 Part 2 Chapter 1 of Madame Midas This Libravox recording is in the public domain. Madame Midas by Fergus Hume Part 2 Chapter 1 Tempest Fugate A whole year had elapsed since the arrival of Vanderloop in Melbourne, and during that time many things had happened. Unfortunately, in spite of his knowledge of human nature, and the fact that he started with a good sum of money, Gaston had not made his fortune. This was due to the fact that he was indisposed to work when his banking account was all decent, so he had lived like a prince on his capital, and trusted to his luck, furnishing him with more when it was done. Kitty had joined him in Melbourne, as arranged, and Gaston had established her in a place in Richmond. It was not a regular boarding house, but the lady who owned it, Mrs. Poolechop, by name, was in the habit of letting apartments on reasonable terms. So Vanderloop had taken up his abode there with Kitty, who passed as his wife. But though he paid her all the difference and respect due to her wife, and though she wore a married ring, yet, as a matter of fact, they were not married. Kitty had implored her lover to have the ceremony performed, as soon as he joined her. But as the idea was not to monsture Vanderloop's taste, he had put her off, laughingly, at first. Then afterwards, when he began to weary of her, he said he could not marry her for at least a year. The reason he assigned for this was the convenient one of family affairs, that in reality he foresaw he would get tired of her in that time, and did not want to tire himself so that he could not leave her when he wished. At first the girl had rebelled against this delay, for she was strongly biased by her religious training, and looked with horror on the state of wickedness in which she was living. But Gaston laughed at her scruples, and as time went on her finer feelings became blunted, and she accepted the position to which she was reduced in an apathetic manner. Sometimes she had wild thoughts running away, but she still loved him too well to do so, and besides, there was no one to whom she could go, as she well knew her father would refuse to receive her. The anomalous position which she occupied, however, had an effect on her spirits, and from being a bright and happy girl she became irritable and fretful. She refused to go out anywhere, and when she went into town, either avoided the principal streets, or wore a heavy veil, so afraid was she at being recognized by anyone from Ballarat, and questioned as to how she lived. All this was very disagreeable to Monsue of Andaloupe, who had a horror of being bored, and not finding Kitty's society pleasant enough, he gradually ceased to care for her, and was now only watching for an opportunity to get rid of her without any trouble. He was a member of the bachelor's club, a society of young men, which had a bad reputation in Melbourne, and finding Kitty was so lacrimose, he took a room at the club, and began to stay away four or five days at a time. So Kitty was left to herself, and grew sad and tearful, as she reflected on the consequence of her fatal passion for this man. Mrs. Paul Chop was vastly indignant at Andaloupe neglecting his wife, for, of course, she never thought she was anything else to the young man, and did all in her power to cheer the girl up, which, however, was not much, as Mrs. Paul Chop herself was decidedly of a funeral disposition. Meanwhile Gaston was leading a very gay life in Melbourne. His good looks and clever tongue had made him a lot of friends, and he was very popular both in drawing room and club. The men voted him a jolly sort of fellow, and a regular, swagger man, while the ladies said that he was heavenly, for, true to his former tactics, Andaloupe always made particular friends of women, selecting, of course, those whom he thought would be likely to be abused to him. Being such a favourite entailed going out a grave deal, and as no one can pose as a man of fashion without money, Montseur of Andaloupe soon found that his capital was rapidly melting away. He then went in for gambling, and the members of the bachelors, being nearly all rich young men, Gaston's dexterity at Eckhart and Baccarat, was very useful to him, and considerably augmented his income. Still, card playing is a somewhat precarious source, from which to derive an income, so Vandaloupe soon found himself pretty hard up, and was at his wit's end how to raise money. His gay life cost him a good deal, and Kitty, of course, was the source of expense, although poor girl, she never went anywhere, but there was a secret drain on his purse, of which no one ever dreamed. This was none other than Pierre Lemaire, who, having spent all the money he got at the Paculus, came and worried Vandaloupe for more, that astute young man would willingly have refused him, but unfortunately Pierre knew too much of his past life for him to do so. Therefore he had to submit to the dumb man's extortions, with the best grace he could. So what with Kitty's changed manner, Pierre wanting money, and his own lack of coin, Monsue of Andaloupe was in anything but an enviable position, and began to think it was time his luck, if he ever had any, should step in. He thought of running up to Ballarat, and seeing Madame Midas, whom he knew would lend him some money, but he had a certain idea in his head with regard to that lady, so wished to retain her good opinion, and determined not to apply to her until all other plans for obtaining money failed. Meanwhile he went everywhere, was universally admired and petted, and no one who saw him in society with his bright smile, and nonchalant manner, would have imagined what crafty schemes there were in that handsome head. Madame Midas was still up at Ballarat, and occupying the same cottage, although she was now so wealthy, she could have inhabited a palace, had she been so minded. But prosperity had not spoiled Mrs. Villiers, she still managed her own affairs, and did a great deal of good with her money, expending large sums for charitable purposes, because she really wished to do good, and not, like so many rich people, for the purpose of advertising herself. The patchless was now a perfect fortune, and Madame Midas being the sole owner, her wealth was thought to be enormous, as every month a fresh deluge of gold rolled into her coffers from the inexhaustible devil's lead. Macintosh, of course, still managed the mine, and took great pride in his success, especially after so many people had scoffed at it. Various other mines had started in the vicinity, and had been floated on the Melbourne market, where they kept rising and falling in unison with the monthly yield of the patchless. The devil's lead was rather unequal, as sometimes the ground would be rich, while another time it would turn out comparatively poor. People said it was patchy, and some day would run out altogether, but it did not show any signs of exhaustion, and even if it had, Madame Midas was now so wealthy that it matted comparatively little. When the monthly yield was small, the mines round about would fall in the share market to a few shillings, but if it was large, they would rush up again to as many pounds, so that the brokers managed to do pretty well out of the fluctuations of the stock. One thing astonished Madame Midas very much, and that was the continuous absence of her husband. She did not believe he was dead, and fully expected to see him turn up at some time. But as the months passed on, and it did not appear, she became uneasy. The idea of his lurking round was a constant nightmare to her, and at last she placed the matter in the hands of the police, with instructions to try to ascertain what became of him. The police did everything in their power to discover Villiers were abouts, but without success. Unfortunately slivers, who might have helped them, being so well acquainted with the missing man's habits, was dead, and after trying for about three months to find some traces of Villiers, the police gave up the search in despair. Madame Midas therefore came to the conclusion that he was either dead or had left the colony, and no half doubtful yet hoped that she had now seen the last of him. She had invested her money largely in land, and thus being above the reach of poverty for the rest of her life. She determined to take up her abode in Melbourne for a few months prior to going to England on a visit. With this resolution she gave up her cottage to Archie, who was to live in it, and still manage the mine, and made preparations to come down to Melbourne with Selena Sprotz. Vandaloupe heard of this resolution, and secretly rejoiced at it, for he thought that seeing she liked him so much, now that her husband was to all appearances dead, she might marry him, and it was to this end he had kept up his acquaintance with her. He never thought of the girl he had betrayed, pining away in a dull lodging. No, Monsieur Vandaloupe, untroubled by the voice of conscience, serenely waited the coming of Madame Midas, and determined if he could possibly arrange it to marry her. He was the spider, and Madame Midas was the fly, but as the spider knew the fly he had to enveigle into his web was a very crafty one. He determined to act with great caution, so having ascertained when Madame Midas would be in Melbourne, he awaited her arrival before doing anything, and trusted in some way to get rid of Kitty before she came. It was a difficult game, for Monsieur Vandaloupe knew that should Kitty find out his