A 2'^ QjDrttEll Inioerattg Sllbrar}} JItttata, Nrit) ^ntk CHARLES WILLIAM WASON COLLECTION CHINA AND THE CHINESE THE GIFT OF CHARLES WILLIAM WASON CLASS OF 1B76 1918 Cornell University Library PS 3535.A86 The girl from Hong-Kong :a story of adye 3 1924 023 988 474 Cornell University Library The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924023988474 THE Girl from Hong-Kong " A STORY OF ADVENTURE UNDER FIVE SUNS ST. GEORGE RATHBORNE AUTHOR OF "Doctor Jack," "A Goddess of Africa," "A Son of Man," "Miss Fairfex of Virginia," etc. a/; //y/ji NEW YORK STREET & SMITH. Publishers H\oox. Copyright, i099i By I*. TENNYSON NEBLV Copyright, 1899, By STREfiT & SMITH Our experience with the American reading public has taught us that it expects better reading than readers of any other nationahty. Why? 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THE PILGKIM8 IIT BOMBAY. "With "the grim shadow of pestilence and famine stalk- ing abroad tiiroughout the land of the rajahs, that ■wonder city of India, great Bombay, possessing under ordinary conditions almost a round million of inhabit- ants, hardly presents its usual lively appearance. True, the glowing sun as usual glints from dome and minaret, from mosque and temple, esplanade and can - toHrnent, while a breeze plays through the frondage o£ palm and cypress trees or snatches up the cooling drops of many fountains — crowds throng^the wonderful open- air market of the Bhendy Bazar Road, where mosaic work- ers vie with the sanner ar goldsmith in tempting dis-i plays of their marvelous wares, and a thousand and ens' 6 THE GIRL FROM HONG-KONa. odd sights may be seen, especially in the morning or evening. A stranger might not notice anything wrong, for the picture presents an amazing conglomeration of life and color, to be foand nowhere else on earth. To one accustomed to feeling the pulse of old Bombay, however, the blight of the shadow that hangs over the India of to-day can readily be detected. When a rajah or navaby splendidly attired, and with al crowd of native retainers dogging his heels passes along, there is more than the ordinary amount of enthusiasm displayed; whereas just the contrary proves to be the case whenever Tommy Atkins appears upon the sof.ne, for averted faces and even dark scowls greet the British soldier. There be times in the history of all conq^uered nations when the fountain of memory is stirred and the old spirit of independence struggles to arise. Of all people the Hindoo race have the least cause to fret under the yoke, for England has during the last century, since losing her colonies in America, learned to treat her vassal dependencies with the utmost consid- eration, s, Stiil, when famine ravages the land and the bucolic plague sends victims to the burning ghauts along the water front faster than they can be consumed by fire. THE QIBL FROM HONQ-KONG. 1 here and there haughty Brahmins conspire ftgainst the powers that be. Thus we read of a periodical outbreak such as necessi- tated the Ghitral campaign; or the more recent uprising in the Tochi Valley near the Afghan border, when that notorious fanatical priest, the Mullah of Powindah struck a column of Sikhs and Punjab infantry, doing great damage before his savage Waziri tribesmen were heaten oS. Knowing these facts, therefore, those who look be- neath the surface can detect an undercurrent of discon- tent, and catch the mutterings of vassals who in secret rebel against the galling yoke. Perhaps, were the matter carefully examined into, certain outside influences might be found lo have a finger in the pie; for the people of the great White Czar of the !North have for many years cast a covetous eye toward fair India, and their diplomacy has long been extended toward the borders of the Himalayas, across the Afghan frontier, and covering that debatable ground of l^epaul, wher& dwell heroic people who refuse to bend the knee to any European potentate. On this afternoon in question, standing upon the Bhendy Bazar Road, at a busy point of the daily mart, "where throngs pass, and something of remarkable inter- eat catches the eye at every turn of the head, a man 8 TkE giRL FM0kH0Ni3-K0WGt. inight be seen whose iattentitirias riveted upbn wliat is «coarring near by. His featuresi though beautifuily tanned by the tropical sun, are undoubtedly those of an Anglo-Saxon. In /height-he is a little below the average, and his form does •not give much promise of the gladiator; still, Hke most exiles from London, who roam this great world for busi- ness or pleasure, Terrjf Bonahue has TJjbually been able to take care of himself — it comes natnral for one of his soldier race. < Whatever his game m India may be, at this time when all . Eurjopeans who are free to shake the dust of the plague-stricken country from their feet have take^j a hasty departure, Te*ry appears to be deeply interested in watching all that, occurs, so that one can readily imagine there may be a motive after all in his playing battledore and shuttlecock with th^ grim monster. •. After all, the motives that could influence a man to accept. such risks might be set down as a yearning desire to wrest a tempting fortune from fate, or that amazing love for a woman which has sent poor mankind to the uttermost parts of the earth, and upon the most Quixotic errands imaginable. , Around him can be heard the clatter of many-tongnesi - A fakir, known as a hichharrfs, chants the virtiies of Ms wares after the habit of his kind, while from a «eari THE aiRL FROM HONG-KONG, \fg ufttsqud coraes the strident vorceaof a fakhful moi leading the Koran to those who