w *o •^ ^ W -t°x> / «V c ° " * ♦ <^ p*..i v ^% n3 *0 . A * /TV * ^ C^ ° flC **<* \2 3> >p „s T /, *« / .V vV /% /-SB? ./X : $R^' yv « \i> *J\7* A ALEXANDER BLACKHEART'S^ REVENGE, AMD ITS CONSEQUENCES R THE TWO CONVICTS. BY MARTIN Vc^ B/BURCH. ,t ■ / ALBION: PRINTED AT THE ALBION MIRROR OFFICE. 1869. .0/ ^ v° ^ PREFACE. Authors of Fiction, as a general thing, have but two objects in view. namely, Fame and Wealth. It may be well enough to hare these two objects, but when an Author stops here he is unworthy f either To do good, or at least to try and present some wholesome doctrine in an attractive manner, should be the chief object; and, if an Author gains Fame or Wealth thereby, he is deserving of it. I have tried, in this little work, to show the evil consequences oj Revenge, by taking incidents that I have read and arranging them so as to form the story that 1 now present to the public. If by reading this little ivork, any one is lead to stop and consider before he commits some rash act. that by so doing he may bring ruin upon himself and others, and will obey the voice of conscience, the Author^ of this work has not labored in vain. ' v g BURCH Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year BY M. V. B. BUK^II, 1. the CLERK'8 On.,: 0> r ,: DISTRICT .',„ - oh M ^TEE. I »TR1C1 Of MICHIGAN. ALEXANDER BLACKHEART'S REVENGE. CHAPTER I. The Two MZescttei. T7IND reader will you come with me, IV And let your fancy roam. Upon the plains of New South Wales, The convicts' prison- home 1 If so. I'll tell to you a tale That will repay the time, That you do spend in reading it — I'll tell it, too, in Rhyme ! In eighteen hundred thirty-eight, Not far from Sidney town, There was a band of men at work Though fierce the sun beat down. Upon their almost naked forms. The sun did send its heat; And as the burning sand they trod Thev blistered their. bare feer. Oh, it seemed hard to see them toil Upon this sultry day; Although they were all criminals. And had gone far estrav. It vvas in vain to cry or groan — They were beyond all aid ; And if they did a moment lag. The whip was on them laid. There was but two in all this band, Of thirty men or more, But looked as though th y well deserved This punishment so sore. -But these two men, a stranger would, ( If he can read man's face.) Quickly say, this prison-land Was not their proper place. The eldest one of these two men, Was nearlv thirty -five, His health was good. hi. limbs were strong In spite of his hard lite. Not so the yountrer of the two, Whose years were less bv t n ; He looked as though the hoe and spade Should be chang'd for the pen. John Waldo was the strong man's name, If I remember right. And that of his companion was Something like Frederic White. Yes, Frederic was the young man's name ; And I remember now, What a despairing look there was Upon his youthful brow. He was not us'd to work like this, Was very evident ; He told the overseer so, But he would not relent. " You shall keep up, you thievish knave," Was the harsh man's reply ; " Have mercy," cried the trembling youth, " Or I will surely die." As higher in the heavens rose The dreadful, burning sun, Young Frederic's strength forsook him quite — His mind began to run. il I'm going home," he wildly cried, " T<> my old home so sweet ! " And now, completely overcome, Fell fainting at John's feet. Ere John could raise young Frederic up, And take him from the place, The overseer in ureat rage Did strike him in the face. '• Get, up, you lazy vagabond, I've seen enough of this ; Get up, I sav, or soon you'll feel A blow from my bare list." But. ere he could draw back and strike, John gave him such a blow, Thar laid him prostrate on the ground Beside his victim low. kw What means this interference, sir, Between me and this man ? " The enraged overseer cried, As on his feet he sprang. Bl.AOKHRARTS REVKMiK. '* It means," was fearless John's reply, " That I'll not stand and see You beat this helpless young man here, While there is life in me. You would not let the poor man rest, You knew he was not well ; Yet, tiger-like, you on him sprang, When in a swoon he fell ! " • " You wretched villain, you'll repent, For talking thus to me, As prostrate as this sneaking knave, You very soon shall he !" Then throwing off his coat and vest, Likewise his old straw hat ; And as he aimed a blow, he said : " Sir, for your pains, take that !" "And that, for yours !" was John's reply As he struck off the blow, And, in another instant more. Knocked down his cruel foe. " Help ! help !" resounded thro' the air As off the coward ran, And loudly did the convicts laugh, At the now vanquish'd man. But there was cow no need to cry, For John did not pursue ; And, ere the wretch had run a rod. To Frederic's aid he flew. He took young Frederic in his arms, And carried him away; Beneath a cool and shady tree The faithful youth he lay. While John was bathing Frederic's face. He was surprised to see, The Governor come riding up, And stop beneath the tree. " What caused the outcry that I heard, A moment's time ago? I thought I heard a cry for help. Sir, tell me what you know ! " " Kind sir," began our trembling John. " This youth that's lying here,. Fell fainting a short time ago — He's dying now I fear. And as he fell, the cruel man, That oversees this band, Flew in a rage, and like a fiend Did strike this helpless man." '• This cruel act enraged me so, I lost all self-command, And live or die, I did resolve Between these men to stand. As soon as I had thus resolved, He drew to strike a blow. But the next instant he did fall Beside his victim low ! ; ' Enraged at this he sprang at me, With, all his rai^ht and main ; But finding tha r he was well beat. He roared with rage and pain. It was his cry your Lordship heard, Which called you from your way, And oh, kind sir, protect this youth, From this man's cruel sway." " If what you say I find to be. Upon inquiry, true. I will of course grant your request And punish the man, too. But if I iind that you're the oue That's made the mischief here, You sadly will rue this dny's work, But where's the overseer ?" But while this taik was going on, Under the shady tree, The overseer remained not quiet, As we shall quickly see. Burning with malice and with rage. And thinking naught but ill, He went and called upon the guard To execute his will. His bloody, face full well did show, His treatment at John's hands. And soon the guards were on their way To do this fiend's commands. Sure of success, he led the men Where he was so well beat Not dreaming that 'twas possible To fail of vengeance sweet. <; Here is the rascal, bind him fast — Guards do your duty well ! We'll teach this man a lesson that Will last him a good spell ! " With these fierce words. he sprang at John. And struck him to the ground. Before he knew the Governor Was any where around. " Not quite so fast, sir, if you please, I'll have a word to say : And if you have no good excuse, You will soon rue this day ! " Thus spoke the noble Governor, And in a moment more. The overseer's hands were raised. His mercy to implore. ' I did not know that you were here." He fault' ringly began : ' So I should judge !" was the reply, ' k But, sir. what have you done ?" 1 I tried to whip young Frederic White. To make him go to work. Then this rebellions convict, sir, Fought fiercely for the shirk !" BLACK UKAKT S REVENGK '• You wretched man, you know you lie I You know that he's no shirk ; You know that he is very sick. And is not tit to work. knowing this, you. like a fiend, Did strike this fainting youtlj,; Then this brave convict interfered ; Sir. is not this the truth l\ •■ It is. your Lordship, but — I — I. Do beg your pardon, air," Hep lied the wretch, who trembling stood. Too terrified to stir. " My pardon I do not often give. To such a heartless one ; And, as an Overseer, sir, Your services are done !" With these stern words he sent the guard. Off with the wretched man, Bound with the cords he brought lor Join rightly around his hands. Then turning to the fainting youth, Who still did deathlike lay. He looked at the youth's pallid face. And then to John did say : " I see that you have told the truth, About this sad affair : And I am very glad that you, To interfere did dare. |The wretched man I've sent away, Shall dearly for this pay ! But what to do with this poor man, I know not what to say. 'He must have aid. 