intention, she would at once go to Mrs Villiers, and then Madame would discover his baseness in ruining the girl. Monsieur Vandaloupe, however, surveyed the whole situation calmly, and was not ill-pleased at the position of affairs. Life was beginning to bore him in Melbourne, and he wanted to be amused. He was a comedy worthy of Mollier, a jealous woman, a rich lady, and a handsome man. My fate, said Monsieur Vandaloupe, smiling to himself as he thought of the situation. It's a capital comedy, certainly, but I must take care it doesn't end as a tragedy. End of Part 2, Chapter 1. Part 2, Chapter 2 of Madame Midas. This Libravox recording is in the public domain. Madame Midas by Fergus Hume. Part 2, Chapter 2, Disenchantment. It is said that creaking doors hang the longest, and Mrs Pulchop of Carthage Cottage, Richmond, was an excellent illustration of the truth of this saying. Thin pale, with light bleached looking hair, and eyebrows and eyelashes to match, she looked so shadowy and unsubstantial, then an impression was conveyed to the onlooker that a breath might blow her away. She was often heard to declare, when anything extra-ordinary happened, that one might knock her down with a feather, which, as a matter of fact, was by no means a stretch of fancy, provided the feather was a strong one, and Mrs Pulchop was taken unawares. She was continually alluding to her constitution, as if she had an interest in politics, that in reality she was referring to a state of health, which was invariably bad. According to her own showing, there was not a single disease under the sun, with which she had not been afflicted, and she could have written a whole book on the subject of medicine, and put herself in, in every instance, as an illustrative case. Mr Pulchop had long since departed this life, being considerably assisted in his exit from this wicked world by the quantity of patent medicines his wife compelled him to take to cure him, which, unfortunately, however, had the opposite effect. Mrs Pulchop said he had been a handsome man, but according to the portrait she had of him, he resembled a bulldog more than anything else in nature. The young Pulchops, of which there were two, both the female sex, took after their father in appearance, and their mother in temperament, and from the time they could talk and crawl, knew as much about drops, poultices, bandages, and draughts as many a hospital nurse of mature age. One day Vandaloup sent a telegram to Kitty, saying he would be home to dinner, and as he always required something extra in the way of cooking, Kitty went to interview Mrs Pulchop on the subject. She found that Lady wrapped up in a heavy shawl, turning herself into a tea kettle by drinking hot water, the idea being, as she assured Kitty, to rouse up her liver. Mrs Topsy Pulchop was tying a bandage round her face, as she felt a toothache coming on, while Miss Anna Pulchop was unfortunately quite well, and her occupation being gone was seated disconsolidately at the window, trying to imagine she felt pains in her back. Ah! groaned Mrs Pulchop in a squeaky voice, sipping her hot water. You don't know, my dear, what it is to be a-warranted by your liver, tortures and inquisitions, and in it my love. Kitty said she was very sorry, and asked her if nothing would relieve her sufferings, but Mrs Pulchop shook her head triumphantly. My sweet young thing, said the patient, with great gusto, I've tried everything under the sun to make it right, but they ain't no good. It's always expanding and contracting of itself, unbeknown to me, and throwing the bile into the stomach, which ain't its proper place. It does sound rather nasty, assented Kitty, and Topsy seems to be ill too. Toothache, growled Topsy, who had a deep, base voice, and being modelled on the canine lines of her late lamented father, the growl suited her admirably. I had two out last week, and now this one started. Try a roasted fig, Topsy, dear, suggested her mother, who now, having finished her hot water, looked longingly at the kettle for more. Toothache, growled Topsy, in reply, not gun-boil, the remedy suggested by Mrs Pulchop, being for the latter of these ills. You are quite well, at any rate, said Kitty to Anna cheerfully. Anna, however, declined to be considered in good health. I fancy my back is going to ache, she said, darkly placing her hand in the small of it. I'll have to put a linseed poultice on it tonight, to draw the cold out. Then she groaned dismally, and her mother and sister, hearing the familiar sound, also groaned. So there was quite a chorus, and Kitty felt inclined to groan also, out of sympathy. Monsue of Andaloupe is coming to dinner tonight, she said timidly, to Mrs Pulchop. Anna, wonder it is, my sweet angel, said that lady indignantly, rising and glancing at the pretty girl. Now so pale and sad-looking, as once in a blue moon, as he comes home, and leaving you to mope at home like a broken-hearted kitten in a cold box. Ah, if he only had a liver, that would teach him manners. Growns of ascent from the Mrs Pulchops, who both had livers, and were always fighting with them. And what, my neglected cherub, asked Mrs Pulchop, going to a looking-glass, which always hung in the kitchen, for the three examined their tongues in. What shall I give you for dinner? Kitty suggested a fowl, macaroni cheese, and a fruit for dessert, which, bill of fair, had such an effect on the family, that they all groaned in unison. Macaroni cheese, growled topsy, speaking from the very depth at the cork-solves she wore, to keep her feet dry. There's nothing more bevious, I couldn't look at it. Ah, observed Mrs Pulchop, you're only a wet girl, and men is that obstinate, though swallow bricks like ostriches, sooner nor give in as it hurt him. You shall have a nice dinner, Mrs Vanderloot, though I can't deny but what it'll be billious. Thus spawned, Kitty retired into her own room, and made herself nice for Gaston to look on when he came. Poor thing, it was so rarely now that he came home to dinner, that a visit from him was regarded by her in the light of a treat. She dressed herself in a pretty white dress, and tied a blue sash round her waist, so that she might look the same to him as when he first saw her. But her face was now worn and white, and as she looked at her pallor in the glass, she wished she had some rouge to bring a touch of colour to her cheeks. She tried to smile in her own merry way at the wane reflection she beheld, but the effort was a failure, and she burst into tears. At six o'clock everything was ready for dinner, and having seen that all was in good order, Kitty walked outside to watch for Gaston. There was a faint warm light outside, and the sky was a pale opal and tint, while the breeze blowing across the garden brought the perfume of the flowers to her, putting Kitty in mind at Mrs Villiers Garden at Ballarat. Oh, these innocent days! Would they never come again? At last she knew that they would not. The subtle feeling of youth had left her forever, and this girl, leaning up against the house with her golden head resting on her arm, knew that the change had come over her, which turns all from youth to age. Suddenly she heard the rattle of wheels, and rousing herself from her reverie, she saw a handsome cab at the gate, and Monsue of Andaloupe standing on the pavement, paying the driver. She also heard her lover tell the cabman to call for him at eight o'clock, and her heart sank within her as she thought that he would be gone again in two hours. The cab drove off, and she stood cold and silent on the brander, waiting for Gaston, who sauntered slowly up the walk, with one hand in the pocket of his trousers. He was in evening dress, and the night being warm, he did not wear an overcoat, so looked tall and slim in his dark clothes, as he came up the path swinging his cane gaily to and fro. Well, baby, he said brightly, as he bent down and kissed her. Here I am, you see. I hope you've got a nice dinner for me. Oh, yes, answered Kitty, trying to smile, and walking before him into the house. I told Mrs. Pullchop, and she has made special preparations. How is that walking hospital, asked Andaloupe, carelessly taking off his hat? I suppose she is ill, as usual. So she says, replied Kitty, with a laugh, as he put his arm in hers and walked into the room. She is always ill. Why, baby, how charming you look tonight, said Andaloupe, holding her arm's length, quite like your old self. And indeed she looked very pretty, for the excitement of seeing him had brightened her eyes and flushed her cheeks, and standing in the warm light of the lamp, with her golden hair floating round her head, she looked like a lovely picture. You are not going away very soon, she whispered to Gaston, coming close to him, and putting her hand on his shoulder. I see so little of you now. My dear child, I can't help it, he said, carelessly removing her hand, and walking over to the dinner table. I have an engagement in town tonight. Ah, you no longer care for me, said Kitty, with a stifled sob. Andaloupe shrugged his shoulders. If you are going to make a scene, he said coldly, please postpone it. I don't want my appetite taken away. Would you kindly see if the dinner is ready? Kitty dried her eyes and rung the bell, upon which Mrs. Pulchop glided into the room, still wrapped in her heavy shawl. I don't quite ready yet, sir, she said, in answer to Gaston's question, Topsy having been bad with the toothache, which you can't expect people to