~ Rar eee mers bp SO ie cnt Ae ieee! eRe einai ee mc yok mie eae COLLECTION B.W. C.ROBERTS NORTH CAROLINIANA When the Cock Crows BY WALDRON BAILY Author of *¢ Heart of the “ +: The Homeward T rail,” ett. bd Biue Ridge,’ {LLUSTRATED BY G. W. GAGE PRR rick ire ERIS TT Re ES He bore her with what haste he could to the landing and gently placed her within the blankets. BY WALDRON BAILY Author of * Heart of the Blue Ridge,” «« The Homeward Trail,’’ ett. ILLUSTRATED BY G. W. GAGE eed sae He bore her with w! a th what haste he could to the landing and gently placed ©? = within the blankets. gently placed her rs yea ea AEE OD TBD WOES PD SE Tee Lae Taran r eo PRT ye ya OO ITT nn ae AT OE ee TO Gon. Josephus Daniels As a token of the author’s admiration and re- spect, for one who in the greatest crisis in history has demonstrated to the public those qualities of courage, determina- ‘ tion and achievement that his friends have always known him to possess. Copyright 1918, by BEDFORD PUBLISHING CO. PRESS OF BRAUNWORTH & CO. BOOK MANUFACTURER® BROOKLYN, N. ¥. sab sce i CONTENTS CHAPTER I. IcHasop’s ISLAND II. AMONG THE BREAKERS. . III. A New CALaMITy aa TV. UNDER THE AFTER AWNING.... V. A PRISONER OF MorPHIA. VI. Huntinc A CLUE. VII. STORMBOUND... VIII. Tue EFFICIENCY oF CLAM-BROTH IX. ONcE IN A LIFETIME Ce ey . 108 X. Eyres FROM THE DEEP XI. Toe AWAKENING OF ICHABOD.. XII. TowARD THE UNKNOWN......> XIII. AMONG THE FISHERFOLEK 127 140 I51 . 168 XIV. GARNET THE HERO ; XV. ADRIFT WITH A MADMAN...... XVI. THe Cominc-ouT PARTY XVII. STRANGERS AT IcHABOD’s ISLAND XVIII. THe Cali oF THE ARK ss 0 180 191 203 215 4 4 | a 4 { ; | i 1 { 4 4 1 { | Bae CONTENTS CHAPTER MIX, OMe Urs ee 228 XX. THE TRUTH UNALLOYED....... 234 XX SEALED ORDERS 6, . 02). 249 1 XXII. Tae Partinc Crow.......... 261 WHEN THE COCK CROWS _ XXII. Toe Searce up THE SHore... 272 } XXIV. A GENTLEMAN’s PRoMISE...... 284 4 XXV. Done uis Bit........ et ea 291 | hig ere as ok IcHABOD’s ISLAND HE tide was at ebb. The noisily rush- ing spume-spotted waters of the sea were pounding the hard-sand shore of the easterly side of a beautiful island, nest- ling as a jewel in its setting just within the Capes, which form the shores on either side of Beaufort Inlet, but so exposed that when the winds blow from the sea the full force of the breakers is felt at this point. As this small bit of land is low-lying, more than once when a southeaster has raged, the tiny isle has become entirely submerged. Man has placed but one habitation upon this toy of the great waters, and that a fisher- man’s shack, surrounded with the usual net- drying racks and other crude tools of the 9 | | | / 4 | | . akan NE i ig Hg NR cat 10 WHEN THE COCK CROWS fisherfolk. One would rightly guess that the occupant of an abode built upon such a tiny bit of old mother earth must be a hardy cus- tomer, who understood the ways of the winds and sea and who dared combat them. It is sunrise. The door of the hut swings on its heavy hinges. A sturdy-looking old fellow with grizzled beard and flowing locks steps out of the shack, and, as has been his wont for years, he scans the horizon for a sail: or perchance for other more modern craft of the sea. In his arms, he is tenderly carrying a large Dominick rooster, which, judging from his length of spurs, and scaly legs, has lingered many summers. Satisfying himself that there is no boat in sight, to break the monotony of the view, Captain Ichabod places his only living companion—as he expresses it, his poultry alarm clock—upon the ground, and from a pocket produces a handful of corn, which the old cock greedily devours. These two have been companions for a long time. Captain Ichabod found him one morn- ing perched upon the top of a floating crate, washed from the deck of a schooner that had | j | | . j i i | = ICHABOD’S ISLAND 11 gone upon the beach in a booming southeaster. The Captain had proved a life-saver indeed to the proud old bird. Ichabod, when he first spied Shrimp, as he afterward named this bit of flotsam, was wildly anxious to save the creature so it might have a life on shore suited to its nature and desires. Then it flashed upon him that his antiquated and well- worn alarm clock had ceased to work. It occurred to him that the rooster’s crowing would suffice to advise him of the hour, and that there would be no need to buy another clock. The Captain was a woman-hater. This fact accounted for his choosing to live as a hermit on the bit of sand, which he had grown to love. But that loneliness was a trial to Shrimp, who naturally desired a harem of his own. Many times, when the wind was from the mainland, Captain Icha- bod had heard the far-away crow of a barn- yard fowl, and had gravely and criticizingly listened as Shrimp returned the salute in lusty manner. He had seen the bird swell in rage, and his comb turn red in jealous envy of the other rooster on the mainland. , Sa al A da a ae ae 12 WHEN THE COCK CROWS Captain Ichabod had now come to busying himself with fishing by hook and line for blue fish and sheepshead. In addition he set a line of gill nets in the cove for mullet or any _ other fish that might become entangled within _ their meshes. On all his excursions Shrimp accompanied his master. He would perch himself proudly upon the centerboard box. More than once, before becoming a seasoned sailor, he had failed to dodge the boom to which the little leg o’ mutton sail was at- tached, and had been knocked from his perch when Uncle Ichabod for a joke let the boat jibe in a flaw of the wind. But Shrimp learned. He learned to dodge the boom. He became, under stress of circum- stances, an expert sailor—and was never sea- sick. When Shrimp had finished his meal, Ich- abod addressed the mangy-looking bird very gravely: “Shrimp, thar hain’t nary sail nor steamer smoke in sight off the Capes and I low thar has a dozen skippers seen that-thar same mare’s tail as did I last night, and has had the good common sense to haul to in the | | | | | | . a: ICHABOD’S ISLAND 13 hook o’ the Cape ter ride out the blow that is sure ter come. May the sarpants o’ Davy Jones’ have mercy on him or her as don’t take kivver; me an’ you, rooster, ‘ll have ter do our hook an’ linin’ in the Spar Channel on this ebb fer so soon as she hauls a leetle more to the south’ard thar is goin’ ter be hell kicked up in the Inlet an’ me and yo’, ole feathers an’ comb, had better do our anglin’ clost enough that we can shoot inter this home harbor without loosin’ 0’ our rag.” Captain Ichabod busied himself with get- ting his leads and lines in shape. He cut up a half-dozen mullets for bait. Then he picked up the mast, around which was wrapped a patchwork of canvas, very snugly. It felt at home there for it had been thus rolled around the mast time and again through many years. Captain Ichabod now walked to the red skiff. At his heels Shrimp stalked with great dignity. The Captain stepped the mast, arranged the halyards, and pushed off. The sail caught the wind and Captain Ich-. abod at the tiller was off for the Spar Channel fishing grounds. ‘ When he had arrived and thrown his | pains as aii Si eaten 14 WHEN THE COCK CROWS anchor overboard, the Captain addressed Shrimp with much solemnity. “Shrimp, ye air a heap o’ company to the ole man, but ye wa’n’t built by God A’mighty fer a sailin’ mate, all he fixed ye fer was to _ peck an’ scratch an’ fight—oh, yes, an’ I like ter forgot the crow.” Then nonchalantly he remarked: “An’ thar would be a heap more peace in the world to-day if he had o’ built all kinds o’ Hens without thar tarnation cackle.”’ When Captain Icky mentioned the word cackle he thought he could detect a dejected look upon the countenance of his feathered friend, and in a sympathetic voice to ease the rooster’s feelings, said: “Wall, rooster, I must say that yo’r women folks was made with the only kind of cackle that has done men folks any good, but gosh darned if it hain’t a right-smart bit since I’s et an aig!” Then, having thus relieved himself, Ich- abod tossed his heavily sinkered lines into the swift tide. The fish were hungry, and he was kept busy hauling them in. The swell began to increase. The small eat hana ieniiienniniteg ister nen Sosa Hels Mesh tng Ain Srna ha SORT tm Oe abe ICHABOD’S ISLAND 15 craft began to rock uncomfortably. The sun was hidden by a red cloud that banked in the eastern sky. Captain Ichabod knew the signs. He pulled in his line and hooks, made sail, and beat across to the point where nestled the life-saving station. There he would read the barometer, have a chat and a meal with the men, and afterward make a quick run home before the wind. At the life-saving station, he found the barometer indicated storm, as he had feared. After a hearty dinner, and a pipe with yarns, Captain Ichabod set sail for the Island, and made it safely, in spite of the rising storm. The Captain realized that a gale was brewing. He gathered up his nets from their racks. He made them snug in the shack, and stowed away everything movable. He was weather-wise. He would not be caught unawares. A high tide had more than once taught him the lesson of that beach. He had the red skiff hauled well up out of harm's way. There was, too, an extra anchor tied to the painter. Captain Ichabod and the rooster entered their cottage, for refuge from the wind that was now blowing dangerously. 16 WHEN THE COCK CROWS The storm reached such Proportions that from his window to seaward it was no longer possible to make out through the rain and spray the broad crépe-like bands of black and white painted upon the great, towering light- house, at the extreme point of Cape Lookout, a few miles to the eastward. The shack was fairly shaking in the West India hurricane— for such it proved to be.... And great was the devastation wrought that night by both wind and wave. About midnight, Captain Ichabod, feeling that it was not quite safe to retire, stood in the open doorway. He little minded the pelting of the rain as it drove against his weathered cheek. He had donned his oil- skins, hat and slicker, and was peering in- tently seaward. He had been to his skiff and had dragged it a couple of rods further up on the sand as a measure of safety. A yellow flash showed dimly on the black storm clouds that banked the horizon to the north of the Cape—wherein nestled a tiny harbor of refuge. Those who knew took advantage of this retreat in times of tempest... . Wo unto the hapless seafarer, unknowing the way. ] | ICHABOD’S ISLAND 7 It did not take a second flash for the prac- tised eye of the lone man in oilskins to recog- nize that this was the thing he had expected— even while praying God that it might not be. It was the rocket signal of a boat in distress. Within sound of the breakers, that could not be seen in the pitch black, was a where a mass of timber and iron, eas with cargo and human freight. And : a mass, which was a ship, dragged its a a as if that anchor were a toy—foot by os to sure destruction on a beach that has hundred wrecks. ee ene continued to flare. ee and closer to the outer shoals of ap nm they beamed. The ship was swiftly an ly going to its doom. Tans “is face to the clouded heavens, and raising his voice in a final appeal, Uncle Ichabod prayed: i h a surf.” “God help the boys in such | At the point where the ship was making the distress signals, the coast offered only a : narrow strip of sand, running from the Cape to Ocracoke Inlet—many miles to the northeast. The old fisherman’s face was ashen. There 162 WHEN THE COCK CROWS himself and the girl in his charge. Yet even in this moment, the physician wondered if indeed there would ever be real rest for him while he should remember the staring, accusing eyes that looked up at him from the water’s depth. Garnet