'tis very plain, Or he will surely die ; | He has a dreadful fever now, His pulse runs very high. The Hospital, I hear, is full. So he can not go there ; I know not what the youth will do. Good nurses are so rare." " Kind sir, if you will give me. leave, I'll nurse this youth with care ; | As nurse I've often been employed, He can my cabin share." '• That : I will very gladiy do," He quickly did reply ; "And I a Doctor soon will send, Aud everything supply !" John then took Frederic in his arms, And bore him to his home : : He had recovered from his swoon, Bur his mind still did roam. !" If these two men are criminals, 1 can not read aright," Was Sir George Gipp's emphatic words, Ere John was out of sight. CHAPTER II. JYavrat ive of Frederic White. OR many days young Frederic White, In a few days young Frederic's strength Upon his sick bed lay, Unconscious of the care of John Who watched him night and day. But when at last the lever broke, His senses did return ; And John was almost overjoyed, vVhen he this fact did learn. " How came I here upon this bed 1 Whose cabin am I in 1 .How came my flesh to leave me so? Why am 1 pale and thin ¥' c: You have been dreadful sick, my boy. And :-nust now quiet lie ; 1 wi:l explain all in due lime,". Was watchful John's reply. id no more but quiet lay, And soon he fell asleep ; His mind no more was wandering, A smile was on his cheek. " He lives ! he lives ! and will <^et well, His mind no more rims wild."" John, as Frederic fell asleep As calmlv as a child. Came slowly back to him ; A healthy hue came o'er his face, And soon he grew less thin. John was well pleased to see these signs, .Of health, in his young friend ; But now, with sadness he did think Their company must end. Young Frederic heard him sigh, and said : i4 Why do you sigh, my friend ?" '* It is'beeause," was the reply, ■ 'Our company must end. Your health is now improving fast, To work you soon will be, And then, perhaps, we never more Each other's. face shall see." The tears did start in Frederic's eyes, And down his cheeks they run ; I'Twaa hard he thought, to leave his friend, Who had his friendship won. But when he could command his voice, He eagerly did say : ; How did you come to nurse me, John, While I so sick did lay?" BI.ACKHBARTS REVUMJE. At this request, John left his seat, And shut the cabin door, For the fast falling dew proclaimed Another day was o'er. Then sitting down h\ Frederic's side, lie truthfully did tell, What happened on the dreadful day That in a swoon he fell. When John had told all that took place, The youth did deeply sigh : " You stood a narrow chance, my friend Who'd though! a friend was nigh? And now. dear John, pray tell me why ^ ou run the risk and fought, Putting your life in jeopardy, Pray was it death you sought?" " Oh, no, my friend, it was not death — I thought of no such thing ; Bur. 'twas your utter helplessness, That made me or. him spring. I did not. stop to reflect how A fight with him might end ; I only saw that you were weak, Aud needed a strong friend. " Oh, noble John ! the weak man's friend What can I do I pray 1 " Said Frederic, gra.-ping his hard hand, " Your kindness to repay 1 " " I want no pay," was the reply, " But will one favor ask ; And if you'il grant it I'm repaid — Say, will you do the task ? " " I know not what you'd have me do, But feeling confident You would nor ask me to do wrong, So gladly I'll consent." " Then tell to me the story of Your life, my dearest Fred, And I will feel that I'm well paid For watching by your bed." II If you desire my narrative, As pay for what you've done, I'll gladh tell it to you, sir, Though it is a *ad one. And though you owe me nothing. John, I would be glad to hear, Your narrative, for I am sure Your's is a strange career." "Ah, what you say i? true, my boy, And if it will please you, I'll tell to you the story ot My life when you get through." Thus saying, John did strike a match, And made a little li^ht, For the bright sun had now gone down, The moon did not shine bright. " Well, I was born in Liverpool, Twenty five years age ; Of my poor parents' love for me, I very little know. Fur when I was but five years old, 1 wns. an orphan lone ; My parents both died of a plague Which tjrough the land did roam. •• When my poor father was informed, Thai he c uld not get well. He sent for mother's brother, who Did in the city dwell. My unc.e quickly did appear, My warden for to be. My father placed me in his care, Ah, sad it proved for me ! '• When my poor parents were both dead, And I was left alone, My uncle Henry Truman cime, And took me to his home." When Frederic told his uncle's name, John suddenly did start; But Frederic did not notice him, For the room was so dark. " My uncle was not wealthy, but lie was esteemed by all, To be an upright any true man, Beloved by great and small. It wars his good name, I suppose, That caused my father dear To leave me in my uncle's care, Yet that deed sent me here ! •'My uncle had no children, and I was soon at my ease ; For both my uncle and my aunt, Did all they could to please. I love to look back on those days, Of innocence and mirth ; But. oh ! I never more shall see Such happy days on earth ! " My uncle was a Doctor, aDd He had a thriving ride ; His skill was great, and soon his fame Was spread both far and wide. All things WHiit on for a few years, As well as one could ask ; They took great pains in teaching me, And 1 learned very fast. " When I was fifteen years of age, He did icsolve to send Me to a noted College, so I could my learning end. Now, never having been from home, It almost broke my heart To be compelled to go away, And with my loved frielids part. blackheart's rrvengb. '♦'< You smile, dear John, at me I see, But i: was even so 5 For I had lived so happy, that, It then seemed hard to go. My uncle and aunt Mary, too, As yet had used me well. And now they had a little girl, Her name was Isabel ! '" ft was the ties of home that. I, Must for a while forsake, That made the tears roll down my cheeks. And made my young heart ache. But. dning up my tears. I bade My only friends good-bye, And in a coach I rode away, But it was with a sigh ! tc My teachers were all kind to me, And soon I (elt at home ; But when my daily tasks were o'er, My mind hack home would roam. Thus passed a year quite swiftly by, Then I at home returned ; My uncle seemed well pleased to see The Prizes I had* earned. "My little cousin had improved, In growth, and health, and grace, So fast I hardly knew the pet That ran to my embrace. 1 thought that nothing now would mar My joyful spirits more, But ah, alas ! I soon found out My troubles were not o'er. "Ere the vacation was half out, My uncle came to me, While I was in a room alone — '• I've news for you,' said he. " Well, uncle dear, what is your news? I eagerly did ask ; * Ah, well for me, if I had then Seen through his cunning mask. " With cautious words he did unfold His long projected plan, Of leaving our Old England home, Eor some far western land. 1 New York, 5 said he, • is just the place, To make my fortune grow ; Your aunt has got a brother there, He writes for me 10 go. " It grieves me much," I did reply, To have you go away ; But if you think it best to go, I have nothing to say. I hate to leave my College here, Though 1 suppose I could, Find others. in Amarica Whose teachers are as good." " 'Undoubtedly there is, my boy,' He quickly did reply ; ' But if there is, 'twill do no good, This is the reason why : When your poor father left this world, And left you in my care, He charged me to instruct you well, And no expenses spare. ' The College that I've sent you to, Is the pride of the land ; Your father bade me spnd you there — This was his last command. So, my dear boy, I hope that you Will now consent to stay, Until your learning is complete, Then you can come away.' " If it was my dear father's wish, For me to educate In just this single College, sir, His commands I'll not break ! But uncle, there is still oae thing 1 do not understand, About my father's leaving me, With this and that command. "One would suppose, my father was Immensely rich or wild, To hear you tell of his commands To educate his child ! It cannot be that he was rich — Say, Uncle, is this so ? Pray do not keep me in suspense, But let me quickly know." " 'Yes, child, your father at his death, Was very" rich, 'tis true ; Two hundred thousand pounds he left, My dearest boy for you ! It has not taken one quarter Of the use of this great sum, To clothe and educate you, my boy, Tho' both hare been well done ! • : Two hundred thousand pounds ! said I, And all of it for me? Why, Uncle, that's a princely sum, You must be teasing me." ' No, Frederic, it is even so ! And" all of this great sum I shall deliver up to you, When jou are twenty-one.' " Then, Uncle, if we are so rich, You need not leave me here, And go and toil in foreign lands — Stay with me, Uncle dear ! 'Ah, boy ! 