cook dinners as is ill. Why don't you send her to hospital, said Vanaloupe, with a yawn, looking at his watch. Never retorted Mrs. Pulchop in a decisively shrill voice. Their medicines ain't pure, and they leave you at the mercy of doctors to be practised on like a piano. Topsy may go to the cemetery like a poor dear father, but never to an inquisition of a hospital. And with this Mrs. Pulchop faded out of the room, with a peculiar mode of aggress, could hardly be called walking out. At last dinner made its appearance, and Kitty recovering her spirits. They had a very pleasant meal together, and then Gaston sat over his coffee with a cigarette, talking to Kitty. He never was without a cigarette in his mouth, and his fingers were all stained a yellowish brown by the necker team. Kitty lay back in a big armchair listening to his idle talk, and admiring him as he sat at the dinner table. Can't she stay tonight, she said, looking imploringly at him. Vanaloupe shook his head gently. I have an engagement, as I told you before, he said lazily. Besides, evenings at home are so dreary. I will be here, said Kitty reproachfully. That will, of course, make a difference, answered Gaston, with a faint sneer, that you know shrugging his shoulders. I do not cultivate the domestic virtues. What will you do when we are married, said Kitty, with an uneasy laugh? Enough for the day is the evil thereof, replied Monsieur Vanaloupe, with a gay smile. What do you mean, asked the girl, with a sudden start? Vanaloupe arose from his seat, and lighting another cigarette, he lounged over to the fireplace, and leaned against the mantelpiece with his hands in his pockets. I mean that when we are married it will be time enough to talk about such things, he answered, looking at her through his eyelashes. Then we will talk about them very shortly, said Kitty, with an angry laugh, as her hands clenched the arms of the chair tightly. For the year is nearly up, and you promise to marry me at the end of it. How many things do we intend to do that are never carried out? said Gaston gently. Do you mean that you will break your promise? she asked, with a scared face. Vanaloupe removed the cigarette from his mouth, and leaning one elbow on the mantelpiece, looked at her with a smile. My dear, he said quietly, things are not going well with me at present, and I want money badly. Well, asked Kitty in a whisper, her heart beating loudly. You are not rich, said her lover, so why should we two paupers get married, only to plunge ourselves into misery? Then you refuse to marry me, she said, rising to her feet. He bowed his head gently. At present, yes, he answered, and replaced the cigarette between his lips. Kitty stood for a moment as if turned to stone, and then throwing up her hand with a gesture of despair, fell back into the chair, and burst into a flood of tears. Vanaloupe shrugged his shoulders in a resigned sort of manner, and glanced at his watch to see when it would be time for him to go. Meanwhile, he smoked quietly on, and Kitty, after sobbing for some time, dried her eyes, and sat up in the chair again. How long is this going to last, she asked in a hard voice. Till I get rich, that may be a long time. It may, perhaps never, perhaps, and then I will never be your wife. Unfortunately, no. You cowered, burst forth Kitty, rising from her seat, and crossing over to him. You made me leave my home with your false promises, and now you refuse to make me the only reparation that is in your power. Circumstances are against any virtuous intentions I may entertain, retorted Vanaloupe Cooley. Kitty looked at him for a moment, then ran over to a desk near the window, and took from thence a small bottle of white glass with two red bands round it. She let the lid of the desk fall with a bang, then crossed to Vanaloupe, holding the bottle up before him. Do you know what this is, she asked in a harsh voice. The poison I made in Ballarathe, he answered Cooley, blowing a wreath of smoke. How did you get hold of it? I found it in your private desk, she said coldly. That was wrong, my dear, he answered gently. You should never betray confidences. I left the desk in your charge, and it should have been sacred to you. Out of your own mouth are you condemned, said the girl quickly. You have betrayed my confidence, and ruined me. So if you do not fix a day for our marriage, I swear I will drink this and die at your feet. How melodramatic you are, baby, said Vanaloupe Cooley. You put me in mind a croissette in less things. You don't believe I will do it? No, I don't. Thence, she took the stopper out of the bottle, and held it to her lips. Vanaloupe did not stir, but still smoking, still looking at her with a smile. His utter callousness was too much for her, and replacing the stopper again, she slipped the bottle into her pocket, and let her hands fall idly by her side. I thought you wouldn't do it, replied Gaston smoothly, looking at his watch. You must really excuse me. I hear the cab wheels outside. Kitty, however, placed herself in front of him as he moved towards the door. Listen to me, she said in a harsh voice, with white face and flaming eyes. Tonight I leave this house forever. He bowed his head. As it pleases you, he replied simply, My God, she cried, have you no love for me now? No, he answered, coldly and brutally, I am tired of you. She fell on her knees and clutched his hand. Dear Gaston, dear Gaston, she cried, covering it with kisses. Think how young I am, how my life is ruined, and by you. I gave up everything for your sake, home, father and friends. You will not cast me off like this, after all I have sacrificed for you. Oh, for God's sake, speak, speak. My dear, said Vandalou Gravely, looking down at the kneeling figure, with the streaming eyes and clenched hands. As long as you choose to stay here, I will be your friend. I cannot afford to marry you, but while you are with me, our lives will be as they have been. Goodbye at present, touching her forehead coldly with his lips. I will call tomorrow afternoon to see how you are, and I trust this will be the last of such scenes. He drew his hand away from hers, and she sat on the floor, dull and silent, with her eyes fixed on the ground and an aching in her heart. Vandalou went into the hall, put on his hat, then lighting another cigarette and taking his stick, walked gaily out of the house, humming an air from La Belle Helene. The cab was waiting for him at the door, and telling the man to drive to the bachelor's club, he entered the cab and rattled away down the street, without a thought for the broken-hearted woman he left behind. Kitty sat on the floor with her folded hands, lying carelessly on her lap, and her eyes staring idly at the carpet. This, then, was the end of all her hopes and joys. She was cast aside carelessly by this man, now that he wearied of her. Love's young dream had been sweet indeed, but, ah, how bitter was the awakening! Her castles in the air had all melted in the clouds, and here in the very flower of her youth, she felt that her life was ruined, and she was as one wandering in a sterile waste, with a black and starless sky overhead. She clasped her hands with sensation of pain, and a rose at her breast fell down withered and dead. She took it up with listless fingers, and with the quiver of her hand the leaves fell off and were scattered over a white dress in a pink shower. It was an allegory of her life, she thought, once it had been as fresh and full of fragrance as this dead rose. Then it had withered, and now she saw all her hopes and beliefs, falling off one by one like the faded petals. Ah, there is no despair like that of youth, and Kitty sitting on the floor with hot dry eyes and a pain in her heart felt that the sun of her life had set forever. So still the night was, no moon is yet, but an innumerable blaze of stars set like diamonds in the dark blue sky. A smoky yellowish haze hung over the city, but down in the garden amid the flowers all was cool and fragrant. The house was quite dark, and a tall mulberry tree on one side of it was black against the clear sky. Suddenly the door opened, and a figure came out and closed the door softly after it. Down the path it came, and standing in the middle of the garden raised the white tear-stained face to the dark sky. A dog barked in the distance, and then a fresh cold breeze came sweeping through the trees and stirring the still perfumes of the flowers. The figure threw its hands out towards the house with a gesture of despair, then gliding down the path it went out of the gate and stole quietly down the lonely street. End of Part 2, Chapter 2 Part 2, Chapter 3 of Madame Midas This Libra Vox recording is in the public domain. Madame Midas by Fergus Hume. Part 2, Chapter 3. Montseua Vandaloupe hears something to his advantage. As he drove rapidly into town, Gaston's thoughts were anything but pleasant, not that he was thinking about Kitty, that he regarded the scene he had with her as merely an outburst of hysterical passion and did not dream she would take any serious step. He forgot all about her when he left the house and, lying back in the cab, smoking one of his everlasting cigarettes pondered about his position. The fact was he was very hard up for money and did not know where to turn for more. His luck at cards was so great that even the bachelors, used as they were to losing large sums, began to murmur among themselves that Montseua Vandaloupe was too clever, and as that young gentleman