have gathered under the dome. The scene is stirring, and one can hardly, believe there Jias been. such an exodus from Bombay — with the plague in the cities and gaunt famine stalking through the country th« poor Hindoo, finding himself between the devil and the deep sea, usually remains where he is, and, as on numerous other occasions, depends on the English government to tide over the difiBculty. They are, after all, followers of Mohammed, worship- ers of Brabma and believers in Buddha, fatalists at heart, and' under such circumstances seem loath to fight 'ftgtdnst the inevitable — the will of Allah must be obeyed. ; ■ TerryDonahue has been standing in the market this half-hour, his eyes roving hither and yon. A careful an^ysis of his glances would reveal the fact that his attention seems to be taken up more with the ^features of fcheVpassers-by than any marked pecnliarity ol their nationality or costume. Evidently Terry seeks a face which he haS""rta86n to believe will appear sooner or later in the Bhendy Bazar Road, where all Bombay is wont to gather, it seems, as the heait of. day gives plaoe to the: cooler atnfosphere of ^piaing. night. XO TMBl. ami. FMQiX JlOMa~MCm&. A figure- gli'diiBg op behind. tbe> ILioiitdoiaer tO'Uieh>efli hijo tm the arm, wheireat, Terry iB.ataB>t!ly wbeela, for sack a thing is uncommon here where men avoid personal eoa- taet lor fear of losing eastei. "Ah I Pekoe Tay, at last,*" be says quietly, and yet ■with a. swpipressed eagerneaa in his vaice.^ The party he addre^es is a Chinaman— -sot e«e» a 8e nouncing the death sentence, and yet perpetrate a most outrageous pun or — I was about to say, pick a pocket, bat we will hope she k& above such a pettj failing so' peculiar to his race. Wli'eii his emplof er stakes a fair measure of the sa«- ■ oessful issue of his plans upoia the shoulders of this shrewd worthy he stands a good chance of receiving the full interest of his Tentui«. Just now Pekoe Tay swelila with impoirtance, and bf his manner indicates that he has news of momsnit for the master. **She is im Bomteay?" says thJ)aron." ^ THE GIRL PRQH HONO-KONQ. l?, "He never "give up — yon tell me about English buli- dog — Kpssiau lioid on like hjni all the same." "Yerv good. I shall iiave to do liim bodi|j,, injury, I plain! V SCO. Both of us can't have Doris, and one must drop cuU IHiat will be tl^e Russian bear." "He much bij;; than sahib mandarin.'* "liaii! the race is not always to tlie swift nor the bat- tie to the strong,'" "il(^ have many friends in Bombay." 'vl'euhaps. I have imagined that he might be oon- netiU-d with some secret cabal, bent upon arousing a general mutiny among the tribes of the border — for pure political purposes, of course. On the chessboard of the world England's policy is always met by antagonism on the part of some nation — France frowns at us in Egypt, Germany growls because of the Transvaal, and Bnssia is ever on the alert, to push a step nearer' the rich valleys of the jiortljern India border. Oh! it is a won- derful game we play, with nations for knights and rook^ and pawns. It is England against the world, apparently. What else, Pekoe Tay?" i "Baron not alone." "That sounds as though he might have a particnlai' companion in this little game he plays. Who ia tha party, IPekoe Tayf" "Him berry dark man.' 14 TBS &JR£ FROM mOM&-M&Me. : ."T!fat ttie Mexican don agaka — iom'i tell me that fero«, cious s€Dor has turned up, ^er we left him in the hsatdt Cif MaJ-ay, ^lates?" "All samefi fee giT© thaim the sKp. Mnehee snuutt ge.atletnans, tMaseflor." "I've lain awake more thaa one might trying to fignr^ «iiit vh&t. conDeetiaQ he faas with Boris.. She eontrola Interests in Mexico, and yet she is the child ©f an Ame»- can consul at Hong-Kaug. It's » Fe^kir Chinese puzzle »!&' aronmd> not excieptiDg; hear piEoaant ehase after a vill-o^-tbehwisp^ an igmi^-feivius. Bat I said I was nt the game for keeps, l»bjriiithi or jnii, for ih« stake is a girl worth the winning,** f Fekoe 1!ay nods his. head gcftvelj, as thoiugb he ibor< fiughly agre^ with the mam from Lomdos. Pcsrh^pi after aQ the slant-eyed. OeleKtiait is a fair judge of femi- nine beaiity, sinee trav/el does mrndtr to edoeate a mind eapable of adapting itself toi a variety ^ eireismstaaeea. "€an you lead me to Borisi?'* asiks Tenrf al last "Moist-piosilite, excellent mandaxin.'^ "How long will it take^ns, thenP* "One minute," comes the prompt, reply. "I never knew yon to jioke ahont a serioma hnslness, Feko«i Tay. Th^e ia no fenngalow near this plaee — ^hew then can 1 see her in so short a time?** "Turn head— look beyond the sign of milffJtem to TES &IRL FROM S0Na~KON&, IS where the temple of Vishna appears — there is a beautifnl palkee gharry — two persons sit in black box on wheels— now mandarin, in one half-minute I could take yon to her." Terry Donahue does noi ai«ke reply, for his eyes are glued upon the occupants of the Bombay sMgram, drawn by a single steed, with the driver walking or ruH" Bini; !ike a staig alongsid'e — bis breath comes slower, and for tbe momeiat-he appears as though under a spell. TJi« jgirl from Horaf-Eong is a royal ^auty, amt irhen Terry's exceeding homeliness of Sgure and featav* are token istfti Gomsidieratioii the an4aeity of the Lottdda anie m a»piruag to win &er laiecoiaes simply umuamg. la THE &mL FROM HONd-KON&i CHAPTER II. D0EI8. Tebtby has eyes for only the two seated in the strange vehicle so common to India, fariiis little world lives and moves ^nd h^s its being aroand the bright star at whbse shrine he worsh^s. • •' :• » "S^he seems agitated, as thongh something has faap' pened