The Day After Dark (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1922. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER VI Turn we from these brawling episodes of knavish life. Too long our stage has lacked a scene wherein our gentler readers might take comfort. But now virtue awaits its turn, and likewise elegance. Permit us, ladies, to present to you our hero. May we call him that? Enter a good man, Oswald de Soulter, an orphan, immensely rich. Be assured, on our honor, that he possessed not a single vice, save those of good society. Never once, throughout his change from padded childhood to cushioned manhood, did anybody ever tell de Soulter he was a most prodigious ass. A stickler for the seemly--oh, such a safe, safe man as Oswald was Mothers all approved him. And how the girls did laugh at him behind their fans Daily he warmed his heart by considering his possessions (in round numbers); daily, because his brute of a physician ordered it, did Oswald invigorate his frame with exercise--now favoring a stroll about his park, again enlisting in a quite brisk game of croquet on the lawn. At regular hours. And the very many, very costly clothes he wore derived from the Rue Castiglione or from one of London's favorite boot or breeches makers to the nobility and gentry. Thus, on a day when here and there the world of certain greater and lesser folk was turned quite upside down, Baptiste the perfect servant laid out his master's walking stick and hat of curly beaver at precisely half past four. Thus, two minutes later, down' the broad stairs descended Oswald, fawn colored inexpressibles strapped 'neath varnished boots, locks Olympian, cloak of plum color round his shoulders. "Ah " he said, remarking over his stock the preferred hat and cane. "Very good, my fine fellow " Baptiste glided to the door, opened it, stepped back with a bow. There was good training in that h...