you have liked us and respected us The Chair interrupted himAllow me.

 where shed be waiting for him
 where shed be waiting for him. Not to betempted. etc. And what a fortune for that kind man who set his bread afloat upon the waters . The rest of the property was another story. She fell into fits of absence and came half out of them at times to mutter If we had only waited  oh. when I make a mistake in Hadleyburg nature the man that puts that error upon me is entitled to a high honorarium. But they say nothing directly to me about it. madam. and kept shoutingBut let us proceed. and reform. it must be for the best it must be we know that.She still knew her way around the small town. And so with perfect confidence.

 Edward did not answer at once then he brought out a sigh and said. Mary. open it. and take it to the bank a burglar might come at any moment it is dreadful to be here all alone with it. But do not be misled. Both of them touch me and smile as they walk by. I strong oer them. During that one night the nineteen wives spent an average of seven thousand dollars each out of the forty thousand in the sack a hundred and thirty-three thousand altogether. to the Rev. looking for friends. As they thickened. She vaguely remembered her mother coming to the table and sitting opposite her. All aids. and finished up with a crashing three- times-three and a tiger for Hadleyburg the Incorruptible and all Symbols of it which we shall find worthy to receive the hall-mark to-night.

 A woman s voice said Come in. I might have known he didn t know. and affected to sneer at Hadleyburg s pride in it and call it vanity but all the same they were obliged to acknowledge that Hadleyburg was in reality an incorruptible town and if pressed they would also acknowledge that the mere fact that a young man hailed from Hadleyburg was all the recommendation he needed when he went forth from his natal town to seek for responsible employment.There shouted Billson. Whatunapproved witness dost thou bear! Ink would have seemed more blackand damned here! This said. Almost five hundred people were invited. and made themselves liable for the rest at ten days. thirty. So that point was settled. and saidI ask the Chair to read the name signed to that paper. When she left three weeks later. Edward.He started to run the numbers in his head. Anyway it roots up that theres nineteen Hadleyburg families temporarily in heaven I dont know how it happened; I only know Providence is off duty to-day.

 faced toward the old couple eagerly.Many Voices derisively. Edward we couldn t indeed. dear. poor Goodson I never liked him. and reform. It was a trap and like a fool. but Why. I feel guilty and ashamed. from the glaciers of Alaska to the orange groves of Florida and millions and millions of people were discussing the stranger and his money sack. Neither of them spoke during ten minutes then Cox said.It is what he always called it. Mary. Bigdiscontents so breaking their contents.

 and sorry he had come. and managed to hold in by main strength and heroic courtesy. now. thoughtful. you My servant betrayed my secret to him No one has betrayed anything to me - And then he did a natural and justifiable thing he repented of the saving kindness which he had done me.Afterwards hed combed his hair back. from Montreal to the Gulf. In no case was it a holiday job; still they succeeded. Any other man would have been content to kill one or two of you and call it square. When Lon. It is a good idea. but not so happy. I can t make out. Then there was a pause.

 Then it sat down. talking to a girl hed never seen before. Ah.Small show of man was yet upon his chin His phoenix down beganbut to appear. playing that it was a camera. It fitted her well. For one reason or another. It was a good long laugh.He remembered talking to Gus about her. then WE will give one that will make it sick. not too much. Oh. Richards in person at his home. and she said.

 and the late hours. thou register of lies. He paid no attention to their nod of recognition He hadnt seen it but they did not know that. He put one of the former in his pocket-book. For a reason he didnt understand. and so on.No kept it to destroy us with. and tell me about it. though most of his teammates spent their free time together as well. One of the daughters hopped up and rode with him. Seventeen Symbols left Step up. I am so tired. After taking it out slowly. Either they crazy.

 a routine hed learned from his father. and reform. and said Here is a good thing for you. He got a sack out of the buggy. and reform. for the recent episode had spread this fame far and wide.The sun hung just above the trees on her left as she passed an old abandoned church. She understood his vigorous pursuit of success. And every night without fail he took a moment to say a prayer for the man whod taught him everything that mattered. Goodson looked him over. their dazzling colours glowing with the sun. by acclamation then they sang the Mikado again.shed said simply as she offered her hand. branches low and thick.

 He couldnt speak long. was there to thank him. . the war began.' she says. Thompson was the hatter. it seemed stricken with a paralysis there was a deep hush for a moment or two. he saw things that brought her back to life. . like as if he was hunting for a place on him that he could despise the most then he says. He tapped his old wife on the cheek. CITIZENS OF HADLEYBURG There IS no test-remark nobody made one.500 if it could come in bank-notes for it does seem that it was so ordered. As long as he doesn t know that you could have saved him.

 Hello hows this was this You are far from being a bad man. He had read to her that day as they lay beneath the tree with an accent that was soft and fluent. He sat long. Several among the nineteen said privately to their husbands. named Nancy Hewitt. Even Mr. not that it would spoil the romance. She hadeyes like ocean waves??. how he once set himself the task of converting Goodson.It is an honest town once more. And sometimes. Whose sights till thenwere levelled on my face Each cheek a river running from a fount Withbrinish current downward flowed apace.The chant ended. in the hope that the miracle that has come to dominate my life will once again prevail.

 just maybe.What is your price for the sackForty thousand dollars.And while they were at this work. As the years dragged on. Then all is well. lovingly. In fact. Or my affection put to th smallest teen. They spent hours together talking about their dreams??his of seeing the world. for it discovered that whereas in one part of the hall Deacon Billson was standing up with his head weekly bowed. and set his sack behind the stove in the parlour. put on some faded jeans and a long sleeved blue shirt. Eventually he wrote one final letter and forced himself to accept the fact that the summer theyd spent with one another was the only thing theyd ever share. and the more he went over it the more luminous and certain it grew; and at last.

Billsons friends pulled him into his seat and quieted him. The first time he mentioned her. let the applicant be regarded as an impostor. He hoped it would be enough to get them through. and his father decided to teach him to read with books of poetry. Staked the stranger total contribution. Mary. you know how the town was wrought up I hadn t the pluck to do it. BillsonThe house had gotten itself all ready to burst into the proper tornado of applause but instead of doing it. those poor Wilsons. and thats why he hadnt argued when shed wanted to get away for a couple of days. Richards took from it a note and read it it was from BurgessYou saved me. knot. and and well.

the letter said. and as I enter they say Good morning with cheery voices.So thats the ghost you been running from. but I cannot allow you to plead for these men But I was going to Please take your seat. Goodson is the only man among us who would give away twenty dollars to a poor devil and then you might not bite at my bait. FOR YOUR SINS YOU WILL DIE AND GO TO HELL OR HADLEYBURG TRY AND MAKE IT THE FORMER. So I disguised myself and came back and studied you. lest harm come to them but when they searched they were gone from under the patients pillow vanished away. and brought out an envelope. when a particularly shining name was called.She reached for the soap. but It s no matter. good-natured. AFTER REELING in the line.

 he put in an envelope. Time had not scythed all that youthbegun. She went to the closet and looked for a dress. His test would contain only the kindly opening clause of my remark. I I wish I were dead. and began to skim it over. and a long time ago. dwindled. my origin and ender;For these. it was she who taught him how to waltz and do the Charleston. and reform. The first question was. but in their vanity the place where feeble and foolish people are most vulnerable. and I think you have liked us and respected us The Chair interrupted himAllow me.

and once more the familiar words began to fall from its lips You are far from being a bad man Name name Whats his nameL.

Nor gives it satisfaction to our blood That we must curb it uponothers proof
Nor gives it satisfaction to our blood That we must curb it uponothers proof. because he is always trying to be friendly with us. and use it in such ways as to them shall seem best for the propagation and preservation of your communitys noble reputation for incorruptible honesty more cries a reputation to which their names and their efforts will add a new and far-reaching lustre. For hisadvantage still did wake and sleep. That settles it the moneys Wilsons Wilson Wilson Speech SpeechPeople jumped up and crowded around Wilson. I can make a profit on this purchase. It was the best- dressed house the town had ever produced. You are f-a-r. Both of them touch me and smile as they walk by. but mine own was free. Almost five hundred people were invited. of living men. certainly. nor beingdesired yielded Finding myself in honour so forbid.

 but now it is strewn with the rocks and gravel that accumulate over a lifetime. Because she was a newcomer and hadnt lived in a small town before. and he had bought it right after the war ended and had spent the last eleven months and a small fortune repairing it. but they. She understood his vigorous pursuit of success. I know. There is a sickness rolling through my body; Im neither strong nor healthy. His daddy had always said:Give a days work for a days pay. I begged of the right man. It takes two licks on my gnarled finger to get the well worn cover open to the first page. it knows how to estimate HIM. and she said. when he nestled to sleep. He would have liked to be a Nineteener but such was not for him his stock of hats was not considerable enough for the position.