out of the usual." Perhaps it is because she has discovered my presence; but I'm afraid such an event would cause only the faintest ripple of interest^ for as yet I have not succeeded in doing much toward storm ing the citadel of her heart. More likely she has learned something coricerning the object of her travels; or it may be that determined baron v?ith his mysterious ally has something to do with it. Confound him, anyway! I Wonder who the gentleman with her may be — he has the appearance of an officer?" "Colonel Averill," says the sad voiceyf Pekoe Tayi and Terry realizes that ag^in he has done his thinking out loud. At the same inst^it the man from London feels a warm TEE GIRL FROM HONO-KONQ. 17 glow pass through his whole frame — it is as though he has talsen an electric shock — Doris has suddenly rested her eyes upon him, and actually something like a blush and a look of pleasure appears upon her adorable face. One solitary wave of her hand,, and Terry makes a start in the directon of the vehicle, only too thoroughly charmed at the chance of looking again into the liquid orbs that have played such havoc with his bold heart. This girl from Hong-Kong, daughter of America, is evidently possessed of a spirit far beyond, the average of her sex — a student of human nature would discover^ strong , traces of will pawer about that lovely, face, and marvel at the rare combination, for suchjjualities seldom go hand in hand. . . Terry reaches the waiting vehicle and eagerly clasps the hand she frankly extends. To his secret joy he imagines she shows signs of a little more interest in him than heretofore — lovers are quick to catch the, slightest fl^uctuation of that delicate thermometer indi- cating. the ebb and flow of the heart's emotions. He is of course intr>wn presence in Bombay. "I shall not be here long, I imagine,!' she replies, and iihere is a peculiar tightening of the lips, together with a look upon her face that plainly indicates a desire to say, as little as possible about her own affairs. "Will you sail for London, or ^ack to Hong-Kong by Vay of Singapore?" "Possibly neither. I am unable to decide just now. .Oiroumstanoes over which I have no control may, necessi- tate my taking a very arduous and dangerous journey through, Afghanistan to Teheran." At this Terry looks aghast. "Do you really mean it?" he says slowly, and yetak THE GIRL FROM BONG-KONO. 81 the same time inwardly oonscious that snoh a daring ^irit would venture anywhere on earth if duty called. "I shall know in another day. Should it prove true ['shall not be sorry to leave this fever-stricken country for new scenes." "But — the danger of such a terrible journey?" "Others have made it — why not I?" "But I doubt whether a lady has ever gone over th& route, which most men would avoid if possible." "Then I shall be the pioneer." Teddy gives up argument then. "You will be attended?" he asks anxiously. "Oh, yes. Colonel Averill is to see me to the border, and give me a start with a caravan. There is a diplo- matic party bound for the capital, and they will look after me that far. Then, besides, I have Sandy McPherson, my father's faithful Scotch attendant, who would lay down and die for me any day. I shall be well looked after." "Do you know that is a country I have never seen,"^ remarks Terry slowly, "You must visit it -some day. British influence and diplomacy carry much weight in Persia," she replies. "I intend to," and on the spot Terry inwardly vows thiat if fortune is kindly disposed he will leave Bombay at the same time she does, bound for that land: from 32 THE 9IRL PROM EONG-KONff. , wbeoce Xerxes of old came upon Greece with his mighty army. The colonel makes his. appearance and the vehicle moves on^ while Terry raises his cork shako, and looks after the beauty so long as she remainsin sight. She has given him her address with the hope of seeing him if he should chance to have leisure — that word chance causes Terry some amusement, for well he knows time will bang like a leaden weight .upon bis hands until lie-dares to venture upon a call. Wrapped up in thoughts that are a mixture of pleasure and pain, the young Briton finds himself brought to a sudden sense of his position, when some one ru~dely jostles against him. Of course in ail great Bombay, it must needs be the bai'on who thus again flashes athwart his horizon. The Russian is a large, handsome man, bearded like a Pard, and with an aggravating, insolent look upon his face — a fellow who is deeply imbued with the vastness of the White Czar's domains, and a positive belief that iu time the whole world will take its orders from St. Petersburg. He has had long experience playing the diplomat, and knows bow to disguise his real feelings when some- thing can be gained by so doing. Terry hardly knows whether to notice the rough treat* TH3 GIRL FROM BONO-KONG. 23 tnent; or ignore it — his Anglo-Saxon blood is alwa3rB ready to fire up should the occasion warrant, but he is no brawler. Before he commits himself in either direction, the other takes the reins in his own hands. "I am surprised — it surely is Mr. Donahue whom I have pleasure in meeting in Hong-Kong." He holds out his hand, but JTerry makes no bones about ignoring it — perhaps be is too frank for his own good, but it is hard to change one's nature, and deep down in his heart he entertains a feeling anything font friendly for this dashing son of Eussia, who has appar- ently determined to win the girl from Hong-Kong. "I believe we did run across one another in the land of the yellow dragon, and from present appearances we are fated to