[Illustration: Their Dear, Too-brief Holiday was Drawing to a Close. Frontispiece. ]

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 GRACE HARLOWE'S PROBLEM

 By JESSIE GRAHAM FLOWER, A. M. 

Author of The High School Girls Series, The College Girls Series, etc. 

 PHILADELPHIA

 HENRY ALTEMUS COMPANY

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 COPYRIGHT, 1916, BY HOWARD E. ALTEMUS. 

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 CONTENTS

 CHAPTER PAGE

 I. THEIR GREATEST, DEAREST DAY 7 II. THE LAST FROLIC 22 III. PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE 29 IV. MILESTONES 39 V. THE LOCKED DOOR 48 VI. A CLUB MEETING AND A MYSTERY 61 VII. HER OWN WAY 74 VIII. ALL IN THE DAY'S WORK 81 IX. WHAT EVELYN HEARD ON THE CAMPUS 93 X. LAYING THE CORNERSTONE OF A HOUSE OF TROUBLE 102 XI. THANKSGIVING WITH THE NESBITS 110 XII. MISSING--A FRIEND 123 XIII. A DISTURBING CONFIDENCE 133 XIV. THE RETURN OF THE CHRISTMAS CHILDREN 141 XV. THE NEW YEAR'S WEDDING 153 XVI. THE LAST WORD 163 XVII. THE SUMMONS 170 XVIII. THE BLOTTED ESCUTCHEON 182 XIX. THE SWORD OF SUSPENSE 194 XX. THE AWAKENING 204 XXI. KATHLEEN WEST MAKES A PROMISE 213 XXII. FIGHTING LOYALHEART'S BATTLE 222 XXIII. GRACE SOLVES HER PROBLEM 230 XXIV. THE BOND ETERNAL 249

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 GRACE HARLOWE'S PROBLEM

 CHAPTER I

 THEIR GREATEST, DEAREST DAY

"And at this time next week we'll all be back at work, " sighed ArlineThayer. "Not that I love work less, but the Sempers more, " sheparaphrased half apologetically. "It's been so perfectly splendid togather home, and Elfreda was a darling to plan and carry out such a----"

"Noble enterprise, " drawled Emma Dean. "Behold in me a living witness tothe truth of it. Before this time, when, oh, when, has this particularscion of the house of Dean had a chance to play in the nice clean sandand bathe in the nice green ocean? It is green, isn't it, Grace? Elfredasays it's blue, and those terrible, tiresome, troublesome twins say it'sgray, but I say----"

A shower of small pebbles, cast with commendable accuracy, rained downon Emma. Raising herself on her elbows from her recumbent position inthe sand, she looked reproachful surprise at the Emerson twins who, crouched in the sand and holding a fresh supply of pebbles in readiness, awaited her next remark. 

"There, " she declared calmly, "that simply proves the truth of my remarkabout terrible, tiresome, troublesome twins. "

Two slim blue figures dropped their pebbles, descended upon theprotesting Emma, and dragged her across the sand toward the water. 

"Are we tiresome?" demanded Sara sternly, as she and Sue, stillclutching Emma, paused for breath. 

"Are we troublesome?" from Julia. 

"Not a bit of it, " Emma blandly assured them. "I said it only for thesake of alliteration. You are the most interesting persons I've evermet. I am so sorry I said you weren't, and I'm so nice and comfortablenow. I hadn't thought of doing any further water stunts to-day. " Shestruggled to a sitting posture and beamed with owlish significance uponher captors. 

"All right, we'll excuse you this time, but, hereafter, keep away fromalliteration, " warned Sara. 

"Until next time, " chuckled Emma, scrambling to her feet. Graciouslyoffering an arm to each twin, the trio strolled calmly back to the gaylittle party of girls on the sands. 

It was a clear, sunshiny morning in early September and nine young womenhad taken advantage of the ocean's placid, dimpled mood for an earlymorning dip. 

For two weeks the Semper Fidelis Club, or, rather, nine of that mostdelightful organization of Grace Harlowe's early college days, had beenholding a reunion at the Briggs' cottage, which was situated on the NewJersey coast, not far from Wildwood, a well-known summer resort. It hadall begun with Elfreda's undeniable yearning to see her friends. Being ayoung person of energy, she immediately wrote, and sent forth on theirmission, funny invitations that were a virtual command to the Sempers togather at the Briggs' cottage for a two weeks' reunion, and only threeof the club had been unable to accept. 

To those who have known Grace Harlowe from the beginning of herhigh-school life she has now, without doubt, become a personal friend. "Grace Harlowe's Plebe Year at High School, " "Grace Harlowe's SophomoreYear at High School, " "Grace Harlowe's Junior Year at High School, ""Grace Harlowe's Senior Year at High School" recorded her sayings anddoings as well as those of her three friends, Nora O'Malley, JessicaBright and Anne Pierson during their student days at Oakdale HighSchool. 

When the girl chums parted in the autumn following their high-schoolgraduation, Nora and Jessica went together to an eastern conservatory ofmusic, while Grace and Anne decided for Overton College and added totheir number no less person than Miriam Nesbit, a schoolmate and friend. On their first day at Overton circumstance, or perhaps fate, had broughtJ. Elfreda Briggs, a somewhat officious freshman, to the trio, and froma hardly agreeable stranger J. Elfreda became their devoted friend. During "Grace Harlowe's First Year At Overton College, " "Grace Harlowe'sSecond Year at Overton College, " "Grace Harlowe's Third Year at OvertonCollege, " and "Grace Harlowe's Fourth Year at Overton College, " the fourgirls passed through many new experiences, not always entirely pleasant, but which served only as a spur to their ambition to gain true collegespirit, and were graduated from Overton at the end of their four years'course, more than ever the loyal children of Overton, their Alma Mater. 

The building of a specially endowed home for self-supporting girls whowere trying to gain a college education, presented to Overton College, by Mrs. Gray, in honor of Grace Harlowe, Anne Pierson and MiriamNesbit, and named Harlowe House, decided Grace as to what her futurework would be. In "Grace Harlowe's Return To Overton Campus" appears thestory of her first year at Harlowe House. 

And now the dear, too brief holiday was drawing to a close. To-morrowwould see the house party scattered to the four winds. This was the lastfrolic they would have in the water. 

"Oh, dear, " lamented Arline, her blue eyes mournful with regret, "why isit that perfectly lovely times go by like a flash, while horrid, disagreeable ones last forever?"

"'Tis the way of life, my child. 'It is not always May, '" quoted Emmasentimentally. "I might as well add, right here and now, that I'm gladof it. May is a dubious and disappointing month, dears. It always poursbarrels on the first. It's a shame, too, when one stops to consider allthe poems that have been composed about that weepy, fickle first day ofMay. 

 "Oh, radiant May day, This is our play day. Youth is in its hey day; Hail we this gay day; Park clouds away day. 

"And then down comes the rain and spoils it all, " finished theversifier, lapsing into prose. 

Emma's improvisation was greeted with laughter. 

"It sounds just about as sensible as a whole lot of those old Englishverses, " declared Elfreda, who was not fond of poetry. 

"It was a deadly insult to English verse, " defended Anne Pierson withtwinkling eyes. "You can't expect me to let it pass unnoticed. "

"Having been fed as a babe on Shakespeare, " agreed Emma, "I will admitthat it gives you some room for criticism, but as a dutiful teacher ofEnglish I feel it entirely within my province to break forthoccasionally into such English ditties as happen to come to my mind, regardless of Shakespeare. "

"Oh, do say another, " begged the Emerson twins. They especiallydelighted in Emma's poetical outbursts. 

"Nothing comes to my mind, " averred Emma solemnly. "Wait until thespirit moves me. "

"I wish something would come to your minds about how we are to spend therest of the day, " put in Elfreda, with her usual briskness. "It isn'tten o'clock yet, and we've had our breakfast and our swim. Let's gettogether and decide now. Remember this is our greatest, dearest day. Wespecially reserved it. So we ought to make the most of it. "

"I'm _so_ glad we packed most of our things last night, " commentedArline, with satisfaction. 

"Girls, " Grace was the first to make a suggestion, "it's such adelightful day, wouldn't you like to go picnicking at the edge of thosewoods we passed the other day when we were driving? Don't you rememberhow pretty the country was? There was a brook and long green hillssloping down to it. "

"Grace Harlowe!" exclaimed Elfreda, her eyes very round. "You must be amind reader, for that's precisely what I've been thinking about allmorning. I'm so glad you proposed it. What do you say, girls? How abouta picnic?"

There was a ringing assent on the part of the others. 

"I hardly thought you would care much about going down to Wildwood for adance, " continued Elfreda. "Somehow when we go to hops we are sure toseparate and not see much of each other until we're going home. What'sthe use in having a reunion if the reunionists don't reunite. I guessI'm selfish, but I can't help it. "

"No, you're not, J. Elfreda, " laughed Miriam, laying her hand on herfriend's shoulder. "That's the way I feel, too. We can go to plenty ofhops after we have each gone our separate way, but we can't have oneanother. Besides, what is _anything_ in the way of amusement compared toa Semper reunion?"

"Now you're talking, " commended Emma, with an encouraging flourish ofher hand. She had been busily scooping up the white sand as she listenedto her friends' conversation. Now she took a fresh handful and let itfall gently into the open space between the back of Sara Emerson's neckand her bathing suit. Sara, leaning interestedly forward, was anopportunity not to be disregarded. 

"O-o-o-o, " wailed the wriggling twin. 

"Why, Sara, whatever _is_ the matter?" inquired Emma with suchexaggerated solicitude that the victim laughed in spite of herself. "Some ill-natured persons threw pebbles at _me_ a while ago, but Iremained calm. That is, until I was dragged across the sand in a brutalmanner, and had to beg for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Even then I was a credit to Overton and the Sempers. I neither writhednor howled. "

"Well, we're even now, " declared Sara. "I'll foreswear pebbles if you'llabolish the sand habit. "

"I have always liked to look at Emma from a distance, " said JuliaEmerson, hastily sliding to the extreme edge of the group. 

"Listen, ye babblers, " called Elfreda, "to the voice of the oracle. Let's leave old Father Ocean to himself and get into our everydayclothes. If we are going on a picnic, we'd better start. We can be onour way in an hour from now, if we hurry. To-night after dinner we'llall take a last melancholy stroll down here to find out what the wildwaves are saying. "

"Wild waves, " jeered Emma Dean. "Did you ever see the ocean smile moresweetly, the deceitful old thing. When one stops to think of the shipsand people it gobbles up every year one feels like cutting itsacquaintance. "

"It is the greatest of all mysteries, " said Arline Thayer, her eyesfixed dreamily on the limitless expanse of water. 

"And I, in my Sphinx costume, am next, " reminded Emma modestly. 

Emma's placid manner of classing together the ocean and a fancy costumeshe had worn at a Semper Fidelis bazaar was received with the delightthat always attended her astonishing sallies. 

"Come on, children, " Grace rose from the sand, looking slim, almostimmature, in her dark blue bathing suit. With her fair skin, whichneither tanned nor sunburned, and her radiant gray eyes, she fullycarried out that look of extreme youth which her friends were wontfrequently to comment on. In obedience to her call the girls scrambledto their feet and strolled toward the Briggs' cottage, which was withina very short distance of the beach. 

On their way they came face to face with a trio of girls who hadapproached from the opposite direction. One of them, a particularlypretty girl, with auburn curls and a sweet, laughing face, cried out insurprise, "Why, J. Elfreda Briggs, where did _you_ come from?"

"Madge Morton!" exclaimed Elfreda, holding out her hand delightedly. "Ididn't know you were in this part of the country. Mr. Curtis told me youhad found your father and gone on a trip around the world, but that wasages ago. And if here isn't Phyllis Alden and Lillian Selden. Willwonders never cease? But where is Eleanor?"

"She and Mrs. Curtis went out sailing with Tom, " answered Phyllis Alden, an attractive girl with honest, dark eyes. 

"Oh, excuse me, girls. " Elfreda turned to her party and a generalintroducing followed. 

"Where are you staying, Madge?" asked Elfreda when the two groups ofgirls had finished exchanging bows and smiles. 

"Mrs. Curtis has taken a cottage at Wildwood for the rest of the summer. She only arrived there last week, and Phyllis, Lillian, Eleanor and Imet in New York and came on here yesterday. "

"You don't say so. Ma will be delighted to see her. You know they'vebeen friends for ages. We hadn't heard from her for some time, though. Sorry you didn't get here sooner. You could have become betteracquainted with my friends, " deplored Elfreda. "They are all going awayto-morrow. "

"I'm sorry, too, " smiled the pretty girl. "I'm sure we'd love to knowthem better. " She made a gracious little gesture toward the Sempers, whose eyes were fixed upon her in open admiration. 

"Never mind, you are sure to meet some of us in New York this winter, ifyou are going to be there, " promised Elfreda. 

"Yes, Father is going to take a house in New York. He is anxious to lookup his brother officers in the Navy who are stationed there. We arethrough traveling for a time. "

"The Briggs' family are going to stay in the neighborhood of the sad seawaves until the first of October, so I'll see you often. Ma will runover to see Mrs. Curtis the minute she knows about her being here. Tellme where the cottage is and I'll try to remember the address. I wish Ihad a pencil, but they don't usually hang around with bathing suits andsalt water. "

After a few minutes' pleasant conversation the three girls said good-byeand walked on. 

"What charming girls, " remarked Arline Thayer. 

"Did you ever see a sweeter face than Madge Morton's?" asked Elfreda. 

"She is beautiful, " agreed Grace; "not only that, but she has such avivid personality. One loves her on sight. "

"She is from the South, isn't she?" inquired Miriam. "She has a decidedsouthern accent. "

"Yes, she was born and brought up in Virginia. Her father was a navalofficer and was court-martialed when she was a baby for something hedidn't do, " related Elfreda. "He left home in disgrace and her motherdied soon afterward. He never came back to claim her, so her aunt anduncle brought her up. Every one believed her father was dead, and so didshe until she grew up; then a perfectly hateful girl, whose father was anaval officer, told her the story of her father's disgrace while she wasvisiting Mrs. Curtis at Old Point Comfort. You see, Madge and herfriends had a little houseboat that they fixed over from an old canalboat. They used to spend their vacations on it, and one of the teachersfrom the boarding school which Madge attended used to chaperon them. They called their boat the _Merry Maid_, and Madge, the 'LittleCaptain. ' They had all sorts of adventures, and Madge always said thatshe knew her father wasn't dead and that some day she'd find him. Thereason I know so much about her is because Ma has known Mrs. Curtis foryears. Tom and I used to play together when we were youngsters. Tom isher son. "

"Did Miss Morton ever find her father?" asked Ruth Denton eagerly. "Iknow just how she must have felt about him. "

"Yes, she found him and proved his innocence. He lived for years underanother name and supported himself by translating foreign books intoEnglish. He had a dear friend, an old sea captain, who lived with him ina funny little house at Cape May. This friend had lots of money, so whenMadge found her father he bought a yacht and took them for a trip aroundthe world. "

"It sounds like 'Grimms' Fairy Tales, ' doesn't it, " smiled Miriam. 

"It's gospel truth, " assured Elfreda. 

"But standing stock still in the middle of the beach to listen to theadventures of Madge Morton will never help us on our way to the picnic, "slyly reminded Emma Dean. 

"I should say it wouldn't, " agreed Elfreda. "I beg your pardon. Lead on, my dear Emma. "

The little procession moved on again. Elfreda and Miriam brought up therear. The comradeship between them was most sincere. 

"How I wish we could all see one another more frequently, " sighedMiriam. "Wouldn't you like to live your college life over again, Elfreda?"

"Every hour of it, even the unpleasant ones, " returned Elfredafervently. "I'm just as sure as I'm sure of anything, Miriam, that we'llnever again spend so many happy, carefree days together as we spent atOverton. Since I've been studying law I've learned a whole lot abouthuman nature that I never knew before. I've learned that it's a rarething to be perfectly happy after one begins to look life in the face. Sorrow may not touch one directly, but one is constantly coming upon thetrials and sorrows of others. There's only one great antidote for allills, and that's work. "

Miriam made a little gesture of despair. "And I have no work, " was herrueful utterance. "So far, I've done nothing but travel about a lot, andstudy music a little. Long ago I planned to go to Leipsic to study, after I was graduated from Overton, but you see, Elfreda, Mother likesme to be with her. I thought seriously of going in for interiordecorating, but when I saw how much Mother seemed to count on having meat home with her I gave it up. While I was studying music in New York, with Professor Lehmann, she was with me. I shall study again with himthis fall. We intend to close our home and spend the winter in New York. David is going into business there. We shall take a house, I think. "

"You don't mean it! Why didn't you tell me before?" Elfreda's eyes werewide with surprise. "And to think you've been carrying a jolly secretlike that around without telling me, your lawfully establishedroommate. "

"Don't be cross, J. Elfreda, dear. I didn't know it myself until thismorning. The letter that I was so long reading after breakfast thismorning was from Mother. "

"Hurry along, you laggers, " screamed Arline Thayer from a distance. Inthe earnestness of their conversation the two girls had dropped farbehind the others. 

"Coming, Daffydowndilly, " called Elfreda promptly. Then to Miriam, "We'll see each other a lot this winter then, won't we?"

"I should rather think so, " was Miriam's fervent response. 

But Elfreda smiled to herself and wondered what Anne, and incidentally, Everett Southard would say when they heard the news. 

 CHAPTER II

 THE LAST FROLIC

The Sempers could scarcely have chosen a more perfect day for their lastfrolic. The sky wore its most vivid blue dress, ornamented by littlefluffy white clouds, and a jolly vagrant breeze played lightly about thepicnickers, whispering in their ears the lively assurance that wind andsky and sun were all on their good behavior for that day at least. Theparty were to make the trip to "Picnic Hollow, " as Arline had namedtheir destination, in Elfreda's and Arline's automobiles. During thepast year the latter had become greatly interested in automobiles, anddrove her own high-powered car with the sureness of an expert. 

"What is the pleasure of this organisation?" called Emma. It was an hourlater, and nine young women stood grouped beside one of the automobiles. The other was stationed a short distance ahead. "Four beauteous damselscan ride with Chauffeur Thayer, the other five will have to trustthemselves to the tender, but uncertain, mercy of J. Elfreda. "

"If that's your opinion of me you are welcome to ride in Arline's car, "declared Elfreda. 

"Oh, my, no, " retorted Emma blandly. "I couldn't think of it. I feelthat my inspiring presence is due to ride on the front seat with you, J. Elfreda. To aid and sustain you, as it were. "

"Yes, sustain me by making me laugh and running us all into the ditch. Iknow just how sustaining you can be. Never mind. I'll forgive yourslighting remarks about me, and give you the vacant place on the frontseat. Now, good people, " she put on the business-like expression of anauctioneer, "who bids for the back seat of the Briggs' vehicle?"

"Every one is welcome to it except the Emerson twins, " put in Emma. "Idislike having them sit behind me. I prefer to sit behind them, but as Ican't sit on the front seat and the back seat at the same time, it wouldreally be better to put the twins in the Thayer chariot. "

"We are going to ride with J. Elfreda, " was Sara Emerson's defiantultimatum. 

"I'll sit between you and preserve the peace, " volunteered Miriam. 

"And me at the same time, " added Emma hopefully. "Twins, do your worst. Sit where you choose. Miriam will protect me. " Emma tottered towardMiriam, looking abjectly grateful and supremely ludicrous. 

"That leaves Grace, Anne and Ruth to me, " declared Arline. "Now let'shurry, girls. The sooner we reach Picnic Hollow the longer we'll have tostay. "

The ride to Picnic Hollow was not a long one, but the picnickers werehighly alive to every moment of it. 

"We'll have to turn in here and take the road to the left, " calledElfreda over her shoulder. They had reached a point where a narrowerroad crossed the highway and wound around the hills, sloping graduallyat the lowest point, into the very heart of the little valley, whichlooked particularly cool and inviting. 

"All right, " caroled Arline. "Lead the way and we'll follow. "

Slowly the two cars, propelled by two extremely careful chauffeurs, wound their way down the country road which, according to Elfreda, wasjust wide enough and no wider. 

"Bumpity bump, even to the bottom of the hollow, and no bones broken, "announced Emma Dean, with a cheerful wave of her hand, as she hopped outof the car, and proceeded to assist the Emerson twins to alight with agreat show of ceremony. 

"What a perfectly darling spot!" was Arline's joyous exclamation. "Justsee that cunning brook! It's so pretty where it ripples past that oldtree. It doesn't look deep, either. I'm going in wading. See if Idon't. "

"What shall we do first, girls?" Grace, who had been walking ahead withArline, a luncheon hamper swinging between them, suddenly turned andfaced the others, as, laden with rugs and cushions, they strolled alongbehind her. 

"Let's just play around for awhile, " proposed Miriam. "There's a fieldof daisies and golden rod if any one wants to go blossom gathering. Ruthspoke of taking some pictures, too. Then we can play in the brook, andgo in wading if we like, only I don't like. "

Arline and the Emerson twins elected to go in wading. Miriam and Annedrifted off to explore the brookside, while Ruth posed Grace, Emma andElfreda for snapshots until they rebelled and begged for mercy. Laterhalf the company stayed near their impromptu camp under the big elm treethat overhung the brook while the other half went on an exploringexpedition, and when they returned the first half sallied forth. 