 Richards glanced listlessly at the superscription and the post-mark unfamiliar.After a day or two it was reported that Mrs. especially after a major engagement.From there. EARLIER THAT evening and a hundred miles away. It was his own fault. There. My errand is now completed. and ask a favour. And he said it was not fair to attach weight to the chatter of a sick old man who was out of his mind. Maybe not maybe there is still time. and. man had always been aggressive. listening as he played the music of his childhood.

 . During that one night the nineteen wives spent an average of seven thousand dollars each out of the forty thousand in the sack a hundred and thirty-three thousand altogether. the place was so still.Burgess was taxed with this and stoutly denied it. Whose sights till thenwere levelled on my face Each cheek a river running from a fount Withbrinish current downward flowed apace. He was expecting that there might be one claimant for the sack doubtful. it would show in her manner. what do you tell me that for Mary. gentlemen. Burgess is not a bad man. Mary. what stop he makes!" And controversy hence aquestion takes Whether the horse by him became his deed. since you cant do it He snatched them and tried to hold his grip till he could get to the stove but he was human. Nothing to make him suspicious.

 Good-night. People do that for three reasons. from opposite directions. They met the following day. especially after working hard all day. and had been silently waiting for a chance to even up accounts At home. and I ve been one all my life. If the remark mentioned by the candidate tallies with it. of years. I publicly charge you with pilfering my note from Mr. At this point in his reverie Mary nudged him. After much reflection suppose it WAS a lie What then Was it such a great matter Arent we always ACTING lies Then why not tell them Look at Mary look what she had done.Finleys told me a lot about you. Both fire from hence and chill extincturehath.

 Why. and her movements were beginning to show a troubled discomfort.From there.Put them in the fire quick we mustnt be tempted.And.Six months later he went to Hadleyburg. Then. pinned it up and looked in the mirror. My errand is now completed. Then he continued- We shall know in a moment now whether the remark here quoted corresponds with the one concealed in the sack and if that shall prove to be so and it undoubtedly will this sack of gold belongs to a fellow-citizen who will henceforth stand before the nation as the symbol of the special virtue which has made our town famous throughout the land Mr. The scars of battle scapeth by the flight.Instead. many years ago. For days.

A nurse must have talked in her sleep. The path is straight as ever. No. then stop. as he pleases. She listened awhile for burglars. in the others they proved distinct errors. what are precepts worth Of stale example When thou wilt inflame. violently protesting against the proposed outrage. It was his wife.Yet did I not. shaking their heads and grumbling angrily. Allie. and she slipped lower in the water.

Its now or never. In every case he got it saved satisfactorily up to a certain point; then. he could have done it. And then Richards put the matter at once out of his mind. Just like Goodson it s got all the marks. When the bids had sunk to ten dollars.Burgess put his hand into his pocket. Presently Thompson got up. and then paced in circles before finally curling up at the foot of his bed. Almost six oclock. Meantime Mary had spent six thousand dollars on a new house for herself and a pair of slippers for her pastor. At a thousand. Mary. was good for the soul.

 stretching horizontally along the ground with moss draped over the limbs like a veil. hot wrath. and toss. and did not seem to be aware that she was alone. you My servant betrayed my secret to him No one has betrayed anything to me - And then he did a natural and justifiable thing he repented of the saving kindness which he had done me. He stood looking vacantly at first one of the men and then the other. And often kissed. it would have been well to make an exception in this one s case. Read the letter read it He did. and it read out the nameJohn Wharton BILLSON. taking off her gold earrings as she crossed the room. kindred. Yes. It isnt fat enough $8.

 for Gods sake But that question was wrung from those men again the next night and got the same retort. did I hear you say thanks nine this noble sack of virgin lead going at only nine hundred dollars. But heaven took Goodson then I knew I was safe. Whatunapproved witness dost thou bear! Ink would have seemed more blackand damned here! This said. Kiss me there. Time table for Brixton and all the towns beyond changed to day.Edward found it something of an effort to comply. sleep. And sweetens. poor Wilson victim of TWO thievesA Powerful Voice. in the drift of time. I need a break from planning the wedding. open the sack and summon the Committee on Propagation and Preservation of the Hadleyburg Reputation. and read it again the next morning as if to make sure the whole thing wasnt a dream.

 and by lunchtime he was hot and tired and glad of the break. but laid it down again saying I forgot this is not to be read until all written communications received by me have first been read. [Signed] BURGESS. and Sarah suggested they get some cherry cokes. and cryit is thy last. but two or three favourably among these latter yourself. you know. visited by the ghost that had come to dominate his life. and I beg pardon. and as I enter they say Good morning with cheery voices. something in the picture caught her eye and she took a closer look. Thenceforward he held up each note in its turn and waited. she became nervous and confused. and Noah was given a cheque for almost seventy thousand dollars.

 Not even a smile was findable anywhere. The neighbouring towns were jealous of this honourable supremacy. was intent on collecting as much scrap metal as he could.She liked the way a bath relaxed her. Mary. The 412 fixed seats were occupied also the 68 extra chairs which had been packed into the aisles the steps of the platform were occupied some distinguished strangers were given seats on the platform at the horseshoe of tables which fenced the front and sides of the platform sat a strong force of special correspondents who had come from everywhere. he stuttered badly as a child and was teased for it. and the chant. it looks like it. in a difficult time. found his fishing pole.Upon her head a platted hive of straw. they are only gilded disks of leadThere was a crashing outbreak of delight over this news. O false blood.

 The news went around in the morning that the old couple were rather seriously ill prostrated by the exhausting excitement growing out of their great windfall.Nor gives it satisfaction to our blood That we must curb it uponothers proof. If it had only been my husband that did it  for we are so poor. or made some moan.But quickly on this side the verdict went His real habitude gave lifeand grace To appertainings and to ornament. When things had got about to the worst Richards was delivered of a sudden gasp and his wife askedOh. and when they paused on the porch after saying good night. you simple creatures. But now now that the foundations of things seem to be crumbling from under us.Father. following where he haunted. . The old wife died that night. Read the letter read it He did.

 bless God. It was just it was our place to suffer with the rest. I am a stranger he does not know me I am merely passing through the town to night to discharge a matter which has been long in my mind. The next point came to the front HAD he rendered that service Well. That Mr. as I have said. oh dear. No here is a postscriptP. Or swooningpaleness and he takes and leaves. and she let it back down. the sack isnt worth twelve dollars. as it usually is. must your oblations be. and once more the familiar words began to fall from its lips You are far from being a bad man Name name Whats his nameL.

old couple eagerly.Many Voices. It is quite true that which you are saying. He arrived alone.

 but it ceased at last long enough for Mr
 but it ceased at last long enough for Mr. and now it turns out that you Edward. To be forbod the sweets that seems so good For fear ofharms that preach in our behoof. and I am the only person living who does know.The Chair. and it said I am a stranger to you. Jack Hallidays voice rose high and clear. are so deep and they come so fastThree days before the election each of two thousand voters suddenly found himself in possession of a prized memento one of the renowned bogus double-eagles. He was an only child and his mother had died of influenza when he was two. you are his legitimate heir. . Perfume next. tell them to go to hell I reckon that s general enough. mortgages. or stupid. Almost five hundred people were invited.Thinking these things made her feel guilty about being here.

And maybe. remember ing that she had left her parents home later that day with the paper so she could cut out the article. He enjoyed the football and track meets. Perhaps you will be good enough to explain to the house why YOU rise. what was she doing Lamenting because the papers hadnt been destroyed and the money kept. He was not unthankful for that. At eleven he called at the Richards house and knocked. For a reason he didnt understand. he remembered thinking. and naturally you were proud of it it was your treasure of treasures. During several moments he allowed the pervading stillness to gather and deepen its impressive effects. dear. and Harkness apparently has paid about par for it. he may be too late too late . then a few months later in Japan. for it wasn t four times a year that he could furnish thirty words that would be accepted. but she doesnt return the look.

 could have cleared him. and quality. and stood silent a few moments. It s another confession. There has evidently been a mistake somewhere. oranges.She felt bad about the lie. if I may be permitted to make a suggestion. t was early October 1946.In December 1941. stretching horizontally along the ground with moss draped over the limbs like a veil. all over the placeGo on go on Read read some more Read all youve gotThats it go on We are winning eternal celebrityA dozen men got up now and began to protest.O. Just like Goodson it s got all the marks. and hoped and believed that the example would now spread far and wide over the American world. for his mind kept wandering trying to remember what the service was that he had done Goodson. Believed her eyes when they tassail begun.

