Force is at best A fearful thing e'en in a righteous cause, God only helps when man can help no more. -Schiller. CHAPTER XI. THE SOLDIERS' FAREWELL. The years that Richard spent at college were stormy ones for the Nation. The decision by the Supreme Court of the Dred Scott case in 1857; the passage, by several free states, of the Personal Liberty Bills; the seizure by John Brown of the United States arsenal at Harper's Ferry in 1859, and his trial and execution; and finally, the election of Abraham Lincoln and the seceding of nine Southern states, had gradually aroused the North to a realization of the responsibilities of the hour. The college of Philadelphia was the center of the Abolition sentiment in the West. The questions of moment were discussed in debates, in personal talks upon the streets, and at public gatherings. To be a member of this school was to be hated by many and to be considered a fanatic by all, save the ardent Abolitionists. Richard had joined heartily in their discussions until his change of views and ab sorption in the ambitions of literature had dulled his interest. But during his recovery from his illness and with the new principle that became his motive, all the old interest came back with a larger meaning and a truer sense of responsibility. When the states seceded and everyone saw that war was inevitable, he was in his junior year. A company was forming, made up largely from the students of the school, and he felt he must go and bear his share of the danger and do his part of the work. But physicians would not pass him on account of his recent illness. Disheartened by the refusal, he went to the teacher who knew of the transformation his illness had wrought in him and unburdened his heart. "But you are in no condition to go," said the man. "You need a year or two yet to make sure your health. The long marches and many deprivations would soon break you down. And besides, some men who appreciate the need must stay at home. Problems growing out of the war will demand thoughtful, trained men." "This is undoubtedly true," replied Rich |