The Ne'er-Do-Well

by Rex Beach

  XXII

  A CHALLENGE AND A CONFESSION

  Although Runnels had spoken with confidence of the coming shake-up inthe railroad organization, it was not without a certain surprise thathe awoke one morning to find himself actively in charge of the entiresystem. He lost no time in sending for Kirk, who took the news of theirjoint advancement with characteristic equanimity.

  "Now, there is nothing cinched yet, understand," the ActingSuperintendent cautioned him. "We're all on probation, but if we makegood, I think we'll stick."

  "I'll do my best to fill your shoes."

  "And I have the inside track on Blakeley, in spite of Colonel Jolson,so I'm not alarmed. The break came sooner than I expected, and now thatwe chaps are in control it's the chance of our lifetimes."

  Kirk nodded. "You're entitled to all you get, but I've never quiteunderstood how I managed to forge ahead so fast. Why, there are dozensof fellows here who know more than I, and who could do better. I'vebeen mighty lucky."

  "You don't really call it luck, do you?" Runnels looked at himcuriously.

  "I'm not conceited enough to think I'm a downright genius."

  "Why, the Cortlandts engineered everything. It was they who arrangedyour promotion to the office in the first place, and they're behindthis last affair. They have stood back of you at every step, and,incidentally; back of me and the other boys."

  "When you say 'they' you of course mean 'she'."

  "Of course. One has to recognize him, though--as the head of thefamily. And he really did have a part in it, too; at least, if he hadbeen against us we never would have won."

  "I can't pretend that I didn't suspect," said Kirk slowly, "but I didhope I'd made good on my own merits."

  Runnels laughed. "You have made good all right, or you couldn't goforward; but this is a government job, and fellows like us aren't bigenough to get through on our own merits. One has to be a realworld-beater to do that. If the Cortlandts hadn't backed us, some otherchaps with influence would have stepped in above us. Take Blakeley, forinstance. He is nothing extra, and he doesn't know half as much aboutthis business as I do; but he's the brother-in-law of Colonel Jolson,and he'd have landed the job sure if it hadn't been for our friends.You'd better let your conscience take a nap."

  "I'd like to show the Cortlandts that we appreciate what they've done,but we can't openly thank her without humiliating him. I'd like to givehim something."

  "Suppose we give him a quiet little supper, some night, and tell himfrankly how grateful we are. He's the sort to appreciate a thing likethat, and it would be a delicate way of thanking his wife, too."

  "Good! I'll speak to the other fellows, and now the Acting Master ofTransportation is going to shake with the new Acting Superintendent,and wish him every success."

  Runnels grasped the outstretched hand.

  "Say, Anthony," he said, "we're young and we have a start. I have whatyou lack, and you have what I lack; if we stick together, we'll own arailroad some day. Is it a go?"

  "You bet!"

  With a warm glow in his breast, the new Master of Transportationplunged into his duties. He really was making a success, it seemed,although it was a bit disappointing to learn that he owed so much of itto Edith Cortlandt. At the same time he couldn't help thinking that hisefforts had entitled him to reasonable success, and, anyhow, it waspleasant to feel that at no point in his scramble up the ladder had heelbowed off some other man more deserving, perhaps, than he. This lastadvancement, too, was very timely, for it would surely have its effectupon Andres Garavel.

  But his new work brought new troubles and worries. Runnels helped himwhenever he could, yet Kirk was left largely to his own devices, andlearned for the first time what real responsibility was like. He beganto sleep shorter hours; he concentrated with every atom ofdetermination in him; he drove himself with an iron hand. He attackedhis task from every angle, and with his fine constitution and unboundedyouthful energy he covered an amazing quantity of work. He covered itso well, moreover, that Runnels complimented him.

  This stress of labor served one purpose for which he was very grateful;it separated him from Edith Cortlandt and took his mind from thatoccurrence in the jungle. Ever since the day of his last ride with her,he had been tortured with the most unpleasant thoughts. He confessed toforgetting himself briefly that night at Taboga, but he had believedthat she understood--that she regarded him only as a chum and acompanion. Therefore her open surrender, coming so unexpectedly haddumfounded him. As he looked back upon the incident now, it seemedinconceivable, yet her words, her expression, her reckless abandon atthat moment, were too significant to allow of misunderstanding. Still,by dint of determination and stern attention to his tasks, he was ableto put the matter almost wholly from his mind.

  Soon after his promotion he received from Andres Garavel a warmlyworded note of congratulation, and some few days later an invitation todine, which he accepted eagerly.