'tis you that's rich, not I,' My Uncle did reply, 'And I've made up my mind to go And (or a fortune try.' BLACKHEART S BKVENCJK. " I saw that it was now no use, For me to argue more, And with a sigh L turned away, My new grief to weep o'er. He said no more to me that day, But let me weep and sob, And in my agony I wished I lay beneath the sod. " When I had somewhat calmer grown, I went to him once more, And asked him why he had not told Me of my wealth before? ' My boy,' said he, ' I know that those Who are expecting wealth, Will often contract habits that Will ruiri fame and health. (i T wanted you to make a man, Of sound judgment and health, And be an honor to your name Without ihe aid of wealth. .1 trust that such will be the case. Yet had you known the truth, I fear that ere this time you'd been, A worthless spendthrift youth.' " I thanked my uncle for his care, And told him that I would Strive hard to be just sucli a man, As he had wished I should. I then did ask him when he thought He'd leave his native land? And was dumfounded for to hear The time was close at hand. " : I thought,' said he, ' that it would be The time to start away, About the time you have to leave, And so I'll go that day. For then, my boy, your lessons will Take up your time so well, That soon your grief will pass away And all will yet go weil.' "Oh, sadly passed the few short days, That I was now allowed, To see the only friends I had In the great city proud. The dreaded day at last arrived, When I must say Farewell ! To my loved uncle and kind aunt Arid little Isabel ! "Oh. how my heart did throb with pain, To see them sail away ; And to the College I di With a sad heart that day. When to the College 1 came uear, I did resolve to try To meet my teachers and young friends, Without a sing '•'All went on well for a few months, And soon the time drew near When 1 began to look for news. From the friends I held :Uiav. Rut no news came': what all this meant Was more than I could rell : Oh, sir, I could not hide the grief That did my bosom swell. weing that i looked As though aid went not well, I Requested me to inform them What mishap had befell. |I then did briefly tell to them What I have just told you. About my uncle's leaving me — i .Thev heaVd my story through. •• -Poor boy.' said they in a sad tone, I v We very much do fear, jThai from vour ui.cle and your aunt You never more will hear. We fear that he has took this way. if what you say is true, ; About your having so much wealth. To steal it all from you.' |"Oh, my dear friend, my heart did sink Within me for to hear, Sueh talk as this — but that 'twas true I did bejiin to fear. But still 1 tried to think that aii Things would at last end well. But; as month after month rolled on. My hopes were all dispelled. <" Soon after this I learned that the Ship was burned while in port, But nothing of value was lost — At least, so said report. I have no doubt that he still lives. Perhaps he Infs ehamrd his name, So that he will not be founo out And thus be brought to shame. •• I've often wondered why it was My uncle did reveal, jThe fact that he held my great wealth If it he meant to so jJohn was about to make reply. But Frederic did not hair ; About his'days in College Full half an hour did tail . •• And when my learning was complete, To Liverpool 1 w« ;And, save the clothe- noon my back, 1 was not W( rth one cent. But my kind friends al rote And highly did commend. My learning and my I And soon I found a fri blackheart's revenge. '* My new friend was a merchant, and He owned a wholesale store ; He did employ me — thus, you see — My doubles were all o'er. My honesty soon won for me My kind master's {rood will ; And when his head clerk went away This high place I did fill. *• One morning I was somewhat HI, With a paiu in my head, And sent the merchant word that I Would have to keep my bed. I was excused, but ere 'twas noon, I was surprised to see The merchant, pale as death, apuroach, 1 I'm robbed ! I'm robbed !' said he." "Robbed ! I repeated, quite amazed ; Sir, do I hear aright V 7 " Yes. and of twenty thousand pounds ; The deed was done last night. The score was locked, likewise the safe, And nothing looked wrong, But, going to the safe, I found My money was all gone." " If that's the case, was mv reply, One of your clerks, no doubt, Has robbed you of your money, sir, Are any of them out ?" " No, Frederic, they are all at work, But, sir, I can not lay The charge of this great crime to them, But we must not delay." " With these few hurried words we left, And hastened to the store ; All things there wore externally The same look as before. There had as yet been no alarm, About this dreadful theft; To make a seaich among the clerks, The merchant thought 'twas beat. " I had no fears about the search, But sided in the hunt, And to my horror we soon found Some of it in my trunk ! One thousand pounds of it there lay, Exposed to master's view, It seemed to say 'you are the thief!' " . I knew not what to do. ; ' I was arrested on the spot — My guilt appeared so plain There were not one to pity me — All thought I was to blame. I And when I was to trial brought, My guilt was proved so clear, I My Judges would no mercy show, And so you see I'm here. '•' This is the story of my life ; And you can plainly see, That it was my own uncle that Has caused my misery. He stole my proporty from me, You know, when I was young ; And now I have to suffer for A crime I've never done." " Poor boy, if you knew what I do About your uncle's fate, You'd quickly feel compassion for The one that you now hate. But hark ! I hear a cry for help, Behind our cabin, Fred ; " Make sure work of it !" cried a manj As off he quickly sped. CHAPTER III. Another Rescue. S soon as those strange words did reachl Between two villians they did see, The listening ears of John, He did forget the subject that He was just talking on. " There's. -ome one in distress, my boy. I hear a female's cry ; I'll run and see what it can be, And aid her I will try. "And I will go with you, brave John, Was Frederic's» quick reply ; And in a moment more they were Near where they heard the cry. Oh, horror ! horror ! what a sight, The pale soft moon did show? It was enough to chill the blood, That through their veins did flow ! A damsel young and fair ; Her eyes were closed, she seemed to be The. picture of despair. The villians knives were both upraised, Ready to strike a blow ; But ere they were aware of it, Before them stood a loe. " Hands off, you villains ! John did cry, As on them he did spring ; n Hands off, I say ! or your vile necks I quickly off will wring !" Qiuck as a flash, their knives did fall, Ditto one of the men ; And the vile cowards did not stay For John to strike again. 10 BLACKHRARTS REVENUE. In Frederic's arms the young girl fell, Unconcious that her foes Had been compelled to go away, By John's terrific blow*. John was about to follow them, But Frederic called to him To help him hold the fainting girl, For his head now did swim. John was alarmed and quickly ran, To aid his we;»k young friend ; He had forgot that he was weak, And dreadful sick had been. " Oh, do not bo alarmed, dear John, I am much hotter now ; I did not know I was so weak, But John what ails jour brow ? John put his hands upon his face, "With blood it was besmeared ; But he did quickly find that it Was nothing to be feared. " 'Tis nothing hut. a slight flesh wound,-" He calmly did reply ; " The villains knife struck me I guess — It struck quite near my eye." In the meantime the young girl had Recovered from her swoon ; She was a beauty, they both thought, Though dimly shown the moon. " Oh. Ho not murder me !" she cried, " What harm have I ere done To you or any one on earth? Oh, cousin, quickly come !" " Be not alarmed, my gentle girl," John soothingly did say, " For you are in the hands of friends, Your foes we've drove away." " Oh. am I saved from cruel death? And has my dream proved true ? Or am I in the spirit land ? Oh. tell me, tell me, do." " Be calm young lady you are safe, From those that vought your life ; We've saved you from u dreadful fate, Though doubtful seemed the strife. Be calm and tell me where you live, And I will see you home ; It will not do for vou to go Through these darn woods alone." ** Oh, dear, kind sir, I have no home, That you can take me to ; I hare no friends in this wide world, v At least, friends that are true. The man that, does pretend to be My father, has just tried To have me murdered in these woodi, By men that ho has bribed. " Protect me fiym his cruel power, And tak^ me to your home ; And I will be a servant true. And from you never roam." ; ' Poorchild," said John. " I gladiy ^ould Protect you from all harm, But we are two>poor convicts, child. Look at our uniforms. '• But if you have no home my child, You shall protected he, In our poor cibin, for rhe night — It is in sight you see. And when to-morrow's sun does rise, I'll seek you out a friend, That can protect you from all harm And will your rights defend." " Oh, noble man ! I knew you could Not find it in your heart, To turn me from your home away, In these lone woods so dark. Although you wear the uniform, That the convicts do wear, I know you would not harm me, sir, Your brave looks this declare." " Well, if you feel safe in our hands, We'll to the cabin go, For it will be much darker soon, The moon is now quite low. Come, Frederic, lean upon my arm. You are so weak I fear. That the excitement of this night Will prove to you severe." 'Twas well, the cabin was so nigh, For Frederic was so weak. That when they reached the cabin he Could but just scarcely speak. But John's attentive care soon wrought A better change in him ; His strength and spirits did return, His head no more did swim. He was so wakeful that he would Not lie upon his bed : John's words about his uncle did Keep running through his head. " I'll know the meaning of those words. Ere I one moment sleep." Thought Frederic, and he drew a sigh That was both long and deep. When John had thus revived his friend, He was suprised to see Thar the young girl that he had saved, Well dressed appeared to be. ••' 'Tis very strange," tho't he, " that this Poor girl should friendless roam, In these dark woods without a friend, Likewise without a home. BLACKHEARTS REVENGE. 11 «• Young lady, will you please to tell The names of those base men. That sprang upon you with their knives. Your young life for to end ? If you can tell their names, perhaps, They can arrested he ? How many were there in the plot, Say, were there two or three?" 