"We shan't stay away long, " warned Arline Thayer. "It's after oneo'clock now, and I'm hungry as a hunter. "

"Still we don't intend to let mere hunger conflict with our desire forexploration, " was Emma Dean's firm reminder. "Given a chance, we mayfind something wonderful. We may dig the prehistoric mastodon from somesnug corner where he burrowed several thousand years ago. We may----"

"I never knew that mastodons 'burrowed, '" scoffed Sara Emerson. "That'sa new truth in natural history brought to light by Professor Dean. "

"Which shall be proven when we return triumphantly with a few armfuls ofbones, " flung back Emma as she hurried to catch up with Grace, Arline, Ruth and Anne, who had already started. 

"What would life be without Emma Dean?" eulogized Sue Emerson afterEmma's vanishing back. "Sara and I are always quoting her at home. Itseems so strange that until the Sempers organized we never knew her verywell. It was through Grace we learned to know Emma. "

"The longer I know Grace Harlowe the prouder I am to be her friend, "said Elfreda slowly. 

"That is the way we all think about Grace, " was Sue Emerson's quickreturn. "You and Miriam are especially lucky in having her for a chum. "

The four young women talked on until a long, clear trill announced thereturn of the other half of the exploring party. "Where, oh, where, arethe mastodon's bones?" called out Sara Emerson jeeringly, as soon asEmma Dean came within hailing distance and empty-handed. 

"Buried out of sight and as hard as stones, " came Emma's rhymedrejoinder. 

"How do you know how hard they are if they're buried out of sight!"scoffed Sara as Emma came up beside her. 

"Mere supposition, my child, mere supposition. "

The strollers had now reached the impromptu camp and were smiling overthe exchange of words on the part of Emma and Sara. 

"It was a delightful walk, " declared Grace. "I'd like to spend two orthree days in these woods. "

"Stay over another week and do it, " tempted Elfreda. 

"I can't. " Grace shook her head regretfully. "I must spend one week athome before I leave for Overton, and I simply must be at Overton, and inHarlowe House, at least a week before it opens. There are so many thingsto be done. Thank goodness, I'll have Emma to help me this year. Lastfall I felt as lonely as a shipwrecked mariner when I landed on thestation platform at Overton. Then I heard Emma Dean's voice behind me. I truly believe that was the pleasantest surprise of my life. "

"There, twins! Now you hear what others think of me, " exclaimed Emma intriumph. "Perhaps, hereafter, you'll be more appreciative of my manylovely qualities. "

"We never said you were the worst person in the world, " conceded Julia. 

"Neither did you ever refer to me as the 'pleasantest surprise' of yourlife, " reminded Emma. 

"You're a constant surprise, Emma, and always a funny one, " was Sara'smagnanimous tribute. 

"Twins, you are forgiven. You may sit beside me, if you're good, whilewe eat luncheon. I can be magnanimous, too. "

The big luncheon hampers were brought out by Elfreda and Miriam. Atablecloth was laid on the grass, and the luncheon was spread forth inall its glory. There were several kinds of toothsome sandwiches, salads, olives and pickles, fruit and plenty of sweets for dessert. There wascoffee in two large thermos bottles, and there was also imported gingerale. The hungry girls lost no time in seating themselves about this alfresco luncheon, making the quiet hollow ring with the merry talk andlaughter of their last delightful frolic together. 

 CHAPTER III

 PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

After the picnickers had finished luncheon they still sat about theremains of the feast, talking busily of what they hoped to accomplishduring the coming year. 

Elfreda was full of plans as to what she intended to do when she hadfinished her course in the law school and passed the bar. "When I'm afull-fledged lawyer----" she began. 

"You mean a lawyeress, " corrected Emma. "Don't contradict me. Let meexplain. True the word's not in the dictionary. I just coined it. I'mgoing to teach it and its uses in my classes this fall. I shall begin byreferring to my friend, Miss J. Elfreda Briggs, the distinguishedlawyeress. That will excite the curiosity of my classes. Then instead ofsatisfying that curiosity as to Lawyeress Briggs' personal and privatehistory I shall gently lead them to a serious contemplation of the worditself. Once in use, I'll have it put in a revised edition of thedictionary. It's high time there were a few new words introduced intothe English language. I can make up beautiful ones and not half try. It's so easy. "

"And the faculty trusted her to teach English, " murmured Miriam. 

There was a chorus of giggles at this observation, in which even Emmajoined. 

"Make up some new words now, " challenged Julia Emerson. 

"Not when I'm on a picnic, " refused Emma firmly. "'Work while you workand play while you play. ' I came out to play. "

"Our play days end to-night, " smiled Grace. "At least mine do. "

"Mine, too, " echoed Arline. "Really, girls, you haven't any idea of howbusy settlement work keeps one. I spend several hours each day at therooms which Father let me have fitted up for a Girls' Club, and I visitthe very poor people, and almost every evening I have a class or ameeting. One evening I go to a little chapel on the East Side to tellstories to children, and I teach classes two other nights. There'salways something extra coming up, too. Father isn't exactly pleased overit. He thinks I work too hard. Now that Ruth is going to spend thewinter with me I'll make her help. She is the laziest person. She hasn'taccomplished a single thing since she found her father. "

"He wouldn't let me, " defended Ruth. "It has been hard labor to persuadehim to allow me to stay in New York this winter. Besides I believe thatmy business of life, for the present, at least, is to try to make up forsome of the years we spent apart. "

"Good for you, Ruth, " applauded Miriam. "You and I are of the same mind. Only I'm enlisted in the cause of a mother instead of a father. But allthis leads up to what I intended to tell you girls before we separated. We are going to New York City for the winter. David is going intobusiness there. "

"To New York!" came simultaneously from Arline and Grace. There weremurmurs of surprise from the other girls. J. Elfreda Briggs alone smiledknowingly. 

"What are we to do in Oakdale without you, at Christmas time, Miriam?"asked Grace mournfully. "The Eight Originals Plus Two can't celebrateunless you are with them. Somehow every year we've all managed to gatherhome at Christmas. Now if you go to New York to live next winter perhapsDavid won't be able to leave his business, and your mother will need youand----"

"And do I live to hear Grace Harlowe borrowing trouble?" broke in EmmaDean. "Our intrepid, dauntless, invincible Grace!"

"I'm afraid you do, " admitted Grace. "I couldn't help mourning a little. It was all so sudden. Anne, aren't you astonished?"

"Anne looks as though she'd known it a long while, " observed Elfredashrewdly. 

"I knew David was going into business in New York, " confessed Anne, herface flushing, "but I didn't know the rest. "

"Neither did I, until this morning, " smiled Miriam. 

"It seems as though we are the only persons in this august body thathaven't any plans, " declared Julia Emerson wistfully. "Here are Grace, Anne and Emma, regular salaried individuals. Arline is a busy littleworker. Miriam and Ruth are at least useful members of society, andElfreda is an aspiring professional. Sara and I are just the Emersontwins, with no lofty aims in view, or deeds of glory to perform. "

"You and Sara are not quite useless, " comforted Emma. "Just think what acontinual source of inspiration you are to me. Some of my finestobservations on life have been prompted by my acquaintance with you. "

"I'm glad we are of some account in the world, " grinned Sara. "I'dreally quite forgotten about you, Emma. Thank you so much for remindingme. "

"Oh, not at all, " Emma beamed patronizingly upon her. "No matter howmuch others may malign you, I am still your friend. "

"Emma Dean, you ridiculous creature, why won't you take us seriously?"laughed Julia, but her voice still held an undercurrent of wistfulness. "Does the fact that we are twins have this hilarious effect upon you?"

"I wonder if that's the reason, " murmured Emma. Then dropping her usualbantering tone, she fixed earnest eyes on the black-eyed twins. "Seriously, Julia and Sara, I know just the way you feel about having noparticular life work picked out. When I went home after I was graduatedfrom Overton I hadn't the least idea of where I'd fit in in life. Then Ifound that Father needed my help, and I've been head over ears in workever since. One never knows what may happen, or how quickly one's workmay find one. It may not be what one would like it to be, but it willundoubtedly be the best thing in life for one, and one is likely to seeit coming around the corner at almost any minute. "

"That's very, very true. " It was Grace who spoke. "Don't you rememberhow I worried about finding my work, and it walked directly up to me andintroduced itself on Commencement day?"

"I never dreamed that the stage would put me through college and be mywork afterward, " broke in Anne. "When first I went to Oakdale I supposedI had left it behind forever. But it must have been my destiny afterall. "

"I guess it's just about as well in the long run not to worry about whatyour work is going to be until it knocks at your door, " observedElfreda. "Children are always planning and talking about what they'regoing to do and be when they grow up; then they always do somethingdifferent. What do you suppose I used to say I was going to be when Igrew up?"

"Some perfectly absurd thing, " anticipated Miriam. Eight pairs of amusedeyes fixed themselves expectantly on Elfreda. 

"Well, " Elfreda chuckled reminiscently, "my aim and ambition was to be acook. Not because I was so deeply in love with cooking, but because Iliked to eat. No wonder I was fat. I used to haunt the kitchen on bakingdays and shriek with an outraged stomach afterward. The shriekingoccurred most frequently in the middle of the night. Then Ma would cometo my rescue, and I'd be forbidden to sample the baking again. So toconsole myself in my banishment I'd resolve that when I grew up I'd be acook and live in a kitchen all the time. I reasoned that if I _was_ acook I'd know how to make everything in the world to eat and could havewhat I pleased. Besides no one would dare tell me I couldn't have thisor that. This was all very consoling during the times I had to keep outof the kitchen. Generally in about a week's time Ma would relent, and, as our cook was fond of me, I'd be reinstated in my beloved realm ofeats. But it was during these periods of exile that my ambition alwaysrose to fever heat. Then our old cook got married, and I didn't like ournew one. She didn't appreciate my companionship on baking days. Our oldcook had always encouraged me in my ambition. She used to tell me longtales about the places where she had worked and the cooking feats shehad performed. The new cook said I was a nuisance, and complained to Ma. So my ambition died for lack of encouragement, but my appetite didn't. Ibecame an outlaw instead and made raids on the baking. So thatparticular cook and I were always at war. About that time Ma begangiving me a regular allowance, so I haunted the baker and candy shopsinstead of the kitchen, and the cook idea declined. In fact all I knowabout cooking now, I learned at Wayne Hall, in the interest of myfriends, " she finished. 

Elfreda's reminiscence awoke a train of sleeping memories in the mindsof the others, and for the next hour the quiet woodland echoed withtheir mirth over the curious, quaint and ridiculous aims and fancies oftheir childhood. The talk gradually drifted back to serious things andwent on so earnestly that it was well after four o'clock before theparty began to make reluctant preparations to return to the cottage. 

"It has been a perfect day and a perfect picnic, " declared Grace as shesmiled lovingly at her friends. "We'll never forget Elfreda's houseparty. "

"I'm going to have you with me at this time every year if it ispossible, " planned Elfreda. "So when September comes next year just markoff the last two weeks on the calendar as set aside for the Briggs'reunion and arrange your affairs accordingly. Is it a go?"

"Hurrah for the Briggs' reunion, " cheered Arline. 

The cheers were given and the picnickers started up the hill to wheretheir automobiles were stationed. Grace and Elfreda brought up the rearwith the luncheon hamper. 

"That's dear in you to ask us here every year, Elfreda, " said Grace. "It's a splendid way for us always to keep in touch with one another. You are forever doing nice things for others. "

"Others, " retorted Elfreda, gruffly. "I'm the most selfish person thatever lived. I'm not planning half so much to make you girls happy as Iam to be happy myself. Every time I think that I might have gone to someother college and never have known you and Miriam and Anne, it nearlygives me nervous prostration. By the way, Grace, I have an idea Miriamis going to find her work pretty suddenly. I could see at commencementthat Mr. Southard was in love with her. She didn't know it then. Sheknows it now though, and she likes him. "

"You certainly _can_ see what is hidden from the eyes of the rest of us. How do you know she knows it?"

"Oh, she was talking to me the other day about Anne, and she mentionedMr. Southard's name in a kind of self-conscious way, not in the leastlike her usual self. I could almost swear she blushed, but I couldn'tquite see that, " grinned Elfreda. 

"I'm surprised, " laughed Grace; then she added slowly, "I've known for along time that Mr. Southard was in love with Miriam. Anne discovered itat commencement, too. I hope Miriam _does_ love him. Somehow they seemso perfectly suited to each other. I never could quite fancy she andArnold Evans as being in love. "

"It looks as though you'd soon be the only unengaged member of theOriginals, " remarked Elfreda innocently. 

Grace's face clouded. Elfreda had touched upon a sore subject. Justbefore leaving Oakdale on her visit to Elfreda she had seen Tom. He hadnot renewed his old plea, but Grace knew that he was still waiting andhoping for the words that would make him happy. 

"Elfreda, " her voice trembled a little, "you know, I think, that Tomwishes me to marry him. I'm sorry, but I can't. I just can't. I supposeI'll be the odd member of the feminine half of the Originals, but Ican't help it. My work still means more to me than life with Tom, andI'm never going to give it up. So there. "

Elfreda nodded. Her nod expressed more than words, but secretly she hada curious presentiment that Grace would one day wake up to the fact thatshe had make a mistake. Still there was no use in telling her so. Itmight make her still more stubborn in her resolve. Elfreda greatlyadmired Tom, and, with her usually quick perception, had estimated himat his true worth. "He's worthy of her, and she's worthy of him, " washer mental summing up, "and it strikes me that '_never_' is a prettylong time. Whether she can shut love out of her life forever, just forthe sake of her work, is a problem that nobody but Grace Harlowe cansolve. "

 CHAPTER IV

 MILESTONES

"Sh-h-h! No giggles. If you don't creep along as still as mice she'llhear you, " warned a sibilant whisper. 

Five young women, headed by Emma Dean, smoothed the laughter from theirfaces and stole, cat-like, up the green lawn to the wide veranda at therear of Harlowe House. One by one they noiselessly mounted the steps. Emma, finger on her lips, cast a comical glance at the maid, whotittered faintly; then the stealthy procession crept down the hall inthe direction of Grace Harlowe's little office. There was an instant'ssilent rallying of forces of which the young woman at the desk, who satwriting busily, was totally unconscious, then, of a sudden, she heard aringing call of "Three cheers for Loyalheart!" and sprang to her feetonly to be completely hemmed in by friendly arms. 

"You wicked girls! I mean, you dear things, " she laughed. "How nice ofyou to descend upon me in a body. I must kiss every one of you. Patienceand Kathleen, when did you set foot in Overton? I've been watching andwaiting for you. Mary Reynolds, this _is_ a surprise. I didn't expectyou until next week, and Evelyn, too, looking lovelier than ever. As forEmma, she's a continual surprise and pleasure. " Grace embraced one afteranother of the five girls. 

"I'm so glad I thought of this nice surprise, " beamed Emma, craning herneck, and pluming herself vaingloriously. "I have another beautifulthought, too, seething in my fertile brain. Let's go down to Vinton'sand celebrate. "

"I knew some one was sure to propose that, " laughed Patience. "Iintended to be that some one, but Emma forestalled me. "

"I'm as busy as can be, but I can't resist the call to my old haunts, "laughed Grace. "Besides, it's such a perfect day. Leave your bags in theliving room, girls. I feel highly honored to know that you and Kathleencame straight to me, Patience. "

"The old case of the needle and the magnet, " explained Patience with acareless wave of her hand. 

"Oh, Miss Harlowe I'm so glad to see you, " was Mary Reynolds' ferventtribute. 

"So am I, " declared Evelyn Ward, with an emphatic nod of her goldenhead. "I've had a perfectly wonderful summer, Miss Harlowe. I loved mypart. It hasn't been very hot in New York City, either, and I spent mySundays and some of my week days with the Southards at their LongIsland summer home. I have thought of you many times. I hope you'llforgive me for not writing you oftener. Kathleen and I came down on thesame train. " She poured forth all this information almost in a breath. 

"Of course I'll forgive you, " returned Grace. "I'm a very laxcorrespondent, too. I'm so glad you've been well, and that you likedyour part. "

"You should have seen her in it, Grace, " put in Kathleen. "She made anadorable Constance Devon, and her gowns were beautiful. The girl whounderstudied her, and who will play the part on the road, isn't half sostunning. Patience saw her, too. "

"She was a credit to herself and Overton, " verified Patience. 

"I thank you, most grave and reverend seniors. " Evelyn, her eyes shiningwith the pleasure of well-earned praise, made a low bow to Patience andKathleen. 

"'Most grave and reverend seniors, '" repeated Grace, slipping in betweenher two friends, her hand on an arm of each. 

Kathleen's sharp black eyes grew tender with the love she bore Grace. "Yes, " came her soft answer, "Patience and I are seniors at last. We'vereached Senior Lane, and I hope to leave some milestones as we passthrough it. Dear as the others have been, I'd like to rise to greaterheights this year. I don't know just what I'd like to do, " she flushedand laughed at her own enthusiasm, "but I'd like to do something worthwhile. "

"So would I, " murmured Evelyn Ward. 

"I want to be friends with every one, and not be conditioned, " was MaryReynolds' modest petition. 

"_I_ don't know just what sort of milestones I'd like to leave. Onlydecorative ones, of course. I wish to keep my lane free from weeds andugly, jagged rocks. " This from Patience. 

"You might begin at once and leave a milestone at Vinton's, for being awilling, little reveler, " suggested Emma with meaning. 

"Come on, girls, " rallied Kathleen. "We must show Emma just how willingwe are. Allow me, my dear Miss Dean, " she offered her arm to Emma, andthey paraded down the hall, out the door and down the steps with greatceremony. Mary, Grace, Patience and Evelyn followed. Patience walkedwith Evelyn, while Grace and Mary brought up the rear. 

"Oh, Miss Harlowe, " began Mary, with intense earnestness, "you haven'tany idea of how much Kathleen--she likes me to call her Kathleen--hasdone for me this summer. I knew last spring that I must earn my livingthrough the summer, in some way, but I never dreamed that it would bein such a nice way. "

"I am anxious to hear all about it, " returned Grace. "When you wrote methat Kathleen had secured work for you on her paper I was so pleased. "

"Yes, I was the assistant on the woman's page, " related Mary. "Of coursemy work wasn't so very important. It was mostly clipping things fromother papers, but I used to write the paragraph under the fashiondrawings, and sometimes I went out to the big department stores to lookfor interesting new fads and fashions for women. Three times I wroteshort articles, so you see I actually appeared in print. Kathleen mademe take half of her room, and so my board wasn't very expensive. Mysalary was fifteen dollars a week. I have enough new clothes to last meall winter, and I've saved eighty-five dollars. That will help pay mytuition this year, and Kathleen is sure she can sell some children'sstories I've written. Wouldn't it be glorious, Miss Harlowe, if some dayI'd become a writer?" Mary's eyes shone with the distant prospect offuture honors. 

"It looks to me as though you were on the right road, " encouraged Grace. "The only thing to do is to keep on writing. The more you write theeasier it will become--that is, if you are really gifted. Kathleen hasgreat faith in you. You must show her that it is well founded. "

"How inspiring you are, Miss Harlowe. " Mary looked her gratitude atGrace's hopeful words; then she added in a slightly lower tone: "I'm soglad everything went so beautifully for Evelyn. I saw her twice in 'TheReckoning. ' She looked _beautiful_, and her acting was so clever. She--she told me of her own accord about"--Mary hesitated--"things. Itwould have hurt me dreadfully if Evelyn had not come back to Overton. Ilove her dearly. "

Grace nodded sympathetically. She understood the remarkable effect ofEvelyn's beauty upon Mary. Still, she reflected, it had not been potentenough to lure Mary from standing by her colors at the crucial moment. Grace realized that this poor orphan girl, whose only home was HarloweHouse, possessed a steadfast, upright nature that must in time win hernot only scores of loyal friends, but the respect of all who knew her, as well. 

A sudden trill from Kathleen caused them to quicken their steps. Theothers were standing in front of Vinton's, waiting for them. Once insidethe pretty tea room that had been the scene of so many of their revels, with one accord they made for the alcove table. 

"Shades of Arline Thayer, " laughed Emma. "I am haunted by her. I can seeher sitting in that chair, her little hands folded on the table, saying, 'What are we going to eat, girls?' She loved this alcove and every stickand stone of Vinton's. She never cared so much for Martell's. "

By this time they had seated themselves at the round table and begun toorder their luncheon. Vinton's was productive of reminiscences, and theywere soon deep in the discussion of past events, grave and gay, that haddotted their college life. Evelyn and Mary were for the most partlisteners, but Grace, Patience, Emma and Kathleen fairly bubbled overwith by-gone college history. 

"I love to hear about the things that happened to Miss Harlowe and MissDean when they were students, " confided Mary to Evelyn under cover of ageneral laugh over one of Emma Dean's ridiculous reminiscences. 

