Octavia's Pride; or, The Missing Witness — page 44: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

34 OCTAVIA’S PRIDE. You think our cause right, and you would give it up tamely. Very mature judgment, truly.” Maurice Middleton’s cheeks grew hotter still. ‘“T would not take away their whole subsistence from a failing old man and a helpless young woman. I have man- hood enough for that.” | Felix turned upon him with a still fiercer glare. “Ah! I fathom the cause of this chivalrous conduct. You have seen Octavia Wainwright. You have fallen in love with her, But I warn you Ne He paused, fairly choked by his indtonation tt from further speech. Maurice smiled disdaintully. ‘“Spare yourself uneasiness, royal Felix,” said he. ‘I have neither seen Miss Wainwright, nor cherish any inten- tion of seeking her out. But your jealousy confirms my previous suspicions. You care about the success of my father’s claim most of all because it will give you a hold upon a lady who has rejected your proffered love.” It was evident this random arrow struck home. Felix’s thin face turned to a sickly greenish pallor. “By St. George! Maurice Middleton, you shall repent that speech!” cried he, hoarsely. Maurice laughed softly. ““Come, come, you are always quarreling,” interposed. their father, anxiously. ‘‘ Do be quiet a little while, I beg of you. Maurice, I wish you would see after that draft.” “Yes, sir, [ll take myself out of the way with the ut- most alacrity. Adieu, Don Felix.” The light, mocking echoes of his laugh lingered a mo- ment aiter the door closed behind him. _Felix ground down a malediction. ‘“ Father,” said he, ‘‘I always disliked that boy. ‘‘ He has none of our blood in him.” | ‘‘] know it,” was the deprecating reply. ‘* Aside from comicbooks €o