you ?" exclaimed Chris- topher, reassuring his prior anima- tion; "explain to me, madam." "I say, my friend," quoth Genevieve, kneeling at his side, "that I shall some day love you as you have ever loved me." "Genevieve !" exclaimed the artisan, rapturously. "Yes, my worthy neighbor," said Mrs. Littleton, proudly, "my child is no ingrate. If she ceases to honor you as a father, she enters upon a new ca- reer as an affectionate wife." "Genevieve my wife!" and the worthy Christopher, in joyousness of spirit, implanted a warm kiss upon the pout- ing lips of his intended bride. "The dream of my life's ambition has come to pass !" "Hooray I" roared Nicholas Strap, as he capered about the chamber in an ecstacy of joy, "the boss has done it ! Bless his old soul, he's kissed the girl for the first time in his life !" And the apprentice resumed his dance of joy. "Yes, Nicholas," responded the me- chanic, affectionately, "the mission of my life has been accomplished. May you, Nicholas, now that your appren- ticeship has ceased, meet with equal happiness. Remember, it remains with yourself to make yourself worthy, like me, of having been a BOOTMAKER. THE END. m !