knock elbows on other occasions in the future, sintie we both have the same purpose in view. Let's settle this business once for all, baron," says Terry quietly. "Settle him — -you mean wif ze sword- Perhaps that may be the best after all; but it is very sudden" "Well, 1 hardly meant that — at least just now, though it may come, knd yon will find nie able and willing to take care of myself. I meaflt that we enter the lists, and may the best man win. If the lady chooses you, I am man enough to respect her wishes and retire from 24 THE fflBL FROM HONG-KONit. the field. On the other hand, baron, should Ibebljs favored o^]e, would you do the same?" The Russian shakes his leonine head in the, negative. . "Pardon me, that is not the way we soldiers of the czar do — what we long to attain that we acoomplish sooner or later. It is useless quite to oppose us. The forward movement of an Alpine glacie.r is not more resistless. In love as in war, when a Russian'enters the field the game it is as good as won." Terry's face indicates a sneer — he fears a braggart less thaii a quiet man, so the more his formidable rival boasts the better. "We|ll, there is one thing you must take, baron, and that is a flying trip to London. I believe it will ^o yon good. As to the game being already won, you have for- gotten that Albion's sons do not give up as long as body and soul hang together. Our fathers proved that'dur- ing the Crimea. Personally 1 snap my fingers. at any threats you may make. I shall continue, to follow a manly course, seeking to do no living soul harm; but if I am annoyed too openly I trust I have not forgotten howtogire a Roland for an Oliver. There is no further need.of explanations between us, my baron-r-I thinbyou understand my position, and that I am not, to be turned aside any more than yourself, I shall abide bythie lady's decision— if yoii T^use to dp so, other meaijs jniBife. b« TBM GIRL FBOjrSpNCh-KONG, - ^5 Aoaptoyed ,to, oonyince-yoH ,that it is the wisest course. I see my Ghinaman .beekooing to me from afar. IJptil we meet agaiji, adtos." , , He bows carelessly aod leaves the Russian b^ar glower- ing after him, tugging fiercely at his tawny beard, and mentally cursing the boldniB^s that usually gives , a Briton ihe best of an argument. -j ,.^ ', ,r:s< Terry has learned little that ig ne.w, but ha's.had his suspicions confirmed. The baron promises to mal^e a formidable, rival, and one whose weighty influence cannot be despised. Terry foresees troublous times ahead, but this fact only arouses all the stubborn qualities inherited fr;om old Norman ancestors. --. , ,;, "Yes, let the ..best man win," he mutters; "but the affair is- apt to, be one-sided, since my rival cares not a farthing for the honorable nature of the means employed. At lisast the game is worth the candle. A dozen, yellow- tiaired borons or grand dukes will not scare me o3 — the thought of Doris is inspiration enough. There's Pekoe Tay waving his arms again after the manner of an old Dutch windmill. Surely something must be up — I won- der whatnext, since it seenjs my fortune to be mixed up in all the fun afloat?" Dismissing all thought of Jiis 4iu^ian rival from his mindiox the tinio being, Terry makes his way through 26 THE GIRL FROM EONG-KOJW. the crowd in the direction of Pekoe Tay, curious to know what has happened to that usually tindeiHonstra- tive individual to call for such a display of animation. The Chinese valet has resumed his normal condition upon discovering that his master has startB.d, but shows no sign of meeting him halfway. "Well, what's gone wrong now?" asks Terry, "coming up, and mopping a wet, brow. "S'pose Mandarin Terry read this," slipping a wad of paper into the yoi^ng man's hand, which he Btraigbtefls «ut as best he can and begins to read. THa GIRL PROM MONG-KONO. %t CHAPTER III. A PIPEE FEOM THE HIGHLANDS. Whek the contents of the note have been mastered Terry Donahue looks a trifle grave. As if to. steady himself and arouse his mind to meet the oceasiou he lights a weed. "No more than I expected— deuced unfortunate to make enemies of these murderous Thugs, when I have other business on my hands; but I did my duty as an honest man, and must abide by the consequences. At least the lad has one friend among them who appreciates what I did — whence this warning. 1 shall be on th,e watch — forewarned is forearmed they say. Between these chaps and my warm friend the baron the imme- diate future promises to be rather interesting." Terry chuckles in contemplation of the work cut out for him. It would have dismayed most men, but as the difficul- ties rise mountain high around him, he clears the deck for action, and gathers his forces to resist boarders. Some men may appear lacking in strength of character 38 THE &1ML FROM HONGKONG. until the desperate occasion arises, when they meet it grandly/ just as the stormy petrel glories in the howlitfg gale. It is a characteristic trait of the English-speaking race. ■ The 6hendy Bazar Bbad with its shops and mosques, it^ mingling crowds and curious sights, has lost all attraction for him. 