Evening Star Newspaper, September 7, 1936, Page 23

THE EVENING STAR, WASHINGTON, &Y of JOANL: by JOSEPH McCORD INSTALLMENT XXVIIL SUPPOSE you think I'm crazy, Deeds,” Claire whispered, s she slipped furtively through the door of his room and closed it behind her. “Maybe I am . . . same as I'm trifling with my reputa- tion. But I didn’t want to be seen giving you this . . ." She drew an envelope from the front of her dress, clutched it uncertainly. “I'd better tell you everything, first. Some commotion downstairs made me know something was wrong. I sat up in bed and looked around. Almost the first thing, I saw two envelopes on the floor . . . stuck under the door. ‘The smaller .one said ‘Bud’ . . . that ‘was Gene's name for me. I read it first . . . “It told you he was going away.” “You knew that? Yes, it did. A crazy little note . . . said he was leav- ing unexpectedly for Norfolk and wasn't sure where he would go from | there, or when he would be back. I don’t know why . . . but it frightened me. And when I saw this one!” Deeds took the envelope from | Claire’s cold fingers. There was a note | written across one end in small, pre- | cise lettering: | “Bud dear: Hold this until I come back. If anything happens—give it to McCune, unopened. Don’t let any- thing stop you. Thanks. Gene.” “Don't you understand, Deeds? He meant if anything should happen to him! It has! Do you think he had a premonition . ., . could he have known?" | Deeds drew a long breath. | “We'll have to read it. What was | that you said about somebody being | in his room?” [ “That was . .. after we knew. Just a little while ago. I don't know why | I went in there. His two suitcases were | on the floor and his clothes scattered. ‘The thing that made me suspicious was . . . every bureau drawer was | pulled open. And the one in his writ- ing table. No matter what happened, Gene would never leave his room look- ing like that. I know it.” “I see. Do you want to wait here?” “I mustn’t. If there's anything in | that letter I must know . .. what I mean is, we should try to make it as easy as we can for mother.” “Of course. I'll get word to you as soon as I can.” He threw open the door. “The coast seems to be clear.” Deeds waited until he was satisfied that Claire had escaped unobserved. ‘The fact that she had been in his room, that the door had been closed, seemed relatively unimportant. At the moment, his mind was on the let- ter in his hand. He turned the key before he sat down to read. That same closely written script. It looked.rather like Gene, for some | Teason. “Dear McC— “I seem fated to bother you tonight. It's morning now and things look more clear. If you ever read this, I hope you'll try to understand. “I suppose it is just as well I wasn't | able to stage that getaway. It wouldn't | have done me any good, merely post- | # poned things. I don't want to be dramatic, but my number is up. If | you know what that means. I have | % decided to take it in my own hands | —if I get a chance. See what's out beyond. | “The reason I'm telling you this is | «+. Joan. Maybe you know. If you 1 don't, she will tell you. I know that | you love her and I hope she loves you. | She was the one good thing in my [ life, but I couldn’t make the grade | . .. even for her. I guess it wasn't | in me. Please don't think of me as | making the grand gesture. It isn't | that. It's only my last chance to do | 8 decent thing before an easy out. It's queer, but I feel more satisfied this morning than I have in a long time. Glad I knew you. G. G.” The final message blurred strangely. Deeds leaned back and closed his eyes to hold the tears that filled them. So that was it. The “easy out.” Gene had taken it | in his own hands. Thought it gave | him a chance to square accounts. A lump came into Deeds’ throat as he | realized that he was one of the credi- | tors. And Joan. The poor fool thought | he owed it to them .. . to get out | of the picture. There was no longer | any question about it. Gene had taken | his own life. He sald that plainly enough . . . “If I get a chance.” The first shock was subsiding. Deeds’ mind was beginning to clear. He said that phrase over . . . slowly. | There was no use in dodging the | issue. Gene had been in trouble, but | he was beyond hurt now. If he thought there was a chance that he might not succeed in carrying out his plan against himself . . . that meant he was afraid somebody would beat | him to it. Maybe the Elledges went out' into | the surf with him to give him his