"So do I, " nodded Mary, then she added in a still lower tone, "Have younoticed the girl at the table near the door, Evelyn. She came in aboutten minutes ago, and she's watched this table every second since shecame. "

"Yes, I noticed her. She's pretty, isn't she? That's a stunning suit sheis wearing. Her hat is miles above reproach, too. " Evelyn could notrepress her admiration for beautiful clothes. 

At that moment Kathleen spoke to her and she turned to answer thelatter's question. When next her eyes turned toward the pretty girl itwas just as they were leaving the tea shop. Evelyn was the last memberof the sextette to pass the table. She glanced at the girl only to notethat she was searching a small leather bag frantically, a look ofindescribable alarm in her eyes. "It's gone, " she said, half aloud. 

Something prompted Evelyn to halt. "Good afternoon, " she said. "Iheard--that is--can I help you?"

A shade of annoyance darkened the stranger's face. It was replaced by anexpression of fright. "I've lost my money, " she said in a dazed voice. "It was all I had. I can't pay for my luncheon. I don't know what todo. " Her voice rose to an anxious note. 

"Give me your check, " said Evelyn quietly. "I'll pay the cashier. Youcan pay me later. "

"Oh, thank you, " breathed the girl. "You don't know how I hated the ideaof going to the cashier and telling her I had no money. I'm _so_ worriedabout my purse. I had over a hundred dollars in it. I haven't seen itsince I left the train. Just before we reached Overton I went into thelavatory to fix my hair. I laid my bag down. There was another womanthere at the mirror. She must have slipped her fingers into my bag andtaken my purse, for when I picked up the bag it was open. I snapped itshut and paid no attention to it then. I didn't think of it until Ireached for my purse to count out the money for my luncheon. "

"What a shame!" exclaimed Evelyn, sympathetically. "I know just howworried you must feel. Just wait a second. " She picked up the check, which was for a small amount, went over to the desk, and paid the bill. Then she hurried back to her companion. "Everything is all right now, "she declared, "but if you have no money you had better come with me. Iwill introduce you to Miss Harlowe. My name is Evelyn Ward. "

"Miss Harlowe, of Harlowe House?" interrupted the girl. 

"Yes, do you know her?"

"I don't know her yet, but I'm going to live at Harlowe House. So Iexpect to know her. My name is Jean Brent. Perhaps you've heard of me. Afriend of mine helped me to get the chance to live at Harlowe House. "

"Have I heard of you?" laughed Evelyn. "I should say I had. Isn't itfunny how things happen? Why, you are to be my roommate. "

 CHAPTER V

 THE LOCKED DOOR

When Evelyn and Jean Brent reached the street it was to find the otheryoung women grouped together in conversation, and not at all alarmed atEvelyn's non-appearance. 

"We weren't worried, " Emma Dean assured her. "We've all been known tolag and loiter. "

"I lagged and loitered to some purpose, " defended Evelyn. "Miss Harlowe, this is Miss Brent, my roommate. " She introduced the stranger to theothers. 

Grace's hand was extended in surprised welcome. "We have been lookingfor you since Monday, " she said. "You are the girl who sat at the endtable at Vinton's. If I had known you were Miss Brent I would have askedyou to join us. I am so glad Miss Ward broke the ice. How did ithappen?"

"I had lost my purse, " returned the girl, rather shyly, in spite of herair of self-possession. Then reassured by Grace's charming manner, shetold her story. 

"You must come with us to Harlowe House at once. It is such a pity thatyou met with misfortune. " Grace's gray eyes were full of sympathy. "Have you much luggage?"

"Four trunks, " was the rueful answer. "You see I have so many clothesthat--" She stopped abruptly, a deep flush dying her fair skin, "I hadno place--I did not like to leave them, so I had to bring them with me, "she finished, rather lamely. 

Grace did not ask further questions. She noted that the girl was ill atease. "I received Miss Lipton's letter regarding you a week ago, " shehastened to say. "I wrote her, as you know, that we could place you. Sheanswered saying we might expect you at almost any time. After you havehad a chance to rest and make yourself comfortable I will tell you ofHarlowe House and the girls who live there. "

One after the other the girls spoke friendly, encouraging words to theunfortunate freshman. Kathleen and Patience possessed themselves of herheavy bag, carrying it between them. Grace walked with the newcomer, pointing out the various interesting features of the little collegetown, in an attempt to put the stranger entirely at her ease after herdisquieting experience. So far she had had slight opportunity to observethis latest freshman arrival. She had a vague idea that Jean Brent wasan unusually attractive girl, but the side view she obtained of her, asthey walked along, was far from satisfactory. The newcomer said little, and only once during the short walk to Harlowe House did she turn a pairof very blue eyes directly upon Grace. 

It fell to Evelyn Ward to show her to her room, as she was to beEvelyn's roommate. The girl had exclaimed a little, after the manner ofgirls, at the attractiveness of Harlowe House, but in spite of her briefflare of enthusiasm over the house and grounds, the tasteful living roomand the daintiness of the room she and Evelyn occupied, she encasedherself in a curious, impenetrable shell of mystery that Evelyn'snatural curiosity could find no excuse to penetrate. She listenedgravely and attentively to all that Evelyn told her of Harlowe House andits lucky household, but she volunteered no information concerningherself except a reluctant, "I came from the West, " in answer to herroommate's question as to where she lived. 

The more Evelyn observed her the more attractive she appeared. She wasof medium height, and, although plump, could not be called stout. Herface was rather round, with no suggestion of fatness, while her featureswere small and regular. Her eyes were not large, but their intenseblueness made them a significant feature of her face. Her hair was lightbrown and had a burnished look in the sun. It grew thickly upon herwell-shaped head, and she wore it in a graceful knot at the back of herhead. When she smiled, which had been but once since Evelyn firstencountered her, she displayed unusually white, even teeth. It dawnedupon Evelyn as she watched her unpacking her bag that Jean Brent had notonly her share of good looks but a curious power of attraction as wellthat would carry her far toward college popularity if she chose to exertit. She wondered if she and Jean would get along well together. Althoughthe new Evelyn had made great progress in ruling her own spirit she waswell aware of her failings. She was quite sure, in her own mind, thatnever again would the love of beautiful clothes tempt her to dishonesty, but of herself, in other respects, she was not so positive. Still shehad resolved to live up to the traditions of Overton College, to emulatethe splendid example Grace Harlowe had already set. 

She glanced speculatively at her roommate, but the latter's calm, impassive expression told her nothing. Suddenly, as though impelled byEvelyn's gaze, the other girl glanced up and met Evelyn's eyes squarely. "Well, what do you think of me?" she inquired. "I think _you_ are theprettiest girl I ever saw. "

Evelyn flushed at both the question and the compliment. Jean Brent wasnothing if not frank. "I know I'm going to like you. I was justwondering if we would fit into each other's lives. "

"I have a frightful temper, " admitted Jean Brent somberly. "SometimesI'm glad of it. If I hadn't--" She paused. 

Evelyn waited for her to continue, but she gave a quick sigh, and, springing to her feet, walked to the window. From there she could lookout at the campus, still green and velvety. For at least five minutesshe stood staring out. Then, with the air of one who casts aside adisagreeable memory, she turned from the window, saying: "I'm going toforget everything except the fact that I'm actually an Overton girl. "

"Were you anxious to come to Overton?" asked Evelyn. 

"No. I came here because of the advantages Harlowe House offers. I heardof it through a friend. I wanted to go to Smith, but--oh, well, here Iam at Overton. Let's talk about you. I know you are interesting. Youlook just like the picture of a girl I saw in a magazine I was readingon the train. She is an actress. I didn't stop to read her name, but Iloved her picture. I think I brought the magazine along. Oh, yes, thereit is. " She reached for the magazine, which lay on the table, and turnedthe leaves energetically. "Here is the picture, " she declared. Evelynfound herself gazing at her own likeness. She began to laugh. 

"What's the matter?" demanded Jean. Her color rose in instant resentmentof Evelyn's laughter. 

Evelyn pointed to the printed name under the picture. "I am Evelyn Ward, you know. "

"But not the _actress_?" Jean's blue eyes were wide with amazement. 

Evelyn nodded laughingly. "That's my way of earning my tuition money andmy clothes, " she explained. "I was never on the stage until lastsummer. " She went on to tell the astonished Jean of her meeting with theSouthards and her final stage début. 

"How interesting!" exclaimed Jean. "I suppose all the Harlowe Housegirls earn their college fees. I wonder how I can earn mine. I had quitea sum toward them when I left--" again came the abrupt stop. "Oh, dear, "she sighed the next moment, "I wish I'd been more careful of my money. Ihad no business to lay my bag down. What's the use of regretting? I'llhave to think of some way to raise that money. If I can't find it anyother way I can sell my clothes. I have perfectly _beautiful_ things. Four trunks full. Lots more than I can wear. It is lucky for me that--"She checked herself guiltily. 

"That what?" asked Evelyn. She was beginning to feel a vague impatienceat the strange way in which Jean Brent chopped off her sentences. Andhow recklessly she talked about selling her clothes. 

"That I have you for a roommate, " smiled the mysterious freshman. "Iwonder how much the expressman will charge to bring my trunks from thestation. Then, too, I wonder where I can put them. I wouldn't think ofspoiling the looks of our room with them. "

"You can put one of them over in that corner, " planned Evelyn, "and wecould get one into the closet. It's large and quite light. The other twoMiss Harlowe will allow you to leave in the trunk room. "

"I suppose it will cost a small fortune to have them delivered, "demurred Jean. "I can't have the sale, either, until I know some of thegirls who would be interested in my wares. I'll have to telegraph myfriend to send me some money. Will you go with me to the telegraphoffice. I don't know the way. I'll ask Miss Harlowe to pay theexpressman. Then I'll pay her when my money comes. Frenzied finance, isn't it? But if you knew--" Again that maddening break. 

"I'll pay the expressman, " volunteered Evelyn. "If I were you I'd talkthings over with Miss Harlowe. She knows that you lost your purse. Verylikely she has already thought of something you can do. I don't thinkshe would like to have you sell your clothes. "

"I don't see why she should object, " declared Jean, with quickimpatience. "However, I'll do my hair over again, and wash my face andhands, then I'll go down stairs and have a talk with her. She said she'dbe in her office. "

"Run down and talk with her now, then we'll go to the telegraph office, "said Evelyn. 

Twenty minutes later Jean entered the little office where Grace satengaged in the work she had been doing when interrupted by her friendsearlier in the afternoon. Like Evelyn, she was keenly alive to herlatest charge's good looks. "How attractive she is, " was her thought asshe invited Jean to take the chair opposite hers. 

"I suppose you would like to know something of our household, MissBrent, " began Grace. "We are not only a household, but we are members ofa social club as well. You are the thirty-fourth girl. Last year MissThirty-four never materialized, so Miss Ward roomed alone. There isn'tso so much to tell you regarding the rules and regulations of HarloweHouse. The club takes care of most of them with its constitution andby-laws. " Opening a drawer of her desk, Grace took out a paper-coveredbooklet and handed it to the freshman. "This will give you nearly allthe necessary information, " she said. "If I were in your place I wouldgo to the registrar's office reasonably early to-morrow morning. You canthen learn whether you will be obliged to take the entranceexaminations. Having been graduated from a preparatory school you may beexempt. When did Miss Lipton's school close?"

"Last June, " returned Jean briefly. 

"But you have seen her since then, have you not? Her letter gave me theimpression that you had been with her recently. Do you live in Grafton, or were you visiting Miss Lipton?"

The fair face opposite her own was suddenly flooded with red. "I--I--was--on--a visit recently to Miss Lipton, " she answered, withreluctance. She did not volunteer the name of her home town. 

For the first time Grace became aware of the curious reticence that hadvaguely annoyed Evelyn. "Where do you live, Miss Brent!" she asked withthe sudden directness so characteristic of her. 

For a moment the girl did not reply, then her color receded, leavingher face very white. "My home is in Chicago, " she said slowly. "Myfather and mother are dead. I have always lived with"--shehesitated--"friends. Miss Lipton was a friend of my mother's. Surely herword will not be questioned by the faculty. " She glanced at Grace with ahalf challenging air. 

Something in her tone brought the color to Grace's cheeks. Why could notthis girl be perfectly frank in her replies? Now that Evelyn Ward hadturned out so beautifully, Grace had been looking forward to a year ofopen comradeship with her girls, yet here she was face to face with whatpromised to be one of those baffling natures that required especiallytactful handling to bring out the best that lay within it. 

"I have no doubt that Miss Sheldon will place the utmost dependence inMiss Lipton's word, " returned Grace gravely. 

"If she doesn't, I--oh, well, to-morrow will tell the tale. I wish youwould tell me more of Harlowe House. It is a wonderful place. I wantedto go to Smith, but I believe this will be nicer after all. OnlyI--shall--have to earn my college fees. Miss Ward said perhaps you wouldhelp me think of a way to earn money. I have nothing in the world exceptclothes, clothes, clothes. After I've been here for awhile I'd like tohave a sale of them. I have loads of lovely things. If I could only sellenough of them to pay my fees. "

"But you will need your clothing for your own use, will you not?" JeanBrent was momently growing more inexplicable. 

Jean shook her head energetically. "I don't care for clothes, " she saideagerly. "I could live in a coat suit and plenty of blouses all year. I_do_ care for college, though. If I hadn't cared, I would never--" Shesuddenly checked herself. "Do you think the girls would buy my things?"she asked in the next instant. "They are nearly all new and fresh. "

"I am sure they would be interested, " was Grace's honest reply, "but Icannot allow you to hold a sale of your wardrobe. I think such aproceeding would be unwise. Why----"

"Please don't ask me why, Miss Harlowe, for I can't tell you. " Jean hadrisen to her feet, two pleading eyes fixed on Grace. "I can only saythat if I had not lost my money everything would be different. There arestrong reasons why I can't explain to you about my being without money, yet having so many clothes, but I assure you that I have done nothingwrong or dishonorable. If you are not satisfied with my explanation andwish to send me away, of course I can only go, but if you are willingto trust me and let me stay I'll try to do my best for you and HarloweHouse. I'm sorry you disapprove of my having a sale of my things. "

Grace looked long at the earnest young face. Mystifying as were herstatements, Jean Brent had the appearance of honesty. Taking one of thegirl's hands in both her own, she said, "I don't in the least understandyou, Miss Brent, but I will respect your secret. "

"Thank you so much for your kindness to me, Miss Harlowe. " With analmost distant nod the prospective freshman rose and left the officewith almost rude abruptness. 

"What a strange girl, " mused Grace. 

Her musing was interrupted by the breezy entrance of Emma Dean. "Hello, Gracious, " she hailed. "Why so pensive?"

"I'm not pensive. I'm puzzled, and a little worried, " returned Grace. "Our latest arrival is a most complex study. "

"I suspected it, " was Emma's cheerful rejoinder. "One of the 'There wasthe Door to which I found no Key' variety, so to speak. "

"I'm going to tell you all about it, " decided Grace, "for I need youradvice. " She related her interview with Jean Brent. 

"Miss Lipton, the head of the Lipton Preparatory School, at Grafton, writes beautifully of Miss Brent, " went on Grace. "I know the facultywould consider her word sufficient to enroll this girl, but I feel thatI ought to be doubly careful to keep my household irreproachable. Idon't like mysteries when it comes to admitting a new girl to the fold. Still, Miss Brent impresses me as being honest and sincere. Besides, I've promised to help her. "

"Don't worry, Gracious, " advised Emma, "you may be harboring a princessunawares. The Riddle may turn out to be the Shahess of Persia, or theGrand Vizieress of Bagdad or some other royal person. She may be themoving feature of a real Graustark plot. "

"Stop being ridiculous, Emma, and tell me what I ought to do. " Grace'ssmooth forehead puckered in a frown which her laughing lips denied. 

Emma was instantly serious. "We do not know just how much college maymean to her, " was her quick response. "If she chooses to shroud herselfin mystery, I believe it is because of something which concerns herselfalone. "

There was a brief silence, then Grace said: "You are right. To be anOverton girl may mean more to Jean Brent than we can possibly know. I'mgoing to take her on faith. Perhaps she'll find college the key thatwill unlock the door to perfect understanding. "

 CHAPTER VI

 A CLUB MEETING AND A MYSTERY

"There!" exclaimed Louise Sampson as she succeeded in firmlyestablishing at the top of the bulletin board a large white card, bearing the significant legend, "Regular Meeting of the Harlowe HouseClub. 8. 00 P. M. Living Room. _Full Attendance, Please. _"

A small, fair-haired girl came down the stairs and joined Louise at thebulletin-board. She read the notice aloud. "Oh, dear, I've an engagementwith a girl at Wayne Hall to-night. I don't care to miss the meeting, and I don't like to break my engagement, " she mourned. 

"I wish you would break it just this once, Hilda, " said Louiseseriously. "I am anxious that every member of the club shall attend themeeting to-night. I have something of importance to say to the girls. "

Hilda Moore opened her blue eyes very wide. "What are you going to say, Louise? Tell me, please. You see I made this engagement over a week ago. If you'd just tell me now what it's all about, I wouldn't really need tocome to the club meeting. I could----"

"Keep your engagement, " finished Louise, her eyes twinkling. "Really, Hilda Moore, if you knew a tidal wave, or a cyclone or any othercalamity was due to demolish Overton I believe you'd go on makingengagements in the face of it. "

Hilda giggled good-naturedly. She was a pretty, sunshiny girl of a pureblonde type, and had been extremely popular during her freshman year atOverton, not only with her fellow companions at Harlowe House, but as amember of the freshman class as well. In spite of her round baby face, and a carefree, little-girl manner that went with it, she was a capablebusiness woman and earned her college fees as stenographer to the dean. The daughter of parents who were not able to send her to college, shehad not only prepared for college during her high-school days, but hadtaken the business course included in the curriculum of the high schoolwhich she attended, and had thus fitted herself to earn her way in theLand of College. 

Hilda's unfailing good nature was appreciated to the extent of makingher a welcome guest at the informal gatherings which were forever beingheld in the various students' rooms after recitations were over for theday. The consequence was that, as her studies and clerical duties lefther limited time for amusements, her precious recreation moments wereinvariably promised to her friends many days in advance. In fact HildaMoore's "engagements" had grown to be a standing joke among them. 

"Promise me on your bright new sophomore honor that you'll offer yourpolite regrets to the other half of that important engagement of yoursand attend my meeting, " appealed Louise. 

"Well, " Hilda looked concerned, "I _could_ see the girl this afternoonand change the date. " She smiled engagingly at Louise. 

"Of course you _will_, " Louise agreed, answering the smile. "You see Iknow you, Hilda Moore. "

"But I wouldn't do it for any one else except Miss Harlowe or MissDean, " was Hilda's positive assertion. "Mercy, look at the time! I'llhave to run for it if I expect to reach the office before Miss Wilder. Good-bye. "

Hilda was gone like a flash, leaving Louise to stare contemplatively atthe notice. As the president for the year of the Harlowe House Club shefelt deeply her responsibility. She had been unanimously elected at theclub's first meeting, greatly to her surprise. 

Louise Sampson was perhaps better fitted to be president of the HarloweHouse Club than any other member of that interesting household. Emmaand Grace had agreed upon the point when, before the election, theformer's name had been mentioned as a probable candidate. This thoughtsprang again to Grace's mind as she came from her office and saw Louisestill standing before the bulletin board, apparently deep in thought. She turned at the sound of Grace's step. 

"Oh, Miss Harlowe!" she exclaimed. "I do hope our meeting to-night willbe a success. Surely some one will have a real live idea for the club toact upon. "

"Thirty-four heads are better than one, " smiled Grace. "There isinspiration in numbers. "

"We did wonderfully well with the caramels last year, and this year Ibelieve they will be more popular than ever. We made twice as many asusual last Saturday, and sold them all. We were obliged to disappointquite a number of girls, too. Our little bank account is growing slowlybut surely. Still there are certainly other things we can do to earnmoney, collectively and individually. Really I mustn't get started onthe subject. It is time I went to my chemistry recitation. You'll be atthe meeting to-night, won't you, Miss Harlowe? We couldn't get alongwithout you. "

A faint flush rose to Grace's cheeks at Louise's parting remark. Howwonderful it was to feel that one was really useful. Yes; thethirty-four girls under her care really needed her. They needed her farmore than did Tom Gray. Grace frowned a trifle impatiently. She had notintended to allow herself to think of Tom, yet there was something inthe expression of Louise Sampson's gray eyes that reminded her of him. Resolving to put him completely out of her mind, Grace went into thekitchen to consult with the cook concerning the day's marketing. Thepostman's ring, however, caused her to hurry back to her office wherethe maid was just depositing her morning mail on the slide of her desk. 

Her letters were from Anne, Elfreda and her mother, and they filled herwith unalloyed pleasure. Her mother's unselfish words, "I hope my littlegirl is finding all the happiness life has to offer in her work, "thrilled her. How different was her mother's attitude from that of TomGray. Surely no one could miss her as her mother missed her, yet she hadgiven her up without a murmur, while Tom had protested bitterly againsther beloved work and prophesied that some day she would realize thatwork didn't mean everything in life. 