'At least his main object has been acooHiplished.' -' " With Pekoe Tay trailing after, the young man makes his way to the hotel at ; which he stops. Seteral times he halts on the way to look into th« notebddk for thie card upon X^chich Doris scribbled her iaddress, W' if to make sure it has not escaped him. Wherie one's treaSuVfe is, there will the heart be also. " *' ' 5Jight is closing'in. ' ' i -;-;■.' Numerous lights appear, like giant fireflies. • So great 38 the heat dt the day in Bombay that the night isiriade a time df merriment arid feasting. Music sounds on many sides. Remembering the shadow that hangs over the land, it is surprising to see signs of gayety alDrbad ; but the gravest of disasters never quite crushes those fatalfsts who fornid their belief upon Mohammedanisin. ' ' '' Terry is surprised at nothing. "^' ' '■ ' ' ' '• - When one has^pent a year or two among' the people of China and India, he learns to take everything philosoph- ically. What concerns him is the gigantic task upon rMS fflJtL FROM HONQ-KONa. 20 "which lie ia entering, fbt the road to success is strewn with jubstaolds — here a Scylla threatens and a Oharybdis yearns to wreak destruction, so that to escape the ragged rook and roaring whirlpool ^the mariner must : have a steady hand and a bold heart. "I would give something to know what /Urges Doris ^ipon.this singular chase — whom she seeks s6 eagerly. Her life seems wrapped up in the matter. Perbaps-r-. Heaven may be kind — some time in the future sh« may 8€ie fit to tell me. That would be a pleasure indeed — . Doris' c.onfidant^t could only come through a perfect tjj^st-Trthrough love," , And there Terry stops/, since he has reached a point >vhejre feg^ls ,fe»r to tread, the sacred confines of the love god's domain. AVhen the evening wears on his uneasiness grows apac« uatjil h^can no longer hold out. P^kqe Tay is summoned and together they sally forth ;)9t to ^torm a battery, but to run the gantlet of a pai ' of .dsncing gyes that have niore power over Terry t'/.aiv the most dreadful/munitions of war. _^ ,Tl;ie cautious Mongolian induces his master ^o^ak&a pal&ee gharry, in the hope that once behind the unrtahis of the ridiculous vehicle their identity m»,y not, be guasspd, and no accident happen to the master. ^; Pekoe Tay has, a hfij^thy respect for th*, great s^ret 30 THE GIRL PROM SOSTG-KOKq. society of India, ■whose cord and creese work silent death to its enemies, even though they flee to the uttermost parts of the earth. He has possibly had experience with a similar class of "highbinders" in his land of the yellow dragon, and appreciates their methods. Terry settles himself back as comfortably as the cir- cumstances will admit, and seems to lapse into a con- templative mood, which is qnite natural for a yonng man on the way to visit the angelic being whom he so profoundly Worships. , Of course he depends on bis guardian to keep an eye to windward and look out for squalls. Lucky fe11«w that he is to hai^e a Pekoe Tay! Without warning the Chinaman suddenly thrusts his head out of the curtains. They are going at .quite a rattling pace. The driver runs alongside, and with whip and strident voice urges on his diminutive steed. When Pekoe Tay speaks it is to deaf ears, and the Mongolian cannot' be induced to raise bis voicfr by any- thing short of an earthquake. He does better. Leaning out of the sMgrctm so that his weigbt threatens to topple it over he clutches the driver's lines and gives them such a sudden wrench that the wretebecl IHtle beast in harness is brought up all standing. THB QIRL FROM EONO-KON&. 31 Tbe driver grows indignant, but Pekoe Tay takes him 'in hand, and orders the line of marofa, promising terrible things if thej deviate from it. With the native Jehu oompletelj humbled they resume the journey. "What's up?" aeka the amused Terry,-who as yet has failed to completely grasp the true iuwardness of the situation. "He Thugee," replies the other nonchalantly. "What! ^ was no accident then ?" Pekoe Tay sniffs the air — it is his way of manifesting the nearest approach to a sneer he is capable of prodno» ing upon his bland countenance. ' "It berry intentionally. Same as accident not much. We get in tight place already soon if not watch out. Then — " and he stretches his fingers around his throat in a manner harril>ly saggestive of the cord with which the Hindoo assassin does his work. After that Terry condescends to take some interest is their progress, and even asks his companion from time to time whether they are on the right tack. In due time they arrive at the colonel's residence on Malabar Hill, a suburb particularly patronized by for- eigners. Averill calls it a bungalow — everything goes by that name among officers in the India service-^but it proves to be qliite a' commodious and cool residencoi with 31!. Tum Bibicsstef Sjej5va:nts;t<)isvait^iupon guesfe) and,p«U pmkak' cords to. cool the roomsv ■■ ' ''i „M»Bylig,WS; flash Irojm t)ie windows, and the sonnd of voLcea can he. plainly heardy - • Evidently the colonel is entertaining some^,of tis- felJ,Qw oflScers and their- wives, -previous bo departing ttpp^ hig iBi?3ion to the Afghan bo;rder, ,' -Terry frowns upon discovering this-rhe has been bug- ging to his heart the prospect of a delightful Ute-cl-tMe witn^he girl from Homg-Kong. Singularly^ enotigh a man in loye atwaya detests a crowd, while with; a woman the.caB,e; is quite, tfiffprent*; .. ,- . -- • Nevertheless, half a Joaf ds better; than no bread; and < Teri-y eoncltfdes .i,t ]«vill do him gonjie good to loofcnpdn the inspiring face of his goddess,- even thongb other' worshipers he also present : .. . - Among the company he discovers the baron, whose'^ hJglj connectipn with the ruling dynasty in Russia gives him almost carte blanche concerning the few iittle social ' functions which her majesty's officers stationsediniBom* bay might think of carrying out in such a tide of disas- ter. . ., ,., : ■, - .' : ;^ The baron is at home, by long odds the mostiiliustriouB.'