For years he had been engaged, as his leisure hours would permit, in historical investigations, with special reference to the conflicts which were related to this anniversary; and his eloquent words, fired with the zest of experience in the events concerned, were freighted with new and startling facts. One paragraph of that memorable oration struck deep in every heart, and its verification revolutionized the sentiment of the whole region in one particular at least. It was this:—“I have a grave correction to make, a long continued injury to set right. John Kenashton, who fought by my side with dying heroism at the Creek battle, is not, as was supposed, the betrayer of Shelby Fort. He fell, fighting as he always fought, bravely and loyally, of which fact I have living and indisputable evidence.” At this statement all were amazed. Old men shook their heads, the women looked volumes of doubt, and the young keenly bent their attention. A revelation, mingled with surprise, sadness, and joy, manifested itself in the countenance of the injured son, toward whom all eyes were turned instantly. The general’s words were accepted as true, and the moral, Puritan sense of that people, realizing their long-continued injustice, was quick in making all possible reparation to the widow and son of the loyal soldier who, for a quarter century, had been branded as a traitor. The revulsion of feeling was so great that Dan soon became the most popular fellow in the Valley, and all were glad to congratulate him three years afterward, when, on New Year’s eve, he had won the most charming belle in Shale Valley, and become the only heir to General Brockaway’s large estate. [Illustration: Decoration] BY PROXY. BY PROXY. B. C. TAYLOR. [Illustrations by M. S. Sherman.] Harry St. Albans was good looking, that was conceded by all. His father was wealthy, and Harry was the especial admiration of all the young ladies. Whether from his ability to entertain, his good looks, or his father’s wealth, no party or private theatrical of any account was a success without him as principal actor. At college he had been a member of the dramatic club, and taken one of the leading parts in “The Rivals.” The wonder of every one was, that Harry did not get married. There surely were several young ladies whom one in his circumstances might be proud of taking for a wife, but he stubbornly adhered to bachelorhood, and prospective mothers-in-law became more abashed as he obstinately resisted the charms of all the young ladies. [Illustration: Woman looking right]