All that day the inspiring effect of her mother's letter remained withGrace. Her already deep interest in her house and her charges receivednew impetus, and when evening came, she felt, as she entered the bigliving room where the thirty-four girls were assembled, that she wouldwillingly do anything that lay within her power to forward theprosperity and success of Harlowe House. 

After the usual preliminaries, Louise Sampson addressed the meeting inher bright direct fashion. "Ever since we came back to Harlowe Housethis year I've felt that we ought to do something to increase ourtreasury money. If the club had enough money of its own, then theHarlowe House girls wouldn't need to borrow of Semper Fidelis. Thatwould leave the Semper Fidelis fund free for other girls who don't livehere and who need financial help. Of course we couldn't do very much atfirst, but if we could get up some kind of play or entertainment thatthe whole college would be anxious to come to see, as they once did abazaar that the Semper Fidelis Club gave, the money we would realizefrom it would be a fine start for us. Now I'm going to leave the subjectopen to informal discussion. Won't some one of you please express anopinion?"

"Don't you believe that some of the students might say we were selfishto try to make money for our own house instead of for the college?Semper Fidelis was organized for the benefit of the whole college, butthis is different, " remarked Cecil Ferris. 

A blank silence followed Cecil's objection. What she had just said was, in a measure, true. 

Louise Sampson looked appealingly at Grace. She had been so sure thather plan of conducting some special entertainment on a large scale wouldmeet with approval. Cecil's view of the matter had never occurred toher. 

"I am afraid that Miss Ferris is right, " Grace said slowly. "Much as Ishould like to see the Harlowe House Club in a position to take care ofits members' wants I am afraid we might be criticized as selfish if weundertook to give a bazaar. "

"Why couldn't we give one entertainment a month?" asked Mary Reynoldseagerly. "I am sure President Morton would let us have Greek Hall. Wecould give different kinds of entertainments. One month we could give aShakespearean play and the next a Greek tragedy; then we could act ascenario, or have a musical revue or whatever we liked. We could makeposters to advertise each one and state frankly on them that theproceeds were to go to the Harlowe House Club Reserve Fund. We wouldn'task any one for anything. We wouldn't even ask them to come. We'd justhave the tickets on sale as they do at a theatre. If the girls liked thefirst show, they'd come to the next one. We'd ask some of the populargirls of the college who do stunts to take part, and feature them. Ithink we'd have a standing-room-only audience every time. "

Mary paused for breath after this long speech. The club, to a member, had eyed her with growing interest as she talked. 

"I think that's a splendid plan, " agreed Evelyn Ward. "I'm willing to doall I can toward it. I've had only a little stage experience, but I'dlove to help coach the actors for their parts. "

For the next half hour the plan for increasing the club's treasury waseagerly discussed. A play committee, consisting of Mary Reynolds, EvelynWard, Nettie Weyburn and Ethel Hilton, a tall, dark-haired girl, notedfor making brilliant recitations, was chosen. 

"Has any one else a suggestion?" asked Louise Sampson, when the firstexcitement regarding the new project had in a measure subsided. 

"Why couldn't we have a Service Bureau?" asked Nettie Weyburn. "I meanwe could post notices that any one who wishes a certain kind of workdone, such as mending, sewing or tutoring, could apply to our bureau. Every one knows that the students of Harlowe House are self-supporting. We wouldn't be here if we weren't. Some of us have a very hard timeearning our college fees. Some of us have been obliged to borrow money, and comparatively few of us ever have pocket money. If the girls whodon't have to do things for themselves found that we could always bedepended upon for services I imagine we would have all the work we coulddo. "

"Hurrah for Nettie!" exclaimed Cecil Ferris. "I think that's a fineidea. "

"So do I, " echoed several voices. 

"But we'd have to put some one in charge of the bureau, and no one of uscould afford to spend much time looking after it, " reminded Louise. 

"Oh, we could take turns, " was Nettie's prompt reply. "Then, too, wecould have certain hours for business, say from four o'clock until sixon every week day, except Saturday and from two o'clock until five onSaturday afternoons. "

"But where would we receive the girls who came to see about having workdone?" asked Alice Andrews, a business-like little person who roomedwith Louise Sampson. 

"I will see that the Service Bureau has a desk installed in one cornerof the living room, " offered Grace, who had, up to this point, listenedto the various girls' remarks, a proud light in her eyes. She loved thesturdy self-reliance of the members of her household. "And there willalso be times when I can do duty on the Bureau, too, " she added. 

"No, Miss Harlowe, you mustn't think of it, " said Louise Sampson. "Youdo altogether too much for us now. "

"I am here to take care of my household, " smiled Grace. "Besides, itwill be a pleasure to help a club of girls who are so willing to helpthemselves. "

"Miss Harlowe is really and truly interested in the girls here, isn'tshe?" Jean Brent commented to Evelyn Ward in an undertone. Having passedher examinations Jean was now a full-fledged freshman. 

"Yes, indeed, " returned Evelyn, with emphasis. "She has done a greatdeal for me. More than I can ever hope to repay. "

"What--" began Jean. Then she suddenly stopped and bent forward in alistening attitude. The electric bell on the front door had justshrilled forth the announcement of a visitor. A moment and the maid hadentered the room with, "A lady to see you, Miss Harlowe. I didn't catchher name. It sounded like Brant. "

Jean Brent grew very white. Turning to Evelyn she said unsteadily, "Idon't feel well. I think I will go up stairs. " Without waiting forEvelyn to reply, she rose and almost ran out of the living room ahead ofGrace. As she stepped into the hall she darted one lightning glancetoward the visitor, then she stumbled up the stairs, shaking withrelief. She had never before seen Grace's caller. 

"How do you feel?" was Evelyn's first question as she entered their roomfully two hours later. "You missed a spread. We had sandwiches and cakeand hot chocolate. "

"I can't help it, " muttered Jean uncivilly. Then she saidapologetically, "I'm much better, thank you. Please forgive me for beingso rude. "

While in the next room Grace was saying to Emma, who, owing to anengagement, had not attended the meeting, "Really, Emma, the name'Riddle' certainly applies to Miss Brent. She came to the meeting withthe others, and when it was only half over she bolted from the livingroom and upstairs as though she were pursued by savages. I wouldn't havenoticed her, perhaps, but I had been called to the door. Mrs. Brant cameto see me about my sewing. Miss Brent hurried out of the living roomahead of me. I saw her give Mrs. Brant the strangest look, then up thestairs she ran as fast as she could go. "

"Grace, " Emma looked at her friend in a startled way. "You don't supposeMiss Brent has run away from home do you? The names Brant and Brentsound alike. She may have thought that some member of her family hadfollowed her here. "

It was Grace's turn to look startled. "I don't know, " she saiddoubtfully. "I hope not. I should not like to harbor a runaway unless Iknew the circumstances warranted it, as was the case with Mary Reynolds. I didn't think of Miss Brent's secret as being of that nature. SurelyMiss Lipton would not countenance a runaway. Still I don't wish to tryto force this girl's confidence. I prefer to let matters stand as theyare, for the present, at least. I've promised to respect her secret, whatever it may be, and I am going to do so. "

Emma shook her head disapprovingly. 

"I don't like mysteries, Grace. When we talked Jean Brent over a fewdays ago I told you that I didn't think it mattered if she choose towrap herself in mystery. But I've changed my mind. I believe you owe itto yourself to insist on a complete explanation from her. Suppose lateron you discovered that you had been deceived in her, that she wasunworthy. Then, again, she might put you in a disagreeable positionwith President Morton or Miss Wilder. You remember the humiliation youendured at Evelyn's hands. I, who know you so well, understand that yourmotive in trusting Miss Brent unquestioningly is above reproach. Butothers might not understand. If she proved untrustworthy, _you_ would becensured far more than she. " Emma's tones vibrated with earnestness. 

Grace sat silent. She realized the truth of her friend's words. Emmararely spoke seriously. When she did so, it counted. Still, she hadgiven her promise to this strange young girl, and she would keep herword. After all Jean Brent's secret might be of no more importance thanthat of the average school girl. 

 CHAPTER VII

 HER OWN WAY

The Service Bureau lost no time in preparing and posting notices on thecollege bulletin board, and on those of the various campus houses, tothe effect that they were prepared to take care of any requests forgeneral services that might be made, and the immediate response withwhich their venture met was gratifying in the extreme. Certain of theclub members found their spare time fully occupied in tutoring freshmen, while those who were skilled needlewomen were kept busy mending, makingsilk blouses, kimonos and even simple styles of gowns. Grace hadthoughtfully placed a second sewing machine in the sewing room, and itnever stood idle. There were requests for all sorts of services such ashair dressing, manicuring and countless small labors which affluentstudents were glad to turn over to their needy classmates. 

Grace and Louise Sampson spent many hours of time and thought upon thenew venture. It required tact and judgment to select the various girlsfor the various labors. First there was the customer to please. Secondthe fact that each member of the club was anxious to be given theopportunity to earn a little extra money. It was wonderful, too, theamount of hitherto undiscovered ability which came to light at the callfor service, and it was not long before Nettie Weyburn had acquiredconsiderable reputation as a manicurist, while Ethel Hilton gainedlasting laurels as a hair dresser and Mary Reynolds proved herself acompetent tutor. Hilda Moore became a fad among certain girls wholoathed letter writing and willingly paid her for taking their dictationand typing their home letters, while Cecil Ferris stood alone as anexpert mender of silk stockings. Louise Sampson made silk blouses. Several members specialized on kimonos. Two girls were kept constantlybusy on hand-painted post cards, posters and cunning little luncheonfavors. There were also occasional requests for a maid or companion forsome special affair. In fact the high standard of excellence which theService Bureau aimed for, and obtained, caused its popularity toincrease rapidly. 

There was but one member of this earnest and busy household to whom theBureau meant nothing. That member was Jean Brent. So far she haddiscovered absolutely nothing she could do to earn money. She had notthe patience to tutor, she loathed the bare idea of performing personalservices for others, and she could not sew a stitch. Nevertheless thefact that she needed money perpetually stared her in the face. True shehad written to Miss Lipton for a loan, and the money had been promptlysent her. She had repaid Grace and Evelyn the small sums they hadadvanced her, but the remainder of the money had dwindled away sorapidly she could hardly have given an account of the way in which ithad been spent. 

Now her thoughts turned to her trunks of unused finery. What possibleobjection could Miss Harlowe have to her selling what was rightfullyhers? If she wished to dispose of certain of her own possessions it wassurely no one's affair save her own. Althea Parker, who was Evelyn'sfriend, and the leader of a clique of the richest girls at Overton, hadbeen given an opportunity to see the contents of one of the trunks andhad gone into ecstacies over the dainty hats and frocks Jean haddisplayed for her benefit. "For goodness' sake _where_ did you get suchlovely things?" had been Althea's curious question. "They must have costa lot of money. "

"Do you think the girls in your set would be interested in them?" Jeanhad asked, ignoring the other girl's question. "I--I should like to sellthem to any one who wants them. I must have some money. I need it atonce. "

"Sell them?" Althea's eye-brows had been elevated in surprise. "Howfunny. " Then her natural selfishness coming strongly to the surface, shehad said hastily. "I'd love to have that green chiffon evening gown. It's never been worn, has it?" She decided it was not her business ifMiss Brent chose to sell her clothes. Jean had gravely assured her thateverything in the trunk was perfectly new and fresh, and Althea had, then and there, bargained for almost a hundred dollars' worth of finery, and promised to interest the girls of her set in Jean's possessions. 

It was not until after Althea had gone that Jean remembered Grace'sobjection to her proposed sale. She decided that she could not have thesale after all. She would sell Althea the things she wished and tell herthe circumstances. But when she laid the matter before Althea the latterhad said lightly, "Oh, don't let a little thing like that worry you. It's none of Miss Harlowe's business. Besides, I've told my friends, andthey are dying to see your things. Evelyn told me to-day that MissHarlowe was going to New York City on Friday night. You can have thegirls come up here on Saturday afternoon. I'll invite Evelyn to luncheonand keep her away until after six o'clock. She wouldn't like it if sheknew. She's a regular goody-goody this year. What you must do is to getthe things out of the other trunks. Then the girls can see them. I'llcome to-morrow for these things I've selected; so have them wrapped upfor me. If we manage it quietly no one need be the wiser, for the girlswon't breathe a word of it to a soul. "

Actuated by her need of money, Jean swallowed her scruples and obeyedAlthea's commands implicitly. Under the pretext of rearranging herwardrobe, she spent her spare time in the trunk room going over hereffects and picking out those articles most likely to appeal to hercustomers, and by Saturday everything was in readiness for the sale. Evelyn, unsuspecting and jubilant over her luncheon engagement withAlthea, who had so far this term held herself rather aloof from her, hurried off to keep her appointment, leaving Jean a clear field. 

Locking the door, this strange girl began laying out her wares. Therewere exquisite evening gowns, with satin slippers and silk stockings tomatch, and there were afternoon and morning frocks, walking suits, separate coats, hats, gloves, fans, scarfs, everything in fact todelight the heart of a girl. Jean handled them all mechanically, andwithout interest. It was only when she heard the murmur of girls'voices outside her door that a deep flush mounted even to her smoothforehead. She drew a deep breath and braced herself as for an ordeal, then answered the peremptory knock on the door. 

There were little delighted cries from the ten girls who came to thesale as they examined Jean's beautiful wardrobe. Being of medium height, her gowns fitted most of her customers, who exulted over the fact oftheir absolute freshness. They were indeed bargains, and, as each girlhad come prepared to buy to the limit of her ample allowance, the moneyfairly poured into Jean's hands. 

For the rest of the afternoon a great trying-on of gowns ensued, and intheir eager appreciation of the pretty things before them they chatteredlike a flock of magpies, arousing not a little curiosity among a numberof the Harlowe House girls who in passing through the hall heard themurmur of voices and subdued laughter. It was after six o'clock when thelast girl, bearing a huge bundle and a suit case, had departed. Jean satdown amidst the wreck of her possessions and sighed wearily. She sprangup the next moment, however, and began feverishly to bundle the variousgarments lying about on the bed and chairs into the open trunk. She hadsold many of her possessions. Those that were left would all go into theone trunk. She must hurry them in before Evelyn returned. She waslikely to come in at almost any moment. Jean had saved a beautiful frockof yellow crępe for Evelyn. She intended to give it to her for aChristmas present. There were shoes, stockings and scarf to match, alongwith a wonderful white evening coat, trimmed with wide bands of whitefur and lined with palest pink brocade. In the short time she had knownEvelyn she had become greatly attached to her, and although unlike indisposition, they had, so far, managed to get along together asroommates. 

Jean knew, however, that Evelyn, who was devoted heart and soul to GraceHarlowe, could not fail to disapprove of her high-handed disregard ofGrace's authority. She, therefore, determined to remove all traces ofthe sale and trust to luck and the honor of the girls who had taken partin it. If, later, Evelyn should recognize any of the various articles asJean's, it would do no particular harm. She would, no doubt, be shocked, but still past lapses of good conduct never disturbed one as did thoseof the present. Feeling that, in her case, at least, the end justifiedthe means, Jean bundled the last tell-tale effect into the trunk andbanged down the lid, resolving to meet Evelyn as though nothing hadhappened, and let the future take care of itself. 

 CHAPTER VIII

 ALL IN THE DAY'S WORK

With the approach of the Thanksgiving holidays a great pleasure and agreat sorrow came to Grace. The "pleasure" was the joyful news that Mr. And Mrs. Harlowe had accepted an invitation to spend Thanksgiving in NewYork City with the Nesbits. This news meant that, for the first timesince her entrance into college as a freshman, Grace would have thesupreme satisfaction of being with her adored parents on ThanksgivingDay. Anne, Miriam and Elfreda would be with her, too, which made theanticipation of her four days' vacation doubly dear. 

Then almost identical with this great joy had come the great sorrow. Miss Wilder was going away. For the past year she had not been well, andnow she had been ordered West for her health. During Grace's first yearat Harlowe House the regard which Miss Wilder had always felt for her asa student had gradually deepened until the two were on terms ofintimacy. Grace felt the same freedom in going to the dean with herdifficulties as she had with Miss Thompson, her loved principal ofhigh-school days. 

It seemed to her as though this staunch friend, with her kindlytolerance, and her amazing knowledge of girl nature, could never bereplaced. No matter how worthy of respect and admiration her successormight be, she could never quite equal Miss Wilder. The possibility ofOverton without her had never occurred to Grace. True she had noted onseveral occasions that Miss Wilder looked very pale and tired. She wasconsiderably thinner, too, than when Grace had entered college as afreshman, yet she had always given out the impression of tirelessenergy. Grace had never heard her complain of ill health, yet here shewas, threatened with a nervous breakdown. The only remedy, a completerest. As soon as her successor had been appointed she would start for anextended western trip in search of health, which only time, the open airand rest could restore. At the older woman's request Grace spent as muchtime as possible in her company. They had long talks over the subjectthat lay closest to the young house mother's heart, the welfare of herflock, and Grace derived untold benefit from the dean's counsel. 

It now lacked only a little time until Overton College would lose one ofits staunchest friends. Divided between the anticipation of meeting andthe pain of parting, Grace hardly knew her own state of mind. It waswith a very sober face that she hung the telephone on its receiver onegray November morning, and slipping into her wraps, set out for OvertonHall in obedience to Miss Wilder's telephoned request. The new dean, Miss Wharton, had arrived, and Miss Wilder was anxious that Grace shouldmeet her. Miss Wharton had expressed herself as interested in MissWilder's account of Harlowe House and its unique system of management. She had also expressed her desire to meet Grace, and Miss Wilder, hopeful that this interest might prove helpful to Grace, had readilyacceded to her wish. 

Grace set forth for Overton Hall in good spirits, but whether it was theeffect of the raw November morning or that the shadow of parting hungheavily over her, she suddenly felt her exhilaration vanish. A strangesense of gloomy foreboding bore down upon her. She found herselfstrangely reluctant to meet Miss Wharton. She had a strong desire toabout-face and return to Harlowe House. "What is the matter with you, Grace Harlowe?" she said half aloud. With an impatient squaring of hershoulders she marched along determined to be cheerful and make the bestof what she could not change. 

As she entered Miss Wilder's office her quick glance took in the short, rather stout figure seated beside Miss Wilder. This, then, was MissWharton. What Grace saw in that quick glance was a round, red, satisfiedface lit by two cold pale blue eyes, and surmounted by lifeless brownhair, plentifully streaked with gray. There was neither grace normajesty in her short, dumpy figure, and Grace's first impression of herwas decidedly unpleasant. An impression which she never had reason tochange. 

Miss Wilder rose to meet Grace with outstretched hand. "My dear, I amglad to see you this morning. "

"And I to see you, " responded Grace, her gray eyes full of affectionateregard. "How are you feeling to-day, Miss Wilder?"

"Very well, indeed, for me, " smiled the dean. "Almost well enough togive up my western rest, but not quite. My heart is in my work here. Itis hard to leave it even for a little while. But I am leaving it in goodhands. I wish you to meet Miss Wharton, Grace. "

She presented Grace to the other woman, who did not offer to take thehand Grace extended, but bowed rather distantly. The color stung Grace'scheeks at the slight. Still she forced herself to try to say honestly, "I am glad to know you, Miss Wharton. "

"Thank you, " was the cold response, "You are much younger than I wasled to believe. It is rather difficult to imagine you as the head of acampus house. You give one the impression of being a student. "

Grace's eyes were fixed on the new dean with grave regard. Was thissalutary speech purely impersonal or did a spice of malicious meaninglurk within it? Not since those far-off days when Miss Leece, adisagreeable teacher of mathematics at Oakdale High School, had made heralgebra path a thorny one had she encountered any instructor thatreminded her in the least of the one teacher she had thoroughlydespised. Yet, as she strove to fight back her growing dislike and replyimpersonally, she was seized with the conviction that even as she andMiss Leece had been wholly opposed to each other, so surely would sheand Miss Wharton find nothing in common. After what seemed an hour, butwas in reality a minute, Grace forced herself to smile and say withquiet courtesy, "This is my second year as house mother at HarloweHouse. I am frequently taken for a student. I really feel no older thanmy girls, and I hope I shall always feel so. "

"It isn't years that count with Miss Harlowe, " smiled Miss Wilder, coming to Grace's defense. "It is the ability to keep things movingsuccessfully, and Miss Harlowe has shown that ability in a markeddegree, " she added. 

"Has she, indeed?" returned Miss Wharton, with what Grace felt to beforced politeness. "I shall be interested in visiting Harlowe House andlearning Miss Harlowe's successful methods of management. " Then sheturned to Miss Wilder and began a conversation from which it appeared asthough she deliberately sought to exclude Grace. 

"I must go, Miss Wilder, " said Grace, rising almost immediately. Shedecided that she could not and would not endure Miss Wharton's rudeness. 

Miss Wilder looked distressed. She could not understand Miss Wharton'sattitude, therefore there was nothing to do save ignore it. 