  The dinner proved to be another disappointing ordeal, for again he wasallowed no opportunity of speaking with Gertrudis, and had to contenthimself with feasting his eyes upon her. But although the family werepresent en masse, as on the former occasion, they unbent to asurprising degree, and he found them truly gracious and delightful. Herealized, nevertheless, that he was under the closest scrutiny and uponthe strictest probation. The Garavels still held him at a noticeabledistance, and he was far from feeling wholly at ease.

  Later in the evening he found himself alone with Chiquita and the oldSpanish lady, and, knowing that the latter could not understand a wordof his tongue, he addressed himself to the girl with some degree ofnaturalness.

  "I was sorry for you the last time, senor," she said, in reply to hishalf-humorous complaint, "and yet it was fonny; you were so frightened."

  "It was my first memorial service. I thought I was going to see youalone."

  "Oh, that is never allowed."

  "Never? How am I going to ask you to marry me?"

  Miss Garavel hid her blushing face behind her fan. "Indeed! You seemcapable of asking that absurd question under any circumstances."

  "I wish you would straighten me out on some of your customs."

  "What, for instance?"

  "Why does the whole family sit around and watch me? I don't intend tosteal any bric-a-brac. They could search me just as well when I go out."

  "They wish to satisfy themselves as to your character, perhaps."

  "Yes, but a fellow feels guilty causing them to lose so much sleep."

  She gave him an odd look, smiling timidly.

  "As for to-night, do you attribute any meaning to my father's requestthat you dine with us?"

  "Of course. It means I wasn't blackballed at the first meeting, Isuppose. After I've become a regular member, and there is nothingmissed from the lodgerooms, I'll be allowed to proceed in the ordinarymanner."

  She blushed delightfully again. "Since you are so ignorant of our waysyou should inquire at your earliest convenience. I would advise you,perhaps, to learn Spanish."

  "Will you teach me? I'll come every evening."

  She did not answer, for the old lady began to show curiosity, and aconversation in Spanish ensued which Kirk could not follow.

  When it came time for their chaperon to leave, she excused herself withroyal dignity, and, going to the door, called Stephanie, the giant St.Lucian woman. Not until the negress had entered did the grandmotherretire, which showed, so Kirk imagined, that even yet the Garavelhousehold had no more confidence in him than in a badgeless buildinginspector. He was not grateful for the change, for he did not likeStephanie, and, judging from the sombre suspicion of the black woman'sglances, the feeling was mutual. The conversation took perforce a lesspersonal nature in her presence, yet Kirk departed with a feeling ofexaltation. Beyond doubt his suit was progressing, slowly, perhaps, butstill progressing.

  His understanding of Spanish customs received a considerableenlargement on the following day, when he met Ramon Alfarez outside therailroad office. Ramo
n had evidently waited purposely for him, and nowbegan to voice some unintelligible protest in the greatest excitement.

  "You'll have to play it all over again," Kirk advised him. "I'm onlyjust learning to conjugate the verb 'amar.' What seems to be thetrouble this time?"

  "Ha! For the moment I forgot your ignorance, but onderstan' this,detestable person, it is time you shall answer to me."

  "Cheerfully! Ask your questions slowly."

  "Onderstan' further," chattered the Spaniard, "regardless of the'appenings to me, it shall never come to pass. Soch disgracefuloccurrence shall never transpire; of that be assure', even if it exac'the las' drops of blood in the veins of me. I 'ave despised you, senor,an' so I 'ave neglec' to keel you, being busy with important affairs ofgovernment. Bot, 'ow am I reward for those neglec'? Eh!" Alfarezbreathed ferociously through his nostrils.

  "I don't know, I'm sure. What is your reward?"

  "Very well are you aware, PIG."

  "Nix on those pet names," the American ordered, gruffly.

  "You 'ave insolt me," cried Ramon, furiously, "and now you 'ave theinsolence to interfere in my affairs." He paused dramatically. "Make ityourself ready to fight on to-morrow."

  "What's the use of putting it off? I couldn't make your weight in thattime. I'll do it now, if you say."

  "No, no! Onderstan' we shall fight like gentlemen. I shall keel youwith any weapon you prefer."

  "By Jove!" Kirk exclaimed, in amazement. "This is a challenge; you wantto fight a duel! Why, this reads like a book." He began to laugh, atwhich Ramon became white and calm. "Listen," Kirk went on, "I'll tellyou what we'll do; we'll fight with fire-hose again. I suppose you wantsatisfaction for that ducking."

  "I prefer to shoot you, senor," the other declared, quietly. "Thosemarriage shall never occur until first I walk upon your dead body. Asmatter of honor I offer you this opportunity biffore it is too late."

  "I guess you have been drinking. You're a little premature in talkingabout my marriage, aren't you?"

  "So! You fear to confess the truth! Oh, I am not to be deceive'. AllPanama is speaking of those engagements to Senorita Garavel. Come,then, must I insolt you further?"