by no means desired to lose his popularity, he stopped playing cards altogether and so effectually silenced everyone. So this mode of making money was gone and until Madame Midas arrived in town, Vandaloupe did not see how he was going to keep on living his former style. But as he never denied himself anything while he had money, he ordered the cabman to drive to Patton's, the florist in Swanson Street, and there purchased a dainty bunch of flowers for his buttonhole. From thence he drove to his club and there found a number of young fellows, including Mr. Barty Jarpa, all going to the Princess Theatre to see the Maccardo. Barty rushed forward when Vandaloupe appeared and noisily insisted he should come with them. The men had been dining and were exhilarated with wine, so Vandaloupe, not caring to appear at the theatre with such a noisy lot, excused himself. Barty and his friends, therefore, went off by themselves and left Vandaloupe alone. He picked up the evening paper and glanced over it with a yawn when a name caught his eye which he had frequently noticed before. I say, he said to a tall, fair young fellow who had just entered, who is this metal chip the paper is full of? Don't you know, said the other, in surprise, he's one of our richest men and very generous with his money. Oh, I see, by his popularity, replied Vandaloupe Cooley. How is it I've never met him? He's been to China or Chile or something commencing with the sea. Returned the young man vaguely. He only came back to Melbourne last week. You are sure to meet him sooner or later. Thanks, I'm not very anxious, replied Vandaloupe with a yawn. Money in my eyes does not compensate for being bored. Where are you going tonight? Mikado answered the other, whose name was Belforp. Japa asked me to go up there. He's got a box. How does he manage to paper all these things? Asked Vandaloupe rising. He's only in a bank and does not get much money. My dear fellow, said Belforp, putting his arm in that of Vandaloupe's. Wherever he gets it, he always has it, so as long as he pays his way, it's none of our business. Come and have a drink. Vandaloupe assented with a laugh and they went to the bar. I've got a cab at the door, he said to Belforp, after they had finished their drinks and were going downstairs. Come with me and I'll go up to the Princess also. Japa asked me and I refused, but men as well as women are entitled to change their minds. They got into the cab and drove up Colon Street to the Princess Theatre. After dismissing the cab, they went upstairs and found the first act was just over, and the bar was filled with a crowd of gentlemen, among whom Barty and his friends were conspicuous. On one side the doors opened to the wide-stone balcony, where a number of ladies were seated, and on the other balcony a lot of men were smoking. Leaving Belforp with Japa, Vandaloupe ordered a brandy and soda and went out on the balcony to smoke. The bell rang to indicate the curtain was going to rise on the second act and the bar and balconies gradually emptied themselves into the theatre. Monsue Vandaloupe, however, still sat smoking and occasionally drinking his brandy and soda while he thought over his difficulties and wondered how he could get out of them. It was a wonderfully hot night, and not even the dark blue of the moonless sky studded with stars could give any sensation of coolness. Round the balcony were several windows belonging to the dressing rooms of the theatre, and the lights within shone through the vivid red of the blinds with which they were covered. The door leading into the bar was wide open and within everything seemed hot, even under the cool white glare of the electric lights, which shone in large oval-shaped globes hanging from the brass supports in clusters, like those grapes known as ladies fingers. In front stretched the high balustrade of the balcony, and as Vandaloupe leaned back in his chair, he could see the wide blaze of the electric lights rising above this and then the luminous darkness of the summer's night. Beyond a cluster of trees with a path lit by gas lamps going through it, the lights that which shone like dull yellow stars. On the right arose the great block of Parliament buildings with the confused mass of the scaffolding standing up black and dense against the sky. A pleasant murmur arose from the crowded pavement below and through the incessant rattle of cabs and sharp, clear cries of the street boys gassed and could hear the dull tones of a violin playing, the dreamy melody of the one summer's night in Munich vaults, about which all Melbourne was then raving. He was so occupied with his thoughts that he did not notice two gentlemen who came in from the bar and taking seats a little distant from him, ordered drinks from the waiter who came to attend to them. They were both in evening dress and had apparently left the opera in order to talk business for they kept conversing eagerly, and their voices striking on van der loopseer he glanced round at them and then relapsed into his former inattentive position. Now, however, though apparently absorbed in his own thoughts, he was listening to every word they said that he had caught the name of the Magpie Reef, a quartz mine, which had lately been floated on the market, the shares of which had run up to a pound, and then, as bad reports were circulated about it, dropped suddenly to four shillings. Van der Loop recognised one as barracuff, a well-known stockbroker, but the other was a dark, wiry-looking man of medium height whom he had never seen before. I tell you, it's a good thing, said barracuff, vehemently laying his hand on the table. Tollaby is the manager and knows everything about it. Gad, he ought to, retorted the other with the laugh. If he's the manager, but I don't believe in it, dear boy, I never did. It started with a big splash and was going to be a second-long tunnel according to the prospectus. Now the shares are only four shillings per shawl. Yes, but you forget the shares ran up to a pound, replied barracuff quickly. And now they are so cheap, we can snap them up all over the market, and then, well, ask the other with interest. They will run up, old fellow, see, and the broker rubbed his hands gleefully. How are you going to get up a boom on them? asked the wiry man skeptically. The public won't buy blindly. They must see something. And so they shawl, said barracuff eagerly. Tollaby is sending down some of the stone. From the magpie reef, asked the other suspiciously. Of course, retorted the broker indignantly. You did not think it was salted, did you? There is gold in the reef, but it is patchy. See, pulling out a pocketbook. I got this telegram from Tollaby at four o'clock today. He took a telegram from the pocketbook and handed it to his companion. Struck at rich, evidently pocket, thirty ounces to machine, read the other slowly. Gad, that looks well. Why don't you put it in the papers? As I don't hold enough shares, replied the other, impatiently. Don't you understand? Tomorrow, I go on, change and buy up all the shares at four shillings I can lay my hands on. Then, at the end of the week, the samples of stone, very rich, come down. I publish this telegram from the manager, and the boom starts. How high do you think the shares will go? Asked the wiry man thoughtfully. Barakluff shrugged his shoulders, and replaced the telegram in his pocketbook. Two or three pounds, perhaps more, he replied rising. At all events, it's a good thing. And if you go in with me, we'll clear a good few thousand out of it. Come and see me tomorrow morning, said the wiry man, also rising. I think I'll stand in. Barakluff rubbed his hands gleefully, and then slipping his arm in that of his companion, they left the balcony and went back to the theatre. Vanderloop felt every nerve in his body tingling. Here was a chance to make money. If he only had a few hundreds, he could buy up all the magpie's shares he could get and reap the benefit of the rise. Five hundred pounds, if he could obtain that sum, he could buy two thousand five hundred shares. And if they went to three pounds, he could clear nearly eight thousand. What an idea! It was ripe fruit, tumbling off the tree, without the trouble of plucking it. But five hundred pounds, he had not as many pints, and he did not know how to borrow it from someone, but then he could offer no security. A sense of his own helplessness came on him as he saw this golden tide flowing past his door, and yet was unable to take advantage of it. Five hundred pounds, the sum kept buzzing in his head like a swarm of bees, and he threw himself down again in his chair to try and think where he could get it. A noise disturbed him, and he saw that the opera was over, a crowd of gentlemen were thronging into the bar. Jarper was among them, and he thought he would speak to him on the subject. Yes, Barty was a clever little fellow, and seemed always able to get money. Perhaps he would be able to assist him. He stepped out of the balcony and touched Barty on the shoulder as he stood amid his friends. Hello, it's you, cried Barty, turning round. Where have you been, old chap? Out on the balcony, answered Vanderloop curtly. Come and have supper with us, said Barty hospitably. We are going to have some at Leslie's. Yes, do come, urged Belfort, putting his arm in that at Vanderloops. We'll have no end of fun. Vanderloop was just going to accept, as he thought on the way he could speak privately to Barty about this scheme he