A little color returned to his cheeks, and his
hands ceased to tremble. He stood up, took the letter from his pocket,
and opened it again.
Dr. Russell was a striking figure, belonging to a classic type found
at its best in the border states. A tall man, he held himself erect,
despite his years, and the color continued to flow back into the face,
which was shaped in a fine strong mold.
"Boys," he said, in a firm, full voice, although it showed emotion,
"I have received news which I must announce to you. As I tell it,
I beg that you will restrain yourselves, and make little comment here.
Its character is such that you are not likely ever to hear anything of
more importance."
No one spoke, but a thrill of excitement ran through the room. Harry
became conscious that the strange and subtle influence had increased.
The pulses in both temples were beating hard. He and Dick leaned
forward, their elbows upon the desk, their lips parted a little in
attention.
"You know," continued Dr. Russell in the full voice that trembled
slightly, "of the troubles that have arisen between the states, North
and South, troubles that the best Americans, with our own great Henry
Clay at the head, have striven to avert.
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