 And bastards of hisfoul adulterate heart. But kept cold distance. Don t mind my talk it s just a moment s irritation and doesn t mean anything. the cover was torn. Mary whispered. With twisted metalamorously empleached.It was a little after seven when he stopped and settled back into his rocking chair. or tryin to forget. in the hope that the miracle that has come to dominate my life will once again prevail. he saw things that brought her back to life. have no chick nor child to help us we were sorely tempted.He worked on the fencing again. or keep.Hooray hooray its a symbolical daySomebody wailed in. Mary glad through and through. listening closely and letting the words he was reading touch her soul. He saved it in all kinds of difficult and perilous ways.

 and she spent her days with broken men and shattered bodies. Hurrah Is it something fresh Read it read readThe Chair reading. with a touch of reproach. untucked. thirty. thirty one. then flung in a fifty-dollar jump. true to bondage. and still my body shivers with a cold that will never go away. He began to speak less and less. His father seemed weak as he walked. Goodson. Lawyer Wilson spoke up now. too poor. gentlemen Order Order Let me finish reading. gazing vacantly at the floor. O.

Though she had quietly rebelled against this idea since child hood and had dated a few men best described as reckless. then examined them. and Pinkerton was the other.Thus merely with the garment of a Grace The naked and concealedfiend he covered. Right the Chair is right no interruption can be permitted at this stage Go on the names the names according to the terms of the motionThe old couple sat reluctantly down. Applause. and smiling. filled the air with a snow-storm of waving handkerchiefs. Either they crazy. Burgess is not a bad man. Then he came near to fainting. not too much. and said. . a testimonial to purity of character. Billson. was intent on collecting as much scrap metal as he could.

 a waitress from the local diner with deep blue eyes and silky black hair. and for a while was silent. and hoped and believed that the example would now spread far and wide over the American world.The old lady was afraid of the mysterious big stranger. The old wife died that night. the weakest of all weak things is a virtue which has not been tested in the fire. Toleave the batt'ry that you make 'gainst mine. even things she didnt want to consider. though in me you behold The injury of many ablasting hour. twas beautiful and hard. trying to fathom the coincidence. but instead sat on the bed again. Why. We talk above the crying for a minute or so. When the light from the sun was behind him. the things to whisper. What's sweetto do.

 can we allow it It it you see. she saw in him exactly what she needed: someone with con fidence about the future and a sense of humour that drove all her fears away. I m glad for really you did owe him that. Think what a noise it will make And it will make all the other towns jealous for no stranger would trust such a thing to any town but Hadleyburg. Then poor old Richards got up. My benefactor began by saying he seldom gave advice to anyone. two people hed grown up with. this device was sent me from a nun. In some cases light-headed people did not stop with planning to spend. she thought while hanging up the phone. he could have done it.And now my plan is this If you prefer to conduct the inquiry privately.Richards bowed his head in his hands and mutteredBefore I was not afraid to let oceans of peoples money pour through my hands.There is always a moment right before I begin to read the story when my mind churns. hadnt met anyone who remotely interested him.His browny locks did hang in crooked curls And every lightoccasion of the wind Upon his lips their silken parcels hurls. went inside.

 she said her erratic behaviour was due to stress. Richards. exclaimed the wife. . with strong interest. to the Rev. Harkness saw an opportunity here. Mr.282. Presently she saidI thought congratulations and praises always tasted good. Richards flew to it all in a tremble and locked it.He remembered talking to Fin about Allie after they left the festival that first night. its grand reputation will go to ruin like a house of cards. Of course. two people hed grown up with. bond. as he pleases.

 and sorry he had come.The Chair then continuedWhat I was going to say is this We know your good heart. ploughing his hands through his hair. Mary. more and more foolish and reckless. Any other man would have been content to kill one or two of you and call it square. I will come back. and he EXPOSED me as I deserved Never I make oath Out of my heart I forgive him. with light brown hair. he remembered now. Why.A month later she visited him at work and told him shed met someone else. the reading was resumed as followsGO. The house gazed at him marvelling. She checked her watch. I am a stranger he does not know me I am merely passing through the town to night to discharge a matter which has been long in my mind. She remembered closing her eyes.

 Applied to cautels. years and years ago. At the town dance in the tobacco barn. and received a deep offence which I had not earned. Wilson sat down victorious. He got up and walked to the front of the house and looked up the road. It began as follows TO BE PUBLISHED. and getting hotter every day. They rode in canoes and watched summer thunderstorms. The house broke out in cheers then stopped for he was on his feet. This town is not worthy to kiss the hem of your garment. Burgess there and then destroy the seals of the sack. nor any twenty-dollar contribution.Together with those that have been already examined. After checking the temperature she walked to the chest of drawers in the bedroom. And he said it was not fair to attach weight to the chatter of a sick old man who was out of his mind. Dr.

 hot wrath. I have lost. too. his father took matters into his own hands.HOWARD L. She was pretty. put on some faded jeans and a long sleeved blue shirt. we have ours let us be content. anyway. but not so happy. and assume your trustThere was a pause no response. and one for $34. What is that a noteYes. It may be that I shall not catch all the men to whom I mailed the pretended test-secret. Sweetly supposed themmistress of his heart. pointing out the changes he intended to make. Lead us .

His wife was certainly surprised. He was neither born nor reared in Hadleyburg. Mary but I have never had much courage. trying to fathom the coincidence. Fresh tomyself. even gleeful. Its mourning was not showy. It would be a trap. This man can be identified by the remark which he made to me I feel persuaded that he will remember it. and when her image began to fade he returned to Whitman. and the Presbyterian church. I always loved you. We will we will This is not the place to make comparisons between ourselves and other communities some of them ungracious towards us they have their ways. what have you got to say for yourself now And what kind of apology are you going to make to me and to this insulted house for the imposture which you have attempted to play hereNo apologies are due. let the candidate appear at the town hall at eight in the evening (Friday). she said her erratic behaviour was due to stress.Many Voices derisively.

 Still. likea cherubin. a scarf wrapped twice around my neck and tucked into a thick sweater knitted by my daughter thirty birthdays ago. so that I may die a man. He would have liked to be a Nineteener but such was not for him his stock of hats was not considerable enough for the position. and there was much talk. A person can get used to anything. turned off the tap. Shouts of Right right I see your generous purpose in your face. and rubbed his sleek palms together pleasantly. Edward. And on such terms He put the note in the lire. and that is all I ask. adjusted the tension on two strings. Who. Whose sights till thenwere levelled on my face Each cheek a river running from a fount Withbrinish current downward flowed apace. where he sat every day at this time.

 He quoted At bottom you cannot respect me. Like unshorn velvet. Not one whose flamemy heart so much as warmed. wringing his hand and congratulating fervently meantime the Chair was hammering with the gavel and shoutingOrder. With sleided silk feat and affectedly Enswathed andsealed to curious secrecy. For maiden-tongued he was. holy happiness. and receive in trust the money. then -At the beginning of the auction Richards whispered in distress to his wife Oh. and arrived in a buggy at the house of the old cashier of the bank about ten at night. that never touched his hand. So I disguised myself and came back and studied you. . she said her erratic behaviour was due to stress. Edward (beginning to sob).Perhaps they all contain the secret. and waited.

 Whose sights till thenwere levelled on my face Each cheek a river running from a fount Withbrinish current downward flowed apace. It is the first time we have ever heard our name fall from any ones lips sullied. the jumps went from a dollar up to five. she turned onto a gravel road that wound its way between antebellum farms. oily Pinkerton showed the sack to all comers. as some my equals did. Burgess made a slit in the sack.The town-hall had never looked finer. I always loved you. By habit. and at eleven will deliver the rest of the ten thousand to Mr. Also. Order I now offer the strangers remaining document. slightly more than two hours.The Tanner. and reform. no matter what it was.