had, when he saw a stout gentleman at the end of the room taking a cup of coffee at the counter, and talking to another gentleman who was very tall and thin. The figure of the stout gentleman seemed familiar to Vanderloop, and at this moment he turned slowly round and looked down the room. Gaston gave a start when he saw his face and then smiled in a gratified manner to himself. Who is that gentleman with the coffee, he asked Barty. Those stout and lean kind, said Barty, eerily, puts one in mind a Pharaoh's dream, doesn't it? Yes, yes, retorted Gaston impatiently, but who are they? The long one is Vell, the railway contractor, said Barty, glancing with some surprise at Vanderloop, and the other is old metalchip, the millionaire. Metalchip echoed Vanderloop, as if to himself my faith. Yes, broken Vell thought quickly, the one we were speaking of at the club. Do you know him? I fancy I do, said Vanderloop, with a strange smile. You must excuse me to your supper tonight. No, we won't, said Barty firmly. You must come. Then I'll look in later, said Vanderloop, who had not the slightest intention of going. Will that do? I suppose it will have to, said Vell for, in an injured tone. But why can't you come now? I've got to see about some business, said Vanderloop. What, at this hour of the night, cried Jarpa, in a voice of disgust. Vanderloop nodded and lit a cigarette. Well, mind you come in later, said Barty, and then he and his friends left the bar, after making Vanderloop promise faithfully, he would come. Gaston sauntered slowly up to the coffee bar, and asked for a cup in his usual voice. But when the stout gentleman heard him speak, he turned pale and looked up. The thin one had gone off to talk to someone else. So when Vanderloop got his coffee, he turned slowly and looked straight at metal chip, seated in the chair. Good evening, Montseua castrake, he said quietly. Metal chip, whose base was usually red and florid looking, turned ghastly pale and sprung to his feet. Octav Brawlark, he gassed, placing his coffee cup on the counter. At your service, said Vanderloop, looking rapidly round to see that no one overheard the name. But here I am, Gaston Vanderloop. Metal chip passed his handkerchief over his face and moistened his dry lips with his tongue. How did you get here? he asked in a strangled voice. It's a long story, said Montseua Vanderloop, putting his coffee cup down and wiping his lips with his handkerchief. Suppose we go and have supper somewhere, and I'll tell you all about it. I don't want any supper, said metal chip sullenly, his face having regained its normal color. Possibly not, but I do, replied Vanderloop sweetly, taking his arm. Come, let us go. Metal chip did not resist, but walked passively out of the bar with Vanderloop, much to the astonishment of the thin gentleman who called out to him but without getting any answer. Metal chip went to the cloakroom and put on his coat and hat. Then he followed Vanderloop in his hands and paused at the door, while the Frenchman hailed a handsome. When it drove up, however, he stopped short at the edge of the pavement. I won't go, he said, determinedly. Vanderloop looked at him with a peculiar gleam in his dark eyes and bowed. Let me persuade you, Montseua, he said blantly, holding the door at the cab open. Metal chip glanced at him and then, with a sigh of resignation, entered the cab, followed by Vanderloop. Where to, sir, asked the cabman through the trap. To Leslie's supper rooms replied the Frenchman, and the cab drove off. End of Part 2, Chapter 3. Part 2, Chapter 4 of Madame Midas This Libra-Vox recording is in the public domain. Madame Midas by Fergus Hume. Part 2, Chapter 4. The Case of Adèle Blondet Leslie's supper rooms in Burke Street East were very well known, that is, among a certain class. Religious people and steady businessmen knew nothing about such a place except by reputation and looked upon it with horror, as a haunt of vice and dissipation. Though Leslie's, in common with other places, had to close at a certain hour, yet when the shutters were up, the door closed and the lights extinguished in the front of the house, there was plenty of life and bustle going on at the back, where there were charmingly furnished little rooms for supper parties. Barty Jarper had engaged one of these apartments and with about a dozen young men was having a good time of it when Vanderloop and Metal Chip drove up. After dismissing the cab and looking up and down the street to see that no policeman was in sight, Vanderloop knocked at the door in a peculiar manner and it was immediately opened in a stealthy kind of way. Gaston gave his name, were upon they were allowed to enter, and the door was closed after them in the same quiet manner, all of which was very distasteful to Mr. Metal Chip, who, being a public man and a prominent citizen, felt that he was breaking the laws he had assisted to make. He looked round in some disgust at the crowds of waiters and at the glimpses he caught every now and then of gentlemen in evening dress and what annoyed him more than anything else ladies in bright array. Oh, a dissipated place was Leslie's and even in the daytime had a rakish looking appearance as if it had been up all night and knew a thing or two. Mr. Metal Chip would have retreated from this den of iniquity if he could, but as he wanted to have a thorough explanation with Vanderloop he meekly followed the Frenchman through a well-lighted passage with statues on either side holding lamps to a little room beautifully furnished wherein a supper table was laid out. Here the waiter who conducted them took their hats and ripped coat and hung them up then waited respectfully for Monsieur Vanderloop to give his orders. A portly looking waiter he was with a white waistcoat a white shirt which bulged out in a most obtrusive manner and a large white cravat which was tied round and equally large white collar. When he walked he rolled along like a white crested wave and with his napkin under his arm the heel of one foot in the hollow of the other and his large red face surmounted by a few straggling tufts of black hair he was truly wonderful to behold. This magnificent creature who answered to the name of Gerchy received Vanderloop's orders with a majestic bend of his head then rolling up to Mr. Metal Chip he presented the bill of fair to that gentleman who, however, refused it. I don't want any supper he said curtly. Gerchy, though a waiter was human and looked astonished while Vanderloop remonstrated in a suave manner. But my dear sir he said, leaning back in his chair you must have something to eat. I assure you if you can smile you will need it. Metal Chip's lips twitched a little as the Frenchman spoke then with an uneasy laugh he ordered something and drew his chair up to the table. And waiter said Vanderloop softly as Gerchy was rolling out of the door bring some wine will you? Pomerie I think is best What you like return that gentleman impatiently I don't care That's a great mistake replied Gaston Cooley bad wine plays the juice with one's digestion two bottles of Pomerie waiter. Gerchy nodded that is to say his head disappeared for a moment in the foam of his collar then reappeared again and vanished. Now then sir said Metal Chip sharply rising from his seat and closing the door what did you bring me here for? Monsue Vanderloop raised his eyebrows in surprise How energetic you are my dear Kestrike he said smoothly lying down on the sofa and contemplating his shoes with great satisfaction just the same noisy jolly fellow as of your damn you said the other fiercely at which Gaston laughed you had better leave that to God he answered mockingly he understands more about it than you do oh I know you evolved said Metal Chip walking up and down excitedly I know you evolved with your snares and your coolness but it won't do you here stopping opposite the sofa and glaring down at Vanderloop it won't do here so you've said twice replied Monsue Vanderloop with a yawn how do you want me to conduct myself do tell me I am always open to improvement you must leave Australia said Metal Chip sharply and breathing hard if I refuse ask Monsue Vanderloop lazily smiling to himself I will denounce you as a convict escaped from New Caledonia hissed the other putting his hands in his pockets and bending forward indeed said Gaston with a charming smile I don't think you will go so far as that my friend I swear said Metal Chip loudly raising his hand I swear I hope five observed Monsue Vanderloop in a shocked tone an old man like you should not swear it's very wrong I assure you besides with a disparaging glance you are not suited to melodrama Metal Chip evidently saw it was no good trying to fight against the consummate coolness of this young man so with a great effort he went well to the exigencies of the case and fired his adversary with his own weapons well he said at length resuming his seat at the table and trying to speak calmly though his flush face and quivering lips showed what an effort it cost him let us have supper first and we can talk afterwards I that's much better remark Monsue Vanderloop sitting up to the table and unrolling his napkin I assure you my dear fellow if you treat me well I'm a very easy person to deal with the eyes of the two men met for a moment across the table and Vanderloop's had such a meaning look in them that Metal Chip dropped his own with a shiver the door opened later rolled up to the table and having left a deposit of