11 There were at least three in the plot, Although there were but two That did attack ine i.» the woods, And they were seen by you. I do not know their names, but they For my father do work ; And for to kill me, they did hide, Each one armed with a dirk. " I thought you said that you'd no friends. i And now you say these men Work for your father. I can not, Your meaning comprehend." " I should have said, the men do work, For one that does pretend To be my father— but he's not, My father nor my friend ! " I've lived with hitn for many years, And happy did I dwell, Until about six months ago He ceased to use me well. To d*y he walked with me into The woods you found me in ; I felt that he seem'd very strange — I saw mischief in him. •• I knew not what the mischief was, Nor in what shape 'twould come, But I felt sure I never more Should see my dreaded home. While these sad thoughts were in my mind The fiends did on me spring — 'Make sure work of it!' cried my guide, As loud as he could sing. s ' a i(j he, "this trail is made By many naked feet ; And if we would our own lives save, We quickly must retreat.' But by what way we ought to go, We neither of us knew ; While we thus stood in doubt and fear, An arrow by us flew ! " We turned to leave the dreadful spot, And in an ambush fell ; More than a hundred savages, Around our ears did yell ! We knew that we must fight or die, And fast our balls did fly; And many of the wretches did In a few moments die ! "Our guns alarmed them very much, And they did soon retreat, We thought our danger was now o'er, We thought our foes were beat. We loaded up our guns once more, And went to rind our men ; But ere we had ten paces ran, They were at us again. " We turned on them and fired our guns, But they did flinch no more ; They rushed on us like very fiends, Their yells made the woods roar. Our balls did quickly thin their ranks, But they the fiercer grew ; At last they did surround us quite — Our hopes for life seemed few. %< The wretches were so close to us, Our guns we could not load ; But every one that we could reach, Upon the ground was throw'd. On, on they came like very fiends ! But still we stood our ground ; And many of the wretches fell, And were quickly trod down. " I did begin to hope that soon, We would the victors be ; But the black wretches fought like fiends. We could not make them flee. I saw one of the wretches raise His club to strike a blow, And ere I could prevent the stroke, Your husband was laid low. " I heard him cry aloud with pain, But that cry was his last ; For as he did attempt to rise, A club did his head smash. I laid the wretch dead at my feet, And by my friend did stand ; At last my faithful gun was broke,. And wrenched out of my hand. " I took your husband in my arm9, And did attempt to run ; But I was struck down by a blow, From my own broken gun. But ere the wretch could strike again, I was upon my feet ; Your husband's body he then snatched. And with it did retreat. " I now rush'd thro' their thinned ranks, And swiftly did retreat ; And off into the woods I ran, Chased by a savage fleet. The savage did run like a deer, And he was very strong; I thought my stay upon this earth, Would not be very long. RLACKHBART S BKVBMGB. *5 "As the fleet savage came near me, I sprang behind a tree ; And as he passed I snatched his club — He died instead of me ! I now began to hope that I, Would from the Mends escape ; And being almost tired to death, I paused, some breath to take. " But soon 1 heard more wretches \ ell, They were upon my trail ; My strength was now so well-nigh spent, My heart began to fail. But life is sweet aud I did strive, With all my might and main, To keep out of the wretches sight, Though each step caused me pain. " But ere they did appear in sight, To my great joy I found The trail that lead me to the boat — Oh, how my heart did bound. I soon did reach the boat but I Was very, very weak; 1 sprang into it and then told The sailors to be fleet. "The sailors were greatly alarmed And to their oars they flew; And they did row the boat so fast My foes came not in vew. This is my sad and truthful tale, It grieves me mutch to tell How that your kind and noble man By savage hands has fell. " My bloody hands and face do show, That dreadful was the strife ; It is ten thousand wonders that I did not lose my life ! But here I am without a bone ' In my poor body broke ; But my left arm is now quite lame By warding off their strokes. " But now poor woman I must go Into my room, for I Am now so very weak and tired, It seems that I must die. Oh, if I could have saved his life, How happy I'd now be ; But I did do my very best To fetch him back with me. " Your husband is now free from pain. In manhood's prime he fell, But oh, kind lady do not weep, But comfort Isabel. Thus talked the would-be-hero but, Kind reader was he so? When you a little farther read I'm sure you'll answer no ! CHAPTER VIII. Plotting •Again. rPHE full round moon is beautiful, J_ When it shines clear and bright ; And it is worthy of its name, For it's the kt Queen of night." She sheds her grateful light on all, And makes "grim darkness flee ; She guides the landsman on his way, The sailor on the sea. 5 Twas such a lovely night as this That did succeed the day, That Mr. Truman was enticed From his friends quite away. The moon shown bright upon the ship, As it ploughed through the deep, And all was still upon the deck, All seemed to be asleep. But soon there did appear a man, Upon the proud ship's deck ; He looked uneasy and he seemed Some danger to suspect. He did not have to stand alone, But a few moments' time, When a young man walked up to him, But gloomy seemed his mind. "• Well, Philip, how do you succeed ? Not very well I fear, For you do seem to be cast down, Pray let me the worst hear. I have not dared to speak to you, For fear some of my men Would think that all you're said was false, So careful I have been." " Well, Captain, I am very glad To have you careful now, For we're suspected by the witch ; I fear she'll cause a row. jl did deceive the sailors so, I thought all would go 'well; l But she did fiercely look at me, Though why I could not tell. " I quickly saw that she did not Believe what I did tell, Although I did look solemn and Did tell my story well. When the kind ladies left her room, I lingered by her door, To see what the woman would do When quite alone once more. 26* bi.ackhkart's rrvrnuk. " She looked around in mute despair, Her grief seemed lo be great. I did not know one spell but what The woman's heart would break. At last she did become more calm, And from her couch did rise; I left some blood upon a chair, On this she fixed her eyes. " I saw a'change come o'er her face. She soon did dry her tears ; That. blood I left upon her chair, Made her look wild and fierce ! I thought that this seemed very strange, T knew not what it meant ; But I did watch her very sharp, Until away she went. " She went and got a little box, Out of her writing-desk ; She then did scrape the blood in it And locked it in the chest ! While she was thus employed I did To my grate dismay see, Why the sad woman's face did change, 'Tis this that troubles me. " The blood that I pretended did From Mr. Truman flow, Was taken from a jet black bird, I think it was a Crow. But in my haste to daub my hands, And face with this bird's blood, I happened to, oh, sad mishap, Some feathers from it rub ! " The sailors were so much alarmed, They scarcely looked at me ; And so they saw the feathers not, Nor through my cheat did see. Not so, the woman that you hate, For fiercely she did look ; It seemed that she could read my tho'ts As though I was a book. " She- looked upon my bloody face, With an inquiring eve ; And now I have no doubt but what She did the feathers spy. But whether she saw them or not Is more than I do know ; But I did leave some on the chair. With the blood of the Crow." " Well , Philip, if this is all true, Our race is well nigh run ; Undoubtedly the woman will Strive hard to have us hung. If she succeeds in hanging us, She will persuade my men To run the ship back to the Isle And get Truman again." Oh, Captain, do not be alarmed, Our cause is not so dark ; Our present danger is now o'er So easy make vour heart. I have no doubt but what she thinks, The sailors are combined To help you in all your plans, This once the witch is blind. •' If she intended to get aid To rum you and me ! While she is sailing on the ship. She would more cunning be. She would have called the sailors in, So they could see my cheat ; If she had done this. I am sure Our hearts would not long beat! £; She's hid that blood away so that When we arrive on land, She can show it to prove our guilt, I think this is her p^an. But if she dose me thus entrap, She'll have to cunning be ; And if she does not have a care. More of my tricks she'll see !" " But. Philip, how are we to shun The woman's threatened blow? I can see no way that we can. If she our secrets know. I fear we will that money loose, If not our lives likewise ; We'll have to let this thing alone, Though tempting is the prize." " No. Captain, we have worked too hard. To tamely yield the prize; And for to get that chest of gold, We must some way contrive. I have a plan now in my mind, To you I will it tell ; If vou'll agree to it. we'll get The gold and Isabel !" " I will agree to any thing, That will this great scheme aid ; For I do wish to execute, All the vows I have made." " My plan, sir, is to burn the ship," Was Philip's prompt reply, " To burn the ship while she does still In New York harbor lie !" Ct To burn the ship ! why, Philip, you Are not in earnest now ? What, earthly good will this do us? I ne'er can it allow." • l Yes, Captain. I'm in earnest now, As you will quickly see ; And I know that to burn the ship, You gladly will agree. BLACKHBART'S RKVBNGR. 