"Very well, my dear. Run in and see me to-morrow. I shall be here fromtwo o'clock until four in the afternoon. " She took one of Grace's softhands in both of hers. The brown eyes met the gray questioning ones witha look of love and trust. Grace's resentment died out. She said a formalgood-bye to Miss Wharton and hurried from the room. She would go to seeMiss Wilder the next day as she had requested. Perhaps Miss Wharton'srude reception of her was due merely to a brusque trait of character. Perhaps she belonged to the old school who believed that youth andresponsibility could not go hand in hand. At any rate she would tryhard not to judge. Although she usually found her first impressions tobe correct, still there were always exceptions. Miss Wharton might proveto be the exception. 

On her way home she stopped at Wayne Hall. To her it was a house oftender memories, and she never entered its hospitable doors without halfexpecting to see the dear, familiar faces of the girls long gone fromthere to the busy paths of the outside world. 

"Why, how do you do, Miss Harlowe?" was Mrs. Elwood's delightedgreeting. "It certainly is good to see you. I think you might run overoftener when you're so near, but I s'pose you have your hands full withall those thirty-four girls. Did you come to see Miss West and MissEliot? If you did, they're both at home, for a wonder. Miss West doesn'thave a recitation at this hour, and Miss Eliot's sick. "

"Sick!" Grace sprang to her feet. "Oh, I must run up and see her atonce. To tell you the truth, Mrs. Elwood, I came to see you. I hadn'tthe least idea that either of the girls were in, but if you'll forgiveme this time I'll run upstairs to see Patience and make you a specialvisit some other day. "

"Oh, I'll forgive you, all right, " laughed Mrs. Elwood. "I'm glad to seeyour bright face, if it's only for five minutes, Miss Harlowe. "

"You're a dear. " Grace dropped a soft kiss on Mrs. Elwood's cheek, thenhurried up the stairs, two at a time. Pausing at the old familiar doorat the end of the hall, she knocked. There was a quick, light step. Thedoor opened and Kathleen West fairly pounced upon her. 

"Look who's here! Look who's here!" she chanted triumphantly. The tall, fair girl in the lavender silk kimono, who reclined in the Morris chair, turned her head languidly, then gave a cry of delight. 

"You poor girl!" Grace embraced Patience affectionately. "Whatever isthe matter?"

"Oh, just a cold, " croaked Patience. "In the words of J. Elfreda, 'I'm alittle horse. '" Her blue eyes twinkled. "It's worth being sick to haveyou here, Grace. "

"I've been intending to come over every night this week, but I'm sobusy, " sighed Grace. "The Service Bureau keeps me hustling. "

"What a progressive lot of people you Harlowites are, " praised Kathleen. "Did you know that Mary is doing a story about you and your family forour paper. Of course there are no names mentioned. I saw to that. "Kathleen flushed. She recalled a time when she had used Grace's namewithout permission. 

"Yes, I know about it, " smiled Grace, "and I know that no names arementioned. "

Kathleen's color heightened. Then she remarked: "By the way, that MissBrent must have realized a nice sum of money from her sale. When did shehave it, Grace? We didn't hear a word of it. It must have been a veryselect affair. I'm sorry I didn't know of it, for I wanted to buy anevening dress. Rita Harris bought a beauty. Tell us about this latestacquisition to Harlowe House. How does she happen to have such wonderfulclothes, and why didn't she go to work for the Service Bureau instead ofselling them? I'm fairly buzzing with curiosity. "

Grace viewed Kathleen in amazement. "I don't understand you, Kathleen, "she said, in a perplexed tone. "I have heard nothing of a sale. "

"But Miss Brent held it at Harlowe House a week ago last Saturday, "persisted Kathleen. "It is evident she didn't wish you to know it or youwould have been there, too. "

Grace's amazed expression changed to one of vexed concern. She nowunderstood. "One week ago last Saturday I was in New York City, " shesaid soberly. "Until this moment I knew nothing of any such sale. Infact I had objected to the plan when Miss Brent proposed it to me. Ifshe had wished to dispose of certain of her personal belongings to anyone girl I should have said unhesitatingly that it was her own affair, but a general sale is a different matter. The eyes of the college are, to a great extent, directed toward Harlowe House. It's position amongthe other campus houses is unique. That the girls who live there aregiven a home free of charge makes them doubly liable to criticism. Theymust be worthy of their privileges. "

Kathleen nodded in emphatic agreement. "Of course they must. Iunderstand fully your position in regard to them, Grace. "

"You mean the girl we met that day at Vinton's, don't you?" inquiredPatience. "She had been robbed of her money in the train. "

"Yes; she is the very girl. "

"How do you reconcile her lack of means to pay her college expenses withthis wonderful wardrobe that Kathleen has just told us of?"

"I don't reconcile them. I can't. That is just the trouble. " Gracelooked worried. "Speaking in strict confidence, I have really taken MissBrent on trust. I have asked her to explain certain things to me, andshe has refused to do so. On the other hand she is warmly championed bythe principal of one of the most select preparatory schools in thecountry. Then, too, she assures me that at some future day she willexplain everything. Emma calls her the Riddle. It's an appropriate name, too. " Grace made a little despairing gesture. 

"You are the greatest advocate of the motto, 'Live and let live' that Ihave ever run across, Grace, " smiled Patience, "but, " her face grewserious, "I believe you ought to insist on Miss Brent's full explanationof her mysterious ways. If the news of this sale happens to reachfaculty ears _you_ are likely to be criticized for allowing it. "

"But I didn't allow it, " protested Grace. "I refused my consent to it. "

"Yet you are the last one to defend yourself at another's expense, "reminded Kathleen. "You'd rather be misjudged than to see this girl, whohasn't even trusted you, placed in an unpleasant position. "

Grace's color deepened. "I promised to trust her, " she said at last. "Atfirst I felt just as you do about this. Then I talked with her. Sheseemed honest and sincere. I decided that perhaps it would be better notto force her confidence. Young girls are often likely to make mountainsof mole-hills. Still, Emma thinks just as you do, " she added. "Shedidn't at first, but she does now. I'm sure _she_ knows nothing of thesale. She would have told me. "

"I just happened to remember, " began Kathleen, her straight brows drawntogether in a scowl, "that Evelyn Ward rooms with Miss Brent. Evelynmust have known of the sale. Do you mind, if I ask her about it?"

"Ask her if you like. " Grace spoke wearily. Everything was surely goingwrong to-day. She had intended to tell Patience and Kathleen about hertrip to New York. She had visited Anne and the Southards and spent twodelightful days. After what she had heard she felt that there wasnothing to say. "I must go, " she announced abruptly. "I'll come againto-morrow to see you, Patience. A speedy recovery to you. Come and seeme, both of you, whenever you can. By the way, I met Miss Wharton, thenew dean, this morning. "

"What is she like?" asked Kathleen. 

"I can hardly tell you. She is different from Miss Wilder. I saw heronly for a moment. She seems distant. Still one can't judge by firstappearances. I must go. Good-bye, girls. "

Grace left her friends rather hurriedly. She was ready to cry. Therevelations of the morning had been almost too much for her. It was hardindeed to be snubbed, but it was harder still to be deceived. "It's allin the day's work, " she whispered, over and over again, as she crossedthe campus. "I must be brave and accept what comes. It's all in theday's work. "

 CHAPTER IX

 WHAT EVELYN HEARD ON THE CAMPUS

"Ha! Whom have we here?" declaimed Emma Dean, pointing dramatically, asGrace opened the door and stepped into their room. One look at Grace'ssensitive face was sufficient. Emma had lived close to her friend toolong not to know the signs of dejection in the features that usuallyshone with hope and cheerfulness. "Advance and show your countersign, "she commanded. 

"I haven't any, " returned Grace soberly. 

"Spoken like a brigadier general who doesn't need one, " retorted Emma. "You are just in time to hear my terrible tale. 

 "Oh, a terrible tale I have to tell Of the terrible fate that once befell A teacher of English who once resided In the same recitation room that I did, "

she rendered tunefully. 

The shadow disappeared like magic from Grace's face. "Now what have youdone, you funny girl?" she asked, her sad face breaking into smiles. Emma was irresistible. 

"It is not what I have _done_, but what I _might_ have done. What was itWhittier said in 'Maud Muller'?"

 "There's really no one under the sun Can blame you for what you might have done, "

paraphrased Emma briskly. 

Grace giggled outright. "Poor Whittier, " she sympathized. 

"Don't pity him, " objected Emma. "Pity me for what nearly happened tome. The illustrious name of Dean came within a little of traveling aboutOverton attached to a funny story, which I will now relate for your soleedification. You remember that pile of themes I brought home onTuesday?"

Grace nodded. 

"Well, I finished them last night and wrapped them up ready to take backto the classroom to-day. They made a good-sized bundle, because I hadcollected them from all my classes. This morning I was in a hurry, so Ipicked up my bundle and ran. I always like to be in my classroom in goodseason. But fate was against me, for I met Miss Dutton, that newassistant in Greek, and she stopped me to ask me numerous questions, asshe is fain to do unless one sees her first, and from afar off enoughto suddenly change one's course and miss her. Consequently I marchedinto my room to find my class assembled. I assumed a dignity which Ididn't feel, for I hate being late, and laid my bundle of themes on mydesk. Every eye was fixed reprovingly upon me. I had said so muchagainst straggling into class late, yet here I had committed that verycrime. I untied my bundle and was just going to open it when thatblack-eyed Miss Atherton asked me a question. I answered the question, my eyes on her, my fingers folding back the paper. I reached for mythemes and my hand closed over cloth instead of paper. A positive chillwent up and down my spine. I gave one horrified glance at the supposedtheme and poked it out of sight in a hurry. Another second and I wouldhave offered some one my white linen skirt in full view of my class. Instead of themes I had brought my clean laundry to English IV. "

"Oh, Emma!" gasped Grace mirthfully. 

"You're not a bit sympathetic, " declared Emma with pretended severity. 

How Elfreda would love that tale. She would revel in the vision of EmmaDean solemnly proffering her linen skirt to an unsuspecting class. "Ideclare, Emma, you have driven away the blues. "

"Have I?" inquired Emma with guileful innocence. It was precisely whatshe had intended to do. "What is troubling you, Gracious?"

"I can't endure the thought of losing Miss Wilder. I went to see herthis morning and met Miss Wharton. I----"

"Don't like her, " finished Emma calmly. 

"No, I don't, " returned Grace, with sudden vigor, "but how did you knowit?"

"Because I don't like her, either. I was introduced to her yesterdayafternoon in Miss Wilder's office. I didn't tell you, because I wishedyou to form your own impression of her, first hand. "

"She was positively rude to me, Emma. She made me feel like a littlegirl. She said I looked more like a student than a person in charge of acampus house. "

"I agree with her, " was Emma's bland reply. "You might easily be takenfor a freshman. "

"But she didn't mean it in the nice way that you do, " said Grace. "Ihope she never comes to inspect Harlowe House. She will be sure to findfault. "

"She'll have to make a sharp search, " predicted Emma. "We won't worryabout it until she comes, will we? Now, what else is on your mind?"

"The Riddle, " admitted Grace. She related what she had heard fromKathleen regarding the sale. 

"H-m-m!" was Emma's dry response. "They took good care that I shouldn'thear of it. "

"I'm so sorry Evelyn lent herself to something she knew would displeaseme, " mourned Grace. 

"Perhaps she didn't. I know for a certainty that she wasn't in the houseSaturday afternoon, for I met her on the campus and she told me that shewas going to take luncheon and spend the afternoon with Althea Parker. "

"She must have _known_ about it. "

"I am afraid the news of this sale will travel rapidly, " prophesiedEmma. "Not only will Miss Brent be talked over, but you also will becriticized. You know I advised you, not long ago, to insist that MissBrent make a full explanation of things. Take my advice and see her atonce. "

"I will, " decided Grace. "I'll have a talk with her after dinnerto-night. "

Grace was not the only one, however, to whom the news of the sale cameas a shock. Strangely enough Evelyn learned of it during the afternoonof the same day in which it had come to Grace's ears. Her attention hadbeen attracted to a smart black and white check coat which EdnaCorrell, a very plain freshman who tried to make up in extreme dressingwhat she lacked in beauty, was wearing. In crossing the campus on herway to Harlowe House she had encountered Edna in company with anotherfreshman. For an instant she had wondered why the sight of the black andwhite coat which Edna wore seemed so strangely familiar. Then it haddawned upon her that it was identical with a coat belonging to Jean. 

"How do you like my new coat?" had been Edna's salutation, and Evelynhad replied. "It's wonderfully smart. Miss Brent has one very much likeit. "

"She had one, you mean, " Edna had corrected. "Why, weren't you at thesale last Saturday! I suppose you selected what you wanted beforehand. That is where you had the advantage. "

"What sale?" Evelyn had asked, completely mystified. Then explanationshad followed. White with suppressed anger, Evelyn had bade Edna a hastygood-bye and sped across the campus toward Harlowe House. Without a wordshe brushed by the maid who answered the bell, and rushed upstairs asfast as she could run. The temper which she had tried so hard to controlwas now at a high pitch. How dared Jean deliberately place her in suchan unpleasant position when she was trying so hard to be worthy of MissHarlowe's confidence? She flung open the door of her room. Then her eyessought and found Jean standing before the wardrobe, her back to thedoor, a pair of black satin slippers in her hand. 

"How could you do it?" burst forth Evelyn. "You know Miss Harloweforbade it. Now she will think that I knew all about it. Just when I amtrying to merit her confidence. "

Jean Brent whirled about. Her blue eyes flashed. One of the slippers sheheld in her hand swished through the air and landed with a thud againstthe opposite wall. The wave of anger with which she faced Evelyn waslike the sudden sweep of a gale of wind out of a clear sky. The otherslipper followed the first one. Then the doors of the wardrobe wereslammed shut with a force that caused it to shake. To Evelyn it was asthough a strong current of air had blown upon her. Here, indeed was atemper that outranked her own. 

"What right have you to speak to me in such a tone?" raged Jean. "Youhave nothing to say as to what I shall or shall not do. I won't pretendI don't know what you mean. I do know. I don't in the least care whatyou think about it, either. My clothes are mine to do with just whateverI please. If Miss Harlowe imagines I am going to be a servant to halfthe girls at Overton for the sake of earning my fees she is mistaken. Why should she or any one else object to my selling my things, if Ilike? I don't see how you found it out. The girls promised to keep thewhole affair to themselves. I don't understand why you should be soconcerned, or what it has to do with Miss Harlowe's opinion of you. Fromwhat you say I might almost assume that there had been a time when _you_were not to be trusted. "

Evelyn's beautiful face was crimson with anger and humiliation. Shelonged to answer Jean's arraignment with a flood of words as bitter asher own, but her determined effort of months to rule her spirit now borefruit. 

"I'm sorry I spoke so abruptly, " she said coldly. "I just heard aboutthe sale from Miss Correll. You were quite right in what you said. Therewas a time when I could not be trusted. My trouble was about clothes, too. Miss Harlowe helped me find my self-respect again, and this year Iam trying very hard to be an Overton girl in the truest sense of theword. I am telling you this in confidence because I wish you tounderstand why Miss Harlowe's good opinion is so dear to me. "

"You can go and tell her that you knew nothing about the sale, " mutteredJean sullenly. Something in Evelyn's frank confession had made her feela trifle ashamed of herself. 

Evelyn's violet eyes grew scornful. "How can you suggest such a thing?"she asked. 

It was Jean's turn to blush. "Forgive me, " she said penitently. "I knowyou aren't a tell-tale. If she asks me about the sale, be sure I'llexonerate you. "

Evelyn shook her head. "I wish you'd go to her, Jean, and tell her whatyou have done. Sooner or later she is sure to find it out. "

But Jean Brent was in no mood for this advice. It caused her anger toblaze afresh. "There you go again, " she blustered, "with yourgoody-goody advice to me about running to Miss Harlowe with every littlething I do. I hope I'm not such a baby. If Miss Harlowe sends for me, don't think for a minute that I'll be afraid to face her, but until she_does_ send for me I am not going to concern myself about it, and Iwould advise you not to trouble yourself, either. "

With this succinct advice Jean made a fresh onslaught on the unoffendingwardrobe. Opening it she seized her hat and coat. With a lastreverberating slam of its long-suffering doors she turned her back on itand Evelyn, and switched defiantly out of the room and on out of thehouse. 

 CHAPTER X

 LAYING THE CORNERSTONE OF A HOUSE OF TROUBLE

Jean did not return to Harlowe House for dinner that night. Instead sheturned her steps toward Holland House, where Althea Parker lived, assured that in Althea she would find sympathy. In spite of the factthat Jean lived at Harlowe House, a plain acknowledgment of her lack ofmeans, Althea shrewdly suspected that the mysterious freshman had comefrom a home of wealth, and was posing as a poor girl for some reasonbest known to herself. Jean's remarkable wardrobe had impressed herdeeply, while Jean herself carried out the impression of having beenbrought up in luxury. She was self-willed, extravagant, careless of thefuture, and her flippant opinion, delivered to Althea, of the ServiceBureau and work in general, was all that was needed to convince theshrewd junior of Jean's true position in life. Then, too, Jean wasextremely likable, although Althea stood a little in awe of herremarkable poise and a certain imperiousness that occasionally creptinto the girl's manner. 

Jean rang the bell at Holland House with mingled feelings of resentmentand defiance. Resentment against Evelyn for daring to take her to task;defiance of Grace and her commands. 

"Is Miss Parker in?" she inquired of the maid who opened the door. 

"She just came in, miss. "

"Very well. I'll go on upstairs. She won't mind me. "

Jean knocked on Althea's door. Althea called an indifferent "Come in, "and she entered to find her engaged in reading a letter that had come bythe afternoon mail. 

"Oh, hello, Jean, " she drawled at sight of the other girl. "You musthave come in right behind me. What are you glowering about?"

"Evelyn is angry with me because I had the sale, " began Jean. "That'swhat I came to tell you. I'm sorry I told her that Miss Harlowe hadforbidden me to have it. Now she thinks I ought to go to Miss Harloweand tell her that I disobeyed her before she hears of it from some othersource. "

"Nonsense!" exclaimed Althea. "Don't be so silly. Ten chances to oneshe'll never hear of it. If ever she does, it will probably be asancient history. I'll caution the girls again to keep still. Who toldEvelyn?"

"That Miss Correll. Evelyn saw her wearing my black and white checkcoat and recognized it, " returned Jean gloomily. "She came rushing intomy room like a young tornado with the plea that Miss Harlowe would blameher for my misdeeds. " Jean was tempted to add that which Evelyn had toldher in confidence. Then her better nature stirred, and she was silent. 

"Evelyn isn't nearly as good company this year as she was last, "complained Althea. "Ever since the latter part of her freshman year, she's been so different. I've always had an idea, " Althea lowered hervoice, "that last spring she broke some rule of the college and ranaway. One night, just before college closed--it was long after teno'clock, too--Miss Harlowe telephoned me and asked if Evelyn were withme. I found out afterward that she had gone to New York all by herself. She'd never been there but once before when she spent a week-end withme, and she didn't know a soul. I never could find out anything else, though. Evelyn went to her classes on Monday, and not one word did sheever say about it. I didn't find out about the New York part of it untilthis fall, though. A Willston man whom we both know saw her in New Yorkwith that clever Miss West, who wrote 'Loyalheart. '"

Jean listened with attentive gravity. She guessed that Althea hadperhaps hit upon the truth. Evelyn had confessed to her that there hadbeen that in her freshman year of which she was ashamed. She had said itwas about clothes, yet what had clothes to do with breaking the rules ofOverton and running away to New York? Whatever it was, it should remainEvelyn's secret. She would tell Althea nothing. 

"Let's go to Vinton's for dinner, " she proposed, with an abrupt changeof subject. "I've plenty of money now--while it lasts. "

"All right, " agreed Althea, "only I mustn't stay out late. I've afrightful lesson in physics to study for to-morrow. "

Jean did not particularly enjoy her dinner. In spite of her defiantmanner she had begun to feel slightly conscience-stricken. She almostwished she had not gone on with the sale. Still she could have obtainedthe necessary money in no other way. Now that the mischief was done shecould hope only that Miss Harlowe would hear nothing of it--not for along time, at any rate. 

As she crossed the campus and ran lightly up the steps of Harlowe Houseshe resolved to shake off her recent fear of the discovery, on Grace'spart, of her disobedience and act as though nothing had happened. 

Her resolution was destined to receive an unexpected jolt. "MissHarlowe wants to see you, Miss Brent, " were the words with which themaid greeted her as she stepped into the hall. 

Jean's heart sank. So it had come already. She stopped for a moment inthe hall to gather her forces. Her feeling of penitence vanished. Shethrew up her head with a defiant jerk and walked boldly into the littleoffice where Grace sat making up her expense account for November. 

"You wished to see me, Miss Harlowe?" Her tone was coldly interrogative, her eyes hostile, as she stared steadily at Grace. 

Grace looked up from her work and calmly studied the pretty, belligerentgirl standing before her. In that glance she realized what a difficulttask lay before her. 

"Yes, Miss Brent, I wished to talk with you, " she answered. "Sit down, please. "

Jean slid reluctantly into the chair opposite Grace, surveying her withan expression which said plainly, "Well, why don't you begin?"