plates and food thereon sipsided once more out of the door then rolled in again with the champagne he drew the cork of one of the bottles filled the glasses on the table and then after giving a glance round to see that all was in order suddenly found that it was ebbed tight and rolled slowly out of the door which he closed after him Metal Chip ate his supper in silence but drunk a good deal of champagne to keep his courage up for the coming ordeal which he knew he must go through Vanderloop on the other hand ate and drunk very little as he talked daily all the time about theaters racing, boating in fact of everything except the thing the other man wanted to hear I never mix up business with pleasure my dear fellow said Gaston amiably guessing his companions' thoughts when we have finished supper and are enjoying our cigars I will tell you a little story I don't want to hear it retorted the other harshly having an intuitive idea what the story would be about possibly not, replied Monsour Vanderloop smoothly nevertheless it is my wish that you should hear it Metal Chip looked as if he were inclined to resent this plain speaking but after a pause evidently thought better of it and went on tranquilly eating his supper when they had finished Gaston rung the bell and when the billow rolled in with a fresh bottle of wine and some choice cigars of a brand well known at Leslie's Gurchy's head disappeared in foam again and did not emerge there from till he was out of the door Try one of these said Monsour Vanderloop at Fably to Metal Chip when the billow had rolled in with the cigars and wine it's an excellent brand looking answered Metal Chip to please me urge Monsour Vanderloop persuasively whereupon Metal Chip took one and having lighted it puffed away evidently under protest while the billow opened the new bottle of wine freshened up the glasses and then rolled majestically out of the door like a tidal wave Monsour Vanderloop leaning back luxuriously on the sofa and blowing a cloud of smoke I don't want to hear it retorted the other quickly name your terms and let us in the matter pardon me said Monsour Vanderloop with a smile but I refuse to accept any terms till I have given you thoroughly to understand what I mean Metal Chip for God's sake no cried the other hoarsely rising to his feet I tell you I am haunted by it by day and by night sleeping or waking I see her face ever before me like an accusing angel curious Monsour Vanderloop especially as she was not by any means an angel I thought it was done with said Metal Chip twisting his fingers together while the large drops of perspiration stood on his forehead but here you come like a spectre from the past and revive all the old horrors if you call Adele a horror retorted Vanderloop Cooley I am certainly going to revive her so you have best sit down and hear me to the end for you certainly will not turn me from my purpose Metal Chip sank back into his chair with a groan while his relentless enemy curled himself up on the sofa in a more comfortable position and began to talk we will begin the story said Monsour Vanderloop in a conversational tone with an airy wave of his delicate white hand in the good old fashioned style of our fairy tales once upon a time let us say three years ago there lived in Paris a young man called Octave Braulard who was well born and comfortably off he had a fancy to be a doctor and was studying for the medical profession when he became entangled with a woman Madame Marcelle Adele Blondet was a charmingly ugly actress who was at that time the rage of Paris she attracted all the men not by her looks but by her tongue Octave Braulard went on Monsour Vanderloop complacently looking at himself was handsome and she fell in love with him she became his mistress and caused a nine days wonder in Paris by remaining constant to him for six months then they came to Paris an English gentleman from Australia named Kestrike position, independent income, enormous he had left Madame his wife in London and came to our wicked Paris to amuse himself he saw Adele Blondet and was introduced to her by Braulard result Kestrike betrayed his friend Braulard by stealing from him his mistress why was this was Kestrike handsome no, was he fascinating no, was he rich yes, therein laid the secret Adele loved the purse not the man Braulard said Gaston rising from the sofa quickly and walking across the room felt his honour wounded he remonstrated with Adele no use he offered to fight a duel with the parafidious Kestrike no use the thief was the coward no, cried Medelchip rising, no coward I say yes said Vanderloop crossing to him and forcing him back in his chair he betrayed his friend and refused to give him the satisfaction of a gentleman what did Braulard do rest quiet no, revenge his honour yes, one night pursued Gaston in a low concentrated voice grasping Medelchip's wrist firmly and looking at him with fiery eyes Braulard prepared a poison a narcotic which was quick in its section fatal in its results he goes to the house of Adele Blondet at half past 12 o'clock the hour now he said rapidly swinging round and pointing to the clock on the mantelpiece which had just struck the half hour he found them at supper releasing Medelchip's wrist and crossing to the sofa he sat opposite Kestrike as he does now leaning forward and glaring at Medelchip who shrunk back in his chair Adele at the head of the table laughs and smiles she looks at her old lover and sees murder in his face she is ill and retires to her room Kestrike follows her to see what is the matter Braulard is left alone he produces a bottle and pours its contents into a cup of coffee waiting for Adele Kestrike returns saying Adele is ill she wants a drink he takes her the poison cup of coffee she drinks it and falls with a long breath asleep Kestrike returns to the room asks Braulard to leave the house Braulard refuses Kestrike is afraid and would leave himself he rises from the table so does Braulard here, Gaston rose and crossed to Medelchip who was also on his feet he goes to Kestrike seizes his wrist thus drags him to the bedroom and there on the bed lays Adele blinded dead killed by the poison of one lover given her by the other and the murderers look at one another thus Medelchip wrenched his hand from Vandaloup's iron grip and fell back ghastly white in his chair with a strangled cry while the Frenchman stood over him with eyes gleaming with hatred Kestrike pursued Vandaloup rapidly is little known in Paris his name is an assumed one he leaves France before the police can discover how he has poisoned Adele Blondet crosses to England meets Madame his wife and returns to Australia where he is called Medelchip the man in the chair threw up his hands as if to keep the other off and uttered a stifled cry he then goes to China went on Gaston bending nearer to the shrinking figure and returns after 12 months where he meets Octav Braulard in the theatre yes the two murderers meet in Melbourne how came Braulard here was it chance no was it design no was it fate yes he hissed the words in Medelchip's ear and the wretched man shrunk away from him again Braulard pursued Vandaloup in a calmer tone also left the house and it she is found dead one of her lovers cannot be found the other Braulard is accused of the crime he defies the police to prove it she has been poisoned there is no trace Braulard will be free stop who is this man called Provol who appears he is a fellow student and knows the poison Braulard is lost Provol examines the body proves that poison has been given by whom Braulard and none other he is sentenced to death but he is so handsome that Paris urges pardon no it is not according to the law still spare his life yes his life is spared the galleys at Talon no new Caledonia yes he is sent there but is Braulard a coward no does he rest as a convict no he makes friends with another convict they steal a boat and fly from the island they drift and drift for days and days the sun rises the sun sets they drift their food is giving out the water in the barrel is low god are they to die of thirst and famine no the sky is red like blood the sun is sinking land is in the distance they are saved falling on his knees they are saved thank god metal chip who had recovered himself his face with his handkerchief and sneered with his white lips at the theatrical way Gaston was behaving in Vanderloop saw this and springing to his feet crossed to the millionaire Braulard he continued quickly lands on the coast of Queensland he comes to Sydney no work to Melbourne no work he goes to Bellarat work there at a gold mine Braulard takes the name of Vanderloop and makes money he comes to Melbourne lives there a year he is in want of money he is in despair at the theatre he overhears a plan which will give him money but he needs capital despair again he will never get it ah ha he sees Monsour Kestroy now metal chip he will ask him for the money and the question is will he get it so the story is at an end he ended with his usual smile all his excitement having passed away and lounging over to the supper table lit another cigarette and sat down on the sofa metal chip sat silently looking at the disordered supper table and thinking deeply the dishes were scattered about the white cloth and some vividly red cherries had fallen down from the fruit dish in the centre some salt was spilled near his elbow the napkins twisted into thin wisps were lying among the dirty dishes and the champagne glasses half