27 " The woman, seeing through our plot, Has nearly spoiled our fun ; But if we rightly play the game, The prize can yet be won. We've gone so far we might as well Venture a little more ; If we succeed — I know we will — We'll get that yellow store. " She will undoubtedly strive hard, Our company to shun ; But I do not think that she'll dare To make her knowledge known. If what I say proves to be true, Ere she sets foot on land, We'll play off a trick on her She can not understand. " If she intends to expose us, (And, sir, she does no doubt,) She'll do it ere we leave the port, Upon our homeward rout. So you can plainly see that we Must sharply play our game, Or else this lady that you hate Will soon bring us to shame. "As I have said, she will us shun, So we must try and see If we can't make the woman tiust, The little girl with me. I've thought of many plans, but none Did suit my fancy quite, Until I thought to burn the ship, Which you seem to dislike. «* We must contrive to get that chest, And I can see no way That we can now the money get, Unless we sharp do play ! My plan is to burn the ship. An excitement to cause, So that the passengers will not Upon the ship long pause. " The passengers will be alarmed, And for their friends will seek ; I will then be upon my guard, And to the woman speak. She will not dare refuse my aid, And I will help her well ; And for my pay of course I'll take Her chest and Isabel ! s * If we can manage matters so That we could reach the port, In the evening, then I am sure, We can have some fine sport. We'll manage things so that we can Get on another ship, With all her money and her child And thus give her the slip ! " Before she'd realize her loss, We would be far away ; This is my plan, now, Captain dear, Do you say nay or aye ?" " Your plan is good, I will consent To all that you have said ; And if the woman will keep still, Her arts we'll not long dread. " I'll try to manage the ship so We'll reach the port at dark ; I then will find a ship so that We can quickly depart. Ha, ha ! but won't the woman rave, When she finds out our game? She's thinking now no doubt, that she Will soon bring us to shame !" Thus talked these wretches vile, about One that had done no harm ; Oh, that some friendly voice could speak, And this fair lady warn. But no, no mortal man did know, (Save these tw£» wretches vile,) That there was a plot on foot To rob her of her child. CHAPTER IX. The Plot Proves Successful. WHEN two more weeks had pass'd away On the swift wings of time, We find that Blackheart. ready is To execute his crime. He'd managed as he did agree, To have the ship sail in The harbor after dark, so that None could detect his sin. He then did toll the passengers That they had better stay. On board the ship that night, for 'twould In a few hours be day. They all agreed that this was right, And quickly did consent To stay on board another night. And all retired content. The Captain then did leave the ship, Under pretence that he Had pressing business upon land Which he must go and see. He was not gone more than an hour, Before he did come back; He wore a smile upon his face, What mischief was he at? 28 IU.ACKHF/ART 8 REVENGE. " Well, Captain, I do plainly sec, Our scheme is working well, By the glad smile upon your lace — Come, your adventures tell." " Well. Philip, you have guessed arigh All tilings work like a charm ; And ere io-morrow's sun does shine, We will be safe from harm. " The first vessel tlfat I came to, Was just about to sail For Cuba, and a thought struck me For to the Captain hail. He did at first refuse to wait, For his sails were all set; His sailors had been on a spree, And he was in a pet. "At last I told him if he'd wait, But just three hours for me, That I would give him twenty pounds Besides the usual fee. He did consent to this at last, And now if we succeed, We'll soon be sailing from this port, And from all danger freed. *' The Captain and the sailors are All Spaniards to a man ; So you can see the girl can not Their language understand." "Well, Captain, this is fortunate, For I have always thought That the young girl would tell he name. And would our plans all balk. " I understand the Spanish tongue, And speak it with great ease ; And if I'd known you could it speak, We could have had more peace. We could have talked fearless of harm, And might have saved John's life; But then, perhaps, he now" would be, Ready for some Dew strife. " But, Captain, we must be to work, Or we will be too late ; You know, to get the ship on fire, Much precious time will take. I've got the tar nicely arranged, To fire it Pll now go ; But do not make an outcry till I come up from below." Thus raying, Philip went below, To set the ship on fire ; He quickly did the dreadful deed, And then he did retire. The burning tar did swiftly spread, And filled the ship with smoke ; And soon the silence of the night, By fearful cries was broke. A fire on land is bad enough, But on the raging deep A ship on fire will chill the heart, And make the fearless weep. The cry of fire did startle all ; Confusion reigned supreme — The women were greatly alarmed, The children loudly screamed. But soon the Captain's voice was heard, He told them no; to be Alarmed but quickly leave the fire, And from the ship to flee. The boats were quickly loaded by The sailors of the ship, And swiftly did the many boats O'er the dark waters skip. Young Philip soon found to his joy, His victim got no aid From the afrighted passengers, That on the ship still staid. He went to her and ask'd her if She any aid did need? And oh ! this injured woman did The rascal'3 aid receive. He did collect the woman's goods. And laid them in a heap ; So when another boat arrived, She safely could retreat. He spilled a box with pictures filled, Upon the cabin flour ; Instead of finding them again, He scattered them the more. When Philip saw the boats arrive, He told her that he'd spilled, When he was in her room just now, A box with pictures filled. 'Oh, sir," said she, " that box was filled With pictures of my kin ; My husband's was among the lot, Please, sir, go and find him !" •' I'd gladly do as you request. But see, the boats have come ; I'll have to put your things in them, It quicklv must be done. But while I'm filling up a boat. You can leave your girl here, And run into your room and find The pictures you hold dear. '' The fire is not gaining much now, They may yet put it out; You need not fear no danger there, You'll find them all no doubt. I'll keep your daughter from all harm. So do not tarry here ; You havy so many things on board, They'll fill two boata I fear." BLACK HEART S RfiVE.VOB. 29 The woman stayed to hear no more, And to her room she went ; But, for this act, she many years Did bitterly lament. How little did the woman dream, Of the great grief in store, When she did go to search for the Pictures upon the floor! Young Philip seized the chest of gold. Blackheart the woman's child, And in a moment more they were Upon the waters wild. Thus the foul deed at last was done, The dreadful vow fulfilled; ^Laugh, laugh, vile monster while ye cafe Your foes are not all killed ! The little girl had fell, asleep, And she did sleep so sound That when she did awake again, Her friend was not around. Blackheart did tell a dreadful tale About her mother's fate ; But at another time we will These things more clearly state. " vVell, Captian, was not this well done ?" Said Philip in great glee, When they had got out of the light So that none could them see. * -• Things did look very dark at first, But did at last come right ; I guess the woman will not soon Forget my aid to night ! "'Twas well I spilled those pictures fine In the way that I did ; I hope she'll find her husband's face Among the others hid. Ha, ha, I guess she smells a rat, I'm sure I heard her scream ; I guess that when she finds us out, She'll wish she'd careful been !" The Spanish ship was quickly reached, And soon they sailed away, Well pleased with all they had just done. Oh, wretches vile were they ! Blackheart did tell the Spaniards that He had just lost his wife ; And that he wished to Cuba go. And there to end his life. The knaves could now lay ail their plan", What to do when on land ; For not a man upon the ship, Could English understand. They often laughed at what they'd done. With Truman and his 'wife ; And often wondered if the man Upon the Isle still lived. They did agree that 'twould be best To settle far. from sea, vSo that they could enjoy their lives And from danger be free. The Isle that they were going t« They thought was just rhe place To cover up their sinful crimes, And save them from disgrace. When they arrived upon the Isle, They looked around with care, To find a hotel where they. could In safety now repair. They soon found one to suit their minds, Kept by a Spanish man, Who could not speak no other tongue, Nor English