chance . . . make sure. It was the | Elledges. They were back of every- | thing that had happened to date. Deeds had been a fool, he told him- self, to sit back and await develop- ments. It must have cost Gene his life . . . he was to blame now. It was time to do the thing that should have been done days ago. Deeds stood up and took a long, deep breath. The letter was still in his hand and he regarded it uncer- tainly. After a moment's reflection, he concealed it under the base of his table lamp. If anything happened to him now, the maid would be sure to see that enyelope when she dusted « . . he would have to take that chance. It was nothing to leave lying around loose. “And here” he remarked to his reflection in the mirror, with a grim smile, “goes nothing.” He walked along the hall until he came to the first Elledge door. It was the one Sloan had opened the day of Deeds McCune’s first call. And it was Sloan Elledge who answered his subdued rapping. “Well, Mr. McCune,” was his quiet greeting. “Come in, won't you?” He stood aside, then closed the door after Deeds without moving from his place. The caller was staring in some per- plexity at John, who emerged from the adjoining room, his arms filled with freshly laundered ‘shirts. “I hope I'm not disturbing you gen- tlemen,” Deeds said slowly. “There’s little danger . . . after what has happened today,” John ob- ~ served with a doleful wag of his round head. He deposited his burden on the table. “As a matter of fact, we are preparing to leave here for a time, McCune. I wouldn’t have had Sloan subjected to this shock for a great deal . . . I'm not really sure it will be wise for us to come back.” “I was wondering the same thing,” Deeds observed shortly. He turned to face Sloan. “That’s what I came here to talk over with you.” A slight smile appeared on Sloan’s ldean face. He reached out and turned r 4 A the key, slipped it from the lock and dropped it into his pocket. “Then I sugges’ that we talk quiet- ly ... and without any interruption,” he suggested mildly. “Just what had you in mind?” “I wanted to tell you that I think there are a lot of things that need explanation . . . about you two. Some queer things have happened since our talk about that letter from my news- . don’t concern yon, McCune. paper friend. Deeds decided to make a shot in the dark. “Perhaps it will simplify matters a little if I tell you that I received another letter today. Oh, I haven't it on me . . .” as he saw John move nearer with an in- quiring look on his fat face. “This one was written by Gene Gaston. very soon before his untimely . . « drowning.” “So!” Sloan broke the silence that followed with that soft exclamation. “You have exhibited an unusual fa- cility in stumbling into things that May I ask if our late friend confided that he was in difficulties . with the authorities, to be exact? “What do you think?” his number was up? Or that he planned to do away with himself ., , . only he wasn't sure he'd» be given a chance? Well, I guess you are one of two who knows if he got his chance. You were there on the ground. Or in the water, rather.” “And so what?” “That's what I'm going to find out. If you think we had some agreement, it’s off. No holds barred.” “You mean you've forgotten what I told you?” “Not at all. I might have known that ace in the hole was as phony as you are. That's another thing I'm clear on. You may go as far as you like there—"" “Even to reflecting upon the char- D. C, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 1936.° Sloan turned to his brother with a slight smile. “By the way, John . .. did you happen to know that the lamented Gaston and Miss Kendall were mar- ried?” “What!” John's round face was ludicrous. “I should have told you . . . perhaps. But your ardent courting was amus- ing. Oh, weil . .. you have a clear flield now. That should be something.” “Cut it,” Deeds growled. “Things are different now. Put that key back in the door . .. and turn & And you stand back!” The last warning was for John, who took a step closer. “I've been wondering how it would feel to stick my fist into that foll under your | ing impetuous. Really. After all, this is a house of mourning, you know. We must control ourselves.” He leaned against the door and looked steadily at Deeds. “T belleve I told you that we were leaving her scon. In fact, we are leaving today. Perhaps I should tell you that the car Gaston was using is mine. I only mention it so that you won't raise any righteous hue and cry about stolen property. “I had hoped that you would see the wisdom of attending strictly to your own business. You haven't. You are leaving us, I'm afraid, with one alternative. I see nothing to do but take you with us. That may necessi- tate putting off our departure until fact, it will depend largely upon your- self . .. if you ever come back. I told you once, McCune, that I was accus- tomed to having people do what I want. Not just sometimes, but always. You're proving to be rather obtuse + « . 