! man in the room, and his resplendent uniform adds torr th.e:0.ccasion, for he has belioved it incumhentn-p -33 si mast-iJmpOTtant irbase fre»n hi»i:oy^rinaster tKie Efia- perot Nicholas. ^ ■>;:!; Having paid Ms respects' tothe host attdhdateSs, Teri-y seeks a quiet nook where he can observe without being Gonspicuons. He is very anxious to know the real state of Doris' feel- ings toward this handsome heart-sihasber, and beHdves he can in a measure 'trust his grtbd jridgttiientifo tell him. As he looks he caiinot but admit that they make a most striking coupde, she so divitiely beautiful, he. so tall, so handsome, so kingly, one might say, for the -teron'ik naanner is extremely haughtj'. ' Wihen T^erry^ turning, chances to see himself in a roirior, he inwardly ^ro^s» What chance can he possibly have in the lists against tbismagnificent Russian nobleman? Then his old doininant grit swings to the surface and beJemembers the rac© is not always to the swift-^that no man is beaten in the laudable ebdeavor to win a womaii's he^t tintil he has received his congi, and as yet this disaster has not overtaken him — while there is life there is hope> and "faint heart ne'er - woii fair ''A^ yet ]>oris does not know of his presence, and be has jktrposely delayed presetttiDgiiimdelf. 34 TEE GIRL FROM BONB-KON&. It is an exquisite sensation to see a brief look of pleasure appear upon her face when she Srst sees hiffli. Leaving the baron she crosses the room with true Ameri- . can frankness and takes his hand warmly, Terry's hopes climb a notch higher*- In all his life he has never felt so great a determina- tion to succeed in a thing aa now^^^he believes his vholo faturelhust revolve arbnnd this wonderful girl from tfao Orient, and the baron shall not secure the prize withoitf a fierce struggle. Of course Doris is compelled to ciroulate among tba guests, and Terry finds himself engaged with some of the ofiScers. He is interested in all military matters, and finds a peculiar pleasure in seeking information concerning th* Afghan border. One grizzled veteran, who was with brave Roberta ia his campaign among the mountains of this border land, is able to give Wm many points concerning Persia wfaidi Terry stores away for possible future use. The evening wears on. Although the Bussian grandee hovers near Doris inno^ of the time Terry takes heart from her actions, "At least she is not dazzled by his grandeur. The game is still anybody's," he says to himself cheerfully. '^ - ' It' is almost time to go. ' .( TBS eiRL F^OM JBOJ^O-KOKO. 35 He would like to learn somethiHg of her plans — whether she has concluded to make the perilous journey •oyer the Afghan border— but hesitates to ask, fearful lest she might consider him impertinent. An inspiration comes. The sight of a face among the flowers launches this new thought, and in another minute he has cornered an old fellow with a freckled Scotch face, who has been enjoying the brilliant scene from his shelter. They have met before, and old Sandy must have been favorably disposed toward the London man, to judge from the vehement hand-clasp he gives. How this Highlander drifted to China, and entered the servicle of the rich American consul years before, is a story in itself,- which hardly concerns us now. He is as devoted to his lovely mistress as any old retainer might be, whose ancestors had served in the fiimily for generations back. Sandy has lost something of his Scotch dialect, though the burr is still plainly marked in bis speech; and oeea- eionally he lapses into the characteristic idioms of his race, though never to an extreme limit. Terry at once engages him in conversation, and delights the old piper^s heart by declaring his delight in the music of the Highltods — ^fbr Sandy is the possessor et the most marvelous bagpipes out of Scotland, and is 36 THE OIML VBOM HONG-KONG. • t never so happy as tyhefa they are skirling ami screechjng under, Ijis, deft manipulation, ,, ,, ,, -"jCerfy .has the wtinost .respect fpr) the, mugical'^ind.. bags, but even he does not dr. .- r "You do not fancy Bombay, Sandy?" he says, , '|A,^eel^ I have seen places I , liked much better," replies the diplomatic, noncommittal Scot. "Then you will not be sorry to leave here?" . "I jilinna ken — for some things, yes; but w^ might be- in a worse place, , lad ^ie/' ^_, — ,,,; . yPhich reply convinces Terry the other kno.ws some^ thing of Doris' plan^,,, and ;does.i}ot much fancy the daring journey to the north- , ; To Sandy all younger men are, "laddies," and no 9ne ever takes offense fit his fatherly address, ,, ;; . , ^.,"Tbey tell me Persia is a strange place, Sandy," ; "Nae doubt they are quite ricbt," he says, looking :ftt the other from th;e coxner of his eye, as though: wonder- ing. hpwniiieh Terry k^ows. _ ; I. ) - "I am curious to see the country myself, and ii I can make certain arrangements, I may -accompany! you," remarks the young mi«i. as composedly as possible, ■ ,,".Cejrtain arrangements," forsooth — it may require a brief ipteyval fop.Pekoe Taj. to pack a portinauteau, aii.d himself to -Cflsh , a draft— perhaps he i?mhj ;-vi.sh to/pjjc- ^ . tHB GIRL FROM HONG^KOm- 3'? chase some fiWarma, with an eye for possible daligerk aheaid, btit" Terry could get himself in readineas foif the irip in' an indredibly short tiinel '*'' The receipt of his intention by the Caledoniati piper is all that bis hfeart could wish. Sa^dy reaishes foi* his hand with a sudden wariii^h of feeling that pleases hiin. < ;i i| "I am sair glad to hear it — the journey is a la'tig'one, arid th^ danger no light. I shall be better pleased to know there is one honest English heart in the company. These forfeigfa grandees do not suit me, sir — I am a mucklc plalniMon, and I stake my faith on those of my own speech. Perhaps, too, it may be a feather in your cap, laddie— yoTi may Win what would please your heart," with a twinkle in his keen old eyes.