"Did you have a sale of your clothes in your room one week ago lastSaturday?"

The directness of Grace's question astonished Jean. She found herselfanswering, "Yes, " with equal promptness. 

"Why did you disobey me?" asked Grace. 

"Because I needed the money, " declared Jean boldly, "and I couldn't earnit, Miss Harlowe; I just couldn't. "

Grace gazed reflectively at the flushed face opposite her own. "MissBrent, " she began, "when first you came to Harlowe House I believed thatit was not necessary for me to know certain things which you did notwish to divulge. I might still be of that opinion if you had notdisobeyed me. It is most peculiar for a girl to come to Overton utterlywithout funds, yet possessing quantities of the most expensive clothes. I have always felt assured of your right to be an Overton and a HarloweHouse girl, yet others might not regard you so leniently. That is why Irefused to allow you to have the sale. I feared you would bring downundue criticism upon you, and upon me as well. Once you became a subjectfor criticism you might be obliged to explain to the dean or thepresident of the Overton College what you have refused to explain to me. It was to protect you that I refused your request. Since you have seenfit to disregard my authority I can do but one thing. I must insist thatyou will tell me fully what you have, so far, kept a secret. In order toprotect you I must know everything. I can no longer go on in the dark. "

Jean stood staring at Grace. A look of stubborn resolve crept into herface. Grace, watching her intently, knew what the answer would be. Thestrange girl opened her lips to speak. Then, obeying her natural impulseto give the other person the greatest possible chance, Grace raised aprotesting hand. 

"Don't say you won't do as I ask, Miss Brent. Take a little time tothink over the matter. I am going to give you until after Thanksgivingto decide whether or not you will trust me. Remember my sole desire isto help you. "

For the first time Grace's sweet earnestness seemed to awaken aresponsive chord in the heart of the obstinate freshman. The ready colordyed her cheeks crimson. The hard, defiant light left her eyes. 

"If only she would tell me now and have it over with, " thought Grace, noting the signs of softening on Jean's part. The girl appeared to beconsidering Grace's proposal in the spirit in which it had been made. Then, all in an instant, she changed. It was as though she had suddenlyrecalled something disagreeable. 

"There is really no use in waiting until after Thanksgiving for myanswer. I can't tell you. I suppose you will send me away because Iwon't tell you, but if I did tell you, you would send me away just thesame. So you see it doesn't really make much difference. It was sillyin me to come here. I might have known better, " she ended with amirthless smile. 

Grace regarded Jean with growing annoyance. She had been offered achance to explain herself and she had refused it. True, Grace could alsorefuse to allow her to remain a member of Harlowe House, but this shedid not wish to do. Her pride whispered to her that among the girls whowere enrolled as members of the household, made possible by Mrs. Gray'sgenerosity, there had been no failures. Jean Brent should not be thefirst. She would bear with her a little longer. 

"I repeat, Miss Brent, " she said, "that I do not wish you to answer meuntil after Thanksgiving. Then, if you decide, as I hope you will, to befrank with me, I promise you that I will do my utmost to protect you. "

Jean's only response was, "Good night, Miss Harlowe. " Then she turnedand left the office. 

Grace sat poking holes in an unoffending sheet of paper with her leadpencil. She wondered what Jean Brent's secret could possibly be, and howshe could best reach this stubborn, self-centered freshman. And in herwholehearted effort to be of service to the girl, who apparently neededher help, she did not dream that she was laying the cornerstone of ahouse of trouble for herself. 

 CHAPTER XI

 THANKSGIVING WITH THE NESBITS

"I am sure I never before had so much to be thankful for!" was GraceHarlowe's fervent declaration as she viewed with loving eyes the littlecircle of friends of which she was the center. 

It was Thanksgiving eve, and the Nesbits had gathered under theirhospitable roof a most congenial company to help them commemorateAmerica's first holiday. Mr. And Mrs. Harlowe, in company with Mrs. Gray, had come from Oakdale. J. Elfreda Briggs had won a reluctantconsent from her family, who invariably spent their Thanksgivings atFairview, to make one of Miriam's house party. Anne, who was playing anextended engagement in New York City, was transplanted from theSouthards' to Miriam's home for a week's stay. There were, of course, many loved faces missing, but this only made those who had assembled fora brief sojourn together more keenly alive to the joy of reunion. 

"This is the first Thanksgiving since my senior year in high school thatI've been given the chance to sit between Father and Mother and countmy blessings, " Grace continued, looking fondly from one to the other ofher parents. She was occupying a low stool between them, her favoriteseat at home when the day was done, and the devoted little familygathered in the living room to talk over its events. 

"We are counting our blessings, too, " smiled Mr. Harlowe. "One of themis very lively, and runs away almost as soon as it arrives. " He pinchedGrace's soft cheek. 

"But it always runs back again, " reminded Grace, "and it's always yoursfor the asking. I'd leave my work, everything, and come home on wings ifyou needed me. "

"I used to hate Thanksgiving when I was a youngster, " broke in J. Elfreda. "We always had a lot of company and I always behaved like asavage and spent Thanksgiving evening in solitary confinement. I'd waillike a disappointed coyote and make night generally hideous for thecompany. I've improved a lot since those days, " she grinned boyishly ather friends. "I can see now that it was a pretty good thing the PilgrimFathers set aside a day for counting their blessings. If they thoughtthey were lucky, I wonder what we are. "

Elfreda had unconsciously gone from the comic to the serious. 

"We are favored beyond understanding, " Mrs. Harlowe said solemnly. "When one thinks of the poor and unfortunate, to whom Thanksgiving canbring nothing but sorrow and bitterness, it seems little short ofmarvelous that we should be so happy. "

"I don't wish to be selfish and forget life's unfortunates, but I'drather not think about them now, " was Miriam's candid comment. "Wemustn't be sad to-night. Grace must sparkle, and Elfreda be funny, andAnne must recite for us, and I'll play and David must sing. I'vediscovered that he has a really good tenor voice. We've been practisingsongs together this fall. "

"Really?" asked Grace, with interest. "And all these years we never knewit. David, you can surely keep a secret. "

"Oh, I can't sing, " protested David, coloring. "Miriam only thinks Ican. Our real singers are among the missing to-night. "

"You mean Hippy and Nora?"

"Yes, " nodded David. "Isn't it strange we didn't hear from them. I wroteTom, Hippy and Reddy to come on here for Thanksgiving if they could. Reddy and Jessica couldn't make it. They are coming home for Christmas, though. Tom Gray is away up in the Michigan woods. Still he sent atelegram that he couldn't come. But Hippy didn't answer. This morning Isent him a telegram, and so far there's no answer to that, either. "

"I hope neither of them is ill. " Mrs. Gray's face took on a look ofconcern. "It is not like Hippy to neglect his friends. "

"Nora is usually the soul of promptness, too, " reminded Anne. 

"If I don't hear anything to-night, I'll telegraph Hippy againto-morrow, " announced David. 

There was a pleasant silence in the room. Every one's thoughts were onthe piquant-faced Irish girl, whose sprightly manner and charmingpersonality made her a favorite, and her plump, loquacious husband, whose ready flow of funny sayings never seemed to diminish. 

"There aren't any wishing rings nowadays, " sighed Grace, "so there's nouse in saying, 'I wish Nora and Hippy were here. ' Come on, David, andsing for us. Miriam says you can, and you know it wouldn't be nice inyou to contradict your sister. "

"You can sing, 'Ah, Moon of My Delight, '" suggested Miriam to herbrother. "It is Omar Khayyam set to music, you know"--she turned toGrace--"from the song cycle, 'In a Persian Garden. '"

"I love it, " commented Anne, her eyes dreamy. "Do sing it, David. "

As Miriam went to the piano the whirr of the electric bell came to theirears. 

Grace glanced interrogatively at David. "Perhaps it's a telegram, " shecommented. 

David, who had just risen from his chair to go to the piano, stoppedshort and listened. "False alarm. Must be the doctor. One of the maidsis sick. " He crossed to the piano where Miriam already stood, turningover a pile of music. Having found the song for which she was searching, she took her place before the piano and began the quatrain's throbbingaccompaniment. 

David's voice rang out tunefully. He sang with considerable feeling andexpression. He had reached the exquisite line, "Through this sameGarden--and for One in Vain!" when a clear high voice from the doorwaytook up the song with him. 

With a startled cry of "Nora!" Grace ran to the door. 

The song came to an abrupt end. Miriam whirled on the piano stool. Oneglance and she had joined the group that now surrounded a slender figurewith a rosy, laughing face and a saucy turned-up nose. 

"Nora O'Malley! You dear thing! No wonder David didn't hear from Hippy. But where is he? Not far away, I hope. "

"Ah!" called a voice from behind the thin silk curtain of a small alcoveat one end of the hall, and Hippy emerged, the picture of offendeddignity. "Missed at last, " was his sweeping rebuke. "I had begun tothink I was doomed to languish behind that green silk curtain for life. It's all Nora's fault. If I had been immured there forever and always, it would be her fault just the same. She proposed that I should hide. 'Make them think I came alone. They will be so disappointed, ' was herdeceitful counsel. And I believed her and wrapped myself in the curtainto wait for you to be disappointed. I see it all now. It was merely ascheme to attract attention to herself. She is jealous of mypopularity. "

"Oh, hush, you wicked thing, " giggled Nora. "You didn't give any onetime even to ask for you. "

"That sounds well, " was Hippy's lofty retort, "but remember, all thatprattles is not truth. "

"Squabbling as usual, " groaned David, shaking Hippy's hand with anenergy that belied the groan. 

"Just as usual, " smirked Hippy. "Neither of us will ever outgrow it. Yousee we once lived in a town called Oakdale and associated daily with anumber of very quarrelsome people. I wouldn't like to mention theirnames, but if some day you should happen to go to Oakdale just ask anyone if David Nesbit and Reddy Brooks ever reformed. They'll understandwhat you mean. "

"Your Oakdale friends will have cause to inquire what awful fate hasovertaken you if you don't reform speedily, " warned David. "I'm obligedto stand your insults because you are company. Just wait until thenewness of seeing you again wears off, and then see what happens. "

"You don't have to show me, " flung back Hippy hastily. "I'll take yourword for it. I believe in words, not deeds. You know I used to be sofond of quoting that immortal stanza about doing noble deeds instead ofdreaming them all day long. Well, I've altered that to fit any littleoccasion that might arise. I find it much more comforting to say it thisway:

 "Be wise, dear Hippy, from all violence sever, Say noble words, then do folks all day long. Avoid rash deeds, by sweet words e'er endeavor To prove your friends are wrong. "

A ripple of laughter followed Hippy's sadly altered quotation of thefamous lines. 

"That's a most ignoble sentiment, Hippy, " criticized Miriam. "I can'tbelieve that you would practice it. "

"I didn't say I would practice it, " responded Hippy, with a wide grin. "I merely stated that it was comforting to have around. Must I repeatthat I believe in words, and lots of them. "

"We all knew that years ago, " jeered David. "I believe in words, too. Sensible words from Nora explaining how you and she happened to drift inhere at the eleventh hour. You haven't a sensible word in yourvocabulary. "

"I have, " protested Hippy. "Nora, as your husband, I command you, don'tgive David Nesbit any information. "

Nora dimpled. "I won't tell David, " she capitulated. "I'll tell Miriamand Anne and Grace. " The five Originals were still grouped together inthe hall. "When David's letter came we were just wondering how we wouldspend Thanksgiving with not one of the old crowd at home. Hippy handedme the letter. It came while we were at luncheon. 'Let's go, ' we bothsaid at once. So we locked little fingers, wished and said 'Thumbs. ' Isaid 'salt, pepper, vinegar, ' but Hippy went on indefinitely with suchpleasant reminders as 'death, famine, pestilence, murder. ' He believesin words, you know. " She shot a roguish glance at her broadly-smilingspouse. "Finally I reduced him to reason and we planned to surprise you. This morning found two lonely Originals hurrying to catch up with theirpals. " Nora surveyed her friends with a loving loyalty that brought herextra embracing from Grace, Anne and Miriam. 

"We mustn't be selfish, " reminded Grace. "The folks in the living roomare anxious to welcome you. "

Hippy and Nora were escorted into the living room by a fond bodyguard, and were soon exchanging affectionate greetings with the older membersof the house party. J. Elfreda Briggs had not gone into the hall on thearrival of Hippy and Nora. She could never be induced to intrude uponthe more intimate moments of the Originals. 

Hippy, with understanding tact, at once proceeded to draw her into thecharmed circle. "Well, well!" he exclaimed. "Whom do I see? J. Elfreda, and in the clutches of the law, so I am told. "

J. Elfreda's fear of intruding vanished at this sally. Her own sense ofhumor caused her to claim kinship with Hippy and his pranks and sheanswered him in kind. 

"What I don't see is how _you_ ever escaped those same clutches, " put inDavid. "Don't you have a hard time, usually, to convince the jury thatyou are not the defendant?"

"Not in the least, " responded Hippy, with dignity. "The jury knows mefor what I am. Just let me tell you that if I were to have _you_arrested for slander there wouldn't be the slightest chance of my beingmistaken for the defendant. "

Even David was obliged to join in the laugh against himself. 

"All right, old man. We'll cry quits. I'll bring my law cases to you ifever I have any. "

"And now that you are a broker I'll bring anything I want broken to_you_, " promised Hippy glibly. "So far I've left all those littlebusiness details to the maid. She has successfully broken a number ofour wedding presents, and we look for still greater results. She knowsmore about 'brokerage' or, rather 'breakerage, ' than would fill a book. "

"What a blessed thing it is to find you the same ridiculous Hippy we'vealways known, " smiled Mrs. Gray, as Hippy seated himself beside her fora few minutes' sensible conversation. "You and Nora will never be staidand serious. I'm so glad of it. "

She sighed. She was thinking of Tom Gray, her nephew, and of how grave, almost moody, he had become during the last year. Long ago she haddeplored the fact that no engagement existed between Tom and Grace. Tomhad grown strangely unlike his old cheery self, and in his changedbearing she read refusal of his love on Grace's part. It saddened her. Her heart ached for Tom. She had always looked forward to the day whenGrace would give her life into Tom's keeping. 

She had never approached Grace on the subject of Tom and his love, butto-night, as she watched Hippy and Nora, serene in their mutual love andcomradeship, and marked, too, the quiet devotion of Anne and David, whowere to be married in Oakdale on New Year's night, her heart went out toher gray-eyed boy, far away in the great North woods, and she determinedto say a word for him to Grace. 

It was late in the evening before she found her opportunity. With thearrival of Hippy and Nora the interest soon centered about the piano. Grace, while not a performer, was an ardent lover of music, and herdelight in Nora's singing was so patent that Mrs. Gray would not disturbher. 

It was during the serving of a dainty little repast that Mrs. Graycalled to Grace, "Come here, Grace, and sit by me. "

Grace obeyed with alacrity, drawing her chair close to that of her oldfriend. 

"I thought I would ask you, my dear--what do you hear from Tom?" beganthe dainty old lady with apparent innocence. 

Grace felt the color mount even to her forehead. 

"I haven't heard from him lately, " she confessed. "I--that is--I owe hima letter. "

"I wish you would write to him. Poor boy. He is very lonely, away upthere in the woods. "

Grace did not answer for a moment. Then she said in a constrained voice, "I _will_ write to him, Mrs. Gray. I know he is lonely. "

There was an awkward pause in the conversation; then came the abruptquestion, "Grace, do you love my boy?"

"No, Fairy Godmother, " replied Grace in a low tone. "I'm sorry, but Idon't. That is, not in the way he wishes me to love him. "

"I am sorry, too, Grace. I feel almost as though I were responsible forhis sorrow. For to him it is a deep sorrow. If I had not given HarloweHouse to Overton College, you might have found that your work lay inbeing Tom's wife. He has never reproached me, but I wonder if he everthinks that. "

"I am sure he doesn't, " Grace's clear eyes met sorrowfully the kind blueones. "Please don't think that Harlowe House has anything to do with mynot marrying Tom. It is only because I do not love him that I am firmin refusing him. My heart is bound up in my work. Really, dear FairyGodmother, I am almost sure I shall never marry. For your sake and his, I'd rather marry Tom than any other man in the world, if I felt thatmarriage was best for me. But I don't. I glory in my work and freedomand I _couldn't_ give them up. I've wanted to say this to you for a longtime, but I didn't know just how to begin. Now that I have said it, Ihope it hasn't wounded you. "

"My dear Grace, " Mrs. Gray's voice was not quite steady, "I would givemuch to welcome you as my niece, but not unless you love Tom with thetenderness of a truly great love. If that love ever comes to you, Ishall indeed be happy. But my dear boy is worthy of the highestaffection. If you cannot give him that affection, then it is far betterthat you two should spend your lives apart. "

 CHAPTER XII

 MISSING--A FRIEND

Four days, spent in the society of those one loves best, pass almostwith the rapidity of lightning. Unlike most of her visits to New YorkCity, Grace gave little of her time to attending the theatres and seeingthe metropolis. By common consent the members of the house party spentthe greater share of their holiday together in the large, luxuriousliving room. Only one evening found them away from this temporary home. That was on Thanksgiving night, when Miriam gave a theatre party inhonor of her guests to see Everett Southard and Anne in "King Lear, " andafter the play Mr. And Miss Southard entertained their friends at supperin one of New York's most exclusive restaurants. Thanksgiving morningthey spent in the church of which Eric Burroughs the actor-minister waspastor, and in the afternoon they motored through Central Park and farout Riverside Drive. Aside from this, the rest of their stay found thethoroughly congenial household gathered about their borrowed fireside, treasuring the precious moments that flitted by all too fast. 

There was but one drawback to Grace's pleasure. The thought that she hadbrought even a breath of sadness to her old friend, Mrs. Gray. Therewere moments, too, when she experienced a faint resentment against Tom. Must her reunions with her friends be forever haunted by the knowledgethat she had made one of the Eight Originals unhappy? The approachingmarriage of Anne to David meant, that of the four girls she, only, hadchosen to walk alone. She knew that Anne, Nora and Jessica would hailjoyfully the news of her engagement to Tom. Living in the tenderatmosphere of requited love, their sympathies went out to the lover. 

It was not until Sunday morning, after she had accompanied her father, mother and Mrs. Gray to the railway station and was driving back to theNesbits' in David's car, that Anne ventured to broach the subject of Tomto Grace. Elfreda, Hippy, Miriam and Nora were in the automobile justahead. Mr. And Mrs. Harlowe and Mrs. Gray had driven to the station inDavid's car, so, on the return, Grace and Anne had the tonneau of theautomobile quite to themselves. 

Both girls were unusually quiet, and David, fully occupied in drivinghis car through the crowded streets, said little. 

"Anne, " it was Grace who broke the silence, "if David insisted upon yourgiving up the stage entirely, would you marry him?"

"Yes, " came Anne's unhesitating answer. "I love him so much that I coulddo even that. Only he hasn't asked me to make the sacrifice. Heunderstands what my art means to me, and is willing to compromise. I amnot going on any more road tours. I may play an occasional engagement inthe large cities, but I have promised, so far as is possible, to remainin New York. "

"But when you were at Overton he was opposed to your stage career, "reminded Grace. "What made him change his mind?"

"Living in New York and being influenced by Mr. Southard, I think. Yousee the Southards knew all about me and my affairs. Long ago Mr. Southard began educating David to his point of view in regard to thestage. David is neither narrow-minded nor obstinate, so it has all comeright for me, " she ended happily. Then she added, as her hand foundGrace's. "I wish you loved Tom, Grace. "

"And you, too, Anne!" Grace's tones quivered with vexation. "Am I neverto be free from that shadow?"

"Why, Grace!" Anne looked hurt. "I didn't dream you felt so stronglyabout poor Tom. I'm sorry I said anything to you of him. "

"Forgive me, dear, for being so cross. " Grace was instantly penitent. "But it seems as though the whole world, my world, I mean, wasdetermined to marry me to Tom. You are all on his side--every one ofyou. It's the old case of all the world loving a lover. I know you thinkI'm hard-hearted. None of you stop to consider my side of it. Oh, yes;there is one person who does. Mother understands. She doesn't think Iought to marry Tom, just to please him. She realizes that my work meansmore to me than marriage. " Grace's tone had again become unconsciouslypetulant. 

Anne regarded her in silence. Hitherto she had not realized how remotewere Tom's chances of winning Grace's love. It was quite evident, too, that she had made a mistake in broaching the subject to Grace. Itappeared as though too much had already been said on that score. Anneresolved to trespass no further. "Please forget what I said, Grace. I'msure I understand. I'll never mention the subject to you again. "

Grace eyed Anne quizzically. "I ought to be grateful to my friends forhaving my welfare at heart, " she admitted, "and I do appreciate theirsolicitude. Don't think I've turned against Tom because they have triedto plead his cause. So far, it hasn't made any difference. I can't helpthe way I feel toward him. Still, I'd rather not talk about him. Itdoesn't help matters, and I am beginning to get cross over it. "

"You couldn't be cross if you tried, " laughed Anne. 