  Kirk replied, dryly, looking the Spaniard over with, cold blue eyes."No! I think you've gone about far enough."

  "You riffuse?" exclaimed Ramon, triumphantly.

  "Look here!" said Kirk, "I've had enough of this." He advancedthreateningly, and the Spaniard nervously gave way. "I don't fightduels; it's against the law. In my country it's a crime to kill a manin cold blood; and we don't tie a fellow up and beat him when he'shelpless and then offer him the HONORABLE satisfaction of eithercommitting murder or being killed. They're not wearing duels thisseason." His hands clenched involuntarily. "I don't want to hurt you,Alfarez, but I may not be able to help it if you don't keep out of myway."

  He left the fiery little Panamanian still scowling and mutteringthreats, and went his way wondering vaguely how his attentions toChiquita had become so quickly known. He was informed later in theafternoon.

  As he left the office for the day he was handed a note from Mrs.Cortlandt requesting him to call at once, and, summoning a coach, hewas driven directly to her house. Unlike the Garavel home, the housewhich the Cortlandts had leased was set upon the water-front, its rearbalcony overlooking the sea where it lapped the foundation of the citywall. It was a delightful old place, shut off from the street by a yardfilled with flowering plants and shrubs, and, though flanked in trueSpanish fashion by stores and shops, it was roomy and comfortable.

  Edith kept him waiting a moment before she descended, dressed for herafternoon ride.

  "You see, I haven't given up my horse in spite of your neglect," shesaid, as she gave him her hand, "You got my note?"

  "Yes, and I came straight from the office."

  "I suppose you know what it is about and are wondering how I heard thenews."

  "What news?"

  "Your 'engagement.'" She laughed with an amusement that did not ringquite true.

  "You're the second one to speak about that. I'm not engaged."

  "Of course not. Don't think for a moment I believed it. I was callingon some Spanish people this afternoon and heard the report--I admit itwas a shock. When I learned the details I knew at once you ought to betold before it developed into something embarrassing. Come into theother room; there is a breeze from the water." She led him into theparlor, from which the open windows, shielded now by drawn shutters,gave egress to the rear porch with its chairs and hammock.

  "Dear, dear! You foolish boy, you're always in trouble, aren't you? Youreally don't deserve to be helped. Why, you have avoided me for weeks."

  "The new arrangement has swamped us with work. I have had no time to goout."

  "Indeed! You had time to run after the first pretty Spanish face yousaw. I'm really angry, though I suppose I can't blame you. After all,she is charming, in her way."

  "You mean Miss Garavel?"

  "Yes. Didn't you realize what you were doing?"

  "I realized what I was trying to do."

  "Naughty! But why select her of all people? There are dozens of otherswho could amuse you and whose people would not object. Andres Garavelisn't that sort; he is a rich man, he has political ambitions, he's avery proud sort. Now, I suppose I must get you out of this difficultyas best I can. You ought to be more careful."

  "Please!" he said, crossly. "I could understand better what you aretalking about if I knew just what this difficulty is."

  "Why, this silly 'engagement' of yours. Don't pretend to be so stupid."

  "Ramon Alfarez heard that same report, and very courteously invited meto wait a few minutes while he killed me. It's tremendously flatteringto be linked up with Miss Garavel, of course, but I haven't asked herto marry me."

  "But you've seen her; you have called at her house!"

  "Sure! Twice; at the invitation of the old gentleman. All the littleGaravels were lined up like mourners."

  "And you dined there last night. Is that all you have seen of her?"

  "N-no! I've seen her at Las Savannas. That's why I went hunting sooften."

  At this confession, which Kirk delivered with sheepish reluctance, Mrs.Cortlandt drew herself up with an expression of anger.

  "Then this has been going on for some time," she cried. "Why, Kirk, younever told me!"

  "Why should I?"

  She flushed at this unconscious brutality, but after a moment ran onbravely; "Oh, well, I suppose any man would enjoy that sort of anadventure, particularly with such a pretty girl, but why did you let itgo so far? Why did you let them commit you?"

  "Am I committed?"

  Her look was half offended, half incredulous. "Are you trying to bedisagreeable, or is it possible you don't know the meaning of thoseinvitations to call, and to dine with the family, and all that? Why,they expect you to MARRY her. It is all settled now, according to theSpanish custom. The whole town is talking about it, I can't understand,for the life of me, how you ever allowed yourself to go there thesecond time and to DINE." Seeing the look in his face, she cried,sharply, "You don't mean--that you're in earnest?" She was staring athim as if disbelieving her eyes.

  "Certainly, I'm in earnest."

  Edith turned away abruptly.