* ^ "Sandy, 'y«a know my feelings in the matter, and should thiatihance come when I could be of service to Mistf Doria I^riast I may be fouiid equal to the occasion. I am not a Soldier or a baron, only a plain English gen- tleman; but tft^l; fact may not prevent me from stand- ing between her ahd harm." ' '^ "Gefd bless ye, sir; I am fiumye have mair true man- hood in your little finger than some people niay in their whole bodies. Fin« feathers mi&ke fine biirds, But the heart is what brings true happiness. Perhaps, sir, I may on occasipns have a chance to blaw ye a trifle skirl on 38 TSM aiBL FUOM HOM&~KON&, the pipes, to tak ye awa' to old Scotland. , They are the onlj eoDSolatiom I Sad in all my waradecings. " Terpy of course declares hia pleasure at the prospect ahead, thoiii|;h truth to tell ha ia thinking more of Doris at the moment, ^nd hears her 'dear voice rather than the shf il] notes of the bagpipes* No doubt Sandy must have some knowledge of the singular missioo that keeps his mistress traveling, and which now induces her to undertake a most perilous Journey; but Terry considers it beneath him to interview a servant about the private affairs of his mistress, and hence makes no effort to learn aught of the imyateryi If it is ever revealed to him it must come from her lijpg Voluntarily. Sandy is a -somewhat privileged^^haracter, in hia f«no» tion of major-domo to Doris, exercising some of the duties of a guardian. A more faithful henohman could not easily be found, and Sandy is an almost uniyersal favorite, even the baron smiling upon hiqi, with the idea of securing his good will as a possible^lly. A peculiar thing happens while Terry keeps the old fellow company among the flowers, and at the same time feasts his eyes upon Doris as she moves about the apart- ments among those gathered to see the last of brave Colonel Averill. The man from London realizes that some one has THB QIBL QROM HONQ-KONG. 39 appeared upon the Bcene in whom the old piper has a d^ep interest. This person is arrayed in the garb of a Hindoo, only he wears a caftan on his head that might mark him as a Moor or a Persian. At sight of him Sandy utters an eager exclamation, and forgetting all about his companion flies te his side to lay a hand on the newcomer's arm. "You here, Kaja Mulie? Then you bring news. Quick mon, gi* it me the once. The young leddy has counted the minutes, I tell ye. la it go, or stay?" is what Terry bears him exclaim. "It means a journey," comes the low reply, and then the courier's voice sinks to a vhisper. At least Terry knows they are going, and he can plan for the future. Ah! Sandy has half-dragged the other to the outskirts of the flowers — be seeks to attract the attention of Doris. Id another minute she comes flying across the room, with an eager yet anxious took plainly depicted upon her features. She in turn questions tke dark-faced man, who for the second time narrates his story. ' Doris nods her bead slowly as though settling matters in her mind. 40 I TSK &mz^RoJt-m)iro-Eow&. • "We go to Teh'eiran no doubt,'** mutters Teffy,nien- tally sHrdhdering whether such a thilig will have^ahy effectt "fbrgood or evil upon, his fortunes. • . ; He waits until the dark' man -called ;^ajaMuH& has again withdrawn as quietly as he entered, and- •©oris returned to the chattering throng, when' he intercepts Sandy ia the ac* of hastening off. • "Is it JPersia, Sandy?" he asks. "Nae doot, nae doot. At least we leave when the braw colonel does' on the morrow, hound norfli !" • "And this messenger — this courier of yours, is he to Ikj trusted not to lead you into a trap?" ,^^ ' "Oh, ay, "Eiaja Mulie ia a rii'icfele true than, we all believe, though for my part it gbfesigiainst thfi''gri»i*4o put full trust in a Musaelinan at siibha time, ^heh'' a holy war is brewing. I hope yb halve, no rb^SbiSl;© believe him a rascal, sir?*' -^ ' ' ' / "Not at all; bnly, like yoni^eif, T hsve an institfctive distrust for a brown skin, though ready to stake my life on the steady reliance of one who carries a yellow face. Let it pass, Sandy; only it is weih Jron know, when su(3» a precious charge is in your keep, tb be watchful of every one, whether Englishman, Bu^ian or Hindoo, until his dee^s prove him worthy of trust." : "Rich t you are, sir, and I mean to follow but tkftt plan. But will fe go alang wi' us P" TMB aiRB FROM HONO^KONa. 41 ?'If I am alke attd at liberty nothing can keep mis from doing so. Don't forg&t your pipes," laughing. "I winrra, you may rest assured. I hope to teach these Persian limmei-s the beauty of Hielau(jl«auasio." "Then I'll see you later, my bpy." Terry has something to ponder oyer, something that gives him uneasiness, and he reinains for a brief time whBre Sandy left him, so that he may think undjaturbod "I hope I am mistaken: — perhaps it is only a resem blance such as might easily occur, but he is marvelously like the Ipader of that Thug crowd against which 1 raa ftp. What if they are the same — what does that signify r— is^-be endeavoring to lead Doris into some infernal trap in the north, so he may demand wholelacs of rupees for her ransom? At least I inteiid to watch this KajaMulie, and bring him up with a round turn if lie shows treaohery. Ah! eleven — it is time I started ba^k to town. Pekoe Tay will be growing impatient." 