understand. They feared the child would them betray, If she saw any one That she could prattle to about, Her lost friends and her home. Blackheart did think she'd soon forget, About her sorrows sore ; And he was very kind to her And soon she wept no more. Blackheart became acquainted with, A Spanish lady fair; They seemed to like each other well-, And soon they married were. He told her that the child he had, Was a poor orphan lone, That he had saved from cruel death Far from her native home. The lady had a tender heart, As well as a face sweet; And the sad tale that Blackheart told, Did cause her for to weep. She saiofshe would a mother be, To the poor orphan girl ; And she did always keep her word, While she liv'd in this world. They now began to look around To find a pleasant farm, Far from seaooast, so that they Would be safe from all harm. Young Philip heard of a fine farm Which far in-land did lay, And fearing that it would be sold He quickly went away." The chest of gold which they had srole, From off the burning ship, Had all been counted, but it had Not been divided yet. It was left in the little chest, To be kept from all harm. While Philip went away to see If he could buy a farm. 30 R L A C K It U A KT's K K V K XU R . But often strange things will take place, jBut. ere 1 tell of this event, Among both mice and men, And soou the author of this tale A strange event will pen. But then, perhaps, some one will sa\ " All that you've wrote is strange; We never read a stranger tale, We're 9ure you are deranged !" I will have to return Back to the ship which we have seen, Was by these two men burned. And when I tell you the sad tale, Of Mr Truman's wife, I will tell you the story of Blackheart's great cheat and life. CHAPTER X. »?Irs. Truman beeome§ aware of her L,o$i. ¥1TH nimble steps the woman went, Into her room to find The pictures of her relatives. Whom she had left behind Young Philip had took so much pains, To scatter them around, That she did have to look with care Before them all she found. At last she found all that she wished, And quickly went away ; Rejoicing that she soon world be Out of all danger's way. But horror ! horror ! not a trace, Of her child could be seen ; Half dead with fright she gazed around And then did loudly scream : " Where have the wretches took my child ? Oh ! tell me, tell me, do ? My husband they have took from me, Now Isabel's gone too.'" Thus saying, she did swoon and fall Upon the burning deck ; The sailors bore her senseless from The now fast sinking wreck. When she returned to conciousness, She found herself on land ; And many friends around her stood To lend a helping hand. She told them that she feared her foes. Had stole her only child ; But the kind-hearted sailors thought That she was very wild. They told her not to be alarmed. And all would soon come right ; For that the fire was gaining fast, Was what did cause their flight. But when the sailors did inquire, For the false-hearted men ; And found that no one saw them land, Began to comprehend. That the poor moraan's fe;irs were not Groundless as they supposed, And for to aid her find her child They many plans proposed. But all their searching proved in vain, For no one even thought The knaves were still upon the deep ; And so in vain they sought. When the kind-hearted sailors heard How she had been deceived, By the young knave upon the ship, Their wrath was great indeed. And now the woman saw with grief, That she had acted wrong ; [By not informing them that she Suspected him so strong. [Had they suspected that Truman Had been enticed away, And then betrayed and left behind, In solitude to stay. They would have rendered justice strict To the false-hearted men ; And run the ship back to the Isle, And rescued him again. But the poor woman thought they all, Against her were combined ; And that hei safety did require Her silence for a time. She had resolved to have the men Arrested for this deed ; But now, alas ! they had escaped, And left her in great need. For the vile wretches, as we've seen, Not only stole her child. But stole her property likewise, In the confusion wild. The loss that caused her the most pain, (Except her grief intense ;) Was the directions where to find Her brother's residence. Her brother had not lived in the City but a short time. When he did write the letter that Called Truman to this clime. And now she knew not where to go To find her only friend ; And all her seeking proved in vain- How is this all to end? BLACKHEARTS REVENGE. 31 Bereft of both husband and child, And in a strange land too ; There seemed to be no ray of hope To cheer this woman true. With hope high bounding in her heart, She left her native land ; But now, alas ! her friends were gone. And she alone must stand. When she did find that she could not Find her loved brother's home, She knew not hardly what to do, But something must be done. She still did think that her child was In the great city hid : And she resolved that she would stay, If men her work would give. With this intent she sold some things That the knaves had not stole ; And rented a small room so that She could work, and behold The people as they did pass by Her dwelling to and fro; She fondly hoped that in this way, She'd soon detect her foe. But as day after day passed by. Without her seeing him, Her hopes of finding her loved child, Did daily grow more dim, But still she sewed, and as she work'd She'd often cast an eye, Out on the passing throng below, In hopes her foe she'd spy. One day as she was seeking work, She happened io pass by The Postoffice, and as she passed A notice she did spy. She paused to read it and soon found, To her joy and surprise, There was a lette-r there for her, Among those advertised. With eagerness she called for it, And with surprise did see, That it was mailed at Havana — "From whom is this," thought she. She quickly returned to her home, To see from whom it came ; It was from Blackheart — and I will Have to insert the same : " Detested Madam ! thinking that, Perhaps, you'd like to hear A few words from me, and your child, Who did leave \ou so queer ; Not wishing you to fret yourself About us any more, I thought I'd write and let you know, Wbv I came to this shore ! »* Long years ago I courted you, Your riches to obtain, But by some chance you found me out, Ere I your wealth did gain. But not content to let me go, In peace away from you, You treated me with great disdain, And in a rage I flew. •'• Your cruel taunts enraged me so I then and there did say, That I would on you have revenge ; This vow I meant to pay. When I did learn your father failed And lost his property, I was quite ^lad we did not wed And heir his poverty. You do, perhaps, remember that I told you that the time, That if you ere did wed a man I'd ruin him sometime. Perhaps I have not paid this vow, And then, perhaps, I have ? This is a nut for you to crack — When crack'd, you'll weep or laugh. '• I hope you will not take it hard, Because I took your cash ; For 'tis expensive, you well know, To rear in style a lass. Now, having heard from us, I hope You will contented be, To let me live and long enjoy Your well-earned misery ! '*' But should you take it in your head, To try and seek U5 out, Your daughter's life isn't icorth a Jig — So, mind what you're about." Thus wrote the villain, to the one That he had brought to grief, Because she had in early life Despised the shameless thief. Oh, how the woman's heart did ache, When she read these base lines ; She knew 'twould be a hopeless task, Her darling child to find. She knew he would her daughter slay, Ere her he would restore ; And thus she mourned for many years, About her losses sore. I will not tire the reader with The details of her life, For time and space will not permit To tell how she did strive. For seven long years the woman did Her needle swiftly ply ; But at this time her health did fail, She felt that she must die. 32 BLAOKHBART 8 RKVK\y, pray be content, And let this matter rest ; And if I ever come to want, I then will you address. •* Or should you ever wealthy grow, And my son should need aid, Remember then my kindness, sir, And the debt is paid. I promised that I would do this, And we did separate ; And in a few years I did come, To this proud city great. " The man that did this noble act Was your loved father, and I now shall claim the privilege, Of giving you a hand. If you'll consent to tarry here Until you hear from home, I'll furnish you with all you need, For I have wealthy grown. 