The Cleverdale Mystery; or, The Machine and Its Wheels: A Story of American Life

by W. A. Wilkins

  CHAPTER XII.

  A WICKED SCHEME.

  The campaign opened vigorously and malignantly, so far as the senatorialnomination was concerned. The leaders began the work of organizationat once. Miller was manager of Senator Hamblin's canvass. Yet everyaction was made at the instigation and under full direction of the Bosshimself. Money was freely used, and the men at the factories were,through their pockets, made interested combatants.

  Senator Hamblin supposed he had the support of all the bosses at themills, but Daley succeeded in securing several men of influence, whomMiller found himself unable to win over. Even the great manufacturingcompany of which Hamblin was a director had many Daley men in itsemploy. The opposition party placed its candidate in the field, theleaders in the full hope that the split in Senator Hamblin's party wouldgive them victory. Consequently there was no lack of ammunition to keepup the fight.

  It is a custom of American politics for journals of the opposite partyto help on the faction fights of their opponents by publishing thecharges made by each faction against the other, and these cause fully asmuch bad blood as the most fiendish politician can desire.

  One of the first demonstrations on either side was the presentation ofcolors by Senator Hamblin to the newly organized Hamblin Guards. Theaffair was shrewdly managed to give it all the political significancethat such affairs carry with them. The company was to be christenedand the colors presented by the honorable gentleman whose name hadbeen adopted. One of the best city bands was engaged, and a banquetwas ordered, to which many prominent men from abroad were invited. Anelaborate programme was prepared and the event pretty well advertised.It was not especially intended by members of the company to use theoccasion for political purposes, but their patron shrewdly managedotherwise.

  Prominent members of the New York State National Guard were to grace theoccasion with their presence, and the gathering of shoulder-strappednotables was to be large.

  Cleverdale was to have a great gala-day, and, of course, Senator Hamblinexpected to reap the benefit. The stand of colors consisted of twoelegant silk flags--one the National colors, the other the company flagbearing the name of HAMBLIN GUARDS and the State coat-of-armsin gold and colors.

  Senator Hamblin, desiring to bring Walter Mannis and his daughtertogether upon the stage of the Opera House, shrewdly arranged that,immediately after his presentation speech, Mannis should receive theflags in behalf of the company from the hands of Belle. At first thegirl refused to take part in the festivities, appealing to her fatherto excuse her, and pleading her grief at the loss of little Willie; butthe father was inexorable, and Belle saw that she would not be sparedthe pain of taking the part assigned her in her father's politicalprogramme. The opportunity of bringing Belle and Mannis together, addedto his inherent pride of display and political significance of theoccasion, made the Senator extremely happy, so what matter if it madehis daughter miserable?

  The town, on the occasion, presented the appearance of holiday grandeur.Bunting streamed from many public places and private residences, whilethe cool October air and clear blue sky combined to make a truly royalday for the affair. As the military company was composed of the bestblood of Cleverdale, it was natural that the citizens generally shouldhonor the day.

  The Opera House was resplendent with beauty and brains. When, at theappointed hour, the Hamblin Guards, commanded by Captain Rogers,entered, delicious music filled the hall, and amid the waving ofhandkerchiefs and smiles and cheers the company marched through theaisle to the stage, and were arrayed in solid ranks at its back. Themusic ceasing, Senator Hamblin appeared in front, accompanied by hisdaughter and followed by Hon. Walter Mannis and Captain Rogers.

  The programme opened with the presentation speech by Senator Hamblin.It was an eloquent effort, and the points were so many and so well putthat deafening applause was frequent. Belle stood by, holding the staffon which the company colors were furled. Beautiful in her rich attireof satin and velvet, her sparkling eyes, rosy cheeks and lips made hera most attractive figure. Mannis, standing beside her, glanced withadmiration at the beautiful girl. Senator Hamblin's eye flashed withpride as he beheld his daughter, but no one understood the meaning ofthe furtive glances he cast toward Mannis and Belle, except the latter,who saw and comprehended its full significance; it caused a twinge ofpain and a sigh to escape her, and these attracted the attention ofMannis. Realizing that she was attracting attention, a blush overspreadher face, and the handsome Assemblyman felt flattered by the beliefthat his presence caused her emotion, while in reality her mind wasclouded by the remembrance of her father's cruel commands. Her agitationwas momentary, for the cue being given Belle gracefully unfurled thebeautiful ensign. It was the natural signal for applause, and the rooffairly shook with cheers, the band playing "The Star-Spangled Banner,"when Mannis took the flag and passed it to the captain, who placedit in the hands of the company's ensign. The other banner then givenBelle was not fully exposed until coming into the hands of Mannis. Thatgentleman then spoke in eloquent words, his handsome form and commandingpresence giving excellent effect to his utterances. On finishing he wasgreeted with loud applause. The party, retiring from the stage, entereda private box at the left while the band played several selections.The Hamblin Guards gave a display of military drill which was greatlyenjoyed by the audience.

  Assemblyman Mannis divided his attention between father and daughter,the latter treating him with politeness. This was gratifying to herfather, who hoped she would overcome her reluctance to obey him. But hereckoned without remembering the inflexible will of his child, who wastoo well bred to act other than as a lady toward her father's guest,especially when he was treating her with great deference.

  While conversing with those about her, Belle saw George Alden occupyinga conspicuous seat, and many loving glances passed between her andhim. George could not avoid hearing the expressions of admiration thatgreeted the handsome group. Senator Hamblin was a noble-looking man;Mannis was handsome, and Belle never shone with greater brilliancy.

