s lots of influence. Beat me for re-election, I know that. But we'll
show them a few things that are not put down in the books. And you don't
want the young lady's name mentioned. Of course, not. Wouldn't be
gallant, eh? Well, I'll go down and see the young fellow some time
to-day. They'll take it up in about a week from now, that is, if we are
ready, and we'll be there. Tell old Jucklin not to fret. He's an old
lion-tamer, I tell you, and if I had any interest in that fellow
Etheredge I'd advise him to walk pretty straight. But the old man has
quieted down mightily of late years."

Alf had undergone no change. He was glad to know that Conkwright took an
interest in him, but he shook his head when I told him that we were sure
to win.

"I don't believe it, Bill; don't believe it because I don't feel it. But
don't tell the old folks that I'm not hopeful. Have you seen Millie?"

"No, and have seen Chyd but once, and then I came upon him in the road."

"What, hasn't he been to the house? A fine husband he'll make for
Guinea. Tell her that I say she must forbid his coming near her again.
No, don't," he added. "It's better to wait. I wish she loved you, Bill,
but I'm afraid she doesn't."

"I know she doesn't," I replied.

"Has she said so?"

"No, but she seems always afraid that I may tell her of my love."

"And I would if I were you, Bill. No, not yet. Tell father not to come
near me yet a while. He couldn't stand it."

He had written home, begging his parents and his sister not to think of
seeing him, had actually commanded them not to come near the jail.

"Mother can stand more than he can, for she's more religious. How about
your school?"

"Oh, it's all right. The people know that I couldn't teach now, even if
I should try ever so hard, and they are very considerate. They say that
they are willing to wait."

"God bless them for that, any way. And this reminds me of a preacher
that came in yesterday to pray for me. I thanked him for his kindness,
but told him that some one was at home praying, and that one of her
words had more influence in my behalf than all the prayers he could
utter in a life-time. I merely mention this to show what sort of an
atmosphere I'm in. I didn't like the fellow's looks--understand that he
hasn't been a preacher but a week. Still on suspicion, as they say,
Bill. I was almost crazy, but my mind has cooled wonderfully. A fellow's
mind generally does after he's done the worst he can."