42 BLAt'KHEARTS REVENUE. ° But if you choose to go back now, I'll freely pa\ your fare ; And give you, sir, a handsome sum, To use when you get there." " Dear sir, I'll follow your advice, And practice here awhile ; But, oh, I (ear I never shall, Hear from my wife and child !" CHAPTER XIV. .JtTr, Truman fittdi his Wife* ¥ HEN Marcus Newton told his friend,! That 'twas a sickly time, He told the truth, for Truman did Soon many patients find. But the poor man could nothing learn, From either wife or child ; And my kind readers may well judge, His grief was great and wild. The winter came with all its woes, To the surrounding poor, Who had to toil from morn till night And the cold wind endure. The chilling blasts of winter are To the poor city man, The greatest trouble he endures — But this he has to stand. Upon a cold and windy day, Our friend Truman did stand, In his warm office looking out On the snow-covered land. "Alas !" said he, " in this great place Are many helpless ones, That this cold day will greatly try, But, hark, some one now comes ! He looked around and saw a boy, Without a hat or shoe ; His little naked feet were cold, So cold that they looked blue. "Kind sir, will you please come and soe, Said the boy with a sigh, " A lady who is very sick, I fear that she will die !" " Yes, my poor boy, I'll go with you," Was the kind man's reply ; "Come to the fire and warm yourself, You're cold enough to die." While the poor boy stood by the fire Mr. Truman went out, But he did soon return with a Warm suit of clothes throughout. " Here, my dear boy," 6aid he to him, " You are too thinly dressed — For it is bitter cold to day, You'll surely freeze to death." The boy's astonishment was great, He was too full to speak ; But fast the grateful tears did roll, Down his young manly cheek. " Come, dry your tears my little lad, And quickly lead the way. Where I can find your mother dear, Who now so sick does lay ." " Oh, sir, the woman that is sick, Is not my mother dear ; ^ I have no friends now left on earth, My sad young life to cheer. " The woman is a stranger, sir, Who did take care of me, Last summer when I was quite sick : Ah, very kind is she. But I am now ready to go, And lead you to her room ; But I do fear you are too late To save her from the tomb." Thus saying, he did lead the way As fast as he could go ; The sweat did stand on Truman's face, Though fierce the wind did blow. At last he reached the woman's room, All did seem death-like still ; The room was very, very cold, It seemed that he would chill. The room was very neat and clean, Though he did plainly see [That the lone inmate of the room, Quite poor appeared to be. The woman lay upon her bed, Her eyes were closed in sleep ; Her death like face did plainly show, The marks of sorrow deep. He saw this at a single glance, But something else he saw ; The little boy who led him there, Was struck with fear and awe. The poor man's face turned deadly palo, As he looked on her face ; And soon the tears come in his eye my dear This is good news indeed \ [friend, But I am very sorry that Your only child is dead." " I did not say that she was dead — Ah ! this is not her fate ; If she was dead and in her grave, My heart might cease to ache-" " My friend, what mishap has took place ? I thought by what you said About your loosing your poor child, Thai she of course was dead. Something outrageous has took place, That I can plainly see : I hope you'll quickly ease my mind, By telling all to me ." " Yes, my dear friend, I came to tell You of my grief so sore, And as your counsel has been good Ask your advice once more. You told me that you greatly feared, That the vile wretches stole The chest that I tbld you about, Which did contain much gold. black-heart's revenge. 45 Alas ! vour fears have all proved true. It would be folly for me, sir. And they the gold have stole ; But if they'd let my child alone, I could forgive the whole. But they have stole my only child ; Sir, read this cruel note, And tell me if you think there is, Still for me any hope." Thus, saying, Truman handed him The aforementioned note ; t: This, sir," said he, " will explain all ! You see by whom 'tis wrote." The kind man read the letter through, His eyes with anger flashed When he did read the cruel threats, Wrote down towards the last. " Foul wretch, foul boaster of thy crimes, How could you write to one That by your words seems to have ne'er You any injury done. Thus the kind hearted man did speak, When he had read it through ; His face was almost black with rage, 'Twas terrible to view. But soon he did more calmer grow, And turning to his friend — Said he, " these are most dreadful threats, That does this letter end. You say you came to ask advice, I fear to give it you ; « But you must very careful be, Rashness will never do. i: You seem to think your cruel foe, Is yet in Cuba's Isle ; But I know that's not the place, For you to seek your child. The villain would not dare to stay, After he had thus wrote ; I have no doubt he left the Isle, Soon as he sent this note. 'Undoubtedly he feared your wife, Would send detectives round ; And so he wrote to her and told Pier where he might be found. But ere a man could reach the place, He might be far away — I have no doubt he left the Isle, Without the least delay." II But. friend, where can the villain be, And how can I him find? If he has left the Island fair, Which seems to be your mind. Could I but get on track of him, I'd follow in his wake, But what I'd find my darling child, If it ten years should take." To try and answer you ; But I will tell you, my duar friend, What I think that I'd do. I have no doubt but what your foes, Did set the ship on fire ; So they could safely perpetrate, All that they did desire. " Now the best plan for you I think, Is to Old England go, And find the owners of the ship, And let them this thing know. Perhaps they know where he does dwell, [ But this I greatly doubt ; ] They would undoubtedly aid you, To seek the villain out." " Oh, my dear friend, your plan is good, I will do as you say ; As soon as my wife able gets, I'll quickly go away. 1 thank you, sir, with all my heart, For your aid and advice ; 'Tis owing to your counsel that I have found my poor wife." ' ; You're welcome, sir, to all I've done, And I am very glad, That I've been prospered so that I Could aid you as I have. And now as you're about to leave, I want you to agree That if you ever find your child, You will send word to me. " That I will very gladly do. And should we never meet I'll often think of you, my frieud, And of your kindness speak." Thus, saying, he held out his hand, To grasp that of his friend — They parted, but not without tears, Never to meet again. With lighter heart the man returned, Back to his anxious wife ; His cheerful look did seem to give The sick woman new life. He told her what he'd been advised, By his friend kind and true ; " And now, dear Mary, I do hope Our daughter we'll yet view." " Oh, husband dear, this may be so, But I do greatly fear That we will never see our child. Nor never from her hear. But still I think your plan is good. And I will gladly go, Back to our native land again, In search of our base foe. 46 Bl.ACKHKAKT .s KEVKMJR. " Bi4, Henry, I do wish you would, Adopt the little boy Who went and got you to come here, It will give me much joy." " That, 1 wiil very gladly do, If the boy will consent; He seems to be uncommon bright, And with his lot content. " How did he come to go for me, Through the cold ice and snow ? It was a very bitter day, And fierce the wind did blow. I thought the poor brave boy had froze, His little naked feet; And ere I'd let him venture out, His dress was more complete. " " The little boy was very sick, Last summer for a while, And no one did take pity on The poor and lonely child. I had him taken to my room, Though my own health was poor, And nursed him till he did get well And could some work endure. When he got well I found a place For him to go and live, But he was not well treated and They would him nothing give. The morning that he went for you, He was turned from his place ; Without a friend in the wide world, The cold, cold wind to face. " In his despair he thought of me, And to my room he came, But found nae in a slumuer sound In which I had long lain. He saw that I was very pale, And soon made up his mind That I would die unless he could, Some skillful Doctor find. " Kind Providence did him direct, To my own husband dear, Whom I supposed had long ago Died on an Island drear. Since then he has attentive been — He's very kind and good — He is now helping a blind man, Saw up a pile of wood." " He is a noble little boy, I'm sure I'll like him well ; But, Mary, dont you think he looks Like our lost Isabel ?" " Yes. Henry, I have thought the same- But, pray, why do you ask? You can not think my brother's boy Is this poor young outcast?" " I never thought of such a thing, But, pray, do his name tell ! 'Tis strange the boy should look so much, Like our lost Isabel." " He says his name is Charles, but I Have never thought to ask His sirname, for while he is here, He's busy at some task." " But hark, I guess the boy has come — Yes, Mary, it is he ; Pray do keep calm — I'll his name know, No doubt lie' 11 tell it me." " Come here my little man," said he, " And tell me how you like Those clothes that I did get for you ? You look more warm and bright." " They're very, very nice, indeed," Said the boy with a sigh ; " They are the best that I have had Since my loved friends did die. I used to have nice clothes and toys, But this was long ago ; I can but just remember it, But it is even so." •' I have no doubt of it, my boy, But will you tell your name ? I know 'tis Charles but what, dear boy, Does make you look so sham'd ?" " Oh, please, sir, do not angry be, I dare not tell my name ; I have been nearly killed for this — Please, sir, do not me blame." " My dear boy, do not be alarmed, No one shall beat you now ; I see you've greatly injured been, I know not why or how. Tell me your name, no one will dare To interfere with you ; I will protect you from ail harm, Now, tell me, quickly do." " Kind sir, ray name is Charles Clarence, Though its been many years Since I have dared to speak it out. So great have been my fears. I have been beat almost to death. For telling my own name ; And, oh, kind sir. protect me now, For I am not to blame." ce Come to my arms my darling boy, You are my brother's son, Cried the kind woman joyfully, No harm to you shall come." The boy's astonishiment was great, To hear these words so strange ; And at his uncle and his aunt Ho long did wond'ring gaze. BLACKHEART'S KGVKNiiti. 