  "I hope you're not joking," said Kirk. "Jove! I--I'm knocked clear offmy pins." A tremendous wave of excitement surged over him. "So, that'swhat Alfarez meant. That's what SHE meant last night when she told meto look up--" He broke off suddenly, for Edith's face had gonechalk-white.

  "But, Kirk, what about me?" she asked, in a strained voice.

  There was deathlike silence in the room.

  "You can't LOVE her," said the woman. "Why, she's only a child, andshe's--Spanish."

  They stood motionless, facing each other. At last Kirk said, gravelyand deliberately,

  "Yes, I love her better than anything in the world and I want to marryher. I could give up my country, my dad--anything for her."

  Pressing h
er gloved fingers to her temples she turned her head blindlyfrom side to side, whispering as if to herself:

  "What will become of me?"

  "Don't," he cried, in a panic, and cast a hurried look over hisshoulders. "You'll be overheard--you'll be seen. You don't know whatyou're saying. Where's Cortlandt?"

  "At his club, I suppose. I don't know--I--I don't care." Then theparalysis that had numbed her vanished, and she spoke with quiveringintensity. "You've been dishonest with me, Kirk."

  "Don't act this way," he ordered, roughly. "I'm terribly fond of you,but I never knew--"

  "You MUST have known."

  "I knew NOTHING. I chose not to think. What I saw I forgot. I supposedyou merely liked me as I liked you."

  "That night at Taboga!" she flared up. "What about that? Couldn't youtell then? I fought--fought--fought--but I had to give up. You haven'tforgotten--those wonderful hours we had together?" She began to sob,but steadied herself with an effort. "You say you didn't know, thenwhat about that afternoon in the jungle? Oh, you're not blind; you musthave seen a thousand times. Every hour we've been alone together I'vetold you, and you let me go on believing you cared. Do you think thatwas right? Now you are shocked because I admit it," she mocked. "Well,I have no pride. I am not ashamed. It's too late for shame now. Why,even my husband knows."

  With an exclamation he seized her by the arm. "You don't mean that!" hecried, fiercely. But she wrenched herself away.

  "Why, do you think, I made a man of you? Why did I force you up and upand over the heads of others? Why are you in line for the best positionon the railroad? Did you think you had made good by your own efforts?"She laughed harshly. "I took Runnels and Wade and Kimble and the othersthat you liked and forced them up with you, so you'd have anorganization that couldn't be pulled down."

  "Did--did you do all that?"

  "I did more. I broke with Alfarez because of what his son did to you. Ijuggled the politics of this country, I threw him over and tookGaravel--Garavel! My God! What a mockery! But I won't let you--I won'tlet that girl spoil my work." Her voice trailed off in a kind ofrasping whisper. She struggled a moment for composure, then went on:"It was I who promoted you to Runnels' position--he'll tell you that.It was I who put ideas of advancement into his head. I fostered thisquarrel between Jolson and the Superintendent, and I've used Runnels tobreak trail for you. Why? Ask yourself why! Oh, Kirk," she cried, "youmustn't marry that girl! I'll make you a great man!"

  "You seem to forget Cortlandt," he said, dully.

  She gave a scornful laugh. "You needn't bring Stephen in. He doesn'tcount. I doubt if he'd even care. Our marriage amounts tonothing--nothing. You'd better consider ME, and the sacrifice I'mwilling to make."

  "I'm not going to listen to you," he cried. "I suppose I've been afool, but this must end right here."

  "You can't marry that girl," she reiterated, hysterically. She was halfsobbing again, but not with the weakness of a woman; her grief was morelike that of a despairing man.

  "For Heaven's sake, pull yourself together," said Kirk. "You haveservants. I--I don't know what to say. I want to get out, I want tothink it over. I'm--dreadfully sorry. That's all I can seem to thinkabout now." He turned and went blindly to the door, leaving her withouta look behind.

  When he had gone she drew off her riding-gloves, removed her hat, anddropped them both upon the nearest chair, then crept wearily up thestairs to her room.

  A moment later the latticed wooden blinds at the end of the parlorswung open, and through the front window stepped Stephen Cortlandt.Behind him was a hammock swung in the coolest part of the balcony. Thepupils of his eyes, ordinarily so dead and expressionless, weredistended like those of a man under the influence of a drug orsuffering from a violent headache. He listened attentively for aninstant, his head on one side, then, hearing footsteps approaching fromthe rear of the house, he strolled into the hall.

  A maid appeared with a tray, a glass, and a bottle. "I could not findthe aspirin," she said, "but I brought you some absinthe. It willdeaden the pain, sir."

  He thanked her and with shaking fingers poured the glass full, thendrank it off like so much water.

  "You're not going out again in the heat, sir?"

  "Yes. Tell Mrs. Cortlandt that I am dining at the University Club." Hewent slowly down the steps and out through the flowering shrubs.