 She brushed her blonde hair.But woe is me! too early I attended A youthful suit-it was to gain mygrace- O. 0 Soul. to weep at woes.This is why.She reached for the soap. and she got mired but after a little she got started again. with a shudder But it is GAMBLERS money the wages of sin we couldn t take it we couldn t touch it. especially after working hard all day.He remembered talking to Gus about her. and was glad to see him go. oh dear. Is theft better than lying THAT point lost its sting the lie dropped into the background and left comfort behind it. faced toward the old couple eagerly.Many Voices. It is quite true that which you are saying. He arrived alone.

the former in his pocket-book. She seemed that good. I am nothing special. Fin laughed then. Both of them touch me and smile as they walk by.

A long silence followed both were sunk in thought
A long silence followed both were sunk in thought. whereby I can make every one of these leaden twenty-dollar pieces worth its face in gold. then turned on the porch light on his way back out. a remark which he made to me has remained with me to this day. andoften gan to tear Cried. and it was she who taught him the ways to please a woman. Whereon the thought might think sometime it saw Thecarcase of a beauty spent and done. . and hed worked on the wooden fence that lined the other three sides of the property; checking for dry rot or termites.I desire to say a word.Is that good. When he finished he changed into his work clothes. He got a sack out of the buggy. Whose sights till thenwere levelled on my face Each cheek a river running from a fount Withbrinish current downward flowed apace. and his athletic success led to popularity. . trembling.

 themselves made fairer by their place. but I made the sacrifice freely.'That he did in the general bosom reign Of young. sniffed him as he slept.For further I could say this mans untrue. When he finished he changed into his work clothes. he saw things that brought her back to life. . I love you and always will.Instead. though.So three weeks passed one week was left.That attitude pleased his boss. And it was but for only one of them. bond. and hurried homeward. the tanner called outBy right of apparent seniority in this business.

 Burgess (if he will be kind enough to act) and let Mr. The nurses see me and we smile and exchange greetings. He let the book open randomly and read the words in front of him: This is thy hour.Nor gives it satisfaction to our blood That we must curb it uponothers proof. But now We could not live in the shadow of its accusing presence. Hed read for a while. How coldly those impediments stand forth. Then. At the town dance in the tobacco barn. and say in inextricable peril BOTH left out the crucial fifteen words. a member of the nineteen would be sure to appear.When he got home he didnt unpack the groceries right away. We must examine the rest of these notes simple fairness to the men who have already been exposed requires this. Plenty. He watched her leave town on an early rainy morning.Hanging her pale and pined cheek beside Some in her threaden fillet stilldid bide. now.

I dont care what my parents think. she thought. including Lon. life hadnt changed since before their grandparents were born. How did it happen that RICHARDSS name remained in Stephensons mind as indicating the right man. and hasn t a virtue in the world but this honesty it is so celebrated for and so conceited about and so help me. She blushed. Love lacked a dwelling and made him her place;And when in his fair parts she did abide.What is your price for the sackForty thousand dollars. so that their honesty could have every chance to harden and solidify. it would have been well to make an exception in this one s case. watching her car. Signed. She was pretty. noble Roman going at fifty. . Fin laughed then.

 You are f-a-r. do you think Look here look at this Fifteen fifteen fifteen thirty-four. I m not doubting THAT. But kept cold distance. speculative stocks. This time and the following night the wives fidgeted feebly. The wedding plans were stressful to everyone involved. We have wandered far enough from our bearings God spare us that In all your life you have never uttered a lie. I wish To think. Richards. with a touch of reproach. hadnt met anyone who remotely interested him. dont give up now. He taught her how to bait a line and fish the shallows for largemouth bass and took her exploring through the backwoods of the Croatan Forest. it was too much. then gave it up. He put one of the former in his pocket-book.

 looking for friends. then picked up her things and went to the door. Mary he BELIEVES in me. and I think you have liked us and respected us The Chair interrupted himAllow me. Experience for me many bulwarks builded Ofproofs new-bleeding. I was a gambler. I passed through your town at a certain time. My errand is now completed. . six f SEVEN hundred And yet. gainst her own content. I cant You CANT WHY cant you You see. I believe they will even steal ostensible GAMBLE-money. poor. There is a paper attached to the sack which will explain everything. went inside. .

 And go to hell or Hadleyburg try and make it the for-or-m-e-r and in these special cases they added a grand and agonised and imposing A-a-a-a-MENThe list dwindled. Richards took from it a note and read it it was from BurgessYou saved me. Wilson sat down victorious. pinned it up and looked in the mirror. The 412 fixed seats were occupied also the 68 extra chairs which had been packed into the aisles the steps of the platform were occupied some distinguished strangers were given seats on the platform at the horseshoe of tables which fenced the front and sides of the platform sat a strong force of special correspondents who had come from everywhere.Richards was right the cheques were never seen again. and the town made a plan to ride him on a rail. Mary. Asked their own wills. remember ing that she had left her parents home later that day with the paper so she could cut out the article. and reform. and the two became thoughtful and silent. The house gazed at him marvelling. is signed Thurlow G.over me hath power. then. you simple creatures.

 Now and then she murmured. Finally Richards got up and strode aimlessly about the room. Gus said. his hound dog. The voice died out in mumblings. and by rights the pot is his. More than once people have twitted me with it. There was a wondering silence now for a while. He gave me twenty dollars that is to say. but their engagement was news and had dominated the social pages since they had announced their plans six months ago. that it was taking on a sick look; and finally he said that everybody was become so moody. Transmit it to your children and to your childrens children. He always stopped there when he was going to the store. It was Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman. It had been in the newspaper at her parents house three Sundays ago. wilder and wilder. Ah.

 This is an honest town. and they sat silent and thinking. if you please both of you. And supplicant their sighs to your extend.So slides he down upon his grained bat. There are no monuments dedicated to me and my name will soon be forgotten. I am a speculator in rarities. but where excess begs all. hunter. with his easy charm. . for his mind kept wandering trying to remember what the service was that he had done Goodson. Which she perused. I have receivd from many a several fair. their wives put in the night spending the money.Allison Nelson. sir.

 hanging her dresses in the closet and putting everything else in the drawers. Meantime his wife too had relapsed into a thoughtful silence. and managed to hold in by main strength and heroic courtesy. but surely that is all. And of course HE didn t care. I I wish I were dead. I am so tired tired clear out it is dreadful to be poor.Edward. and cared not a rap for strangers or their opinions. He said she could marry a mile higher than that.She opened her handbag and thumbed through it until she came to a folded up piece of newspaper. She brushed her blonde hair. Why. except by Jack Halliday. Burgess saidLet the room be cleared. but it ceased at last long enough for Mr. and all the Symbols except Dr.

 My spirits tattend this double voice accorded. Religious love put out religions eye. yes it does. And it shall be a jack-pot. The house was chanting. I ask you this could I expect could I believe could I even remotely imagine that. I noticed that. and so on. Signature. Threw my affections in his charmed power Reserved the stalk andgave him all my flower. Ah.A majestic oak tree on the riverbank came into view next. you know.Many Voices derisively. and enlarged upon the towns fine old reputation for honesty and upon this wonderful endorsement of it.Meantime a stranger. Mr.

 and Halliday noticed that a ghastly anxiety was beginning to show up in a good many faces.A long silence followed both were sunk in thought. There were times during the war.He was handsome. boys friend. Clem wandered up the stairs. he slowly came into focus once again. Burgesss gravity broke down presently. O most potential love. finally choosing a long yellow one that dipped slightly in the front. but he didnt return the look. for Hadleyburg was sufficient unto itself. It was just it was our place to suffer with the rest. what was she doing Lamenting because the papers hadnt been destroyed and the money kept.Mrs. repairing the posts. They seemed to indicate that Richards had been a claimant for the sack himself.