47 " But when the boy had calmer grown, All was explained to him ! And he was almost overjoyed To learn they were his kin. He told to them how that he had Abuse to under go, Since his kind parents had both died So many years ago. " Soon after my poor father died, A fierce bad man did come And drove away my poor kind nurse, And lived in ray own home. He did command me not to tell, My name to any one : But this command I oft forget, And oft the blood would run. " The brutal man would give to me, Nothing but rags to wear ; And he would often beat me too, My life he'd scarcely spare. .At last he drove me from his home, [Or I should say from mine,] And bade me never more return, Back to my home so fine. " He told me if I ere did tell, My name to any man, That he would cause me to be slain 'Heed,' said he, 'this command.' I never dared to tell my name, Since that eventful day ; I know not where I used to dwell, For I've strayed far away." But, reader, I've not space to tell, The story of this boy, Although 'twould interest you all, I'm sure 'twould cause no joy. Kind hearted Truman did prevail, Upon ihe nurse and lad, To go with them to Liverpool — The boy to go was glad. CHAPTER XVI Phitip WHEN Mr. Truman did arrive, In his own native land, He was so anxious he would not In idleness long stand. But just as soon as he could get His family at rest, In the new home he did provide. For aid he went in quest. To the shipowners he did go, And told his story through ; But they believed not what he told, And they would nothing do. It seemed the ship was well insured, So they no loss sustained ; And so the poor man got no aid, And could no knowledge gain. With heavy heart the man returned, Back to his anxious wife, And told her the desponding news That he alone must strive. " I feared that they would nothing do. 5 The woman did reply ; " But, Henry, we'll not yet despond, But other means must try. " Your fortune is not large enough, For us to travel far ; And if it was, we do not know Into what land repair. I think it best for to keep still, And go to work again, At your profession for awhile, Till you some knowledge gain. Preston's Confession* il Remember that this is the way, You found the boy and me ; Perhaps this is the way destined That we our girl shall see. So, Henry dear, do not despond, Though all does seem dark now ; I trust that all will yet come right, I know not why or how." " Yes, Mary, this is a good plan, But I do greatly fear jThat we will never see our child, And from our foes ne'er hear. [But I will do the best I can, To find the missing one ; JAnd nothing that I can think of, Shall e'er be left undone." !In a few days this noble man, Was at his work again ; His skill was great and soon he won, The esteem of all men. His wealth increased from day to day, But this eased not his heart ; To have his child restored to him, With wealth he'd gladly part. For many months he labored on, But did no tidings hear From his base and decietful foes, Nor from his daughter dear. And had it not been for his wife, He'd give up in despair; But she now firmly did believe, They'd find their daughter fair. 48 Rl.ACKHKAKT S REVENUE. One night he was sent for in haste, To see a sick young man Who was prostrated suddenly, By the destroyer's hand. When he did reach the young man's room. He was surprised to see Him wildly stare and loudly scream, He frightened seemed to be. " Oh, take this dreadful ghost away. His flaming eyes so fierce, Will cause my death, I know they will My very vitals pierce." The young man sank back on his bed, The picture of despair; He trembled like an aspen leaf. And straight did stand his hair. " Who is this fearful young man here, Cried Trumau in alarm? To those that stood around his bed, And held the young man's arm." Cw His name is Philip Preston, sir, Though none of us can tell What makes the young man act so strange, He seems to know you well." " Yes, Mr. ghost, that is my name, Your ghostship knows me well ; 'Tis all a sham your asking, sir. These men my name to tell. Ha, ha ! you've come to make me own, What a base knave I've been ; But you're too late to harm me now, For soon my breath will end." " Oh, Philip, I am not a ghost. As you can plainly see ; But I am now a living man, So do not frighten'd be. I did escape from off the Isle, And I havo found my wife ; And if you will restore my child, I'll lead a happy life. " I will forgive you all you've done, If you'll restore my child ! Remember, that you're very sick, So calm your fears so wild. Feel of my hands, I'm not a ghost, But am alive and well; You havo but a short timo to live, So do your secrets tell." " You lie, you lie ! }ou know you do. You know that you're a ghost; You know that you have now appeared, To break my iong repose ! But, Mr. ghost, you are too late. To harm me save in name ; Ha, ha! you've been quite kind. In shielding me from crime. j (; I thought that I could die in peace, But now, alas ! you've come To make. me own before these men, All the crimes that I've done. I fain would have the world believe, That I from guile am free : But, Mr. ghost, you've come at last. To make me speak to thee." He then did seem to calmer grow, And minutely did tell How he did help the captain base, To ruin him so well. 'Twill be remembered how Black heart, The cunning youth did cheat, vVhile he w T as off to buy the farm, Of this he now will speak. " When I had bargained for the farm, I to Havana went, But judge of my surprise to find He'd gone with every cent. But soon my mind was set at rest, By having handed me A note from my deceitful foe, Which bade me quickly flee. " He said he'd gone to New Orleans, To keep clear ©f his foe, And did advise me quickly to The same place straight to go. I was alarmed and quickly went. But he had not been there ; And soon I did begin to think, He was not acting fair. " But, Mr. ghost, I did not dare To publish in that place, ;The tale of Blackheart's wrongs to me, For it would me disgrace, j While there! managed for to steal, Enough to bring me here ; | Where Blackheart is I cannot tell, Whether far off or near. I" For many years I stole enough. To keep me in good trim ; ! And no one of my many friends, Docs dream of such a thing. At last I did make up my mind, I'd cease this petty strife, And wait with patience for a chance To make me rich for life. " Kind fortune seemed to smile on me, And soon a chance I found: JTo rob a banker of his wealth. I struck him to the ground. |But as he fell he loudly cried, But that cry was hi« last, iFor. in an instant, my sharp knife Quite through his heart did pass. BLACK HEART'S REVENGE. 49 ** I quickly did secure the gold, And left the murdered man ; But a stout 9ailor followed me Aud snatch'd it from ray hand. He then ran back to the dead man, To aid him I suppose ; But the poliecemen then came up, And did around him close. <; In their great haste to capture him. They struck him, I've heard say ; And while he was insensible, They did take him away. And when he was to trial brought, I went in the Court room, To see the man that I had wronged, And learn his dreadful doom. t " But judge of my astonishment, To see the very man That I helped throw into the sea, Before the stem Judge stand. I left the room ere he did see The one that had wronged him, And he was sent to New South Wales, To atone for my sin. " Soon after this I found employ, In a large wholesale store ; To rob its safe 1 many plans Did study o'er and o'er. One day the head clerk, Frederic White. Tut the key in the lock, And being called in haste to go, To take it he forgot. " Ere he came back I took it out, And stamped a piece of wax, So I could see what size to get, And quickly put it hack. We both lodged in the same hotel, Young Frederic's room joined mine j Together we did often set, To while away the time. " He often left his trunk unlocked, And I made up my mind That I'd give him a present large For the sheriff to find. When I was sure the safe contained A large amount of gold, I let myself into the store And robbed it of the whole. '• I took one thousand pounds of it, And went in Frederic's room ; I found him sound asleep and I Had my work well done soon. I hid the rest of it away, Until the storm passed o'er ; And did appear to all the world As honest as before. (; Young Frederic sent the merchant word, That he was somewhac ill, And asked to be excused that day, So that he could keep still. He was excused, but before noon They did unlock the safe, And found the money was all gone, But the thief left no trace. " The merchant quickly went for him, And he came to the store, And did advise him for to search The clerks all o'er and o'er. They thought that this was a good plan, And soou were on their way To the hotel where all the clerks, Or most of them did stay.