8 bit tiresome.” “Yeah? Then let me tell you some- thing, big boy. I don’t want to start any racket here, but I'm all ready for trouble. I backed down the other time. That's all over with. You can unlock that door and siand away from it . . . or else. When I leave here, I'm going to the telephone. It's working now, unless you've queered it again. I'll give you that much of & break.” “Very generous.” ‘The smile had left Sloan’s face. His “I am greatly interested.” “Does it interest you to know that he told me he “I said as far as you like, That | get you much.” was on & spot? IT_STARTS TUE maik (QOLDE A acter of a young woman's husband.” It won't chin.” “Oh, but wait!” Sloan barely raised his voice. “There’s no need of becom- night.” “That's & laugh. Think T'll go?” “Oh, yes. lips were compressed in a thin cruel line, He took one step forward, his I'm sure you will. In|gray eyes fixed on Deeds’. LUES—UNUSUA arly! Come early and shop FIVE FLOORS of special values! Manufacturer’s close-outs and surplus stocks together with our own merchandise are reduced for immediate sell-outs. Because of limited quantities and low prices we urge early selection! No Mail, Phone, or C. O. D. Orders. Women’s Posture Builder ARCH SHOES Regularly 2.49 and 3.00 New styles in kid, suede and atent leathers. Black or rown. Sizes 4 to 9, A to EEE widths. Goldenberg's—Main Floor. Congoleum and Armstrong If Perfect Would Be 8.95 Seconds of the heaviest rugs, 9x12 ft. size in 4.89 new patterns. terns and designs 36¢c yd. 22%-INCH VELVET CARPET for stairs and PLAID COTTON RUGS, sunfast, tubfast, Colonial style for Maple rooms. 24x48___69¢ Quacker and Gold Seal FELT BASE, 2 yards wide in splendid pat- halls. Part rolls. Were 1.19 85c yd. Goldenberg’s—Downstairs, Just 300 Pieces at These Prices TAPESTRY SAMPLES Outstanding and Unusual Values! for making pillows and cover- 2 5 in godd chairs. 39¢ & 59¢ DAMASK AND CRETONNES in beautiful designs in useful lengths for drapes and chairs LACE CURTAIN SAMPLES, 1 to 1!, yd. lengths, filets, open mesh nets for- panels and sashes____ 29c ea. 69c FANCY PILLOWS, ruffled and corded, &l’azed chintz and cretonne covers. Were c Sample squares of beautiful tapestries and velours used SPANISH PLAID NETS, for window and door drapes. Also cream or ecru marquisette. 15¢ 9c yd. COTTAGE — TAILORED — RUFFLED CUR- TAINS, mill close-outs of 1.00 to 1.49. 1 or 2 pr. lots. Goldenderg’s—Third Floor, FURNITURE - BEDDING 21.95 COLONIAL SECRETARY, mahogany or walnut finish. Deep writing bed, 13 state grille, 3 roomy drawers 14.99 1095 OCCASIONAL CHAIRS, high backs, spring seats, upholstered arms. Rust, brown, green oo 5.50 7.95 BO! 'HAIRS, loose pillow seats, semi-loose button tufted backs. Chintz cov- s T 4.99 8.95 GREENPOINT COIL SPRINGS, double glezceks' orchid enamel, helical tied. Standard s Goldenberg’s—Third and Fourth Floors. SILKS AND COTTONS MILL LENGTHS ALL SILK FLAT CREPES, blue, grey, pink, white, brown, black, 59¢ value. Yard 29¢ MILL LENGTHS 54 IN. WOOLENS, in novelty weaves and wanted colors. Were 99c____69¢ SILK MILL ENDS, flat crepes, rayon crepes, % to 3 yd. lengths in navy. 15c values..5¢ 39 IN. RAYON TAFFETS, 29¢ values. Lus- trous quality, wanted colors, useful lengths. Yard 19¢ Goldenberg’s—Main Floor. . 55 Women’s and Misses’ DRESS COATS 29.50 to 35.00 Values Fur trimmed cloth coats, dyed skunk, cat lynx, caracul, Amer- - ican gray fox and oth- ers. Black, brown, g;een, wine, rust. 14 to i Goldenberg’s—Second Floor, New Shipment Valued 39c pr. Slight seconds of chiffon- c weight hose, in all new new shades. 8% to 10. FULL FASHIONED HOSE, service weight, all over bembergs, lisle heels, soles. All col; !r’: 813 to 10. Seconds of 59¢c.__ . ______...__. Goldenberg’s—Main Floor, x Just 200 Misses-Women’s FALL DRESSES Regular Sellers at 3.99! Navy and black chif- fons and sheers, plain Second Floor. or jacket styles, travel prints. Short sleeves. Sizes 14 to 44. UNDERWEAR-CORSETS WOMEN'S 39¢c COTTON SLIPS, V or straight tops, full cut in white, flesh. Sizes 34 to 44_29¢ TWO-WAY STRETCH CORSELETTES, lace or satin brassiere tops. Slight imperfections. Small, medium, large. Were 1.00 67c 29c SATIN OR LACE BANDEAUS, in white, flesh and blue. Many styles. 