filled with the straw coloured wine were standing near the empty bottles metal chip thought for a few moments and then looked up suddenly in a cool collected business like manner as I understand you he said in a steady voice the case stands thus you know a portion or rather I should say an episode of my life I would gladly forget I did not commit the murder no but you gave her the poison innocently I did I confess but who will believe that retorted Monsueva Vandaloupe with a shrug but never mind this at present let me hear what you intend to do you know a secret said metal chip nervously which is dangerous to me you want to sell it well I will be the buyer name your price five hundred pounds said Vandaloupe quietly is that all asked the other with a start of surprise I was prepared for five thousand I am not exorbitant in my demands and Vandaloupe smoothly and as I told you I have a scheme on hand by which I may make a lot of money five hundred pounds is sufficient to do what I want if the scheme succeeds I will be rich enough to do without any more money from you yes but if it fails said metal chip doubtfully if it fails I will be obliged to draw on you again return Gaston candidly you can't say however that I am behaving badly to you no answered metal chip looking at him I must say you are easier to deal with than I anticipated well if I give you my check for five hundred say six hundred observed Vandaloupe rising and going to a small table in the corner of the room on which were pens and inks I want an extra hundred six hundred then be it answered metal chip quietly rising and going to his overcoat from whence he took his checkbook for this amount you will be silent Montseua Vandaloupe bowed gracefully on my word of honour he replied gaily but of course with a sudden glance at metal chip you will treat me as a friend ask me to your house and introduce me to madam your wife I don't see the necessity angrily going over to the small table and sitting down pardon me I do answer the Frenchman with a dangerous glean in his eyes well well I agree said metal chip testily taking up a pen and opening his checkbook you of course can dictate your own terms I understand that perfectly replied Vandaloupe kindly lighting a cigarette and have done so you can't say they are hard as I said before metal chip did not answer but wrote out a check for six hundred pounds and then handed it to Vandaloupe who received it with a bow and slipped it into his waistcoat pocket with this he said touching his pocket I hope to make nearly ten thousand in a fortnight metal chip stared at him I hope you will he answered roughly all the better for my purse if you do that of course goes without saying replied Vandaloupe lazily have some more wine touching the bell no more thank you said metal chip putting on his overcoat it's time I was off by the way you were Vandaloupe Cooley I have not any change in my pocket you might settle for the supper metal chip burst out laughing confound your impudence he said quickly I thought you asked me to supper oh yes replied Vandaloupe taking his hat and stick but I intended you to pay for it you were pretty certain of your game then I always am answered Vandaloupe as the door opened and Gertie rolled slowly into the room metal chip paid the bill without making further objections and then they both left Leslie's with the same precautions as had attended their entry they walked slowly down Burke Street and parted at the corner metal chip going to to rape while Vandaloupe got into a cab of the man to drive to Richmond then lit a cigarette and gave himself up to reflection as he drove along I've done a good stroke of business tonight he said smiling as he felt the check in his pocket and I'll venture the whole lot on this magpie reef if it succeeds I will be rich if it does not well there is always metal chip as my banker his thoughts went back to kitty for the reason of his going home so late was that he wanted to find out in what frame of mind she was she'll never leave me he said with a laugh as the cab drew up in front of Mrs. Poolchop's house if she does so much the better for me he dismissed his cab and let himself in with the latch key then hanging up his hat in the hall he went straight to the bedroom and lit the gas he then crossed to the bed expecting to find Kitty sound asleep but to his surprise the bed was untouched and she was not there he said quietly so she has gone after all poor little girl I wonder where she is I must really look after her tomorrow at present he said pulling off his coat with a yawn I think I'll go to bed he went to bed and laying his head on the pillow was soon fast asleep without even a thought for the girl he had ruined end of part 2 chapter 4 part 2 chapter 5 of Madame Midas this LibriVox recording is in the public domain Madame Midas by Fergus Hume part 2 chapter 5 the key of the street when Kitty left Mrs. Poolchop's residence she had no very definite idea as to what she was going to do with herself her sole thought was to get as far away from her former life as possible to disappear in the crowd and never to be heard of again poor little soul she never for a moment dreamed that it was a case of out of the frying pan into the fat and that the world at large might prove more cruel to her than Vanderloop in particular she had been cut to the heart by his harsh cold words but not withstanding he had spoken so bitterly she still loved him and would have stayed beside him but her jealous pride forbade her to do so she who had been queen of his heart and the idol of his life could not bear to receive cold looks and careless words and to be looked upon as an encumbrance and a trouble so she thought if she left him all together and never saw him again he would perhaps and cherish her memory tenderly forever more if she had only known Gaston's true nature she would not thus have buoyed herself up with false hopes of his sorrow but as she believed in him as implicitly as a woman in love with a man always does in a spirit of self-abnegation she cut herself off from him thinking it would be to his advantage if not to her own she went into town and wandered about listlessly not knowing where to go till nearly 12 o'clock and the streets were gradually emptying themselves of their crowds the coffee stalls were at all the corners with hungry-looking people of both sexes crowded around them and here and there in doorsteps could be seen some outcasts resting in huddle-peeps while the policemen every now and then would come up and make them move on Kitty was footstool and heart-weary and felt inclined to cry but was nevertheless resolved not to go back to her home in Richmond she dragged herself along the lonely street and round the corner came on a coffee stall with no one at it except one small boy whose head just reached up to the counter such a ragged boy as he was with a broad comical-looking face a shaggy head of red hair and a hat without any broom to it his legs were bandy and his feet were encased in a pair of men's boots several sizes too large for him he had a bundle of newspapers under one arm and his other hand was in his pocket rattling some coppers together while he bargained with the coffee-stool-keeper over a pie the coffee-stool had the name of Spilsby inscribed on it so it is fair to suppose that the man therein was Spilsby himself he had a long grey beard and a meek face looking so like an old weather himself it appeared almost the act of cannibal on his part to eat a mutton pie a large placard at the back of the stall set forth the fact that Spilsby's specials were sold there for the sum of one penny and it was over Spilsby's specials the ragged boy was arguing I tell you I ain't a going-to-eat fat he said in a hoarse voice as if his throat was stuffed up with one of his own newspapers I want a special I don't want a ordinary this are a special I tell you retorted Spilsby ungrammatically pushing a smoking pie towards the boy what a young whipper you are grattles are coming and spoiling my living by cussing my witch-alls look here retorted grattles standing on the tips of his large boots to look more imposing a bit off when it comes to fat and I want the belly of my penny give us a muttony one and lots of gravy here you are then said Spilsby quite out of temper with his fastidious customer he's a pie as is all made of ram as and got more fat on it than you have grattles examine the article cast under this promising description with a critical air and then laid down his penny and took the pie it's a special ain't it he asked suspiciously smelling it it's the specialist I've got anyhow answered Spilsby testily putting the penny in his pocket you'd eat an old sheep if you could get it for a penny you greedy young devil you here kitty who was feeling faint and ill with so much walking and asked for a cup of coffee certainly dear said Spilsby with a layer pouring out the coffee I'm always good to a pretty girl it's more nor your coffee is growl grattles who had finished his special and was now licking his fingers it's all grounds are not water go away you wiggiest thing retorted Spilsby moldy giving kitty her coffee and change the money she handed him or I'll set the police on ya oh my eye Shreed grattles executing a grimmers after the fashion of a favourite comedian he ain't a tart oh no is a pie he are a special a mutiny special he don't kill no kittens and call them sheep oh no don't buy chicory and calls it coffee blessed if he does he's a