Page:On to Pekin.djvu/188

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CHAPTER XVII


GILBERT MEETS AMOS BARTLETT


Despite the fighting which he had done during the past few days, Gilbert had not forgotten about Mr. Amos Bartlett; and as soon as he found time he started out to learn, if possible, what had become of the tea-merchant.

It was with difficulty that he found the street upon which was located Amos Bartlett's house and likewise the place where the merchant did business. It was usually a busy quarter, but now it was all but deserted.

The streets were filled with rubbish and filth, and household effects were scattered everywhere. More than one house or store showed signs of the bombardment, in the way of great holes or falling walls; and at certain points the very roadway was ploughed up.

At last the young lieutenant stood before Amos Bartlett's warehouse, a low, rambling affair of wood.

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