  The ceremonies were nearly over when Captain Rogers, advancing to thefront of the stage, in a few words thanked the people of Cleverdale forthe honor done his command in assembling to witness the christening.He also thanked his superior officers, coming from a distance to honorthe occasion; and for the magnificent gift of colors paid a handsomeeulogy to the honorable gentleman whose name the company bore. Then heproposed three cheers for Senator Hamblin, which were given by the wholeassembly, rising to their feet. He then declared the exercises closed,the band played "Home, Sweet Home," and the audience left the OperaHouse.

  Senator Hamblin and party passing from the box, Belle was followed byMannis. As they reached the auditorium, the handsome Assemblyman offeredhis arm, saying:

  "Miss Hamblin, may I have the honor of accompanying you home?"

  With a pleasant smile she replied:

  "Thank you, kindly, but I have a previous engagement," and with a"Good-night, sir," turning, she took the arm of George Alden, who was ather side.

  Mannis was chagrined and Senator Hamblin's countenance quicklyoverspread with anger. Whispering to his companion, he said:

  "My friend, I am astonished, but we will speak of this later."

  He could say no more, for, coming upon a party of distinguished militarygentlemen awaiting him--military men always know whom to waylay at suchtimes--the party was led to the Cleverdale House and ushered into thebanquet hall. Several tables were arranged for the company, SenatorHamblin, Assemblyman Mannis and the military guests being placedat a special table. At the right was another, at which were seatedMiller, Paddy Sullivan, George Horton, and several other politicalcelebrities. At the left were the officers--both commissioned andnon-commissioned--while at other tables were seated the members of thecompany.

  The tables were loaded with every delicacy that could be obtained, whilebottles of wine flanked a regular line of graceful glasses. Course aftercourse was partaken of, and amid the hilarity the host and his friend
appeared to forget their disappointment.

  The popping of corks seemed just the kind of artillery that theuniformed guests enjoyed best. Yet those who remember the troubloustimes of twenty years ago will not forget that the Union was saved bymembers of this same Home Guard, who play at soldiering with zest, butin time of need "mean business."

  Speeches, toasts, etc., followed, until the "wee sma' hours" the flowof soul, wit, and wine continued, and Senator Hamblin reaped the fullbenefit. When the last toast was drank, the host arose, and biddingthe company good-night, departed with his guests. After the militarydignitaries were conducted to their rooms, Senator Hamblin joinedMannis, who was awaiting him.

  "My dear Mannis, I am amazed at my daughter's conduct toward you thisevening. It was unexpected to me."

  "I am afraid, Senator, she has deeply set her affection on that youngAlden. I can read character, and tremble lest my efforts to win herprove unsuccessful."

  "Unsuccessful? they shall not be. Do you suppose I will allow my childto throw herself away upon a common bank clerk? No! if you love her asyou say she shall be your wife. My mind is made up, and the sentimentalnonsense of the girl shall be overcome."

  "You may not be able to overcome it, Senator. Still, I never loved untilI saw your daughter, and I will wed her if her consent can be obtained,trusting to winning her affections afterward. Be careful what you do,though; don't frighten her with harsh treatment. She is conscientious,and having a share of her father's self-will she must be handledcarefully, or before you know it she will fly off like a frightenedbird. I shall leave here early in the morning; before I go I beg of you,whatever you do, to be discreet."

  The angry father could not be quieted so easily. His face was hard withpassion; he swore to himself that Alden should be sent away in disgraceand Belle be locked in her room; but when Mannis told him his canvasswould not permit anything so arbitrary, the cord controlling his everyaction being touched, he became quiet, and said:

  "Well, what course can I pursue? Answer me that."

  Mannis suddenly rising to his feet, looked into the closet, under thebed, behind the door, and in every place that might conceal a listener,then approaching Senator Hamblin, whispered:

  "This man Alden must be sacrificed."

  Senator Hamblin started, while a shade of horror passed over hiscountenance.

  "No, no! Mannis, no bloodshed for me!"

  "Bloodshed? Nonsense! no one said bloodshed. He is in your bank,surrounded by temptation. Place a trap for him, do you understand? Yourdaughter is too honorable and high-minded to associate with a rascal."

  "Yes, I see," thoughtfully answered the Senator. "I declare, Mannis, youare full of expedients. Yes, he shall be entrapped, for I am justifiedin saving my daughter."

  "Treat her kindly and do not be harsh with Alden; but work up a trap forhim. Haven't you a clerk in the bank you can enlist to help you?"

  "Let me see. I have it! The cashier, Wilber, can live but a short timeand Alden will be his successor. Sargent, who published that ugly paperabout me, is promised Alden's present place. Yes; he is my man, and Iwill use him."

  The two talked a few moments longer, and warmly shaking hands parted,Senator Hamblin leaving for his home. On entering the gate he heard hisname spoken, and turning saw Miller approaching, all excitement and outof breath, for he had been running.

  "More trouble, Senator; that d----d Rawlings has sold us out."

  "Sold us out! the devil he has! And two thousand dollars of my moneygone! It can't be possible, Miller!"

  "But it is so, for I had it from his own lips. To-morrow's edition willfire into you from all sides. It's a bad go, and I have been afraid ofthe scoundrel. I was half inclined when I heard it to let Paddy Sullivanset a few of the lads on the office and clean it out. But that willhardly do."

  "What shall we do for a home paper, now?"

  "There is only one course left us, and that is buy up the _Advertiser_,which is in the market; but we must get legal hold of the concern. Thatis the only way now, for we must have an organ."

  "Call at my office early to-morrow morning, and we will arrange thematter. Curse the luck! but I will block that little game. Good-night!"and the Senator entered the house, not to sleep, but to lie upon hisbed thinking over the two exciting problems of the day, namely, how toentrap Alden, and in what manner to counteract the effects of Rawlings'treachery.