brought the tender alongside the wharf in shore, at a sufficient distance from the man to avoid disturbing the fishing. Then he climbed out upon the frail, wooden struc- ture built upon poles driven into the bottom, and made his way over its swaying surface to the native by the fire. This proved to be “Squire” Goodwin, the big man of the settlement. He was of an appearance above the average, and handsome still in spite of fifty-odd years of toil and exposure. He rose at Garnet’s approach, and, without waiting to be addressed, spoke with an air of genial familiarity. “T don’t usually go a-firin’ for trout this late o’ night, but the truth is that between the hell-fired skeeters and the gals havin’ beaux there wasn’t much for me to enjoy at home. My name’s Goodwin,” he added by way of introduction. ‘‘They call me Squire AMONG THE FISHERFOLK 163 all around these parts. I’m the justice o’ the peace. So be you’re after a warrant?” The last word affected Garnet very un- pleasantly, and he shook his head with such grim emphasis that the Squire perceived he had been mistaken as to the stranger’s pur- pose. “No?” he remarked. ‘‘Well, then, maybe it’s fair for me to make another guess.” A twinkle shone now in his clear eyes. ‘“Judg- ing from the face that the moon just lighted up there in the bow of your snapper, I don’t believe I’d be far wrong in judging ye two to be worldly folks that think a squire’s good as a parson. What mout you’re name be, stranger?” , At this blunt demand, Garnet again showed traces of embarrassment, but these endured only for an instant. He realized that in this place so remote from the ordinary lanes of travel there could be little danger in divulg- ing his identity. So he spoke with brisk confidence. “My name, sir, is Gifford Garnet, I am a physician. The young lady lying in the launch yonder is my patient. We were so d 164 WHEN THE COCK CROWS unfortunate as to be wrecked while on a yacht cruising in the waters to the south of here. We are now on our way northward, bound for one of the larger towns, where we shall be able to get transportation home. The young lady is suffering from an injured ankle, and, too, she has been for some time unconscious from a blow on the head received while we were escaping from the yacht. It is only within the last hour that she has seemed to be again quite normal. We were obliged to lay to in the lower section of the Sound for several hours, waiting for the weather to moderate. Otherwise we would not have been obliged to put in here and beg you for food and lodging. If you can take care of us over night I shall be only too glad . to pay you for your hospitality.” . “Pay me for my hospitality!” the Squire exclaimed indignantly. ‘“That’s something in my locality that’s never been for sale, and can’t be bought. You-all must be from the North. I’ve heard folks from the outside say that folks up there pay for everything, even for a place to hang their hats in public houses. Folks that pay for everything they AMONG THE FISHERFOLK 165 get lose all love for each other.’’ His tone changed abruptly, and he spoke authorita- tively. ‘“‘Get that young woman out 0’ the boat and after I make another dip, I’ll take ye up and show ye one shack where hospi- tality ain’t for sale. And when you go please remember that you don’t leave under any obligation to Squire Goodwin. I will say though, if ye ever catch me in you-all’s fix, and ye he’p me out, then I won't offer to pay you for your hospitality. I just don’t believe in it!”’ The Squire skipped back to his firelight, and the Doctor watched him toss four flop- ping, wriggling beauties upon the wharf. As the fish fell from the net, the Squire shouted triumphantly: “Say, Doctor, there’s a mornin’ meal you- all can’t pay for!” The task of getting Ethel Marion from the boat to the shore was not as difficult as Gar- net had anticipated. She was buoyed up wonderfully by the thought that comfortable quarters awaited her and good clean food to satisfy an appetite that was fast becoming ravenous. Had it not been for the injured 166 WHEN THE COCK CROWS ankle, she could have walked as rapidly as either of the men from the landing stage to the house. But when she rested her full weight on it, she found that it was still pain- ful, so that it was necessary for the Doctor to support her on one side while the Squire gallantly gave his aid on the other. As they reached the porch, there was a stealthy sound of scurrying and the pattering of bare feet, as the young-men callers slipped away in the darkness to their homes. Then the two young women hastened forward to greet the strangers in true Core Sound style. “Ma” was in bed, they explained, but they themselves, with easy, unaffected kindness proceeded to make the invalid at home. Then one of them hurried into the cook-room to prepare a quick meal. Ethel Marion, a girl of high society in New York City, and reared in luxury, had hith- erto known little of humble homes such as this in which now she was being cared for so generously. As she glanced about her, she saw that the walls were not covered with a paper especially prepared for the purpose, in the manner to which she had been accus- AMONG THE FISHERFOLK 167 tomed. Instead, they carried sheets of ordi- nary newspapers, most of them of a religious character. It was a quaint and indisputable witness to the fact that here she was in the home of a God-loving, Christian family. All of the furnishings were simple; most of them of great age. Among them were antiques to warm a collector’s heart. It was plain that these had been handed down through many generations. Those of later origin were care- fully wrought duplicates of the choicest models. In her astonishment amid surround- ings so strange and yet so pleasant, with the savor of cooking food in her nostrils, Ethel for the moment almost forgot the mystery and the peril through which she had passed— almost forgot, for a fleeting instant, the lover she had summoned to her aid by a message cast into the sea. CHAPTER XIV GARNET THE HERO HE dwellers of the Sound Country are early risers. For this reason, Ethel Marion was up and dressed next morn- ing earlier than ever before in her life. The dawn was just breaking when breakfast was announced. One of the buxom girls came to offer her services in dressing the invalid stranger. Then she was assisted to the porch for a breath of the early morning air, and she exclaimed in delight over the splendid view there unfolded. Far off to the east- ward the sun was just climbing up from be- hind a sand dune on the Banks. For miles up and down the coast the broken sand hills ran in a line north and south, trending the horizon. These showed free from any vege- tation except the scrub growth at their base and the sand of them shone under the rays 168 ‘ GARNET THE HERO of the rising sun like molten silver. In the foreground were the blue waters of the Sound now dimpling under the caressing touches of a gentle breeze. Here and there showed high lights from the whitecaps that stood out as souvenirs still of the storm that had passed. Off to the right of the small bay upon which the house was built, a tangled mass of ever- green shrubs offered a vivid note in the color scheme. These were the undergrowth of the huge forest trees, of which the limbs were almost hidden by the clinging wreaths of mistletoe. The esthetic sense of Ethel was touched to the deeps by this vista of beauty round- about. No wonder that the dwellers in this blessed region lived contented in youth, ma- turity, and old age. She wondered, rather, that anyone could be cross or ill tempered or evil in any way within the environment of a nature so benign. She was reluctant when Miss Goodwin gently led her away from the panorama of beauty toward the more sordid pleasure of the breakfast table. As she went, Ethel of- fered a silent and most devout prayer of grat- 169 - 170 WHEN THE COCK CROWS itude for her preservation and for the kind- ness she had received from Doctor Garnet and these strangers, whom just now she was very near to loving. Had it not been for the wish to appease the anxiety of friends at home, Ethel would have been content to remain long in this wonder spot, among a people so simple, so different from those to whom she had been acustomed, who were so little acquainted with the man- ners and the fashions of a so-called higher society. But, breakfast over, she was the first to suggest that it were best to leave this remote settlement, with all its charms of scenery and the compelling attractiveness of its homely goodness. The nerve-racked Gar- net also was anxious to depart. He had rested comparatively well after the excite- ment and strain of the previous day, and now to an eye not too critical he would have seemed quite normal. Yet, a certain wild- ness in the expression of his eyes had not wholly disappeared. Now that Ethel was herself again, she perceived that there was something radically wrong with the man. Naturally enough, she attributed this con- GARNET THE HERO 171 dition on his part to the worry over her wel- fare, and she even experienced a feeling almost like remorse that she should thus unwittingly have been the cause of suffering on his part. The Goodwins urged them to remain for a longer rest, but they abandoned their hos- Pitable efforts when Ethel pointed out the necessity of at once relieving the anxiety of her friends concerning her safety. They pro- vided, however, an ample amount of food to be carried by the voyagers, which would suf- fice them until they reached a town on the coast to the northward, and the entire family went down to the wharf to wish them God- speed. As the party approached the landing, the attention of all was called to Shrimp, who hitherto had been neglected. He came walk- ing proudly along the beach toward them from the pier. When the physician ex- plained that the rooster was a pet, the Squire — hurried back to the house and returned quickly With a small package of corn. A moment later, the launch was again in motion, while those on shore waved their adieux with 172 WHEN THE COCK CROWS handkerchiefs, to which Ethel replied in kind. : Ethel was eager in her praise for every member of the family that had shown them - such kindness and hospitality. “Oh, Doctor,” she exclaimed, ‘‘just as soon as the new yacht is built, the very first cruise shall be a visit to this beautiful spot. Father must know these plain people who have been such life-savers to us. You, too, Doctor Garnet, shall be one of the party. We'll see if we can’t devise some scheme by which to repay them for what they’ve done.” The physician made no reply. He seemed indeed to be wholly absorbed in meditation. But he aroused with a start from his reverie at the girl’s next question. “Doctor, you know a woman’s inquisi- tiveness! Last night you bade me be patient, and said that after a while you would tell me the whole story of this unfortunate affair. Now, I simply must ask you just one question. Will you answer it?”’ “T’ll try, Miss Marion,’’ was the answer, given with an air as nonchalant as he could assume. lai i tei ee elk i ns lich all ssni aL Salad elite bss deceit GARNET THE HERO 173 “Where are the villains who took part in this affair? Did they go down with The Isabel, or did they escape, and are they still at large?’’ Garnet looked the girl straight in the eye as he replied in a tone of the utmost sincerity. “The arch-conspirator escaped. He is probably being hunted by the best detectives in the country. He is sure to be captured eventually, dead or alive.” “Thank you, Doctor,” Ethel said grate- fully. ‘And in proof of my thanks, I won't trouble you any more on this subject, which seems to worry and annoy you. Of course, I don’t know what dreadful things you were obliged to go through with in order to save yourself and me from harm. Really, I’m not surprised that you don’t wish to talk about it. But I do hope they catch the guilty man and punish him as he deserves— hang him, perhaps.” The physician winced at the innocent re- : mark, and vouchsafed no reply. ‘ein The launch sped on and on. The wind in- creased in some degree during mid-forenoon, as is usual in southern waters at this season 174 WHEN THE COCK CROWS of the year. But the little craft was staunchly built, and by taking advantage of the head- lands she made fairly good progress. Garnet was beginning to suffer again from lack of the drug. Ethel had not as yet seen him use the hypodermic needle, nor did he care to have her. But by rapid stages his desire reached such a point that he must either have the relief of morphia or go mad. Then his cunning brain suggested that it would be easy enough to deceive this guileless girl. So he boldly told her that he was in a highly nervous state and suffering as well from a splitting headache, and that, therefore, he deemed it advisable to take a small injection of morphia, which would undoubtedly relieve him. Ethel had not the faintest idea that this learned man, of such eminence in his pro- fession, was, in fact, a drug fiend. She had no suspicion of the truth even when she saw the point of the hypodermic syringe penetrate the skin of his forearm. She merely admired the graceful, deft movements of the long and slender fingers. Nevertheless, the girl could hardly fail to GARNET THE HERO 175 - note the change that came almost immediately over the man. Now he became again his usual self, with little, if any, trace of ner- vousness, with the manner that was affable and sympathetic. It was a half hour later when Ethel, ever alert, noticed a fisherman’s boat laboring clumsily down the Sound. In years agone, it had been equipped with a sail, but now it chugged away industriously under the energy of a wheezing gasoline engine. There were several persons aboard—three men, two women and a baby in arms. During her first glance at the ungainly-looking boat, the _ beat of the engine ceased, and it was evident from the actions of the man who busied him- self with the machinery that the motor had balked, As the launch drew nearer, the girl saw that those in the broken-down craft were in a state of consternation, with their atten- tion centered on the child. She cried out in wonder to the Doctor. “What in the world can be the matter in that boat? It must have something to do With the baby.” Garnet answered without hesitation. 176 WHEN THE COCK CROWS “Yes, Miss Ethel, I’ve been watching, and there is certainly something seriously wrong. T’ll go close enough to hail them.” The men in the fishing boat began to wave their hats as distress signals, and the Doctor nodded and raised his hand as a signal that he was coming. When the launch came within hailing dis- tance, one of the men shouted out an explan- ation. The propeller had become entangled in a piece of floating net, and so rendered useless. The party came from the Tourne- quin Bay section, where an epidemic of diphtheria was raging. This baby had not improved under the “granny” treatment of the neighborhood, in which there were no doctors. In consequence, it was now being taken to Beaufort to receive the antitoxin— that new remedy for which such miracles were claimed. Even as the man was speaking, the baby was seized with a fit of strangling that brought it almost to the point of death. Came a transformation scene. Here was no longer Garnet, the crazed drug fiend. In his stead was revealed the man and the physi- cian—he who in times of distress and suffering GARNET THE HERO v7 had always given his services to the best of his ability. In this moment the old instinct rose dominant. He called to them in a loud clear voice. “Tam a physician. If you will permit me I’ll come aboard and try to give temporary relief. Something must be done promptly, or the child will die.” In order to save Ethel as far as possible from any danger of contagion, Garnet brought the launch alongside the stern of the fishing boat, since the baby was in the bow. As he “stepped aboard the other craft he bade one of the men let the launch drop back astern to full length of the painter. While this was being done, the physician, medicine case in hand, hurried to the child that lay struggling spasmodically in its mother’s arms. An in- stant of examination showed to Garnet's practiced eyes that the throat was almost completely filled with the membrane charac- teristic of the disease, and that it must be only a matter of minutes before suffocation would ensue unless effective measures for relief were taken. A glance to the shore two miles away told him that the delay in reaching it would 178 WHEN THE COCK CROWS prove fatal to his patient’s chances. It was evident that if the baby’s life were to be saved he must act—and act now. Nor did he hes- itate. With lightning-like rapidity he took out his emergency’ kit of surgeons’ tools. He bade the most intelligent-appearing of the men hold the child according to his precise directions. Then, with his coat off and shirt sleeves rolled up, Doctor Garnet braced himself in the tossing boat and performed the operation of tracheotomy, while the mother crouched weeping and praying with her face hidden in her hands. Presently, the sufferer grew quiet, for now it was able to breathe again. Thanks to the great skill of this man, once again a life had been saved. The parents of the child were profuse in the expressions of heartfelt gratitude. They would have given what little money they had to this savior of their child. But Garnet, of course, would take no fee for his services. He diverted the chorus of thanks by offering to take in tow the disabled fishing boat and bring it to the shore, whence means could be secured for their going on to Beaufort. He GARNET THE HERO 179 insisted that in spite of what he had done, the baby should be taken to the town, in order to receive treatment with the antitoxin. Throughout all the scene, Ethel had watched the physician with eyes tn which shone pride and affection. It seemed to her that this man was one who fought always to relieve distress according to the best measure of his strength. “He has succored me,” she mused with a warm glow in her heart. “He is taking me to my home—to Roy. He has stopped only long enough to rescue another sufferer from the jaws of death—even as he rescued me. He is a hero.” CHAPTER XV ADRIFT WITH A MADMAN HE afflicted child showed marked signs T of improvement by the time The Tsabel’s tender, with its tow, reached the small hamlet of Atlantic—a cluster of fishermen’s houses and two stores built on a bluff to the westerly side of Core Sound. There the disabled boat was pulled out upon the beach so that the stern was exposed and workmen could get at the injured shaft. The work of repair was simple. Soon the craft was restored to running condition, and its passengers went on their way, their hearts filled with new hopes for the safety of the child’: Ethel remained at the wharf, since the steep climb up the bluff must have proved too trying for her injured ankle. But the Doctor, acting under the girl’s instructions, 180 ADRIFT WITH A MADMAN 181 made his way up the hillside to the stores in order to purchase for her some necessary apparel to replace that lost in the wreck. There was occasion also to buy additional gasoline for the launch. With these things provided, the two again set forth on their voyaging. The physician, though he appeared genial enough, was in fact greatly perturbed. He had tried in vain to secure morphia at either of the stores in Atlantic. He took advantage of his absence from Ethel to administer an- other injection, so that for the present the © craving was stilled. But he was filled with dread for the future. While the launch moved forward steadily through the calm water, he secretly counted again the pellets remaining in the vial. Heartsick, he realized the truth. It was a matter only of a few hours before his stock of the drug would be entirely exhausted. In such a situation, knowing as he did the horrible suffering that must ensue to him for lack of morphia, Garnet did not hesitate. He had learned by inquiries that there was a physician at Portsmouth, on the south side of Ocracoke 3 ete eae 182 WHEN THE COCK CROWS Inlet, at the extreme northerly end of Core Banks. He must direct the launch thither, there to seek relief from his fellow practi- tioner. There was even the possibility of whiskey to mitigate his torture, for as one of the natives had informed him in Atlantic, “No’th Caroliny wasn’t plumb bone- dry.” ‘ For some time now, Ethel Marion had closely watched her companion. She could not but perceive how different was his manner from that of the man who, for years, had visited her father’s house whenever medical aid was needed. Formerly he had been full of life and vigor; a man of most affable bear- ing, while now he was morose, almost dif- fident. Since her return to consciousness, she had not once seen a smile on his face. In- stead, his expression was always abstracted and remote. Moreover, at times, the girl had seen him turn his face quickly to the south as if moved by some irresistible and baneful attraction. And, too, at such times he had shuddered visibly. Ethel felt con- vinced that there remained something very frightful in the story still to be told concern- ADRIFT WITH A MADMAN 183 ing the wreck of the yacht. As she watched the man, a vague fear developed in her—a fear of him, for him. She had as yet no sus- picion that she had been in mortal peril through the act of this man. But she was more than half convinced that he could be no longer a safe protector, for the peculiarity of his appearance and manner soon con- vinced her that he was actually deranged. It was evident that he desired to be left to his Own musings. So, for a long time, she re- frained from any attempt toward conversa- tion. She even feigned sleep, but through the long, brown lashes she continued to study the worn and harassed visage before her. And it was during this period of sly observation that she detected his deft resort to the hypo- dermic syringe. She witnessed as well the febrile anxiety with which he once more in- Spected the number of pellets. She noted with dismay the horror in his drawn features as he stared at the vial. Her ears even caught his whispered words: “Only two!” _But before the startled and apprehensive girl could formulate a conclusion as to the } 184 WHEN THE COCK CROWS significance of what she had seen and heard, there came an interruption. In the spring great numbers of shad jour- ney from the depths of the Atlantic to their - spawning grounds far up in the head waters of the Neuse and Pamlico Rivers. The Sound fisherman is alert to know the time of their coming and stakes his gill nets all along the miles upon miles of shallows away from the buoy-marked channel of the Sound, in order that he may gain for himself the high prices paid in the northern markets for these deli- cacies of the sea. It is the rule that after the shad season the stakes to which the nets had been tied shall be removed. But sometimes carelessness, or worse, leaves the stakes in their places. In many instances these are broken off below the surface of the water by the buffeting of the waves. Thus invisible, they become a serious menace in the course of small boats. Sometimes in rough water, a boat falling from a wave has struck on one of these to have its bottom pierced, and forth- with to fill and sink. i It was one of these stakes that now caused catastrophe. The sloping stern scraped over ADRIFT WITH A MADMAN 185 it. Next instant, the brittle bronze propeller blades rasped against it. They were swept off as smoothly as icicles from a window ledge, and the homeward cruise of the frail little tender was at an end. There came a scream from Ethel, which was echoed by a groan from the physician as his thoughts went in despair to the two pellets— only two! It was with the mechanical action of the experienced yachtsman that he threw the throttle of the engine as it raced free from the propeller’s resistance. “Oh, Doctor,” the girl cried, ‘‘what is it now? What has happened to us—” “Our propeller blades are stripped, Miss Marion,” he answered, in a tone of deep de- jection. “There is no injury to the hull, of course, or we would have taken in water already. There is no danger, but,” he con- cluded with great bitterness, “it is very dis- couraging, I must admit.” ; “What shall we do, Doctor?