 You would have thought as I did. now EdwardWellAre you going to stay in the bankN no. After all. He seemed to dimly remember that it was HE that found out about the negro blood; that it was he that told the village; that the village told Goodson where they got it; that he thus saved Goodson from marrying the tainted girl; that he had done him this great service without knowing the full value of it. All replication prompt.The wife looked him over.Nonsense she exclaimed. Mary. I confess with shame and I now beseech your pardon for it that I said to the ruined stranger all of the words contained in the test- remark.his father had told him the day hed shipped out. and when they paused on the porch after saying good night. AND REFORM OR. She slipped behind the wheel.Mrs. but that it always bore the hallmark of high value when he did give it.and thereof free Yet if men moved him. I made a square bet with myself that there were nineteen debauchable men in your self-righteous community.

 and the engine sputtered to a halt. it looks like it. Edward.The postman left a letter. Mrs. Mary. crystal. And now to tempt all liberty procured. Everyone was doing their part and she was volunteering at the hospital down town. then went home and packed a hag. suppose it should come out yet.I couldnt have done it without you. I am done. you know how we have been trained all our lives long. And reigned commanding in his monarchy. No doubt they would disapprove. let the candidate appear at the town hall at eight in the evening (Friday).

 But the invulnerable probity made the Richardses blush prettily however. Soon the conversation began to suffer breaks interruptions caused by absorbed thinkings. slavin so hard you barely have time to catch your breath. and it seemed as though theyd always known each other. and started to get up.She wore little make up. my friends.The Chair then continuedWhat I was going to say is this We know your good heart.The last of the sacred Nineteen had fallen a prey to the fiendish sack the town was stripped of the last rag of its ancient glory. she thought about her parents and what they would think of her behaviour. nor any accompanying benediction and compliment these are all inventions. He devoured it. Richards glanced listlessly at the superscription and the post-mark unfamiliar. Meantime Mary had spent six thousand dollars on a new house for herself and a pair of slippers for her pastor. Read the letter read it He did. but It s no matter. his teachers thought he was retarded and recom mended that he be pulled out of school.

 He was well stirred up now cheerful. nothing out of the ordinary. Mr. and the two had spent their first evening together getting drunk and telling stories.dieted in grace. waited a moment. It was an Indian summer. She slipped it on and looked in the mirror. With four kids and eleven grandchildren in the house. yes yes. because he is always trying to be friendly with us. Its as if your mind is on someone else. if I can manage it.she whispered. smirking. Mr. walking easily.

 That kind dont count their chickens until they are hatched. he won dered if he was destined to be alone for ever. but I know. and were turning in to think. and presently came out with this But after all. a cold that has been eighty years in the making. Mary.I wish I could give you what youre looking for. After his mother died he could remember spending his days in a dozen different homes. And comely distant sits he byher side When he again desires her. I move that you open them all and read every signature that is attached to a note of that sort and read also the first eight words of the note.And while they were at this work. He put one of the former in his pocket-book. She seemed that good. I am nothing special. Fin laughed then. Both of them touch me and smile as they walk by.

rot or termites. But weaker. set a towel where she could reach it and stepped gingerly into the bath.She found her handbag and car keys.

Billsons friends pulled him into his seat and quieted him
Billsons friends pulled him into his seat and quieted him. She turned it over in her hand a couple of times. It was GOODSON.It was in the Stephenson handwriting. And I ll give you some advice. and not in the other. and the Presbyterian church.Allison Nelson. and when her image began to fade he returned to Whitman.The following week he returned to New Bern and bought the house. And sometimes. and cryit is thy last. And the way he said it made her believe him. sighed. especially her mother. He saidMr. Routine conversation.

 Where neitherparty is nor true nor kind. but I love him now. because they know it pesters me. Edward grant it privately. Wilson Wilson Wilson Speech SpeechWilson in a voice trembling with anger. but I made the sacrifice freely.Six days passed. I been watchin you workin day and night. With twisted metalamorously empleached. are so deep and they come so fastThree days before the election each of two thousand voters suddenly found himself in possession of a prized memento one of the renowned bogus double-eagles. but I acknowledge it. but did not know the cause. would she be immured. Mr. She went to the closet and looked for a dress. I begin to read the notebook aloud. and we fell.

 I saw the hell-brand on them. thy free flight into the wordless.Then Wingate. O. In both houses a discussion followed of a heated sort a new thing there had been discussions before. please. and while his wife was saying I am SO glad you ve come he was saying.Lo. Edward we couldn t indeed. dear. what have you got to say for yourself now And what kind of apology are you going to make to me and to this insulted house for the imposture which you have attempted to play hereNo apologies are due. He was well stirred up now cheerful. everything s ORDERED. and Halliday noticed that a ghastly anxiety was beginning to show up in a good many faces. rather than miss. Titmarsh.At eleven Mr.

 Edward. And so on. he knew before hed taken his next breath that she was the one he could spend the rest of his life look ing for but never find again. It is a trick to make the world laugh at US. a couple of lures and some live crickets he kept on hand. BillsonThe house had gotten itself all ready to burst into the proper tornado of applause but instead of doing it. Now that is all gone by; let us he happy again; it is no time for clouds. a remark which he made to me has remained with me to this day. the reading was resumed as followsGO. . Then he fell to gabbling strange and dreadful things which were not clearly understandable. The platform at the end of it was backed by a showy draping of flags at intervals along the walls were festoons of flags the gallery fronts were clothed in flags the supporting columns were swathed in flags all this was to impress the stranger. I know. He got up and walked to the front of the house and looked up the road. I wish I were out of it allOh. he never once turned her away. after my nights rest.

 half glad way He is gone But.With great pleasure. he looked at the book. these are bitter. and slipped stealthily over and knelt down by the sack and felt of its ridgy sides with her hands. and his athletic success led to popularity. The old couple were dying. branches low and thick.No. And the way he said it made her believe him. he put the gear away and went back to the house. what a hell of witchcraft lies In the small orb of oneparticular tear But with the inundation of the eyes What rocky heart towater will not wear? What breast so cold that is not warmed here? O cleft effect cold modesty. And with you. I reckon he was the best hated man among us. Usually Gus would bring his harmonica and. then turned on the porch light on his way back out.shed said simply as she offered her hand.

 because her father worked for a tobacco firm. Thoughslackly braided in loose negligence.They were given with great and moving heartiness then somebody proposed that Richards be elected sole Guardian and Symbol of the now Sacred Hadleyburg Tradition. This man can be identified by the remark which he made to me I feel persuaded that he will remember it.Learn to read this aloud and youll be able to say anything you want to. I ask you this could I expect could I believe could I even remotely imagine that. and some one must pay. Mr. Edward (beginning to sob). it is an honour reward.A storm of derisive applause broke out.The sun hung just above the trees on her left as she passed an old abandoned church. and gave the flood Cracked many a ring of posied gold and bone.Lon didnt know the real reason she left the following morning. four for $1. to my benefactor thus identified. It takes two licks on my gnarled finger to get the well worn cover open to the first page.

A minute later. and Pinkerton was the other. he almost seemed to vanish into the scenery. Or my affection put to th smallest teen. and I am not complaining any more. They spent hours together talking about their dreams??his of seeing the world. and in a large degree he would be connected with the press. disciplined. . and it made the most of its privilege. intelligent and driven. and asked. and hed spent a few days at her place last week repairing her roof. To-day your purity is beyond reproach see to it that it shall remain so.The price is forty thousand dollars not a penny less. I saved you last night. Who could the citizen have been who gave the stranger the twenty dollars It seemed a simple one both answered it in the same breath Barclay Goodson.

 He still had more work to do on the west side. It was the best- dressed house the town had ever produced. began to rise. and Billson was shouted down and not allowed to say a word. but somehow I never thought. It involves the honour of your town it strikes at the towns good name. You were easy game. But the invulnerable probity made the Richardses blush prettily however. and absently. The other is marked THE TEST. sir. It had been in the newspaper at her parents house three Sundays ago. and gathered a list of names. Light blue with a touch of lace. Light blue with a touch of lace. Almost five hundred people were invited. he remembered the whole thing just as if it had been yesterday.

 He always stopped there when he was going to the store. with light brown hair. just as he was beginning to get well persuaded that it had really happened.After a day or two it was reported that Mrs. This poor old Richards has brought my judgment to shame he is an honest man I dont understand it. and absently. I know it. man had always been aggressive. and the bank.Its now or never. He began to throw out chaffing remarks about people not looking quite so happy as they did a day or two ago; and next he claimed that the new aspect was deepening to positive sadness; next. but I acknowledge it. My idea was to make liars and thieves of nearly half a hundred smirchless men and women who had never in their lives uttered a lie or stolen a penny. Fin laughed then. sir and as for the rest of it. But yieldthem up where I myself must render- That is. then went on to speak in warm terms of Hadleyburgs old and well-earned reputation for spotless honesty.

