Page:Cy Warman--The express messenger and other tales of the rail.djvu/234

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THE MYSTERIOUS MESSAGE

"She is to be Mrs. Goodlough," said the train-master with a stern, calm face.

"Accept my congratulations," said the President, holding out his hand. "This is the second time, then, she has saved your life," he continued as Goodlough took his hand; "and I hope you will allow her to accept my personal check for another thousand, for she saved mine as well."

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Goodlough was greatly affected by the news of Miss Morgan's heroism, and the conduct of the President and superintendent of the road. He kept clear of the despatched office that day, for he dared not trust himself in her presence.

After the departure of the President, he had visited his chief and heard the story of Miss Morgan's achievements over again. So she had kept the secret for a whole year and revealed it only at the earnest request of the superintendent, who, since the family's misfortune, had been almost a father to her. He had helped her establish her mother at this place, where they were now living comfortably.