—drift with the wind until we are picked up by some Passing vessel?’’ a _“T think not, Miss Ethel,” Garnet replied. “Judging from the direction of the breeze, in 186 WHEN THE COCK CROWS less than an hour we shall come on the shore ~ of Core Banks.” He spoke in a new voice of gentleness as he continued: a “Pray do not worry. I don’t believe there is an acre of water that we will pass over where the depth would be above our arm-pits.” The thought of being stranded upon the barren Core Banks would have been serious enough to awaken dread in the heart of any woman, even in the company of a sane person. But Ethel Marion had her distress instantly increased by the fact that the man with her was of unsound mind. She had a general idea of how far they would be distant from any human habitation. This very strip of sand had been pointed out to her many times by the local pilot aboard her father’s yacht. Now, there came crashing into her tortured brain memories of tales told by that same pilot; concerning treasure secreted there years agone by the pirate Black Beard; concern- ing the weird lights that rose from the sands at night, then mysteriously vanished; con- cerning the evil beach-combers who burned here their flares to trick the skippers of ships ADRIFT WITH A MADMAN _ 187 out at sea and deliver them to death upon these sands, where the bones of the vessels might be picked at ease; concerning the utter isolation of this region, where no human beings were to be found short of Portsmouth at one end and Cape Lookout at the other— fifty miles apart. a The launch drifted slowly, but none the less surely, toward the strip of sterile bleak- ness broken only by the huddled masses of the dunes. As she saw them that morning from the porch of Squire Goodwin's home, Ethel had thought them a splendid and in- Spiring spectacle. Now, under the changed circumstances, their nearer aspect terrified her. She felt a desperate wonder as to what fate might hold in store. By a mighty effort of will, the girl forced back the fear that threatened to overcome her. She addressed Garnet in a voice that trem- bled only slightly. “Would it not be better to drop the anchor, and remain out here where we could surely be Seen by passing boats?” The Doctor shook his head in negation as he answered: 188 WHEN THE COCK CROWS “No, Miss Ethel. It would be of no use, for we are too far from the traveled route. Besides, you have been so long cramped up aboard this little boat that it’s imperative that you should stretch yourself ashore. As far as the fishermen are concerned, we can make signals to them on shore as well as from here, better in fact.” He pointed suddenly. “T can make.out a rough fisherman’s shack over younder between the dunes. There’s no chance of its being occupied at this season, but the shelter afforded by it will mean every- thing to you.” Ethel looked in the direction indicated. “Oh, yes, Doctor, I see it. I suppose it would help in an emergency, but I do hope we shall not be compelled to pass a night in this desolate place.” The physician’s voice was surcharged with gloom—perhaps from pity for himself rather than for her—as he replied. “Tt'g already near sundown, so I’m greatly afraid we must pass at least a night in this wretched place. There is just one chance. Should the wind veer a little further to the ae re I ee eee ADRIFT WITH A MADMAN 189 southward, I could possibly use a pole and so push the boat up along the shore toward Portsmouth. But while the breeze remains in its present quarter, we have no choice but to stay here marooned. I only wish we had taken on more supplies at Atlantic. Should I be obliged to go on foot to Portsmouth in order to bring back a boat for you, a collection of canned goods would prove capital company for you during my absence.” ' Ethel regarded the physician with surprise, and a tremulous smile bent her lips, for this was his first and only attempt at humor throughout all the trip. But as she studied his face, with its lugubrious expression, she came to the conclusion that, after all, he had not in the least meant to be funny; had, on the contrary, spoken in all seriousness. Presently, the waves bore the tender gently upon the shelving strip of sand. Ethel re- mained on board, while Garnet went to make an inspection of the hut. Shrimp, too, hurriedly hopped from the tiny deck forward, and when he found him- self safe ashore expressed his gratification by a lusty crow—his first during the voyage. + ee ace ee Aa Tas eee See ee i ee SSS 190 WHEN THE COCK CROWS Garnet found the accommodations far bet- ter than he could have expected. The shack contained a small cook-stove, cooking uten- sils, clean bunks, some chairs and a table. He returned and aided Ethel to disembark. Then, still holding her hand, he led her toward ack. eae went in a mood of dire foreboding to- ward this miserable shelter, under the escort of a man whom she now knew to be crazed. CHAPTER XVI THE CoMING-ouT PARTY S Captain Ichabod left the physician's house after having made his confes- sion, Doctor Hudson stood watching him while he walked briskly away. “See how that old devil is stepping it off down the street like a four-year-old,” was the observer’s comment. ‘He really has taken on a new lease of life, and materia medica didn’t have a finger in the Pie, either. If it had happened a few years earlier that he had a chance to tell Sandy Mason what he thought of him, and to save a woman from drowning, likely as not there’d have been a wife and children on the Island to-day to cheer the old fellow’s declining years. It’s a shame that cat of a woman ever crossed his path, for he’s one of the best-meaning, greatest-hearted men in the county.” IQt 192 WHEN THE COCK CROWS Suddenly, the Doctor chuckled. “By George, I have an idea, and I'll get busy on it. Yes, sir, I'll take the old rascal at his word.” With that, Doctor Hudson disappeared inside his house and shut the door after him. The government wireless station at Beau- fort is built upon an island, which is sepa- rated from the mainland by the narrow chan- nel of New Port River just before it empties — into the sea. Now, Captain Jones went at once to the government wharf, where he se- cured the services of a small boy to row him to the island. On his arrival, he was warmly welcomed, for he was as popular there as with the men of the coast guard. As he entered the small receiving-room, the instru- ments were spitting out dots and dashes, with all kinds of sparks for accompaniment. The principal operator was taking down a message. As soon as the task was ended, he whirled about and greeted the old fisherman enthusiastically. “Why, howdy, Captain Ichabod—glad to see you. It’s sure fine of you to come over. I understand there’ve been some exciting THE COMING-OUT PARTY 198 times up in your neck of the woods. By the way, what was the name of the yacht that went on the rock?” “Tt was The Isabel, of New York,” i Ichabod. Ber nds that so!”’ exclaimed the operator. ‘If that’s the case, I reckon this message I just yanked out of the air will be of interest to you.” He handed the paper to the Captain, who, after finding his spectacles and adjusting them carefully, read aloud the following: “To all port officers: Motor-driven yacht Isabel of New York, put to sea without clearance papers. Investigation shows she was probably stolen. Daughter of owner a prisoner on board. If located in your vicinity arrest boat and all members of crew. Make diligent search for young woman and release her. The bulletin was signed by an officer of the Treasury Department. “We'll I'll be doggoned!” cried the Captain, in great astonishment. “I knowed that feller was some kind o’ a bad egg, but now I believe to goodness he was plumb sp’ilt. That poor a po rt ee on Fee RIS FANE RE A Ao eA ETC EPP REE UTS TTT + Katie 194 WHEN THE COCK CROWS little brown-eyed gal! What a pity! I wish I’d a held right smack onto her—that I do.” “T suppose,” the operator rejoined, ‘“‘that bulletin has been picked up by all of the sta- tions, so that the boys are keepin’ a sharp lookout to overhaul the yacht and pinch the bunch, an’ especially to save the girl. I'll get this over to the Collector of Customs right away. He'll want to report the escape of the man and woman and to give the direction they went.” “Ve'd better tell him to mention the dead feller, an’ that he was tied down.” “That’s right, Uncle Ichabod. Say, but there’s a lot of mystery about this affair. I'll bet my boots you haven’t heard the last of it.” “Maybe not,” the fisherman admitted. “But, by cracky, since what I’ve been through a’ready they can’t skeer Ichabod. No, not by.a damned sight!” It was very seldom that Captain Jones used a profane expression. When he did, it was with deliberate intention. Upon this island where the wireless outfit is stationed, the government has another institu- SAE LS OR ERD OOF er Ces TEU Nn Sa gh ERA Ep ah THE COMING-OUT PARTY 195 tion—a laboratory where studies are made in sea life. It includes a remarkable museum, which is visited by students from far and near. There are power boats equipped for dredging at considerable depth in order to bring to light the secret things of the sea. Many of the curios are contributed by the fishermen, who are.continually dragging forth in their nets objects strange to them. When a thing of real rarity is brought to the laboratory, a snug sum is paid to the finder. The Captain himself had always a ready eye for anything that might prove of value, and his finds from time to time netted him a tidy profit. To-day . he had with him a variety of sea porcupine new to him, which he had found in his net a few days before. So now, on leaving the wireless station, Ichabod visited the labora- tory, where the sea porcupine was duly deliv- ered and brought in return a satisfactory sum of money. Here, too, he retold once again all his experiences in connection with the wreck of The Isabel. By the time this was done, the afternoon was well spent. The old man was rowed back to the mainland, where he entered the red skiff and set sail homeward. = 196 WHEN THE COCK CROWS As he passed up the bay, the tide was low, so that in many places the shoals and rocks were exposed. Captain Ichabod, reclining lazily in the stern sheets of the skiff, tiller in hand, listened to the noisy clatter of the gulls, which in vast swarms were feeding on their favorite scallops. Ages ago, the gulls discovered that the fluted shell must be broken ere the luscious morsel within could be obtained. It was wholly impossible for them to crush the stonelike casing with their bills. So the birds devised another means. This was to carry the shell high aloft, then drop it on the shoals. Tf it fell on a hard surface, it would be broken open, and the scallop within would be promptly devoured by the gull following. When the shell fell in a soft place, and