The Harris-Ingram ExperimentBolton, Charles E. (Charles Edward)
Science
The Harris-Ingram Experiment
Bolton, Charles E. (Charles Edward)
Science fiction, American
Alfonso in his joy had almost forgotten his friend Leo, but apologizing,
he introduced him, first to his mother, then to Gertrude and finally to
his sister Lucille, and their father. All seemed glad to meet their son's
friend, as he was to take passage in the same steamer for his home near
Rome.
Leo Colonna was connected with the famous Colonna family of Italy. From
childhood he had had access to the best schools and galleries of his
peninsular country. He also had studied under the best masters in Paris
and Berlin, and was especially fond of flesh coloring and portrait
painting. He had studied anatomy, and had taken a diploma as surgeon in
the best medical college in Vienna, merely that he might know the human
form. Alfonso, aware of all this, had invited Leo to join their party in
making the tour over Ireland, England, and through the Netherlands.
As Lucille left the car, Leo offered aid, taking her blue silk umbrella
with its wounded-oak handle, the whole rolled as small as a cane. Lucille
never appeared to better advantage. She was tall, slender, and graceful.
Excitement had tinged her cheeks and lips, and her whole face had a
child's smooth, pink complexion. Wavy black hair and blue eyes revealed
the Irish blood that had come from the mother's veins. She wore a
traveling suit of navy-blue serge. Her hat, of latest style, was made of
black velvet, steel ornaments, and ostrich tips. What artist could resist
admiring a woman so fair and commanding! The dark eyes of Leo had met
those of Lucille, and he at once had surrendered. In fact, a formidable
rival had now conquered Leo's heart.
Together they led the way to the front entrance of the station, while
Harris senior delayed a moment to exhibit the car "Alfonso" to his son.
"I had this private car built," said the father, "that the Harris family
might be exclusive. Napoleon once said:--'Let me be seen but three times
at the theatre, and I shall no longer excite attention.' Our car is
adapted for service on any standard gauge road, so that we can travel in
privacy throughout the United States. You notice that this observation
room is furnished in quartered English oak, and has a luxurious sofa and
arm chairs. Let us step back. Here on the right are state and family
rooms finished in mahogany; each room has a connecting toilet room,
with wash stand and bath room, hot and cold water being provided, also
mirrors, wardrobe and lockers. The parlor or dining room is eighteen feet
long and the extension table will seat twelve persons. Here also is a
well selected library and writing desk."
"But where is the kitchen?" asked Alfonso.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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