affirm that it IS my business. It is my business as a
Christian, and that business should come before all others. I have not
allowed sympathy to influence me. If that were the case, my regard for
my neighbor and friend of former days would have held me firm. But,
gentlemen, I have a child of my own. I know what a father's love is, as
only a father can know it. And, after a sleepless night, I stand here
before you to-day determined that this man shall have his own, if
my money--which you will, I'm sure, forgive my mentioning--and my
unflinching support can give it to him. That is my position, and I state
it regardless of consequences." He paused, and with raised right hand,
like the picture of Jove in the old academy mythology, launched his
final thunderbolt. "Whom God hath joined," he proclaimed, "let no one
put asunder!"

That settled it. The cheers shook the walls. Amidst the tumult Dimick
and Bailey Bangs seized Captain Cy by the shoulders and endeavored to
lift him from his seat.

"For the love of goodness, Whit!" groaned Josiah, desperately, "stand up
and answer him. If you don't, we'll founder sure."

The captain smiled grimly and shook his head. He had not taken his eyes
from the face of the great Atkins since the latter began speaking.

"What?" he replied. "After that 'put asunder' sockdolager? Man alive! do
you want me to add Sabbath breakin' to my other crimes?"

The vote, by ballot, followed almost immediately. It was pitiful to see
the erstwhile Whittaker majority melt away. Alonzo Snow was triumphantly
elected. But a handful voted against him.

Captain Cy, still grimly smiling, rose and left the hall. As he closed
the door, he heard the shrill voice of Uncle Bedny demanding justice for
the Bassett's Hollow road.

It had, indeed, been a "memoriable" town meeting.

CHAPTER XIII

THE REPULSE

When Deacon Zeb Clark--the same Deacon Zeb who fell into the cistern,
as narrated by Captain Cy--made his first visit to the city, years and
years ago, he stayed but two days. As he had proudly boasted that he
should remain in the metropolis at least a week, our people were much
surprised at his premature return. To the driver of the butcher cart who
found him sitting contentedly before his dwelling, amidst his desolate
acres, the nearest neighbor a half mile away, did Deacon Zeb disclose
his reason for leaving the crowded thoroughfares. "There was so many
folks there," he said, "that I felt lonesome."