re- mained unbroken the bird would merely con- tinue its efforts until finally crowned with success. Ichabod, idly watching such re- peated trials, was induced to meditation on the lesson thus taught. “Tt shore is a pity that arter Roxana Lee” —the name came easily now—‘arter a-stab-_ bin’ o’ me in the back—yes, it’s a pity THE COMING-OUT PARTY 197 that I didn’t do sort 0’ like that Scotch feller that watched the spider try an’ try an’ try ag’in till at last he spun his web whar he aimed to. Why, when he saw what that- thar crab-lookin’ son-of-a-gun could do, he jumped right up, an’, a-bucklin’ himself around a leetle tighter, went out and cleaned up a whole mess that was arter him. By cracky! all I had to do was to come right out to these sand shoals an’ oyster rocks an’ watch them noisy gulls a-tryin’ an’ a-tryin’, an’ at last bustin’ a scallop. I jest believe, if I’d done that, then I’d have got right square up an’ licked Sandy Mason, an’ told Rox- ana what I thought o’ her no-’countness, an’ then I might have married the best-lookin’ woman in Cartaret County. “But, then, what’s the use?” he continued, as he drew the sheet in a little closer, so hold- ing the skiff more into the wind, in order to round a point of marsh land. ‘‘That’s an- cient history, an’ I ain’t a-goin’ to study. it. I’ve done turned over a new leaf. I hope, Ichabod, ye’ll live right an’ die happy.” The skiff was nearing the home port. Cap- 198 WHEN THE COCK CROWS tain Ichabod’s attention was called to a sound of happy voices—women’s notes, as he expressed it. Unless he was much mistaken, it came from his own Island. The old fisherman, true to his instinct of fear in reference to womankind, loosened the sheet, so that the skiff might slide by and let him learn more definitely what might be the meaning of this invasion. The matter was not long in doubt. As he rounded a point, he saw them. It seemed to him there were a dozen or more of women. They were not only upon the Island: the shack door stood open. There were women actually going in and out through the en- trance—busy as bees. . . . Upon the shore, a great fire was burning. . Ichabod, who had been brave for three days, now began to be afraid of this influx of fem- inine furbelows—this show of skirts. Twice Ichabod tacked with a desire to take a run- ning look at his own Island; and twice he dared not make a landing because of the feminine contingent on shore. But, when he sailed the red skiff by his homeland for the third time, he recognized a pudgy figure on THE COMING-OUT PARTY 199 the shore, which was waving frantically to- ward him. “Oh, hell!’”? Ichabod spoke, with great in- dignation. “If it ain’t Hudson! Consarn him, he has took me at my word an’ if he hain’t brought a flock o’ ’em! I didn’t aim to run away, nohow. I jest forgot fer a minute thet I had reformed. I wonder what the fire means? It’s mighty early yet for an oyster roast, but they are a-gittin’ fat.” The Doctor met the old fellow at the land- ing. Ichabod wore a sheepish look, while, on the contrary, the physician’s good-natured face was wreathed in smiles. “Throw me your painter, Captain iad - shouted the medical man. ‘‘WhenI get that in hand I’ll feel sure that you are really here!” ‘Old Icky went forward, wound the sail neatly around the mast, removed the rudder, pulled up the center-board, and then tossed to Hudson a line to be turned around the piling. Ichabod stepped ashore, nonplused. His ex- pression was stern and forbidding as he ad- vanced on his friend, the Doctor, and de- manded the meaning of all this. 200 WHEN THE COCK CROWS “Why, Captain Ichabod,” came the an- swer, ‘the women folks up there have named this meeting Ichabod Jones’ coming-out party. You know in great cities where there’s a heap of society, when a girl reaches an age that they think it is time for her to be setting her cap, they arrange a swell party to let the fellows know that the young lady is eligible. So, you see, that’s the case to-day. Only, this time, it’s a man that has come out of his shell, and you can believe me that shell was the hardest one I ever tried to crack!” “Say, Hudson, did I tell ye I was a-lookin’ fer a woman? No, sir; I only said as how they was welcome to come to the Island. This how-dy-do o’ your’n I call a-rubbin’ it in pretty hard. If it’s a joke with you, it hain’t with me.” r “Now, old friend, don’t get peeved. Til tell you just how it came about. After you left my house, I went out to pay some pro- fessional calls. Ichabod, your name’s in everybody’s mouth. They all asked ques- tions about you, knowing how close friends we are. What could I do but just up and tell THE COMING-OUT PARTY 201 how you had seen the light and had hit the trail for happiness; how all women were to be welcome at the Island from now on, and how the latch-string would be hanging always on the outside of the shack door? I had no sooner arrived home than one of these good ladies called me up and asked me if I would mind escorting a few of them to the Island to congratulate you on your quitting playing Rip Van Winkle as far as women were con- cerned. I just told the pretty creatures I’d be only too glad to go with them. . . . Shake hands, Ichabod. Let your family physician be the first to welcome you back.’ Realizing that the whole trouble had been caused by his talking too much and that no one was to blame save himself, the old man smiled somewhat wryly as he grasped his friend’s extended hand. » “Say, Doc,” he declared, “I always did like a joke where it didn’t hurt none. So, I ain’t a-goin’ to make ye out untruthful to that passal 0’ women.” With that, the fisherman slipped his arm within the Doctor’s, and walked forward spir- itedly toward his doom—as he mentally + 202 WHEN THE COCK CROWS ~ termed this social ordeal. It was indeed his coming-out party, and never a débutante so secretly tremulous and shy as Captain Icky. ee CHAPTER XVII. STRANGERS AT IcHABOD’S ISLAND HE friendly squeeze that Doctor Hudson was giving Ichabod’s arm as they advanced toward the group of women — heartened the old man mightily. A few days since, he would have felt that he was being led as a martyr to be burned at the stake. But now, in the twinkling of an eye, every- thing was changed. It is true that he felt a keen embarrassment over this introduction to feminine society after his isolation from it for twenty years. Yet his natural courage dominated this embarrassment, so that he faced the trial bravely enough. The Doctor explained to him that a formal introduction to the ladies would be necessary.. “That is,” Hudson continued, “to all ex- cept one. You are already acquainted with the one just now coming out of the shack door with your vinegar bottle in her hand. 203 204 WHEN THE COCK CROWS It’s Miss Sarah Porter that I’m referring to. She has told me that vou have talked with her on more than one occasion about your domestic troubles and your lonely life. She has told me, too, that she tried her best to give you advice that would be good for you.” Ichabod replied defensively. “Wall, I cal’late I’ve been a-tryin’ to take her advice!” Tt was even as Doctor Hudson had said. In spite of the sharp eyes and wagging tongues of the townsfolk, few had known that the old fisherman occasionally visited Miss Porter in the hostelry managed by her for many years, and that there he had listened gratefully to her words of kindly admonition. As a matter of fact, long before the Lee woman entered into the fisherman’s life, he had felt very kindly toward Miss Porter, and his attentions had been well received by her. It is very possible that he might have offered himself to her years ago, had it not been for a con- scientious scruple as to his jilted self being ‘unworthy. So, he saw her only at rare inter- vals, and then only when he brought fish to sell, thus making business his excuse. There mors oe) eae STRANGERS AT ICHABOD’S ISLAND 205 had been to him a certain comfort in the fact that this vivacious woman of sixty had never married. Heeven dared to wonder sometimes with a thrill of vanity if her feeling toward him could have been the cause of her spin- sterhood. And this was always followed by an emotion of disgust with himself that he should ever have found the company of Rox- ana more to his liking than that of the pleasant and wholesome Sarah. When the Captain saw Miss Porter with the vinegar bottle in her hand, he knew that the visitors were preparing an oyster roast, which, of course, accounted for the fire of twigs and seaweed. Now, the other women stood in a row, while Sarah, her face wreathed in smiles, came forward to greet her old lover. This done, she formally presented Ichabod to the other guests. The fisherman’s in- creased embarrassment expressed itself in a sheepish grin, when it suddenly dawned on him that every one of the women there before him was unmarried. Dr. Hudson remarked afterward that Ichabod looked to him as if he were convinced that each and every one was ‘‘after him!’’ 206 +4 WHEN THE COCK CROWS Nevertheless, once the introductions were over, the Captain found himself at ease in a manner quite surprising. Every one of the visitors seemed to enter into the spirit of the affair with a whole-hearted geniality that was infectious, and under this benignant influence the host was filled with an unaccustomed happiness. He at once began to assist in the roasting of the oysters, which the women had gathered from the rocks. He gave them carte blanche to help themselves to plates and forks and such other things as were need- ful from the shack. tone was so rude as to refer to Ichabod’s reformation. But Sarah Porter, whenever she caught his eye, gave him a look that spoke inly as words: . ene Jones, at last I have found you d Iam proud of you!” , Rs tank Ge eee liiea herself, with justice, on the fact that her talks with him had had much to do with this change. She was the only one in the party of mature age; the others were comparatively young and sprightly maidens. This selection of guests was due to the fine Italian hand of the Doc- Bae _ STRANGERS AT ICHABOD’S ISLAND 207 tor. Evidently, he was hard at work on a plan to make Ichabod Jones a_ provider, rather than trying to find him a place as housekeeper, in accordance with the fisher- man’s original request. The hours passed delightfully for all—espe- cially for the host whose pleasure was edged by the novelty of the situation in which he found himself. It was not until the moon showed in the east that the visitors made ready for departure. Just before the party embarked, the boldest of the maidens kissed the old man’s weather-beaten cheek. There was a burst of laughter from the onlookers. Ichabod could feel himself blushing furiously, but that blush was invisible under the deep tan. Then the others thus saluted him, one by one—all save Sarah Porter. She bestowed herself in the launch while the kissing was going on, and Ichabod, regard- ing her furtively with anxious eyes, read in her expression signs of strong disapproval, . which disconcerted him hugely, and robbed him in great measure of his just due of enjoy- ment under the osculatory attack. Then, it was all over! The old man stood 208 WHEN THE COCK CROWS waving his hat mechanically as the launch glided away. Ichabod watched with unseeing eyes. He was in a daze, thinking more in sorrow than in anger of “how fer he had let them minxes go with him—an’ Sary a-lookin’ on, too!” He shook his head despondently, as he reflected that the closing incident would have been more agreeable if “Sary hadn't been a-lookin’ on.” ~ Once more, Ichabod Jones burned midnight oil. In the early evening he brought his easy chair out in front, where he could see the glistening waters and watch the moon climb. high. He smoked pipeful after