42 TEB &IBL FROM EONG-KONQ. CHAPTER IV, THE TRAP OF THE PALKEE GHARRY: Pbkoe Tat has not been aaleep these three hours— it would be almost as di£Scult a matter to catch the heathen Ghinee dotiing as the proverbial weaael, ' , Pekoe Tay has his own peculiar methods for gaining information, and three honrs is quite a long time when one chooses to employ every minute of it to advantage. When, therefore, he diaoovers the mandarin master leaving the bciiliantly lighted rooms, and realizes that tjhe time has come for their departure, the MongotiSB valet is satisfied with himself, ^ince he has been able to serve one he worships as a joss. He notices that Terry shows certain signs of mild ex- citement, and concludes that something must have occurred — perhaps his news will not be so fresh after all, and he may do well to refrain for a time from speaking. "Is our vehicle here— I didn't pay the man because I wanted to be sure of him?" asks Donahue, glancing around at the various equipages in which the guests have arrived, and which range from an elegant coach TffB mBL from: Etoso-xowa. 43 belonging to some official dignifecry to ' the imtnbla palkee gharry sB«h as is in common use. "Here is the carriage, but the driver he change," remarks the observing Celestial. Terry grows suspicious at once» There is good reason why he should, with such dangers menacing him on all sides. "How is this — who arc you, and why do you stand in the place of the driver I engaged.'"' he demandSk The native Jehu is a shriveled up spemmen of a man with a gaunt frame, and a pair of beady eyes that appear to flash as might a lighted oheroot in the dark. He readily understands what all tlie row is about and condescends to explain, stating that the original driver had been suddenly taken with startling symptoms that gave rise *to a suspioion of the plague, and being oom< pelled to abandon his post, found a substitute. All of which may of course be as true as the Koran, bat Terry doubts it, his belief being that the first fellow has been summarily bounced because he lacked the grit to carry out some dai^^ng scheme in which he had a part. Will this new driver dare go further? Terry scans him critically, and mentally decides the fellow ia a cross between a tiger and a cobra — he could be bold enough should the occasion warrant it, or else strike at the heel like a viper. 44 THE GIRL FROM HONG-KONQ. I At any rate he will bear watching. ,r So they leave the colonel's bungalow on Malabar Hill and start for the city proper,; Terry in making his adieus to the colonel and hisgood wife has made bold to mention the fact that h« hopes to join the expedition on the morrow, when it starts for the border where Averill is to settle certain disputes that have arisen with the various hill tribes. The colonel has expressed his satisfaction at the pros- pect of good company, and the exceeding warmth of his handshake substantiates his words. -^ So Terry feels some little satisfaction in knowing that he will not be unwelcome in that quarter, though his apiritfl sink again upon" hearing th^ the dashing b^ron has concluded to return home to Bnssia by way of the overland route rather than by water to the Black Sea ports, " ,_ He scents trouble ahead. ^ , Ashetoxe, the' young gentleman lapses jnto a state of ^eep thoag.ht, ... i . ■ . So much hasv^happened and su^ vast events hinge upon the way fortune may smile that he has a great (|eal to consider. - - To Pekoe. Tay is given the; privilege of a sentry, and. the-task could not be in better hands. While Terry^^okes /the, Chinaman peeps out from THE GIRL FROM HONO-KONQ. 45 time to time in order to see whether they are going in the right direction, remembering the former experience. ^^ Both Pekoe Tay and his master are armed, and capa- ble of a pretty stiff defense'should the occasion arise. As the road is a frequented one it is hardly likely any enemies would dream of waylaying them. Such things have in times past happened near the Towers of Silence, where the dead Parsees or sun-worshipers are given to the vultures, and even under the shadow of that famous pile, the Temple of Mahaluxmee; but the watchful British authorities had acted so promptly on these occa- sions that the'Thugs are lying quiet just noW; — the society of assassination is asleep, not dead. They have gone perhaps a quarter of the distance when Pekoe Tay> who has been listening intently, rises from hia seat. Terry watches him languidly. At first he imagines the Mongolian guide is about to leap out of the curtained opening and possibly throttle the driver. On the contrary Pekoe Tay kneels down on the bottom of the box. - Teiry, puffing at bisoigar, causes a species of dim light to pervade the limited interior every time he diasffsat fejs jreed, and by this glimmer he sees liis bcnehntan not 46 TBS &IMI> WS&M m2f&~M(M&. only koeelio^ but jaeUaang bis h^Ski in th.« (Jireefeion ol, te-away Mescca. -What does it mean? Has; Pekoel Tsy hemt cxkUT^orted to Mc^hstWiiaedaBisni, dassirted bia JQSs and e«iB@ out as a Miever, in Ifeisam? Tbe idea is iBcsmdiMe. Ilk is eeiaalljr out at tH qfueC'iiQni ta bieliftve a Btiker, 4fe. ,; -j|>. Fekoe Ta^j has hent bis bead xmtiX it iresta oik tbe cushioned seat which be m iteeentlgf peeupied. ""„ , Abl be is Hsfeeaiag— t* what? ,,,^r At times tbu raiaMe ol tbi« -wbeeJ^; bas b««m pl«ittIrX, audible, and again when a soft place in tke voad i». reached not a sound arises «gm« an o^easicna]) sboiul^ tjtom ibe, jimpiiitg hatrkfuia wbo bandtes ibct goad and. (urges tlie Mtle 8te«d forward. "Illustrious master, the gods my mandarin giiv« mp> ibexQ Mid tolit m& if £ kav9 wrong been?" > Bowa TiQf rj^ dr t&t tm i\m sffwt ol tb« m