A BRIDE IN THE TOILS.
Not long since a young lady of fashion, about to be married to a wealthy gentleman of this city, was called on by a woman who was unknown to her. The stranger stated her business without delay. She had heard that the young lady, whom we will call Miss R——, was about to marry Mr. F——.
"I have come to say," she added, "that I am in need of money. I want five hundred dollars, which is a small sum to a woman as rich as you. I intend to make this marriage the means of raising it. If you do not pay me the money, I shall go to Mr. F——, and tell him that you are not a virtuous woman. He will not believe me, at first, but I shall set a rumor afloat which will soon be known amongst all your fashionable friends."
"But, by your own story, there will be no truth in it," said Miss
R——, amazed at the woman's effrontery.
"That is true," said the woman, "but you know that a false rumor will accomplish as much as a true one. I will take care that the rumor is well spread, and if you refuse me the money, it will be said all over New York that your virtue is a matter of doubt. Your character will be stained, and your marriage will be broken off."
Miss R——was astounded at such cool villainy, but fortunately her courage and self-possession did not desert her. Bidding the woman await her return, she left the room, and went straight to her lover, who was fortunately in the house at the time. She told him all that had occurred, and they at once sought her father, and laid the matter before him. The old gentleman advised them to go to the parlor and confront the woman, and at the same time sent for the policeman on that "beat." The woman seemed surprised, when she saw the lovers enter the room, and she rose to her feet in alarm. "This is Mr. F——," said Miss R——, calmly, "and I have just told him of your infamous proposition."
"You have beaten me," said the woman, "but I'll take care that you suffer for it."
She was about to leave the room, when Mr. F——placed himself before the door.
"You cannot leave this house," he said, sternly. "We have sent for a policeman, and you must wait till he comes."
The woman sat down without a word, and in a few minutes the policeman arrived. He recognized her as an old offender, and after congratulating Miss R——upon her coolness and good sense, led the woman away. The black-mailer was sent to prison, and the wedding proceeded without interruption.