pipeful of his strong tobacco. Again he made rings, and thought, and wondered. It was after ten before he arose and went into the shack, lighted his oil lamp, laid out his paper and pencil, and proceeded to add more to the record that he had started. No doubt, after STRANGERS AT ICHABOD’S ISLAND 209 That night, as Ichabod finished his entry in the diary and leaned far back in his chair with chest expanded, his chin with its whift of beard thrown out at an angle of forty-five degrees, he reminded one of a cartoon of Uncle Sam when showing a self-satisfied air. The picture he portrayed at least conveyed the impression that he was monarch of all he surveyed and even dared once again to place his battle flag of conquest on the mainland of Cartaret County. As he put away his writing materials and prepared to retire to his lonely bunk, he again talked aloud. ~ “Tt looks to me, by cracky, as if things was a-movin’ jest a leetle too rapid fer a starter. It reminds me right smart o’ a hoss race I saw at the fish and oyster fair, at New Bern, a spell back. The animal that I cal’lated would win, he jest started off like a steam engine, an’ when he got half way around he Sem aa gp ee pe his long reverie in the moonlight, he had come to the conclusion that the fact of his being kissed by ten young women and having one more making eyes at him in one day, the first 7 of his reformation, was of moment enough to ra be recorded. f was clean ahead o’ the bunch. But by the time he reached the home-stretch, he was a swettin’ like a mad bull an’ puffin’ like a grampus—an’ every other hoss got in fust. Here I am now, kissed by ten 0’ the prettiest aoe 210 WHEN THE COCK CROWS gals in Beaufort jest as the sun is a-settin’ on my first day o’ new manhood. I’m startin’ too almighty fast. If I don’t tame down I’ll lose out on the home-stretch. I opine Sara didn’t like the idea o’ that kissin’ business. I was particular to hold my face straight out where she could see it an’ not let my lips tech nary one o’ ’em. But I guess it would be safer to go down an’ tell Sara how partic’lar I was, an’ how I wanted to tell ’em to stop, but didn’t dar’st not to be polite.” As Captain Ichabod lay in his bunk before falling asleep, he allowed his mind to dwell upon more serious things. He thought of the wireless message. What, had become of the strange man, of the woman, and of his rooster, _ Shrimp? He wondered that there were no reports of their passing other boats. His heart was sore for that poor woman who had lain so long unconscious upon his bed. His interest in her was vital, for he had saved her life. What could the man mean by thus secretly hurrying away? Ichabod had asked himself this question many times. Now he knew beyond peradventure of doubt that the -engine in the sunken yacht. STRANGERS AT ICHABOD’S ISLAND 211 fellow was a criminal, a refugee from justice, with a young woman of gentle birth in his power. — Ichabod’s conscience smote him. He was ashamed that he had not instituted a search immediately after the fellow’s disappearance from the Island. He had had the right to call on the Sheriff of the county for aid. There had been plain theft. A pair of blankets had been stolen from him—as also his chan- ticleer. The monetary loss from this robbery meant nothing to the fisherman, but it would have served as an excuse for arresting the man, and thus rescuing his girl victim. . . . Icha- bod remembered the man chained to the It was doubt- less this murderer who now had the girl in his power. Should it suit his ends, would that desperate man hesitate to murder even the girl herselfi—the girl he had saved from drowning? Ichabod decided that he would fulfill a belated duty by going to town next — day, there to swear out a warrant of arrest against the abductor of the girl, that thus the Sheriff should have reason to search the waters oe i i} i | 212 WHEN THE COCK CROWS of the Sound in the hope of arresting the guilty man and rescuing his victim. . . . Despite the thrilling experiences of a day so unaccustomedly feminine, the sturdy old fisherman, when he was done with his med- itations, slept soundly throughout the night. He was up at cock-crow—though there was no clarion call from Shrimp to awaken. It was while he was busy over the prepara- tion of a modest breakfast that there came the wailing cry of a yacht’s siren. It sounded from the northward, evidently not far away from the Island. Captain Icky shut the drafts on the stove, pushed the coffee-pot back to a position where it would keep hot without boiling. Then he stepped outside the shack to watch the incoming vessel pass - over the bar into the waters cf the Inlet. He was impressed at first glance by the beautiful lines of the little vessel, which was evidently of light draft so she might cruise safely in shallow waters, while capable of weathering a storm-tossed sea. It was a new thing that a yacht of such size should come to anchor off the Island. Icha- bod watched curiously as the vessel slackened _ STRANGERS AT ICHABOD’S ISLAND 213 heavily and then let a light anchor drop from the starboard side of the bow. Presently, he _ Saw a small boat put off from the yacht, rowed by two sailors, and carrying two passengers in the stern. When he made sure that a land- ing was intended, Ichabod went down to the point to greet the unexpected visitors. As the boat touched the landing, the two men stepped ashore and advanced toward Ichabod, who greeted them hospitably. “Howdy, men! Ye are welcome to Icha- bod’s Island. But it’s a leetle unusual to have a call from boats o’ your class. ... Jones is my name—Captain Ichabod Jones, at your service!’’ The shorter man stepped forward, and in- troduced himself as Jack Scott. He presented his companion as his friend, Roy Morton. “Captain Jones,” the stranger began, ‘we — are now, I take it, just at the entrance to the Beaufort Inlet.” “Yes, yender is the Inlet,” Ichabod replied. The other spoke with curt incisiveness. “We're in a hurry. We'd like to ask you a few questions. It’s plain no craft of any size could pass your Island without attracting 214 WHEN THE COCK CROWS notice. We're looking for a yacht stolen from her anchorage in the North River. She has now been missing for several days. The last report we’ve been able to get is that she was seen passing out of Pamlico into Core Sound. Do you know the whereabouts of any such boat? Her name was The Isabel. “The Isabel!” Ichabod answered. ‘‘Thar she lays!” : The two men followed the direction of the horny hand—and saw! Roy Morton felt a sick dizziness crash upon him. In that mo- ment of agony, he believed that the girl he loved was forever lost. CHAPTER XVIII THE CALL OF THE DARK FEW handfuls of sea water dashed into Roy’s face by Ichabod, together with a rough massage by Van Dusen, soon brought the young man around again. “T must have the truth,” he declared, ‘“‘no matter how terrible, Was the young woman lost?” : “Why, no, young man,” the fisherman an- swered; ‘‘least-wise, not in the wreck. I took her out o’ the water myself. She was plumb full o’ swallered brine, but I had that out o’ her in a jiffy. I took her into my shack an’ got her all right exceptin’ her haid. Poor thing never did speak to me but once.” “Then she died!”” Roy cried, in a tone of anguish. But Ichabod shook his head emphatically. “Not as I knows on,” he declared; ‘“un- less that nervous-actin’ skunk has killed her 215 216 WHEN THE COCK CROWS Had I knowed what I l’arned yesterday at the wireless station, I’d ’a’ held on to the gal. I saw she was pretty bad, not bein’ able to talk, an’ so I told the man I took off o’ the wreck that what she needed was an M.D. Leavin’ him in charge, fer he seemed to know a heap about medicine himself, I put the rag on the skiff, an’ sailed to town fer the Doctor. When I got back, I found that the thievin’ rascal had stole my pet rooster, a pair o’ blankets—an’ the woman, an’ had gone off in the gasoline tender what come ashore from the wreck. O’ course, they went up the Sound—to God knows whar! The woman ain’t safe with no sich critter as that feller. If the gal is much to you, which I ‘lows she is from your tantrums, ye had best make all haste to git her. I was jest a-fixin’ to go to Beaufort an’ take out a warrant fer the feller fer murder, an’ charter a gasoline boat, prepared to go through hell if need be to save that gal an’ put the sallow-skinned varmint, what tool her, behind the bars o’ the county jail. “Warrant for murder?” Van ee de- since he took her away in the small boat. — THE CALL OF THE DARK 217 manded, suddenly alert, ‘‘What do you mean, Captain Jones? Has this man killed some one?” “Wall, I reckin!” Ichabod answered grimly. “Thar was a feller a-sailin’ around the wreck 0” The Isabel, which, as ye see, is all busted © to pieces by an explosion after she struck an’ the beatin’ on her o’ the big storm waves. When this feller looked down by the engine, he saw a dead man a-lookin’ back up at him. He looked closter before he hurried away, an’ saw that the poor devil was chained to the wreck. Now, that bein’ the case, an’ this feller that’s got the gal bein’ the man in charge o’ the yacht, then why ain’t he wanted _ for murder?” Van Dusen nodded his head understand- ingly. “This clears up part of the mystery,” he said to Roy. “Now, if we can only catch Garnet and save Miss Marion, the case will be happily ended. The whole thing is clear in my mind, but we have still to find the - proof.” “Them’s the names the feller give me,” the fisherman vouchsafed, “when he intro- | 218 WHEN THE COCK CROWS duced himself to me. I ‘lowed he was ’most crazy from his scare. Say, men! Do you know I think that feller was a-takin’ dope, an’, furthermore, since I’ve had time to think it over, I’m almost certain I saw him puttin’ some under the gal’s skin. As folks around here only use Baitman Drops or swallers pills, I took a spot on the gal’s arm fer a skeeter bump. I didn’t know what the shiny thing was that he slipped in his pocket when he saw me a-lookin’. Since then the Doctor has told me he ‘lowed it was a hypodermic. First he called it a gun, but when he discov- ered that I thought he meant a shootin’ iron, because I said it was too small fer that, why, then he give me the other name. O’ course, I had heard that other name afore.” . “This whole business is goin’ to turn out just as I outlined it to you, Roy,” Van Dusen asserted. ‘‘These things are unusual, but I don’t think you need have any fears for Miss Marion, provided she doesn’t starve, or meet with some accident through the foolhardiness of this crazy Garnet. The thing I suggest is to solicit the aid of Captain Jones, and have him act as our pilot. We should also charter THE CALL OF THE DARK 219 several small gasoline boats and go through the waters of this shallow Sound and its trib- utaries like a fine-toothed comb. It’s haste now that is important. We'll probably find the fellow hidden away in some remote fisher- ' man’s home where he can administer to the wants of his patient, while avoiding capture. I believe that he is, even though deranged, terrorized at the thought of arrest, so that he will not dare come out into the open. That’s the reason he left the comfortable quarters of the Island.’’ Roy was all eagerness to begin the work forthwith, and Ichabod proffered all the assistance in his power. . “Jest a minute, men,” he said, ‘till I swaller my coffee an’ put out the fire, then Ichabod Jones will be ready to show ye every nook an’ corner o’ these-here waters; an’ if that skunk ain’t got out of ’em or gone to the bottom, we'll git him—an’ git him right!” After leaving Norfolk, The Hialdo had covered many miles. Arthur Van Dusen when he acted, moved with deliberation as well as speed. Already, on the way down, 220 WHEN THE COCK CROWS every avenue of escape had been blocked. © It would have been impossible for The Isabel to escape over the route by which the pur- suers had come. She would have been seized the moment she showed at any port. _ The thoroughness of these precautionary ‘measures was the reason why it was not until now that The Hialdo had dropped anchor at Beaufort Inlet. The only area that remained unsearched was the Core Sound section. The searchers had taken advantage of the night, when there was little else that they could do, to run down to the Inlet in order to find out if the yacht had passed out to sea through the channel. They were reasonably certain now that the Doctor and the young woman were not a great way off. Van Dusen was confident _ of speedily running down the culprit, and he was exultant over the prospect. But Roy was still tortured with anxiety con- cerning the safety of the girl he loved. © Before coming out of the shack to go aboard The Hialdo, Ichabod took time to tidy up his person a little. This, for the THE CALL OF THE DARK 221 sufficient reason that they were going first to Beaufort, where it might be that he would encounter Sarah Porter. It would never do for her to see him except properly “spruced up” for a trip to town. There was, in addition, the fact that he was about to go aboard a handsome yacht, where, as he knew, everybody went about habitually “dressed up.” As he took a parting glance into his tiny bit of mirror, the old fisher- man indulged in a self-satisfied smirk, and spoke aloud. “Td be willin’ to bet that when them fine fellers gits to be as old as me, they can’t tell as how ten single women kissed ‘em all in one day, an’ another one, by cracky, made eyes an’ jest didn’t darst!” Having thus said, Ichabod hurried off to his visitors, and a minute later was follow- ing them up the ladder to the deck of The Hialdo. Van Dusen had taken on a pilot at Ocracoke, so that they had no trouble in following the intricate round- about ship’s channel to the town. Captain Ichabod directed the place of anchorage. This was in the small channel 222 WHEN THE COCK CROWS directly in front of the Inlet Hotel, where _. Sarah Porter reigned supreme. They would | use her wharf in going ashore. He ad- mitted to himself that he had been pleased - over being kissed by the ‘“‘young fry”; but che also admitted that the chief appeal to him had been made by the elderly woman who had looked on so disapprovingly from her place in the Doctor’s launch. Van Dusen was anxious to call first upon the Collector of the Port. That office here had become, of late years, rather unim- portant, since the action of the tides had filled the Inlet with sand, to such an extent that very few vessels of the ocean-going steamer type could get over the bar. The Collector’s business was confined to seeing that yachts and other vessels of small draft had their proper papers. There was no United States Marshal located in the town, and the case of The Isabel was plainly one to be handled by the Treasury Department. It was unnecessary for Ichabod to guide the detective further than the wharf, for the Custom House, with its identifying flag, stood near the landing. So, the Captain felt JANTIGDENAANY poy payTER Te” sapere rarer THE CALL OF THE DARK 223 himself at liberty to visit the hotel, where he reclined at ease in a rocking chair on the porch, and enjoyed an intermittent conver- Sation with the hostess of the inn. Roy remained on board the yacht, at his friend’s — bidding, in order to recover from the shock _ he had suffered on hearing Ichabod’s story. ~ Van Dusen found the Collector anxious to be of service in every possible way. He sug- gested that the services of the Sheriff should be enlisted, and that a warrant for the arrest of Doctor Garnet should be secured from the Justice of the Peace, for robbery, to be sworn to by Ichabod, since that offense had been committed within the jurisdiction of the state courts. The Sheriff, when called up over the tel- ephone, agreed to supply three deputies, each equipped with a copy of the warrant. Finally, two small launches, each carrying one of the Sheriff's men, were chartered to voyage in different directions for the search, while the third would go aboard The Hialdo, Other business prevented the Sheriff from giving his personal aid in the quest. Icha- bod was interrupted during his pleasuring 224 WHEN THE COCK CROWS on the porch by a telephone call, which re- quested him to report at once to Squire Chadwick’s office in order to swear to the necessary papers. But the fisherman forgot the imperative summons as his hostess came out on the porch to bid him farewell. “Do ye realize, Sarah Porter, that this is the very fust time in over twenty year that I’ve come to your house except on business, without some fishes, terrapin, scallops, or sich to sell fer the hotel?’’ Miss Porter blushed like a girl. “Well, seein’ as how you mention it, I reckon it’s a fact.’ Her manner did not betray how often she had wondered, and perhaps grieved, over that fact ca the score of years. Then, Ichabod at last took pee of cour- age, and spoke boldly: “This time, Sarah, arter due deliberation, an’ study, Ichabod has come to ye to give something away. Tain’t nothin’ that comes out o’ these waters or sands or marshes. Tain’t gold, nor yit silver, but somethin’ that nobody in all these years could ’a’ THE CALL OF THE DARK = 285. bought, had they tried. Could ye guess what it mout be, Sarah?’’ There came a certain dreaminess into the woman’s eyes, which, if a little dimmed, had by no means lost their luster. “T never was good at guessing, Ichabod,” she said simply. ‘‘I cal’late you'll jest have to tell me. I know from the way you speak eae it must be something perfectly splen- 1CAe “Wall, now, you may think it more wuth- less than plain seaweed, an’ if ye do, why ye must speak right out, Sarah. What I have come to offer ye is Ichabod Jones’ love!” s Ichabod waited through a full minute for the answer that failed to come. The wom- an’s eyes were gazing out over the broad expanse of the Atlantic, which opened so gloriously before them. He took one of her hands in his, and pressed it gently as he Went on speaking. “It’s true that I’m some old, but I ain’t crippled. An’ arter all these years o’—yes, oh, hell!—I want to be loved ag’in. Sarah, Tl tell ye, an’ it’s God’s truth, I never did 226 WHEN THE COCK CROWS love that triflin’ woman. I have come to that idea arter a long time ©’ thinkin’. I was young, an’ I thought I loved her, but, Sarah, I just had my haid turned. Time is now tellin’ my true feelin’s.”’ Still the woman made no answer, but her very silence gave encouragement to the wooer. “I'm through with fishin’ an’ lonely livin’, whether or no, Sarah. All these years that I’ve hung around alone, it hain’t cost me much to live, an’ I’ve got a right smart o’ money saved up. Ye know, this hotel ain’t big ‘nough fer all the Yankees that’d like to stop on the way up an’ down offen their yachts. I was a-thinkin’ las’ night what a thing it’d be for me an’ you to be real part- ners, an’ let me spend some o’ the savin’s to double the size o’ the hotel, an’ hire ’nough help to take the strain offen you in runnin’ o’ it.” The mingling of romance and practical worldly advantage won Miss Porter’s con- sent to the plea of her suitor. Perhaps, either would have sufficed of itself; cer- tainly, together, they were irresistible. Ich- THE CALL OF THE DARK ~ abod was all a-tremble with happiness and pride, as the spinster coyly offered her cheek to his kiss. He started guiltily a moment later, as a huge negress appeared in the doorway, and bawled at him: ee Ichabod, the ’phone is a-callin’ yoh- a ee QQ27 lor in his modest home. CHAPTER XIX BoTTtLeD Up APTAIN ICHABOD JONES stepped ( briskly into Squire Chadwick’s court- room—which was otherwise the par- Van Dusen, that very shrewd detective, observed that the old man trod with a jauntier step than here- tofore, and that his expression was one of smug complacency. He wondered a little as to just what might have occurred to make this change so swiftly. He could not guess that a romance of twenty years was con- cerned, but his observant eyes told him that in some mysterious fashion this aged native had found a new happiness in life within the hour. \ That happiness indeed was a thing as- sured in the opinion of Captain Ichabod. The smile that Van Dusen found so hard to interpret was the outward expression of 228 BOTTLED UP 229 great things within the old man’s soul. He had loved his loneliness. Now, he was re- joicing that no more would his life be lonely! The gulls and fish-hawks and sand- crabs could take possession of the old shack that had sheltered him for years. He cared nothing for that. Shortly, he would be known as Ichabod Jones, proprietor of a fashionab.e tourist hotel. He chuckled, and his lips moved into the travesty of a kiss. “I’m a-sayin’ good-bye to that-thar her- mit o’ Captain Icky’s Island, what lived thar. fer twenty year. He hain’t a-goin’ to live thar no more.” The warrant was speedily ened and duly Sworn to, after which Van Dusen and Cap- tain Jones hurried to board the yacht. The two chartered motor boats arrived. Since The Hialdo had the legs of the others, it took both in tow to bring them to the point whereat the search was to start. On reach- ing the Island, the red skiff also was taken in tow at Ichabod’s suggestion, since its draft would permit it to penetrate shallows impenetrable to the other craft. At a point midway between Harker’s 230 WHEN THE COCK CROWS Island and Smyrna, Uncle Ichabod directed that one of the chartered boats should be sent over and along the shores of the Island, then to proceed up the Banks shore, but not so far as to prevent the deputy from covering the southerly section of Core Sound with his field-glasses in order to detect any attempt to retrace the route by the Doc- tor in the tender. This launch having been ' dispatched, The Hialdo resumed her course, with the other boats still in tow. The next objective in the cruise was At- lantic—a long way up the Sound. Thence, it was the intention to send the other char- tered boat back along the westerly shore, with instructions to go into every inlet and cove and bay, no matter how small, pro- vided they could navigate it, there to make diligent inquiry of every person seen on the shores. Van Dusen had already prepared reward. notices, offering five thousand dollars for the safe return of Ethel Marion, and one thou- sand dollars for the capture of her abductor. These posters were given to the deputies with instructions that they should be posted Guinn eceseeeeree anne BOTTLED UP 231 in every fishing hamlet. It was the belief of the detective that the effect of these would be to send out a swarm of fishing boats to search every nook and cranny of the territory. Before turning in from the main channel to the pier at Atlantic, Van Dusen had the second patrol boat turned loose under the charge of his deputy. He gave instruc- tions that four blasts of the yacht’s siren should be understood as a signal for the smaller craft to return to The Hialdo. It was learned beyond doubt at Atlantic that the Doctor and Ethel had been there. There were a score of witnesses to the fact. The entire hamlet was loud in its praises of this stranger, who, by his skill, had saved a life without thought of fee. Captain Icha- bod’s anxious inquiries elicited the informa- tion that there was indeed a Dominick rooster aboard the tender, perched on the forward deck. One boy, of a fine imaginative mind, declared that the bird was tethered by a- string tied to one of his legs. That false in- formation stirred the wrath of Uncle Icky, so that he was moved to mutter: ae: be 232 WHEN THE COCK CROWS “Yep, I reckin they’re a-savin’ ’im fer broth—consarn ’em!?’ At the principal store in the town, soon after the arrival of the yacht, there was a scene of unusual’ excitement. Conspicu- ously posted was the notice typewritten by Van Dusen of the reward for Doctor Garnet's capture. But here sentiment was overwhelm- ingly strong in the physician’s favor. A local orator made an impassioned speech to defend this wonderful physician, who had shown such ability in saving of life without charge. He insisted that the townsfolk should throw out the ‘‘furriners’’ who desired the arrest of such a man. Van Dusen was in a desperate hurry, but when he sensed the feeling of the crowd, he was at pains to tell them, very simply, the facts. He declared that, in all probability, the physician who had been guilty of the kid- napping was acrazy man. .- After touching at Atlantic, it was decided to sail the yacht to the northward, along the mainland shore, with the little red skiff still in tow. There was more depth of water on this side and, in consequence, a larger number am ye eee rare ee! | } : - 282 WHEN THE COCK CROWS - lighted by this chance to get better acquainted with the man who made their reunion pos- sible. They owe everything to you.” “Ves,” Ichabod retorted; ‘an’ I owe them a heap, too. It’s that girl that started the whole change in my way o’ thinkin’. She caused me to decide to take on a fambly an’ happiness. I don’t much like what ye says ‘bout that-thar five thousand, though. Ye see, we folks down this way don’t go round savin’ lives fer pay—that is ’ceptin’ the coast- guard boys. What we does is fer the feelin’s that possess us. Why, do ye know, if thar’s airy man in Cartaret that I didn’t think’d do what I did, an’ more, in this scrape, I’d head a passel o’ men to run him clean into the swamps fer keeps!” “It’s a legally posted reward offered for the discovery of Ethel Marion,’ Van Dusen explained, ‘‘and there is no question as to its being rightfully yours. You need have no scruple about taking it. But Roy and his sweetheart will convince you as to that, even if I can’t.” Ichabod appeared dubious for the moment. Then his face wrinkled in a grin, for he had THE SEARCH UP THE SHORE 283 found a method whereby to satisfy his con- science in the matter. “Wall,” he declared judicially, “T has lost consider’ble time from my fishin’.” Then his enthusiasm overcame his air of reticence. “Whoopee! Five-thousand dollars! I cal’- late that sure will cut out them pre-nuptals— whatever they be.” Jp Me nee MNS eines CHAPTER XXIV A GENTLEMAN’S PROMISE OY and Ethel stood by the rail on the yacht’s deck as the tender drew along- side. They were filled with anxiety over the results of the search upon the shore. Dismay touched them when they saw the cap that Van Dusen carried in his hand as they stepped forward. Ethel’s cheek blanched, but she asked no question; only stood waiting while the detective stepped aside with Roy and gave him Garnet’s note. The young man hastily read the message. For a moment, he mused as if in doubt concerning its signifi- cance; then he asked: “Do you think that he made the crossing in safety?” 23 “T think not,” was the reply. ‘Captain Ichabod went through the channel to the other side. He looked everywhere for signs 284 of Garnet’s having continued on up the beach, ~ A GENTLEMAN’S PROMISE — 285 but the search was fruitless. I have an idea that the Doctor, in his weakened condition, was unable to breast the tide, and so was car- ried out to sea. To my mind, it seems, per- haps, the best ending for that drug-crazed man. At the same time, I confess I’m heart- ily sorry for the fellow. Had there been any way to get him clear of the charges it would have been necessary for him to face, I for one would have been willing to go to any length to save him, to get him away to some place where he was not known and could begin life anew.” a Roy showed the note to Ethel, and ex- plained how the evidence seemed to indicate that the physician was dead. The girl lis- tened quietly, but when her lover had made an end, she turned quickly and went away to her stateroom, to be alone with her grief. During Ethel’s absence the yacht was got under way for Beaufort. Van Dusen and Ich- abod restored their energies by a hearty meal. By the time the moon had risen, the party of four were gathered aft, talking together quietly, and enjoying the beauties in the panorama of sea and shore and sky unfolded 286 WHEN THE COCK CROWS by the yacht’s progress. There was rapture in the hearts of both lovers in this reunion after so great trials. Each of them had sailed over these waters in an agony of grief and fear while they were separated from each other. Now, they were once again together. The fear and the peril were things of the past. For the present, there was only joy, a joy that would endure for the days to come. Van Dusen explained to the others how he had extended an invitation to Ichabod to make use of the yacht for his honeymoon- trip. Ethel was astonished and delighted to learn of the old fisherman’s romance and his intended bridal on the morrow. ~ “But, do you know,” she exclaimed with a smile, to Captain Jones, “I supposed, of course, you were married, and had grandchildren?” “Not me!” the old man answered, un- abashed. ‘But I do aim to!” Van Dusen further explained that the only thing now wanting was the consent of the bride herself to the plans. He then spoke again of the reward to be paid to Ichabod. Roy declared that this should be made out immediately. Once again, Captain Icky pro- A GENTLEMAN’S PROMISE 287 tested against the payment, but without much heart in his objections, and finally, after mumbling something as to the time lost from his fishing, he consented to receive the amount. But on a condition. He stipulated that the check should be made out to Sarah Porter, and that in the left-hand corner there should be written the words: “Tn lieu of all other pre-nuptals.” The fisherman gave it as his positive opin- ion that this would clinch the matter for the following day. : “Anyhow,” he added grimly, “if it don’t, I'll be dogged if she gits it!” When the yacht reached Beaufort, the party went ashore, for it had been decided that Ethel should be cared for at the Inlet Hotel, where, if need be, she might prove of service in persuading Sarah into meeting the ardent Ichabod’s wishes. The hostess greeted the girl warmly, and fussed over her with a maternal solicitude that promised well for the fisherman’s hopes in the matter of grandchildren. Then, when she had seen her guest comfortably installed, Sarah returned to the porch, where Ichabod, 288 WHEN THE COCK CROWS armed with the check, was anxiously awaiting her. “Oh,” she exclaimed tenderly, “I’m so glad you have returned safely! I’ve really worried about you. Iwas afraid that dread- ful man might do something terrible if you came upon him unexpectedly.” “No, sir,’’ was the spirited retort; ‘‘there ain’t nothin’ kin git me now but you!” The gallant remark so pleased the spinster that she patted his hand affectionately, as they sat down side by side on a porch settee. Ichabod braced himself for the encounter. He felt that there was to be no shilly-shally now. Moreover, his backbone was amazingly stiffened by the five-thousand-dollar check. He meant business! Besides, it would never do to disappoint his new friends. He was going to make that honeymoon-trip, or “bust!” “Sarah,” he began, ‘‘do ye remember as how in the old days I was always said to be a man 0’ very few words?” “Why, yes, Ichabod,” Sarah agreed—per- haps a little doubtful, “‘come to think about eee ae eta Sas meee A GENTLEMAN’S PROMISE 289 it I believe you were. But what’s agitating of you to-night? There seems to be something heavy-like on your mind.” : “Thar is, Sary—somethin’ mighty big an I reckin as how you'll think it sudden. a that’s the only way to do—jest speak rig plumb out an’ have it over.” i His hearer paled slightly. She had a horri suspicion that her lover had backslidden, that he meant to return to his hermit life on the Island, and was here now to jilt her. “Of course, ye understand that me an you are promised to wed? ” Ichabod went on. ““Ves,”’ came the faltered response. “Wall, thar ain’t but one thing now as I ; pea ’ that i t is a-standin’ in the way, an see it that is ea is them-thar pre-nuptals you ment I wanted fe fame things a leetle. Now, what I’m a-comin’ to is this: I’m mighty well aware that them things takes time an’ costs money. In lieu o’ them as the sebe 2 I’m servin’ ye with this’’—he extended the check-—‘‘an’ we'll fix the hull thing uP in the other con- But, consarn ye! thar’s jest one RUSS se a RSS ee DOING HIS BIT 801 Arthur reached the false inlet where they found the cap and note, he believed that Doc- tor Garnet had crossed in safety, for the chan- nel was by no means so dangerous as he rep- resented to the detective. As a matter of fact, he hoped and expected to find the Doc- tor’s tracks on the other side, and he did so although he concealed the knowledge of their existence from Van Dusen. Ichabod went on to tell me that he was moved to sympathy in Doctor Garnet’s behalf, that he believed the man would reform, would be of use to the world, that he was worth saving from the law's punishment for offenses inspired by a drug- maddened brain. He insisted that he told no lie to Arthur—only allowed the world’s greatest detective to draw a few wrong con- clusions from his vague remarks and the melancholy expression on his face when he returned after crossing the inlet to look for tracks. “Right then and there, that old fisherman and I formed a partnership. We decided that we would locate our man, save him from capture, and have him restored to the normal. This would be comparatively easy itches i a a eta Sa a ee 302 WHEN THE COCK CROWS since the authorities believed him to be dead. We would demand in return that he should go to France, there to serve those sufferers on the battlefield who might have need of him. “Ichabod preferred to remain behind, when I went to the physician’s house. There I found that Doctor Garnet had in fact been received by the young doctor, who had taken him in and cared for him—proud indeed to do so, since he knew his patient’s reputation and held him in veneration for his skill. The younger doctor readily entered into a con- spiracy with me when he had heard my story. I had an interview with Doctor Gar- net. He accepted my proposition fully. He was glad of a chance to expiate his follies. He swore to me that never again would he take a grain of the drug. At his request, I brought Ichabod to his bedside, and he thanked the _ old man warmly for all that he had done both for himself and for me, his victim. I offered him funds for the trip abroad, but he told me that he was well supplied with money. He told me also that he had come in a small sail-boat to carry me away from the shack, but had seen on approaching that his services DOING HIS BIT 803 were no longer needed, so had returned whence the came... . From that day until now, I have had no word of the man. Yet, I felt that he had kept his promise.” : “And he did—nobly!” Roy said. There was a new admiration in the glance with which he regarded his wife, who had accom- lished this miracle of regeneration. : Ethel met that glance, and smiled respon- sively. Ore again she dimpled, as she spoke half- jously, half-playfully. Poy. eee you just a bit proud of your wife and Uncle Ichabod? Between us we so worked it out that my kidnapping was not in vain. It has done three things: First and best, it hurried our marriage; second, it made Captain Jones a bridegroom instead of a hermit; third, it furnished a hero for the battlefields of France.” ie