"Oh, yes I could, " contradicted Grace. "I could be quite formidable. "

At this juncture their talk ended. Their automobile had drawn up beforethe Nesbits' home and David stood at the open door of the car to helpthem out. During the few short hours that remained to Grace before timefor her train to Overton she and Anne had no further opportunity forconfidences. 

 * * * * *

It was twenty minutes past eleven o'clock that night when the trainreached Overton, and Grace was not sorry to end her long ride. It hadbeen an unusually lonely journey. For the first time in her experienceshe had made it alone, and without speaking to a person on the train. Then, too, the regret of parting with those she loved still weighedheavily upon her. "I do hope Emma is awake" was her first thought as shecrossed the station yard and hailed the solitary taxicab that always metthe late New York train, lamenting inwardly that the lateness of thehour and the weight of her luggage prevented her from walking homethrough the crisp, frosty night, under the stars. 

The vestibule light of Harlowe House shone out like a beacon across thestill white campus. Grace thrilled with an excess of love and pride atsight of her beloved college home. How much it meant to her, and howsweet it was to feel that her business of life consisted in being ofhelp to others. If she married Tom that meant selfish happiness for theytwo alone, but as house mother she was of use to seventeen times twopersons. "The greatest good to the greatest number, " she whispered, asshe slid her latchkey into the lock. 

The living room was dark. The girls had long since gone to their rooms. Grace's feet made no sound on the soft velvet carpet as she hurried upthe stairs. A gleam of yellow light from under her door showed that Emmawas indeed keeping vigil for her. 

"Hooray, Gracious!" greeted Emma as the door closed behind her roommate. She flung her long arms affectionately about Grace and kissed her. "Isit four days or four weeks since I saw you off to New York and returnedto my humble cot to wrestle with the job of managing that worthyaggregation known as the Harlowites?"

"I should say it was four hours, " corrected Grace. "Not that I didn'tmiss you, dear old comrade. We all missed you. Every last person wishedyou had come with me, and sent you their best wishes. It was splendid tospend Thanksgiving with Father and Mother, and to see Mrs. Gray and theothers. Did you receive my postcard? I wrote you that Hippy and Norawere with us. They gave us a complete surprise. " Grace related furtherdetails of her visit, walking about the room and putting away herpersonal effects as she talked. 

As usual Emma had made chocolate and arranged on the center table atempting little midnight luncheon for the traveler. It was not longuntil Grace had donned a pretty pale blue negligee and the two friendswere seated opposite each other enjoying the spread. 

"Now I've told you all my news, what about yours?" asked Grace at last. 

"I've only one tale to tell, " responded Emma dryly, "and that is not apleasant one. The news of Miss Brent's sale has traveled about thecampus like wildfire. We've had a perfect stream of girls coming here. They have conceived the fond idea that Harlowe House is a headquartersfor second-hand clothing. I have labored with them to convince them thatsuch is not the case, but still they yearn for the Brent finery. Judging from what I hear, it must have been 'some' wardrobe. Pardon mylapse into slang, O, Overton. A number of the teachers have commented onthe affair. I've been asked several pointed questions. "

"How dreadful!" broke in Grace, her face clouding. "Still I was almostsure something would come of it. That was the reason I forbade MissBrent to hold a sale when first she proposed it to me. Do you think thatMiss Wilder and--Miss Wharton know it?" Grace hesitated beforepronouncing the latter's name. 

"Miss Wilder doesn't know, because she left for California lastSaturday. "

A cry of surprise and disappointment broke from Grace. "Miss Wildergone, and I didn't say good-bye to her! Why did she leave so suddenly, Emma? She expected to be at Overton for another week, at least. "

"Some friends of hers were going to the Pacific Coast in their privatecar, and knowing that she was ordered west for her health, they wroteand invited her to join them. They had arranged to leave New York Citythis morning, so she left Overton for New York yesterday morning. I amsure she wrote you. One of the letters that came for you while you weregone is addressed in her handwriting. "

Emma reached down, opened the drawer of the table at which they weresitting, and drew out a pile of letters. "Here's your mail, Gracious. Goahead and read it while I clear up the ghastly remains of the spread. "

"All right, I will. " Grace went rapidly over the pile of envelopes whichbore various postmarks. The majority of the letters were from friendsscattered far and wide over the country. The thick white envelope, MissWilder's own particular stationery, lay almost at the bottom of thepile. Grace tore it open with eager fingers and read:

 "MY DEAR GRACE:

 "Just a line to let you know how much I regret leaving Overton without seeing you again. There were several matters of which I was anxious to speak with you at greater length. I had not contemplated leaving here for at least another week, but I cannot resist the invitation which a dear friend of mine has extended to me, to travel west in her private car, so I shall join her in New York City on Saturday evening, as she wishes to start on her tour at once. 

 "As soon as I reach my destination I will forward you my permanent address. I wish you to write me, Grace. I shall be anxious to know what is happening at Harlowe House and throughout the college. Remember distance can make no difference in my interest and affection for you. You have been, and always will be, a girl after my own heart. With my best wishes for your continued welfare and success. 

 "Your sincere friend, "KATHERINE WILDER. "

Grace laid the letter down with a sigh and sat staring moodily at it, her elbows on the table, her chin in her hands. 

Emma, who had finished clearing the table, regarded her withaffectionate solicitude. Stepping over to her, she slid her arm overGrace's shoulders. Grace raised her head. Her eyes met Emma's. Then shepushed the letter into Emma's hand. "Read it, " she commanded. 

"Do you think she understood?" was Emma's question as she handed backthe letter. 

"About Miss Wharton not liking me?" counter-questioned Grace. 

Emma nodded. 

"I am afraid she didn't. " Grace's gray eyes were full of sad concern. "And the most unfortunate thing about it is that I must never troubleher with Miss Wharton's shortcomings. It would worry her, and that wouldretard her recovery. If the year brings me battles to fight, I mustfight them alone. "

 CHAPTER XIII

 A DISTURBING CONFIDENCE

Grace awoke the next morning with the weight of a disagreeable dutyhanging over her. She had given Jean Brent until after Thanksgiving todecide upon her course of action. Jean's disregard for her wishes hadalready placed the freshman in an unenviable prominence in college. Conscientious to a fault, Grace believed herself to be partly to blamefor what had occurred during her week-end absence from Harlowe House. She should have insisted, in the beginning, on absolute frankness on thepart of Jean. She had respected the girl's secret and invested her withan honor which she did not possess. It now looked as though she, as wellas Jean, might already be in a position to reap the folly of such acourse. 

With Miss Wilder as dean, Grace knew that Jean's indiscretion would betreated with leniency, but she was by no means sure of what MissWharton's attitude might be should the story reach her ears. Grace hopeddevoutly that it would not. But whatever happened Jean Brent must impartto her what she had hitherto kept a secret. Grace was resolved uponthat much, at least. She could not decide as to the wisest course topursue until she had heard Jean's story. She decided to wait until thegirls were at luncheon, then ask Jean to come to her office thatafternoon before dinner. At luncheon, however, greatly to her surprise, Jean walked directly up to her table and said in a low tone, "I havedecided to tell you my secret, Miss Harlowe. When may I talk with you?"

"I shall be in my office when you come from your classes this afternoon, or I can wait for you in my room, if you prefer. " A great wave of reliefswept over Grace as she answered the girl. She had feared that Jeanwould prove stubborn in her determination to keep her secret. 

"Thank you. I will come to your office. " Jean turned away abruptly. 

Emma Dean had noted Jean's unusually meek manner. She had endeavored notto hear what was not intended for her ears, but low as were Jean'stones, the words reached her. She made no comment, after Jean had takenher place at one of the other tables, until Grace remarked, "Emma, youcould hardly help hearing what Miss Brent said to me. "

"Yes, I heard what she said, " responded Emma unemotionally. 

"I am so glad she has decided to trust me. "

"It might be better for all concerned if she had trusted you in thebeginning, " was Emma's dry retort. "I can't help feeling a trifle out ofpatience with that girl, Grace. She had no business to commit an act, nomatter how trivial, that would lay you open to criticism. "

"Have you heard any one in particular criticizing me?" asked Grace withquick anxiety. 

Emma did not answer for a moment. Grace watched her, her gray eyestroubled. 

"I'll tell you precisely what I heard this morning. Before I leftOverton Hall to come here for luncheon I stopped for a moment to seeMiss Duncan. Miss Arthur, that new teacher of oratory, was with her. Iwalked into the room just in time to hear Miss Duncan say 'I canscarcely credit it. I am surprised that Miss Harlowe--' then she saw me, turned red and stopped short. Miss Arthur looked rather sheepishly atme. I pretended that I had heard nothing, asked the question I intendedto ask, and went on my way, much perturbed in spirit. I can't bear tohear you criticized in the smallest degree, Grace, " was Emma's vehementcry. "I am sure it was about this sale they were talking. It's all verywell for Miss Brent to take the stand that she has the privilege ofdoing as she pleases with her own clothing, but there is somethingabout the very idea of a sale of wearing apparel that quite upsetsOverton traditions and causes Harlowe House to lose dignity. One can'timagine an enterprising clothes merchant living at Holland or MortonHouse or even at Wayne Hall. The students should have had the good tasteto discourage it, but, from what I hear, Miss Palmer had expatiated onthe glories of Miss Brent's wardrobe to the clique of girls she chumswith, and they gathered like flies about a honey pot. You'll usuallyfind the girls with the largest allowances are always eager to obtainmuch for the smallest possible outlay. I think, too, that Miss Palmer'sinfluence is not wholesome. It led to Evelyn Ward's folly last year. Evelyn hasn't been unduly friendly with her so far this year. I'venoticed that. "

"I can't believe Evelyn had anything to do with this sale, " assertedGrace. "She may have known of it, but she never sanctioned it. "

"At least she didn't attend it, " commented Emma, "but, come to think ofit, neither did Althea Parker. Don't you remember, I mentioned to youthat I met Evelyn on the campus that fateful Saturday and she said shewas going to spend the afternoon with Miss Parker?"

"Then if Miss Parker was ringleader in the affair, why didn't she havethe courage to attend the sale?" was Grace's quick question. 

"For further information inquire of Miss Brent, " advised Emma, shruggingher shoulders. 

"I will, " sighed Grace. "I seem fated to puzzle over hard questions, don't I?"

It was half-past four o'clock when Jean Brent entered the office whereGrace sat idly turning the leaves of a magazine. 

"Sit down, Miss Brent, " invited Grace. Then in her usual direct fashion, "I am ready to listen to anything you wish to say. "

Jean Brent flushed, then the color receded from her fair skin, leavingher very pale. In a low tone she began a recital that caused GraceHarlowe's eyes to become riveted on her in intense surprise, mingledwith consternation. An expression of lively sympathy sprang into herface, however, as the story proceeded, and when Jean had finished with ahalf sob, Grace stretched out her hands impulsively with, "You poorlittle girl. "

Jean clasped the outstretched hands and murmured, "You don't blame me somuch, then, do you, Miss Harlowe?"

"No, I can't, " Grace made honest answer, "but I am so sorry that you didnot come to me with this in the beginning. I could have helped youarrange your affairs nicely. You could have borrowed money from theSemper Fidelis Fund and later, if you were desirous of selling yourwardrobe you could have disposed of it in New York City for fully asmuch as you have received for it here. A dear friend of mine in New Yorkwho is an actress has often told me that the women of the varioustheatrical companies who play minor parts are only too glad to purchaseattractive wearing apparel which society women sell after one wearing. "

"I didn't know. I am sorry I didn't tell you long ago. " Jean wasthoroughly penitent. "Will it make so very much difference now?"

"I hope not. It is hard to say. Unfortunately the news of the sale hasreached the ears of several members of the faculty. Not only you, but I, as well, have been criticized. We can do nothing except wait for thegossip about it to die a natural death. " Grace's quiet acceptance of theunpleasantness which Jean's rash act had forced upon her stung thefreshman far more sharply than reproof. 

"I can go to the dean and tell her what I have told you, " faltered Jean. 

Grace shook her head. "No, I should not advise it. This affair belongsentirely to Harlowe House and should be settled here. I will write toMiss Lipton to-night. If Miss Wilder were here I should not hesitate toplace matters before her, but I am not so sure of Miss Wharton, thewoman who is filling Miss Wilder's position. For the present, at least, silence will be best. If Miss Wharton hears of it and sends for you, then you had better be frank and conceal nothing. "

"Do you mean that you intend to keep my secret, Miss Harlowe; that youwill let me stay on at Harlowe House and finish my freshman year?"

"Yes; not only the freshman year, but your sophomore, junior and senioryears as well, provided Miss Lipton approves and advises it. I shallwrite to her exactly what has occurred. She is nearest to you andtherefore to her belongs the decision. But, while I am endeavoring towork for your interest I wish you to work for it, too. I would like tosee you more self-reliant. You have been brought up in luxury, but youmust forget that. As matters now stand you will one day be obliged toearn your own living. You must build your foundation for a useful lifeduring your freshman year. "

Grace's voice vibrated with an earnestness that visibly moved herlistener. 

"I will try. I _will_ try, " she declared fervently. "It is wonderful inyou to care so much about me, when I have been so troublesome. "

"We won't think of that any longer, " smiled Grace. "However, there isone question which I must ask you. Did Miss Ward know of the sale?"

"No, " admitted Jean, looking ashamed. "I kept it a secret from her. MissParker purposely invited her to luncheon that afternoon. She picked outthe things she wanted to buy beforehand and took them out afterward. Evelyn was very angry. We quarreled, and have not spoken to each othersince. It was my fault. "

"Then, to please me, will you try to be friends with Miss Ward again?"

"Yes. "

"You must tell no one else what you have told me, " stipulated Gracefurther. "It must be a secret between us. "

"I will tell no one, " promised Jean. 

The ringing of the door bell and the entrance of the maid with a card, brought the confidential talk to an end. Grace rose and held out herhand. "I must go, " she said. "I will talk with you again when I hearfrom Miss Lipton. "

"Thank you over and over again, Miss Harlowe. " Jean's eyes were lit witha strength of purpose rarely seen in them. As she left the office andthoughtfully climbed the stairs to her room she resolved anew to beworthy of Grace Harlowe's approval and respect. 

 CHAPTER XIV

 THE RETURN OF THE CHRISTMAS CHILDREN

"Holy night, peaceful and blest, " rose Nora Wingate's clear voice, highand sweet on the still winter air. A chorus of fresh young voices tookup the second line of the beautiful hymn, filling the calm of the snowynight with exquisite harmony. 

A little old lady, with hair as white as the snow itself, her cheeksbright with color, her eyes very tender, appeared in the library windowas the song ended. She had concealed herself in the folds of the curtainwhile the singing went on, fearing it might come to a sudden stop shouldshe reveal herself. 

Her appearance, however, inspired the singers to fresh effort, for, immediately they spied her, led by Nora, they burst into the old Englishcarol, "God Rest You, Merry Gentlemen. " They sang it with their rosy, eager faces raised to her, a world of fellowship in every note, whileshe stood motionless and listened, a smile of supreme love and contentmaking her delicate features radiant. 

As they ended this second carol she raised the window. "Come in, thisminute, every one of you blessed children. You can't possibly know howhappy you have made me this Christmas Eve. "

"Coming right in the window, " declared Hippy, as he made an ineffectualspring and failed to land on the wide sill. 

"Just as I expected, " jeered Reddy Brooks, dragging him back. "You mightknow Hippy would spoil everything. We all start out, on our bestbehavior, to sing carols to our fairy godmother. Then at the mosteffective moment, when we are feeling almost inspired, he ruins thewhole effect by trying to jump in the window. "

"He might as well try to jump through a ten-inch hoop, " seconded David. "He'd be just as successful. "

"They are slandering me, Nora, " whimpered Hippy, "and I am the sweetestcarol singer of them all. Protect me, Nora. Tell Reddy Brooks it was hissinging that nearly ruined that last carol. Tell him his voice is asloud and obnoxious as his hair. And tell David Nesbit that--" Hippy gavea sudden agile bound out of reach of Reddy's avenging hands, and toreacross the lawn and around the corner of the house, shrieking a wild, "Good-bye, Nora. Remember I've always been a good, kind husband to you. Don't forget me, Nora. "

[Illustration: "Holy Night, Peaceful and Blest. "]

"I'll pay him yet for that remark about my obnoxious hair, " grinnedReddy, as the carol singers trooped across the lawn and into the house. 

Mrs. Gray met her Christmas children with welcoming arms. "I am going tokiss every one of you, " she announced. 

"We are willing, " assured David, and she was passed from one pair ofarms to another, emerging from this wholesale embrace, flushed andlaughing. 

"You didn't kiss me, " observed a plaintive voice from behind theportieres that divided the library from the hall. Hippy's round face wasthrust engagingly into view. He had slipped in the side door, unobserved. 

"There he is, Reddy. How did he get in so quietly?" David took avengeful step forward. The face disappeared. 

"Just wait until I hang up my overcoat, " threatened Reddy. 

"Don't let him hang it up, Nora. If you value the safety of yourhusband, make him stand and hold it, " pleaded the plaintive voice. 

"Here, Reddy, give me your hat and coat, " ordered Nora cruelly. 

"Ha! I defy you. " Hippy suddenly bounced from behind the curtain intothe midst of the group in the hall. "I would defy forty David Nesbitsand fifty Reddy Brooks for a kiss from my fair lady. " He bowed beforeMrs. Gray. 

"Bless you, Hippy, " she said, as she kissed his fat cheek, "that wasnicely said. "

"I am always saying nice things, " assured Hippy airily. "Better stillthey are always true things. There are some persons, though, who can'tstand the white light of truth. May I rely upon you for protection, Mrs. Gray? Alas, I am now alone in the world. The person who is supposed tohave my welfare at heart is hob-nobbing with my traducers. Miriam Nesbitused to be a fairly good protector, but she hasn't done much along thatline lately. "

"Come on, Hippy. I'll take care of you. I'm sorry I've neglected you. "Miriam held out her hand. Hippy hung his head and simpered. Then withhis Cheshire cat grin he seized Miriam's hand and toddled beside herinto the library. The others followed, laughing at the ridiculousspectacle he presented. 

"Both our fairy godmother and I are disgusted with you, " taunted Nora asshe directed a glance of withering scorn at Hippy, now calmly seatedbeside Miriam on the big leather davenport, the picture of triumph. "Youasked her to protect you; then you deserted her and deliberately wentover to Miriam for help. "

"Wasn't that awful?" deplored Hippy. "Such inconstancy makes me blush. "

"You couldn't blush if your life depended upon it, " was David Nesbit'sscathing comment. 

"There are others, " retorted Hippy. 

David glared ferociously at the grinning Hippy. 

"There are others, " went on Hippy blandly, "who, I might venture to say, have even greater trouble in producing that much lauded rarity, a blush. But what does blushing mean? It means turning very red. It isn't alwaysconfined to one's face, either. I once knew a man, a rare creature, whose very hair blushed. That is, it turned red when he was an infantand blushed more deeply every year. In fact it never quit blushing. "

"I once knew a person, a senseless creature, who didn't know when he waswell off, " began Reddy, in an ominous voice. "From the time he learnedto talk he made ill-natured remarks about his friends. But at last hecame to a terrible end. He----"

"I never knew him, " interrupted Hippy. "I'm not interested in persons Idon't know. I'd rather talk to Grace. I've known her for a long time, and we've always been on friendly terms. Come and sit beside me, Grace. "

"Jilted, " declared Miriam tragically, as Grace accepted the invitationand seated herself on Hippy's other side. 

"Not a bit of it. I believe in preparedness. Theconstant-reinforcements-arriving-every-minute idea appeals to me. Youare both bulwarks of defense. "

"I'm surprised that anything except eats appeals to you. " This fromReddy. 

"'Eats' did you say? What are eats? Or, better, _where_ are eats?"demanded Hippy, beaming hopefully at Mrs. Gray. 

"They will appear very soon, Hippy, " assured Mrs. Gray. "I sent adispatch to the kitchen the moment you finished singing. "

"For goodness' sake, Grace and Miriam, keep Hippy quiet for a while. Noone else has had a chance to say a word, " complained David. "I'd like tohear a few remarks on 'Life in Chicago' by our estimable pals, Jessicaand Reddy. "

"Life in Chicago can't compare with life in dear old Oakdale, " saidJessica. "In spite of the theatres, concerts and all the pleasures thata big city offers one, Reddy and I are always a little lonely. "

"That is because you and Reddy miss me, " observed Hippy with positivemodesty. 