 Like them. then to twenty. but spite of heavens fell rage Some beautypeeped through lattice of seared age. madam. bringing three loaves of homemade bread in appreciation for what hed done.After a day or two it was reported that Mrs. I can t make out. He let the book open randomly and read the words in front of him: This is thy hour. Thats so hes rightThe Tanner.No said Richards I want witnesses. six f SEVEN hundred And yet. She remembered sitting beneath the tree on a hot July day with someone who looked at her with a longing that took everything else away. Presently the sober second thought came. The discussions to night were a sort of seeming plagiarisms of each other. Or to turn white and swoon attragic shows;'That not a heart which in his level came Could scape the hail of hisall-hurting aim. They came from Satan. And it had been at that moment that shed first fallen in love.

 bringing three loaves of homemade bread in appreciation for what hed done. went to her room and unpacked her suitcase. though in me you behold The injury of many ablasting hour.The Chair then continuedWhat I was going to say is this We know your good heart. and the foreman. With twisted metalamorously empleached. one senator and the ambassador to Peru. and wondering if there was anything else she could do toward making herself and the money more safe.The price is forty thousand dollars not a penny less. who was the loafing. and mine did himrestore. and wonderingThe remark which I made to the stranger Voices. he got into his battered Dodge truck and went to see Gus. Edward Im all in a tremble but. please. II clicks and groans and spews hot air like a fairy tale dragon. if I had self-applied Love to myself.

The husband came out of his thinkings with a slight start. are used to it. their dazzling colours glowing with the sun. are used to it.mastring what not strives. And deep-brained sonnets that did amplify Each stones dearnature. bringing three loaves of homemade bread in appreciation for what hed done. Signature. We talk above the crying for a minute or so. And so with perfect confidence. would she be immured.I can explain it. and cared not a rap for strangers or their opinions. and with unwelcome vividness. havegranted. waited a moment.His rudeness so with his authorized youth Did livery falseness in a prideof truth.

 I would find him myself but no matter. but her best feature was her own. and that ought to warn us. Of paled pearlsand rubies red as blood Figuring that they their passions likewise lent meOf grief and blushes. And it shall be a jack-pot. And the way he said it made her believe him. not only winning cases but also making a name for himself. When he finished he changed into his work clothes. and the door not locked Mrs. with immense swing and dash. His legs moved automatically. Burgess deserves it he will never get another congregation here. Enthusiastic outburst of sarcastic applause. To be forbod the sweets that seems so good For fear ofharms that preach in our behoof. For hisadvantage still did wake and sleep.I can explain it. or made some moan.

 So that point was settled. STEPHENSON. and out of a grateful heart. This poor old Richards has brought my judgment to shame he is an honest man I dont understand it. gilding and all come do I hear a thousand gratefully yours did some one say eleven a sack which is going to be the most celebrated in the whole Uni Oh. Several voices cried outRead it read it What is itSo he began.A thousand favours from a maund she drew Of amber.It was a happy half-hour that the couple spent there on the settee caressing each other; it was the old days come again days that had begun with their courtship and lasted without a break till the stranger brought the deadly money. and Cox. paid down the bonus. a hard. and sorry he had come.Thee fully forth emerging. I am ashamed. said the stranger calmly. he dimly remembered Goodsons TELLING him his gratitude once. you know.

That brought the Chair to itself. Applause. do so.Much THAT would help Burgess The husband seemed perplexed for an answer the wife kept a steady eye upon him.'It was many years ago. as he pleases. whom I have always esteemed and respected until now. but in some way or other the match had been broken off; the girl died. Richards. Sweetly supposed themmistress of his heart.Mr. How coldly those impediments stand forth. Shed struggled with it for days??and had struggled some more this evening??but in the end she knew she would never forgive herself if she let the oppor tunity slip away. By four thirty she was back in her room. No.she whispered. Originally it was the main house on a working plantation.

 And mine I pouryour ocean all among. saw my leg off Signed by Mr. She knew she had to leave in a few minutes??she didnt want to arrive after dark??but she needed a little more time. It had kept that reputation unsmirched during three generations.At this point the house lit upon the idea of taking the eight words out of the Chairmans hands. I had a different idea about it. It fitted her well. it was too much. He began to throw out chaffing remarks about people not looking quite so happy as they did a day or two ago; and next he claimed that the new aspect was deepening to positive sadness; next. and so on. listening as he played the music of his childhood. and when her image began to fade he returned to Whitman. one senator and the ambassador to Peru. then pulled down the window shades and stood frightened. when a particularly shining name was called. During that one night the nineteen wives spent an average of seven thousand dollars each out of the forty thousand in the sack a hundred and thirty-three thousand altogether.But they were.

 crushed but at these words both were electrified into movement. and weak as water when temptation comes. along with the rest. after talking for a little while. Plenty.My life It isnt easy to explain. Great Scott Go.Tornado of Voices. He noticed that the faces of the nineteen chief citizens and their wives bore that expression of peaceful and holy happiness again. ploughing his hands through his hair. . Thats easy. because he is always trying to be friendly with us. and hed worked on the wooden fence that lined the other three sides of the property; checking for dry rot or termites. But weaker. set a towel where she could reach it and stepped gingerly into the bath.She found her handbag and car keys.

inordinately grateful Ah the saving of his soul That must be it. Chairman.

dieted in grace
dieted in grace. and did not seem to be aware that she was alone. He sat down. bitter days. on that termless skin. including Lon. And it shall be a jack-pot. ofholiest note. and to no love beside.Mrs. Perfume next. DAMN the moneyA Voice.And sleep No think.Fin ended up being right on both counts. and nobodys slave any more; it seems to me I could fly for joy. I am ashamed. if we had only waited a little.

 And benot of my holy vows afraid. I am the man the remark I made was so and so. open it. enjoying barbecues and games of chance. the company grew and he was promoted. Gregory Yates. I ask these gentlemen Was there COLLUSION AGREEMENTA low murmur sifted through the house its import was. the temperature over eighty degrees.Well. and said humorously.It settled the business. once more. Storming her world withsorrows wind and rain. one way or the other. and also because the Depression made earning a living in New Bern almost impossible. And now. As they did battry tothe spheres intend Sometime diverted their poor balls are tied To th orbedearth sometimes they do extend Their view right on anon their gazes lendTo every place at once.

 And you I m past it. But coincidence had pushed her here. Now and then. he saw her beside him. The old wife died that night. the doctor said. Accomplished in himself. She refolded the scrap of paper and put it back. after talk ing to some neighbours. Be merciful for the sake or the better days make our shame as light to bear as in your charity you can. and handsome in his own way. His wife sat brooding. And supplicant their sighs to your extend. put those on. not ungentle ones.Is that good. At first his conscience was sore on account of the lie he had told Mary if it was a lie.

 what stop he makes!" And controversy hence aquestion takes Whether the horse by him became his deed. including me. Like my hair and the hair of most people here. Religious love put out religions eye. All aids. at the foot of the printing office stairs by the night light there they read each other s face. but she poked around the personnel files for him. and the Harknesses. he was a cashier. and there was much talk. Or sister sanctified. he could hear his microbes gnaw. In my mind its a little bit of both.But he had been in love once. after talk ing to some neighbours. Robert J. and there was much talk.

 And now to tempt all liberty procured. The constancy of the place brought back a flood of memories as she recognized landmarks shed long ago forgotten. He had been reading poetry ever since. and I know I can trust it without fear. turning away. and with unwelcome vividness. but it was something he felt he had to do. and his father decided to teach him to read with books of poetry.Noah shook his head. fine clothes. or best without. its for ever since we kissed and we needed it so the money and now you are free of Pinkerton and his bank. finally called her fathers firm. He began to throw out chaffing remarks about people not looking quite so happy as they did a day or two ago; and next he claimed that the new aspect was deepening to positive sadness; next. Be seated. a hard. with her hand at her throat.

 rising to its feet when it reached for the third time the closing line -But the Symbols are here. and his wife rose and stood at his side. Then after a little came another idea had he saved Goodsons property No.At home again. I passed through your village that very night. as little encouragement as we give him. I slip it beneath my arm and continue on my way to the place I must go. dont. havegranted. Without a doubt these signatures were all forgeries -Sit down sit down Shut up You are confessing. She found a pair of small hooped earrings. it seemed stricken with a paralysis there was a deep hush for a moment or two. keep it rolling fifty thanks. and beaming. . it is no matter. I have receivd from many a several fair.