30 to 34.___10c¢ SAMPLE CORSETS, brocaded materials, va- riety of styles. All sizes in lot________. 1.09 SAMPLE LOT SILK PANTIES, lace trimmed, tailored. Full cut, well made. Were 89c_..59¢ T9c RAYON PAJAMAS, combinatidhs of con- trasting pastel shades. One-piece, size 16-17 54c PORTO RICAN HANDMADE GOWNS, cut full,, trimmed in contrasting embroidery 29¢ Goldenberg’s—Main and Second Floors. A Special Mill End Saving! WOOL SWEATERS Regular 1.19 Value 34 to 44. | Slip overs with high and and round necks. Slip overs with high Green, navy, maroon, - Second Floor. blue, rust, wine. Sizes "20 ROLLS SOFT TOILET TISSUE, 1,000 sh;esté to a roll. Regularly 1.29 value. 6 CUP ELECTRIC PERCOLATOR, made o f pure aluminum with always cool handle. 139 value 1.09 x ELECTRIC WAFFLE IRON, zazlfx?ome plated, complete with cord ¥ 1150 CHROME PERCOLOTOR SET, 4 pieces, sugar, creamer, 14-ineh matching tray._7.98 1.29 MODERN DESIGN MIRRORS, 22 inch colored border under glass, red gold, silver, et EXTENSION RAIATOR COVER, Walhut N y nu #xflsh on steel. Extends to 34 inches.___29¢ Goldenberg’s—Downstairs, Special for Tuseday! FELT ROLLER HATS Nice quality felt, brown, wine, green, gray, navy, c red, black, rust. All head- sizes. Main Floor. BOYS’ SCHOOL NEEDS 69c FALL WEIGHT SWEATERS, fancy pat- terns, pull over, long sleeve. 28 to 34___47¢ 69c to 79¢c POLO SHIRTS, woven cottons, lace, eyelet, or button front. Sizes 8 to 16, 38¢ YOUTHS BELL BRAND SHIRTS, were 1.19 to 11.443!. Fancy patterns and whites, 13 to BOYS’ 298 WORSTED KNICKERS, custom tailored worsted suitings, grays, browns, 8 to 18 years __ 2.19 CORDUROY OUTFITS, zipper jacket with knickers to match. Grays, browns. 6 to 16. SSiwaned s D0 TR 3.44 4 PC. FALL SUITS WITH VEST, 2 knickers, or longé: and knicker. Double breasted, 10 toid: Regulae $0--~ . - - 7.98 FANCY CORDUROY KNICKERS, window par;: and partrich patterns, knit cuffs, 7 to 249 to 2.95 BATH ROBES, factory h-regul;rs. blanket and Beacon robes. Sizes 10 to 18, 1.39 BOYS' AND YOUTHS' TIES, 25¢, 35¢ and 50c values. Cut silks, rayons, 4 in hand style, 15¢ Goldenberg's—Main Floor., GIRLS’ SCHOOL NEEDS GIRLS’ SHEER DRESSES, many one of a kind, sizes 8 to 16 years. Regular 195 value ___ ---99¢ TOTS’ AND , blue, red, ;een and tan. Sizes 2 to 6, 7 to 14. Were c 39¢c GIRLS’ WOOL SLIPON SWEATERS, plain or msl:r combination. Sizes 30 to 36. Were GIRLS' RAYON PANTIES, pink or tea rose, French leg. Sizes 8 to 16. Were 29c 19¢ INFANTS' COAMI' AND SLIPON SWEATER, manufacturer’s samples, slightly soiled, 1 to 3. Were 1.00 49c INFANTS’ KNITTED BONNETS, in pink or blue, 29¢ values 19¢ GIRLS’ REGULATION BLOUSES, lon sleeves, white., Peter Pan collar, size 8 to 16. Regular 1.00 89¢c GIRLS' FLANNEL SKIRTS, pleated, plain. 8 to 16. Regularly 1.59. Goldenberg’s—Second Fioor. DOMESTIC-LINENS l&xflufi ‘TURKISD TOWE]!dS 19§ ‘gmi‘)!]fle thread uality, rose, 1, orchi ue gorderys = il - 12%e RUN-OF-THE-MILL WELS, 29 dozen, 20x40, 22x44. Extra heavy, slight irregulars 1 LINEN CRASH TABLE CLOTHS, were 1.00, size 50x50, rich color combinations. 8¢ ALL LINEN TEA TOWELS, colored checks, green ,gold and blue. Run-of-the-mill. Were 29c 1 PART LINEN TOWELING, mill lengths, fast colored borders. 1 yard to 10 yard lengths, yard PART WOOL PEPPERELL BLANKETS, were 1.98, size 70x80. Blue, rose, green, gold, orchid plaids 1.59 76 IN. UNBLEACHED MUSLIN, heavy round thread quality sheeting, regularly 35¢ yd.:24¢ RUN-OF - THE - MILL, PILLOW CASES, bleached, size 45x36 and 42x36. High grade sheeting, slight irregulars of 29c to 35c.-22¢ Goldenberg’s—Main Floor. ‘The younger man balanced himself tensely to meet the attack he knew was coming. His clenched fists were raised, on guard. He watched those cold eyes as closely as they watched him . . . unafraid, this time. Deeds never knew what happened that next minute. Sloan feinted, and he launched a blow at the man's face, It must have missed by a mile. Then two hands darted out and ecaught Deeds' throat in a clutch that caused his eyes to start from his head. No chance to cry out. He couldn't bresth. With both hands he tore frantically at Elledge's wrists. They were like steel. Objects in the room became dim. There was a roaring in his ears. Then through it, & strange voice. Clear. “That will do, Doctor . . . Piohene.” (To be continued.) L SCOOPS! BERG'S v