corker he are and his name ain't the same as his father's what do you mean ask Spilsby fiercely that is as fiercely as his meek appearance would let him what do you know of my parents you bandy legged little devil who's your proditor I'd like to know a duke in course see grattles loftily but we don't in consequence of urnebs being mixed up with the old man's mother we wield the family skeletons to low piemen then with a fresh grimmers he darted along the street as quickly as his bandy legs could carry him Spilsby took no notice of this but seen some people coming round the corner commenced to sing out his praises of specials ear you are all ought and standing he cried in a kind of loud blight which added still more to his sheep like appearance Spilsby specials oh lovely ain't they nice my eye fine mutton pies who sees Spilsby's have one miss to Kitty thank you no replied Kitty with a faint smile as she put down her empty cup I'm going now Spilsby was struck by the educated manner in which she spoke and by the air of refinement about her go home my dear he said kindly leaning forward this ain't no time for a young girl like you to be out I've got no home said Kitty bitterly but if you could direct me here you cried a shrill female voice as a woman dressed in a flaunting blue gown rushed up to the stall give us a pie quick I'm starving I've got no time to wait your manners either said Spilsby with a remonstrating bleat pushing a pie towards her who are you a shoven your bettors Portmine Annie my bettors scoffed the lady in blue looking Kitty up and down with a disdainful smile on her painted face where are they I'd like to know ear old your tongue bleated Spilsby angrily or I'll tell the police at the corner and much I care retorted the shrill voice female seeing he's a particular friend of mine for God's sake tell me where I can find a place to stop him whispered Kitty to the coffee storekeeper come with me dear said Portmine Annie eagerly having overheard what was said the Kitty shrank back and then gathering her cloak around her ran down the street what do you do that for you Jade said Spilsby in a vexed tone don't you see the girls a lady of course she is retorted the other finishing her pie where all ladies look at our dresses ain't they fine enough look at our houses aren't they well enough yes and your morals aren't they bad enough said Spilsby washing up the dirty plate they're quite as good as many ladies in society at all events replied Portmine Annie with the tops overhead as she walked up oh it's a wicked world bleated Spilsby in a soft voice looking after the retreating figure I'm sorry for that poor girl I am indeed but this ain't business and once more raising his voice he cried up his weirs oh lovely ain't they muttony Spilsby specials like one penny meanwhile Kitty was walking quickly down Elizabeth Street and turning round the corner ran right up against a woman Hullo said the woman catching her wrist where are you off to let me go cried Kitty in a panting voice the woman was tall and handsome but her face had a kindly expression on it and she seemed touched with the terrified tone of the girl my poor child she said half contemptuously releasing her I won't hurt you go with you like what are you doing out at this time of the night nothing faulted Kitty with quivering lips lifting her face up to the pale moon the other saw it in the full light and marked how pure and innocent it was go home dear she said in a soft tone touching the girl kindly on the shoulder it's not fit for you to be out at this hour you are not one of us my god no cried Kitty shrinking away from her the other smiled bitterly I you draw away from me now she said with a sneer but what are you so pure and virtuous doing on the streets at this hour go home in time child or you will become like me I have no home said Kitty turning to go no home echoed the other in a softer tone poor child I cannot take you with me God help me but here is some money forcing a shilling into the girl's hand go to Mrs Rawlins at Victoria Parade Fitzroy anyone will tell you where it is and she will take you in what kind of a place is it said Kitty a home for fallen women dear answered the other kindly I'm not a fallen woman cried the girl wildly I have left my home but I will go back to it anything better than this horrible life on the streets yes dear said the woman softly go home go home for God's sake I have a father and mother to shield you from harm thank heaven for that let me kiss you once she added bending forward it is so long since I felt a good woman's kiss on my lips goodbye goodbye sob Kitty raising her face and the other bent down and kissed the childlike face then with a stifle cry fled away through the moonlit night Kitty turned away slowly and walked up the street she knew there was a cab starting opposite the town hall which went to Richmond and determined to go home after all hard though her life might be in the future it would be better than this cruel harshness of the streets at the top of the block just as she was about to cross Watson Street a party of young men in evening dress came round the corner singing and evidently were much exhilarated with wine these were none other the Mr. Jarpa and his friends who having imbibed a good deal more than was good for them were now ripe for any mischief Thelthorpe and Jarpa both quite intoxicated were walking arm in arm each trying to keep the other up so that they're walking mostly consisted of wild lurches forward and required a good deal a balancing hello cried Belford Simonly he was always psalm when intoxicated girl pretty eh go away said Barty staggering back against the wall were Christian young men Kitty tried to get away from this inebriated crew but they all closed round her and she rung her hands in despair if you are gentlemen you will let me go she cried trying to push past githers kiss first said a handsome young fellow with his hat very much on one side putting his arm round her waist pay told her she felt his hot breath on her cheek and shrieked out wildly trying to push him away with all her force and however paid no attention to her cries but was about to kiss her when he was taken by the back of the neck and thrown into the gutter gentlemen said a rich rolling voice which proceeded from a portly man who had just appeared on the scene I am astonished with the emphasis on the first person singular as if he were a man of great note old boy translated bellfork to the others is tonished you have said the stranger with an eerie wave of his hand the appearance of gentlemen but alas you are but white at subulches fair to look upon but full of dead men's bones with him japa said bellfork solemnly taking part his arm you're a tombstone with skeleton inside come along oh boy is right set of cats suiting an unprotected girl good night sir the others picked up their companion out of the gutter and the whole lot rolled merrily down the street and this said the gentlemen lifting up his face to the sky in mute appeal to heaven this is the generation which is to carry on Australia oh father Adam good family you have got oh good for a comedy I think oh cried kitty recognising a familiar remark it's mr waffles the same said the eerie theodore laying his hand on his heart and knew my dear why bless me looking closely at her it is the pretty girl I met in Ballarat dear dear surely to this no no said kitty quickly laying her hand on his arm I will tell you all about it mr waffles but you must be a friend to me for I sadly need one I will be your friend said the actor emphatically taking her arm and walking slowly down the street tell me how I find you thus you won't tell anyone if I do said kitty imploringly on the honor of a gentleman answered waffles with brave dignity kitty told him how she had left Ballarat that suppressed the name of her lover as she did not want any blame to fall on him but all the rest she told freely and when mr waffles heard how on that night she had left the man who had ruined her he swore a mighty oath a vile human nature he said in a sonorous tone to thus betray a confiding infant where he continued looking inquiringly at the serene sky where are the thunderbolts of heaven that they fall not on such no thunderbolt making its appearance to answer the question mr waffles told kitty he would take her home to the family and as they were just starting out on tour again she could come with them but will mr waffles receive me ask kitty timidly my dear said the actor gravely my wife is a good woman and a mother herself so she can feel for a poor child like you who has been betrayed through sheer innocence you do not despise me said kitty in a low voice my dear answered waffles quietly am I so pure myself that I can judge others who am I with the narratorical wave of the hand that I should cast the first stone a hem from holy writ in future I will be your father mr waffles your mother and you will have ten brothers and sisters all star how kind you are sub kitty clinging trustfully to him as they went along only do unto others as I would be done by said mr waffles solemnly that sentiment continued the actor taking off his hat was uttered by one who though we may believe or disbelieve in his divinity as a god will always remain the most type of perfect manhood the world has ever seen kitty did not answer and they walked quickly along and surely this one good deed more than compensated for the rest of the actor's failings end of part 2 chapter 5