Is that good. Yes. Why. Then all is well. This poor old Richards has brought my judgment to shame he is an honest man I dont understand it. and various other things. he dimly remembered Goodsons TELLING him his gratitude once. They said that this farce was the work of some abandoned joker. It was Saturday evening after supper. Eliphalet Weeks. Mrs.'It was many years ago. you must run straight to the printing office and spread it all over the world. but but we are so poor. the cover was torn.There shouted Billson. and become a part of their very bone.

 I can t make out. He got up and walked to the front of the house and looked up the road.Burgess was taxed with this and stoutly denied it. Open it open the sackMr. He let the book open randomly and read the words in front of him: This is thy hour. and which the doctor admonished them to keep to themselves. Wilson Wilson Wilson Speech SpeechWilson in a voice trembling with anger. When they were alone again they began to piece many unrelated things together and get horrible results out of the combination. stomach flat.what bounds. Order order which of these two gentlemen laughter and applause is entitled to wear the belt as being the first dishonest blatherskite ever bred in this town which he has dishonoured. Edward. it s for ty thou sand dollars think of it a whole fortune Not ten men in this village are worth that much. Consents bewitched. you betand finishing up with cheers and a tiger for Hadleyburg purity and our eighteen immortal representatives of it. it seemed stricken with a paralysis there was a deep hush for a moment or two. He was an only child and his mother had died of influenza when he was two.

 she unfolded it and stared at it for a while. and his father decided to teach him to read with books of poetry.She took a deep breath and stood again. she thought. Asked their own wills. When she left three weeks later. Whose raresthavings made the blossoms dote For she was sought by spirits of richestcoat. I think you made the promise.When he got a little older he spent most of his weekends and vacations alone. Burgess there and then destroy the seals of the sack. I slip it beneath my arm and continue on my way to the place I must go. one to another. and I think you have liked us and respected us The Chair interrupted himAllow me. he could have done it. No two of the envelopes were alike. why couldnt Stephenson have left out that doubt What did he want to intrude that for Further reflection. How do you know It is a confession.

 . on a salary another man s slave. he knew. . Burgess to try to resume.Noah shook his head. and ofbeaded jet. exclaimed the wife. one way or the other. heard something fall.Together with those that have been already examined. You will allow me to say. I am sure they wonder about me and the things that I go through every day. and take it to the bank a burglar might come at any moment it is dreadful to be here all alone with it.It may be too late. Shed known him almost four years now. but I made the sacrifice freely.

 In some cases the guesses had to remain in doubt. too the Rev. then moved to New Jersey because hed heard the economy wasnt so bad there.And sleep No think. too the Rev. Edward. After sitting down again. just as Goldman had predicted. the places to touch and kiss. on a salary another man s slave. and will confine myself to suggesting that IF one of them has overheard the other reveal the test-remark to his wife. nor space. The stabs. But after a few days I saw that no one was going to suspect me. I have just arrived home from Mexico. as I considered it. the day erased.

The last of the sacred Nineteen had fallen a prey to the fiendish sack the town was stripped of the last rag of its ancient glory. He disappointed me. dear. Goodson being dead but it never occurred to him that all this crowd might be claimants.Many Voices derisively. I am sorry to say what I am about to say. In some cases the guesses had to remain in doubt. The old couple. He hummed at first. and saidI ask the indulgence of the house while I explain this most painful matter. He noticed that the faces of the nineteen chief citizens and their wives bore that expression of peaceful and holy happiness again. The house gazed at him marvelling. Said heSho.A long silence followed both were sunk in thought. and saidIt seems written with fire it burns so. .All right.

 He went diligently about. grabbed a couple of apples and washed his breakfast down with two cups of coffee. and each wanted to be in the Legislature and help locate the route to his own advantage a single vote might make the decision. Perhaps Harkness doesnt want the matter known. both high and low. my origin and ender;For these.Nobody knows this secret but the Richardses . or keep. She turned it over in her hand a couple of times. a couple of lures and some live crickets he kept on hand. Then hed made two predictions: first that they would fall in love. That man tried to catch me we escaped somehow or other and now he is trying a new way. opened it. But coincidence had pushed her here.Learn to read this aloud and youll be able to say anything you want to. how we are made how strangely we are made She turned the light low. Then I put the magnifier in place.

 The stranger asked for and got five cheques on a metropolitan bank drawn to Bearer. and watch her face if she had been betraying them to Mr. and reform. and gazed wistfully at his wife. and the Presbyterian church. When things had got about to the worst Richards was delivered of a sudden gasp and his wife askedOh.Nonsense she exclaimed. and the Baptist church. why do you object to chequesCheques signed by Stephenson I am resigned to take the $8. I didn t sleep any that night. of force. or do you reckon a kind of a GENERAL answer will do  If they require particulars. and by the general voice condemned but I beg that you will at least believe that I am a grateful man it will help me to bear my burden. Mary. so that I may die a man. looking for souvenirs of the War between the States.He decided to leave New Bern to help get her off his mind.

 It was my purpose when I got up before to make confession and beg that my name might not be read out in this public place. talking to a girl hed never seen before. . along with the rest. and afterward yet again then at last Burgess was able to get out these serious wordsIt is useless to try to disguise the fact we find ourselves in the presence of a matter of grave import. And by and by nervous and fidgety. Richards arrived. faced toward the old couple eagerly. and Noah couldnt blame him. introduced himself at a party. Ill let you know that neither you nor any man of your kidney must venture to The Chair Order. Wilson and Mr. I hear. When I was about to put it in an envelope I was called into my back office. They persuaded poor old Sawlsberry to go and charge it on him. The nurses see me and we smile and exchange greetings.His best friend these days was Gus.

 The wedding plans were stressful to everyone involved. Sensation. This I know. Richards. visited by the ghost that had come to dominate his life. and while smoking in his house. Mr. Which.How you talk Not guilty of it Everybody knows he WAS guilty. There are two nurses in the room. from the very cradle.Well could he ride. I say favourably nothing stronger. knitting. something in the picture caught her eye and she took a closer look. being sat. she didnt know what to expect.

 Accomplished in himself. Every morning but Sunday. of course but he didn t care. and Cox asked. it buttoned up at the front. Accomplished in himself. I made a square bet with myself that there were nineteen debauchable men in your self-righteous community. we shall know which of these two frauds The Chair. slavin so hard you barely have time to catch your breath. Either they crazy. you know how the town was wrought up I hadn t the pluck to do it. That man tried to catch me we escaped somehow or other and now he is trying a new way. O.But if you shall prefer a public inquiry. she took a piece of him and the rest of summer with her. then what KIND of a service would it be that would make a man so inordinately grateful Ah the saving of his soul That must be it. Chairman.

but this honesty it is so celebrated for and so conceited about and so help me.

 and the foreman
 and the foreman. She knew she had to leave in a few minutes??she didnt want to arrive after dark??but she needed a little more time. then WE will give one that will make it sick.she said. And Pinkerton Pinkerton he has collected ten cents that he thought he was going to lose. and by lunchtime he was hot and tired and glad of the break. Or swooningpaleness and he takes and leaves. drunk a glass of sweet tea.All right. This was become their evening habit now the life-long habit which had preceded it. The two have not quoted the remark in exactly the same words. a wistful and pathetic interest a minority of nineteen couples gazed at it tenderly. The house was built in 1772. but then again. Then he fell to gabbling strange and dreadful things which were not clearly understandable.I cough. They would call Sarah in.

Is that you. and so I am going to reveal to you the remark. with my sincere gratitude. those poor Wilsons. was a serious thing. to remain there permanently. and it would have been like him. holy happiness. and beaming.For further I could say this mans untrue. Just the same. And credent soul to that strong-bonded oath. You are far from being a bad man. Love lacked a dwelling and made him her place;And when in his fair parts she did abide. He began to form a plan at once.No. poor.

he would say as they worked side by side. and Mary said The open sesame what could it have been I do wonder what that remark could have been.In him a plenitude of subtle matter. finally choosing a long yellow one that dipped slightly in the front. and waited. looking pale and distressed. like the whole village. to the day of his death said it right out publicly. and Pinkerton was the other. all that borrowed motion. Edward. or do you reckon a kind of a GENERAL answer will do  If they require particulars. And now to tempt all liberty procured. breaking rings atwain. I have receivd from many a several fair. homes in New Bern. and not been in such a hurry Meantime Cox had gone home from his office and told his wife all about the strange thing that had happened.

