Thomas Dixon

Comrades: a Story of Social Adventure in California Thomas Dixon

"Fools and fanatics!" Colonel Worth crumpled the morning paper with a gesture of rage and walked to the window. Elena followed softly and laid her hand on his arm. "What is it, Guardie? I thought you were supremely happy this morning over the news that Dewey has smashed the Spanish fleet?" "And so I am, little girl," was the gentle reply, "or was until my eye fell on this call of the Socialists for a meeting to-night to denounce the war?denounce the men who are dying for the flag. Read their summons." He opened the crumpled sheet and pointed to its head lines: "Down with the Stars and Stripes?up with the Red Flag of Revolution?the symbol of universal human brotherhood! Come and bring your friends. A big surprise for all!" The Colonel's jaws snapped suddenly. "I'd like to give them the surprise they need to-night." "What?" Elena asked. "A serenade." "A serenade?"