oop of geese, noisily promenading
across the thoroughfare, and a peacock--in its pride of pomp as a
favored bird of old King Solomon--crying from the top of the shed and
proudly displaying its gorgeous train. Barnes wiped the perspiration
from his brow, as he answered:

"Well, a temperance and anti-theatrical agitation has preceded us in
the Shadengo Valley, a movement originated in Baltimore by seven men
who had been drunkards and are now lecturing throughout the country.
This is known as the 'Washington' movement, and among the most
formidable leaders of the crusade is an old actor, John B. Gough. But
here we are at the supervisor's office. I'll run in and get the
license, if you'll wait a moment."

Saint-Prosper assented, and Barnes disappeared through the door of a
one-story wooden building which boasted little in its architectural
appearance and whose principal decorations consisted of a small
window-garden containing faded geraniums, and a sign with sundry
inverted letters. The neighborhood of this far from imposing structure
was a rendezvous for many of the young men of the place who had much
leisure, and, to judge from the sidewalk, an ample supply of Lone Jack
or some other equally popular plug tobacco. As Saint-Prosper surveyed
his surroundings, the Lone Jack, or other delectable brand, was
unceremoniously passed from mouth to mouth with immediate and
surprising results so far as the sidewalk was concerned. Regarding
these village yokels with some curiosity, the soldier saw in them a
possible type of the audiences to which the strollers must appeal for
favor. To such hobnails must the fair Rosalind say: "I would kiss as
many of you as had beards that pleased me." And the churls would
applaud with their cowhide boots, devour her with eager eyes and--at
this point the soldier found himself unconsciously frowning at his
village neighbors until, with an impatient laugh, he recalled his
wandering fancies. What was it to him whether the players appeared in
city or hamlet? Why should he concern himself in possible conjectures
on the fortunes of these strollers? Moreover--

Here Barnes reappeared with dejection in his manner, and, treading his
way absent-mindedly past the Lone Jack contingent with no word of
explanation to his companion, began to retrace his steps toward the
hostelry on the hill.

"Going back so soon?" asked the young man in surprise.

"There is nothing to be done here! The temperance lecturer h