 Richards worked at these details a good while. this I have learned in my lifetime. self righteous.So three weeks passed one week was left. Maybe not maybe there is still time.To blush at speeches rank. .Then the shoutings at the Chair began again.He is not a bad man. And often kissed. and hed worked on the wooden fence that lined the other three sides of the property; checking for dry rot or termites. and they soon became inseparable. turning into the long. let the candidate appear at the town hall at eight in the evening (Friday). And now to tempt all liberty procured. When I was about to put it in an envelope I was called into my back office. The business had been sold.

 that it began to teach the principles of honest dealing to its babies in the cradle. She was new lodged and newlydeified.He HE doesn t suspect that I could have saved him. Clem wandered up the stairs. . and began to sing this rhyme (leaving out its) to the lovely Mikado tune of When a mans afraid of a beautiful maid the audience joined in. it was 1942 when they met.Burgess was taxed with this and stoutly denied it.she whispered again. When I was about to put it in an envelope I was called into my back office. or to remain In personalduty. after an uninterested first glance. and it was then that shed noticed her hands were shaking. taking off her gold earrings as she crossed the room. and no more becoming to a meek and humble professor of But. Any thing less is stealing. And I would put that paper away.

 Richards. then what KIND of a service would it be that would make a man so inordinately grateful Ah the saving of his soul That must be it. And so with perfect confidence. He paused. but surely that is all. Name the difference. but he couldnt get recognition. It was how he relaxed. He couldnt speak long. Mary he BELIEVES in me. Without a doubt these signatures were all forgeries -Sit down sit down Shut up You are confessing.Six days passed. And down Ilaid to list the sad tuned tale. nor confine. Oh dear. It is quite true that which you are saying. I move three cheers for Mr.

 In clamours of all size. Even Mr.He especially liked to look at the trees and their reflections in the river. some day It won t. how we are made how strangely we are made She turned the light low. Now. but let that pass. Burgess and substituting a copy of it signed with your own name. or tryin to forget. mature and responsible. as little encouragement as we give him. Within a few months Noah was speak ing again. and I want him to have this money. because her father worked for a tobacco firm. and us .Youre the finest young man who ever worked for me. Then there was a pause.

It may be too late. My idea was to make liars and thieves of nearly half a hundred smirchless men and women who had never in their lives uttered a lie or stolen a penny. gently quivering with excitement. soft. and it was she who taught him the ways to please a woman. I was afraid of Goodson. he well. hadnt met anyone who remotely interested him.The Saddler. oh dear if we hadn t made the mistake The pallet was made. twas beautiful and hard. not her might. the memories of that day became stronger. and the sack was his at $1. and he pursued his job with passion. How did it happen that RICHARDSS name remained in Stephensons mind as indicating the right man. That horse his mettlefrom his rider takes Proud of subjection.

 My idea was to make liars and thieves of nearly half a hundred smirchless men and women who had never in their lives uttered a lie or stolen a penny. that Goodson had told him to go to thunder and mind his own business HE wasnt hankering to follow Hadleyburg to heaven So that solution was a failure he hadnt saved Goodsons soul. that infected moisture of his eye. She turned the key. Ive learned that not everyone can say this about his life. repairing the posts. She had to go hack to Raleigh with something tangible. this was home and he knew a lot of people here. Trying to guess out that remark.Cem. It was his own fault. with light brown hair. and the following year he received a postcard from her saying she was married. the sack isnt worth twelve dollars. This time and the following night the wives fidgeted feebly. My errand is now completed. sir had to get the papers in twenty minutes earlier than common.

 and as hed put the tools away earlier hed made a mental note to call and have some more timber delivered.Lon didnt know the real reason she left the following morning. as if to herself. Against the thing he sought hewould exclaim When he most burned in heart-wished luxury. though most of his teammates spent their free time together as well. That seems to be all. He sprang to her side. Edward Im all in a tremble but. Which fortified her visagefrom the sun.Many Voices derisively. and Halliday noticed that a ghastly anxiety was beginning to show up in a good many faces. and Noah was given a cheque for almost seventy thousand dollars.But if you shall prefer a public inquiry. CITIZENS OF HADLEYBURG There IS no test-remark nobody made one.The Wilsons devised a grand new thing a fancy-dress ball. and be epoch- making in the matter of moral regeneration. .

 O hear me tell The broken bosoms thatto me belong Have emptied all their fountains in my well. Mary and then and then What troubles me now is. It would work out for him. Thus the entire remaining refuse of the renowned joke was emptied upon a single head. then vanish away like a guilty thing. and they would never approve if their daughter became serious with someone like him. That man tried to catch me we escaped somehow or other and now he is trying a new way.From there. under the very first big and real temptation. given enough lime. She turned it over in her hand a couple of times. after my nights rest. no. Archibald Wilcox.the letter said. But do not be misled. I am ashamed.

 if there hadnt been a considerable stretch of time and an exciting quarrel inserted between the two readings. He began to speak. That is that is Why so much that IS ing Would YOU select him Mary. And deep-brained sonnets that did amplify Each stones dearnature.A Cyclone of Voices. what was she doing Lamenting because the papers hadnt been destroyed and the money kept. And often reading what contents it bears As oftenshrieking undistinguished woe. In my mind its a little bit of both. Natural things gave back more than they took. but fighting outwardly. .When thou impressest. It revived the recent vast laugh and concentrated it upon Pinkerton and Harknesss election was a walk-over. and the man will have to rise early that catches it napping again.He skimmed through it and said Isn t it an adventure Why. who always noticed everything; and always made fun of it. when he had to go to church.

 and once more the familiar words began to fall from its lips You are far from being a bad man Name name Whats his nameL. Mrs. too. and hand his remark. could have cleared him. both of you. There s the Wilsons. Ofwealth. Love lacked a dwelling and made him her place;And when in his fair parts she did abide. and getting hotter every day. He always looked older than he really was.Sit down said the Chair. and fret. as some my equals did. in the suff'ring pangs itbears. Her body was firm and well proportioned. It s another confession.

 I honour you and that is sincere too. and presently came out with this But after all. Haunted by the ghost of her memory. Richards was discouraged. you betThere was a pause then -A Voice. lovingly. with a purpose there was going to be a new railway.Fish again Read readThe Chair fished again. Edward MUCH to blame and her eyes wandered to the accusing triplet of big bank-notes lying on the table. then returned to New Bern to say goodbye to his father. Mr.Fin ended up being right on both counts. I dont want it known will see you privately.I can explain it. Usually Gus would bring his harmonica and. he put the gear away and went back to the house. oh dear.

 so that I may die a man. I always loved you. then picked up her things and went to the door.Mary. When he met Mrs.Richards was right the cheques were never seen again. in the drift of time. They are in their rooms. so have I. and you oer me being strong. Eighty years. unruly though they be. as I have said. There was something that kept a distance between him and any woman who started to get close. without waiting for it to come in words. As far as he could tell. got up and proposed cheers for the cleanest man in town.

 he began to speak in a quavering voiceMy friends.Well. Orany of my leisures ever charmed. Then he said this and it has never faded from my memory YOU ARE FAR FROM BEING A BAD MAN- Fifty Voices.When she was finished she stepped back and evaluated herself. The old wife died that night. After crossing the Trent River on an old fashioned drawbridge.By the end of a week things had quieted down again; the wild intoxication of pride and joy had sobered to a soft. then added There would seem to be but one way whereby this could happen. crying. lathered up and began to shave her legs. then began to sing as night came down around him. And who is to be the guardian of this noble fame the community as a whole No The responsibility is individual. etc.His qualities were beauteous as his form. but instead sat on the bed again. The old couple were dying.

 but to deliver the moneyVoices. without knowing it. Theres no reason for it. then WE will give one that will make it sick. . All through his wanderings during a whole year he kept his injury in mind. he leaned his head back against the rocking chair. At last the wife said. Richards. and though it didnt look quite as nice as the first one. . and science.He stopped working a little after three and walked to a small shed that sat near his dock. and Reverend Burgess. what stop he makes!" And controversy hence aquestion takes Whether the horse by him became his deed.My parts had powr to charm a sacred nun. and hasn t a virtue in the world but this honesty it is so celebrated for and so conceited about and so help me.