"You're right, old man. We do miss you, " agreed Reddy, withunmistakable sincerity. For once Hippy forgot to be funny. "You aren'tthe only ones who miss the old guard, " he answered seriously; then headded in his usual humorous strain, "I hope some day the Eight OriginalsPlus Two and all their friends will emigrate to a happy island andcolonize it. Then there won't be any missed faces or any letter writingto do, for that matter. David and Reddy can run the business of thecolony and see that we aren't cheated when we trade glass beads andother little trinkets with the savages. Of course there will be a fewmoth-eaten old cannibals. Tom can classify the trees of the forest andmake the obstreperous beasts and reptiles behave. I will represent thelaw. I will settle all disputes and administer justice. I'll be aregular old Father William, like the one in 'Through the Looking Glass, 'I always did love that poem, especially this verse:

 "'In my youth, ' said his father, 'I took to the law, And argued each case with my wife. And the muscular strength which it gave to my jaw, Has lasted me all of my life. '"

Nora pretended to pay no attention to Hippy, who waited for her toprotest, an expansive smile wreathing his fat face. "She didn'tunderstand, " he said sadly, after beaming at Nora in vain. "There's nouse in trying to explain. I suppose I'll have to give her an appointmentof some kind on my island. Nora, you may have charge of me. Isn't that anoble mission? Still she doesn't answer. Oh, well, never mind, I'll goright on appointing. "

"Mrs. Gray, you will be the queen, and Grace can be prime minister. Annecan have charge of the amusements, and Miriam can help her. Miriam has adecided leaning toward the drama. "

The color in Miriam's cheeks suddenly deepened at this apparentlyinnocent remark. "I don't think I like your island idea very well, " shesaid lightly. "I'd much rather have the Originals live right here inOakdale. " She rose and strolled across the room to where Jessica sat. 

"It's not the island idea. It's the dramatic idea that Miriam objects todiscussing, " confided Hippy in a low tone to Grace. 

"How did you find it out?" asked Grace. 

"First of all by observation, my child. Second, through David. He knowsit, too. Southard told him. They have seen a good deal of each othersince the Nesbits have lived in New York. David thinks him worthy ofMiriam. "

"I knew he cared. I wonder if Miriam does? She never mentions Mr. Southard. I hope she loves him. It is so hard when one cares and theother doesn't. " Grace's gray eyes grew sad. Conversation languishedbetween Hippy and Grace for a little. Then with a half sigh Grace rose, "I am going to ask Nora to sing, " she said. 

Before she had time to carry out her intention John appeared pushing asmall table on wheels ahead of him. Its shelves were laden withsandwiches, olives, salted nuts and delicious fancy cakes, while a maidfollowed him with a chocolate service. 

Mrs. Gray poured the chocolate, and Anne, always her right-hand man, assisted her in serving it. Grace, with her ever-present youthfulness ofspirit, found trundling the table about the room a most pleasingdiversion. They were a very merry little company, entering into the joyof being together with all their hearts, and deeply thankful for theopportunity to gather once more in the same spirit of friendly affectionthat had characterized all their meetings. 

It was well toward midnight when the party broke up. 

"Mayn't I take you home in my car, Grace, " pleaded Tom. Grace stood forthe moment, a little detached from the others, arranging the veil overher hat. 

"Oh, no, Tom, " she made quick answer. "It is late. You mustn't go tothat trouble. David is going to take Anne and I in his car. Hippy, Nora, Reddy and Jessica are going home in Hippy's machine. "

Tom's face fell. "May I come to see you to-morrow afternoon, then?"

"Yes, do. Miriam and David are coming over for a while, " returned wilyGrace. Her one idea was to avoid being alone with Tom. His sole idea wasto be alone with her. His pride, however, would allow him to go nofurther. He had been rebuffed twice in rapid succession. 

"Thank you. I'll drop in on you then, " he said, trying to summon anindifference he did not feel. 

After his aunt's guests had departed with much merriment and laughter, Tom turned to go upstairs. He was sure Grace did not intend to beunkind. It was not her fault if she did not love him. He had determined, however, to plead with her once more. Then, if she still remainedobdurate, as he feared she might, he would give up all hope of her, forever, and go his lonely way in the world. 

 CHAPTER XV

 THE NEW YEAR'S WEDDING

It was New Year's, and Anne Pierson's wedding night. At half-past seventhe ceremony linking her life forever to that of her school-day friend, David Nesbit, was to be performed in the beautiful old stone church onChapel Hill which, in company with her chums, she had faithfullyattended during her years spent in Oakdale. 

Anne had, at first, steadily refused to countenance the idea of a churchwedding. She was a quiet, demure little soul, who, aside from her work, detested publicity. It was Mrs. Gray's wish, however, to see the girlshe had befriended married in the church which bore the memorial windowto the other Anne, her daughter, who had died in her girlhood. So Annehad yielded to that wish. 

Although Grace was Anne's dearest friend, she had insisted that Miriamshould be her maid of honor. Privately she had said, "I'd rather be abridesmaid with Nora and Jessica. You know there were only four of us inthe beginning. " It had also been decided that in spite of the fact thatJessica and Nora were really eligible to the position of matrons ofhonor, that phase of wedding etiquette should, for once, be disregarded, and the three friends who had welcomed Anne as a fourth to their littlefold should serve as bridesmaids and be dressed precisely alike. "Itwas, " declared Anne, who heartily despised form, "as though they werestill three girls together, with husbands in the dim and distantfuture. "

It was to be a yellow and white wedding, therefore the gowns they hadchosen were of white silk net over pale yellow satin, and very youthfulin effect. Miriam's gown was a wonderful gold tissue, which made herappear like the princess in some old fairy tale, while Anne, contrary totradition, had not chosen white satin. Her wedding dress was of soft, exquisite white silk, clouded with white chiffon, and was much bettersuited to her quiet type of loveliness than satin could possibly havebeen. 

Mrs. Gray, who was to give the bride away, wore a gown of her favoritelavender satin, and bustled cheerfully about the Piersons' living room, in which the feminine half of the bridal party had gathered until timeto drive to the church, where Anne was to play the leading part in a newand infinitely wonderful drama. Anne's mother had insisted that itshould be Mrs. Gray, rather than herself, who gave Anne into DavidNesbit's keeping. Always a shy, retiring woman, she had shrunk from theidea of appearing prominently before a church full of persons, many ofwhom were strangers to her. Dearly as she loved her talented daughter, she preferred to sit quietly beside Mary, her older daughter, in theplace of honor reserved for the members of the families of the bridalparty. She and Mrs. Gray had discussed the matter at length, and she hadbeen so insistent that the former, as Anne's friend and benefactor, should give away the bride that Mrs. Gray, secretly delighted, hadconsented to her request. 

"Anne makes a darling bride, doesn't she?" praised Nora, lifting a foldof the veil of exquisite lace, Mrs. Gray's wedding veil, by the way, andpeering lovingly into her friend's faintly flushed face. 

Anne smiled and reached out a slim little hand to Nora. She wasoccupying the center of the living room while her four friends, Mrs. Gray, her mother, Miss Southard and Mary Pierson hovered solicitouslyabout her. 

"How dear you all are to me. " She held out her arms as though to claspher friends in one loving embrace. "I am so glad now that I am going tohave a real church wedding. I thought at first it would be nicer to bequietly married and slip away without fuss and feathers, but now I knowthat it is my sacred duty to my friends and to David to play my newpart, as I've always played my other parts, in public. "

"I always knew that Anne and David would be married some day, " declaredGrace wisely. "I believe David fell in love with Anne the very firsttime he saw her. Don't you remember Anne, we met him outside the highschool, and he asked us to come to his aeroplane exhibition?"

"I remember it as well as though it happened yesterday, " Anne's musicalvoice vibrated with a tenderness called forth by the memory of thatgirlhood meeting with the man of men. 

"Those days seem very far away to me now, " remarked Miriam Nesbit. "Ifeel as though I'd been grown up for ages. "

"I don't feel a bit grown up. It seems only yesterday since I ran racesand tore about our garden with Captain, our good old collie, " laughedGrace. "I'm like Peter Pan. I don't want to, and can't, grow up. And Ishall never marry. " She glanced about her circle of friends with analmost challenging air. She looked so radiantly young and pretty in herdainty frock that simultaneously the thought occurred to them all, "PoorTom. " Yet in their hearts, even to Mrs. Gray, they could find no faultwith Grace's straightforward words. If she were almost cruellyindifferent to Tom as a lover, she had the virtue at least of beingabsolutely honest. Even Mrs. Gray admired and respected her candor. 

"Did you ever see anything more beautiful than Anne's and Miriam'sbouquets?" broke in Miss Southard, with the intent of leading away froma not wholly happy subject. 

Miriam held her bouquet at arm's length and eyed it with admiration. Itwas composed of pale yellow orchids and lilies of the valley, whileAnne's was a shower of orange blossoms and the same delicate lilies. 

"If you are determined never to marry, Grace, you won't try to catchAnne's bouquet, " smiled Mrs. Gray. 

"Oh, yes, I shall, " nodded Grace. "I must do it because it's hers. Ialways try to catch the bouquets at weddings. It's good sport. So far, however, I've never secured one. "

"I shall throw this one directly at you, " promised Anne. 

"Anne, child, the carriages are here, " broke in her mother's gentlevoice. 

Anne laid her bouquet on the centre table. "Come and kiss Anne Piersonfor the last time, girls. " She opened her arms. One by one they foldedher in the embrace of friendship. Her sister and mother came last. Asthe arms that had held her in babyhood closed about her, Anne drewnearer to her mother in this, her hour of supreme happiness, than everbefore, if that were possible. 

It was not a long drive to the church. On the way there they stopped topick up the two flower girls, Anna May and Elizabeth Angerell, twopretty and interesting children who lived next door to Grace, and ofwhom she and Anne had always been very fond. The little flower maidenswere dressed in white embroidered chiffon frocks with pale yellow satinsashes and hair ribbons. They wore white silk stockings and white kidslippers and carried overflowing baskets of yellow and white roses. 

"Oh, Miss Harlowe, " cried Anna May, when she and Elizabeth were safelysettled in the carriage, one of them on the seat beside Grace, the otheron the opposite side with Anne, "this is about the happiest dayElizabeth and I ever had. I do hope I won't be scared. Just think, wehave to walk into that great big church, the very first ones, with allthose people looking at us. "

"I'm not the least bit scared, " was Elizabeth's bold declaration. "Nobody is going to hurt us. Why, all the people are Miss Anne's_friends!_ I'm going to think that when I walk up the aisle, and Ishan't be a bit scared. I know I shan't. "

"Well, I'm not exactly _scared_, " asserted Anna May, greatly impressedwith Elizabeth's valiant declaration. "I guess I'll think that, too. "

"Oh, Miss Anne, you look too sweet for anything. " Elizabeth clasped hersmall hands in rapture. "When I grow up I shall certainly be married, and have a dress like yours, and just the same kind of a bouquet, and bemarried in the church where every one can see me. "

"You can't get married unless some one asks you, " informed Anna Maywisely. 

"Some one will, " predicted Elizabeth. "Won't they, Miss Harlowe?"

"I haven't the least doubt of it, " was Grace's laughing assurance. "Still I wouldn't worry about it for a good many years yet, if I wereyou. It's just as nice to be a little girl and play games and dressdolls. "

Anne smiled faintly. Grace was again unconsciously voicing her views onthe marriage question. 

The two little flower girls kept up a lively conversation during theride. They were divided between the fear of facing a church full ofpeople and the rapture of being really, truly flower girls at thewedding of such a wonderful person as their Miss Anne. 

It was precisely half-past seven o'clock when two tiny flower maidens, their childish faces grave with the importance of their office, walkedsedately down the broad church aisle toward the flower-wreathed altar. Following them came a dazzling vision in gold tissue that caused atleast one's man's heart to beat faster. To Everett Southard Miriam wasindeed the fabled fairy-tale princess. Then came the bride, feelingstrangely humble and diffident in this new part she had essayed to play, while behind her, single file, in faithful attendance, walked the threegirls who had kept perfect step with her through the eventful years ofher school life. 

Mrs. Gray, who had preceded the wedding party to the altar, was waitingthere with the bridegroom and his best man, Tom Gray. There was a buzzof admiration went the round of the church at the beautiful spectaclethe bridal party presented. Then followed an intense hush as the voiceof the minister took up the solemn words of God's most holy ordinance. 

Perhaps no one person present at that impressive ceremony realized asdid Tom Gray what the winning of Anne, for his wife, meant to David. Onthat June night, almost two years previous, when Hippy and Reddy had, inturn, made announcement of their betrothal to Nora and Jessica in thepresence of Mrs. Gray and her Christmas children, David's fate as alover had been uncertain. Now David had joined the ranks of happybenedicts. Tom alone was left. 

As the minister's voice rang out deeply, thrillingly, "I pronounce youman and wife, " involuntarily Tom's glance rested on Grace, who waswatching Anne with the rapt eyes of friendship. The words held nosignificance for her beyond the fact that two of her dearest friends hadjoined their lives. Her changeful face bore no sign of sentiment. Asusual, her interest in love and marriage was purely impersonal. 

The reception following the wedding was held at Anne's home, and longbefore it was over Anne and David had slipped away to take the nighttrain for New York City. Anne's honeymoon was to be limited to one weekwhich they had decided to spend at Old Point Comfort. Anne and Mr. Southard were to open a newly built New York theatre in Shakespearianrepetoire the following week. Their real honeymoon was to be deferreduntil the theatrical season closed in the spring, and was to comprise anextended western trip. 

True to her promise, Anne had aimed accurately, and Grace had receivedthe bridal bouquet full in the face. It dropped to the floor. Shepicked it up and commented on her lack of skill in catching it. Tom'sface had brightened as he saw the girl he loved holding the fragranttoken to her breast. It was a good omen. 

"I'm going to take you home in my car, Grace, " he said masterfully, asthe guests were leaving that night. 

"All right, " returned Grace calmly. "We can take Anna May and Elizabethwith us. It's awfully late for them. I promised Mrs. Angerell I'd takegood care of them. They absolutely refused to go when Father and Motherwent. "

Tom could not help looking his disappointment. Nevertheless the twolittle girls were favorites of his, so he forgave them for being theinnocent means of frustrating his intention of having Grace to himself. 

"I'm going back to Washington to-morrow night, Grace, " he said, as hetook her hand for a moment in parting. "May I come to see you to-morrowafternoon?"

"Yes, of course, Tom. " Grace could not refuse the plea of his gray eyes. 

"All right. I'll drop in about four o'clock. "

"Very well. Good night, Tom. " Grace could not repress a little impatientsigh. "He's going to ask me again, " was her reflection, "but there isonly one answer that I can ever give him. "

 CHAPTER XVI

 THE LAST WORD

While Anne Pierson's wedding day had dawned with a light snow on theground, the weather underwent a considerable change during the night, and the next morning broke, gray and threatening. Heavy, sullen cloudsdropped low in the sky, and by four o'clock that afternoon a raw, dispiriting winter rain had set in, accompanied by a moaning wind thatmade the day seem doubly dreary. Promptly at four o'clock Grace saw Tomswing up the walk without an umbrella. His black raincoat, buttoned upto his chin, was infinitely becoming to his fair Saxon type of goodlooks, and Grace could not repress a tiny thrill of satisfaction thatthis strong, handsome man cared for her. The next second she dismissedthe thought as unworthy. She welcomed Tom, however, with a gentlefriendliness, partly due to his good looks, that caused his eyes toflash with new hope. Perhaps Grace cared a little after all. He hadrarely seen her so kind since their carefree days of boy and girlfriendship, when there had been no barrier of unrequited love betweenthem. 

"Come and sit by the fire, Tom, " invited Grace. "I love an open fire ona dark, rainy day like this. " She motioned him to a chair opposite herown at the other side of the fireplace. Tom seated himself, and the twobegan to talk of the wedding, Oakdale, their friends, everything in factthat led away from the thoughts that lay nearest the young man's heart. Grace skilfully kept the conversation on impersonal topics. By doing soshe hoped to make Tom understand that she did not wish to discuss whathad long been a sore subject between them. So the two young peopletalked on and on, while outside the rain fell in torrents, and the darkday began to merge into an early twilight. 

With the coming of the dusk Grace began to feel the strain. Tom's paleface had taken on a set look in the fitful glow of the fire. Suddenly heleaned far forward in his chair. "It's no use, Grace. I know you'vetried to keep me from saying what I came here to-day to say, but I'mgoing to tell you again. I love you, Grace, and I need you in my life. Why can't you love me as I love you?"

Grace's clean-cut profile was turned directly toward Tom. She reachedforward for the poker and began nervously prodding the fire. Tom caughtthe hand that held the poker. Unclasping her limp fingers from aboutit, he set it impatiently in place. "Look at me, Grace, not at thefire, " he commanded. 

Grace raised sorrowful eyes to him. Then she made a little gesture ofappeal. "Why must we talk of this again, Tom? Why can't we be friendsjust as we used to be, back in our high-school days?"

"Because it's not in the nature of things, " returned Tom, his eyes fullof pain. "I am a man now, with a man's devoted love for you. The wholetrouble lies in the sad fact that you are just a dreaming child, withoutthe faintest idea of what life really means. "

"You are mistaken, Tom. " There was a hint of offended dignity in Grace'stones. "I _do_ understand the meaning of life, only it doesn't mean_love_ to me. It means _work_. The highest pleasure I have in life is mywork. "

"You think so now, but you won't always think so. There will come a timein your life when you'll realize how great a power for happiness loveis. All our dearest friends have looked forward to seeing you my wife. Your parents wish it. Aunt Rose loves you already as a dear niece. EvenAnne, your chum, thinks you are making a mistake in choosing workinstead of love. Of course I know that what your friends think can makeno difference in what _you_ think. Still I believe if you would onceput the idea away of being self-supporting you'd see matters in adifferent light. You aren't obliged to work for your living. Why notgive Harlowe House into the care of some one who is, and marry me?"

"But you don't understand me in the least, Tom. " A petulant note creptinto Grace's voice. "It's just because I'm not obliged to support myselfthat I'm happy in doing so. I feel so free and independent. It's myfreedom I love. I don't love you. There are times when I'm sorry that Idon't, and then again there are times when I'm glad. I shall always befond of you, but my feeling toward you is just the same as it is forHippy or David or Reddy. There! I've hurt you. Forgive me. Must we sayanything more about it? Please, please don't look so hurt, Tom. "

Grace's eyes were fastened on Tom with the sorrowing air of one who hasinadvertently hurt a child. Usually so delicate in her respect for thefeelings of others, she seemed fated continually to wound this loyalfriend, whose only fault lay in the fact that his boyish affection forher had ripened into a man's love. Saddest of all, an unrequited love. 

[Illustration: "Look at Me, Grace. "]

"Of course I forgive you, Grace. " Tom rose. He looked long andsearchingly into the face of the girl who had just hurt him so cruelly. "I--I think I'd better go now. I hope you'll find all the happiness inyour work that you expect to find. I'm only sorry it had to come first. I don't know when I'll see you again. Not until next summer, I suppose. I can't come to Oakdale for Easter this year. I wish you'd write tome--that is, if you feel you'd like to. Remember, I am always your oldfriend Tom. "

"I _will_ write to you, Tom. " Grace's gray eyes were heavy with unshedtears. She winked desperately to keep them back. She would not cry. Luckily the dim light of the room prevented Tom from seeing how near shewas to breaking down. It was all so sad. She had never before realizedhow much it hurt her to hurt Tom. She followed him into the hall and tothe door in silence. 

"Good-bye, Grace, " he said again, holding out his hand. 

"Good-bye, Tom, " she faltered. He turned abruptly and hurried down thesteps into the winter darkness. He did not look back. 

Grace stood in the open door until the echo of his footsteps died out. Then she rushed into the living room and, throwing herself down on thebig leather sofa, burst into bitter tears. 

 CHAPTER XVII

 THE SUMMONS

"There are Deans and _deans_, " observed Emma Dean with savage emphasis, "but the Deans, of whom I am which, are, in my humble opinion, infinitely superior to the dean person stalking about the halls of dearold Overton. "

"What do you mean, Emma?" asked Grace. The dry bitterness of herfriend's outburst regarding deans in general was too significant to beallowed to pass unquestioned. 

It was the evening of Grace Harlowe's return from the Christmas holidayshe had spent with her dear ones at Oakdale. Grace and Emma were intheir room. Despite the one sad memory which time alone could efface, Grace was experiencing a peace and comfort which always hovered abouther for many days after her visits home. Next to home, however, Overtonwas, to her, the place of places, and she had returned to her work withfresh energy and enthusiasm. She believed that she had definitely putbehind her forever all that unhappy part of her life regarding Tom Gray. It had been hard indeed, and had brought tears to the eyes sounaccustomed to weeping. Still Grace was glad that she had faced theinevitable and seen clearly. Tom would, in time, forget her and perhapsmarry some one else. She wished with all her heart that he might behappy, and her one regret was that she had caused him pain. 

In reality Grace had exhibited toward her old friend a hardness ofpurpose quite at variance with her usually sweet nature. She wondered alittle that she could have been so inexorable in her decision, yet shebelieved herself to be wholly justified in the course she had taken. Already she was beginning to commend herself inwardly for her loyalty toher work, and Emma's blunt arraignment of the dean of Overton Collegeacted like a dash of cold water upon her half-fledged self-content. 

"All day I've been tempted to tell you a few things, Gracious, " beganEmma, "but I hated to disturb you. I know just how you feel when youcome back from that blessed little town of yours. So I've been keepingstill while you told me all about Anne's wedding and the good times youhad. It was one glorious succession of good times, wasn't it?"

"Yes. " Grace was silent for a brief space of time. Then she saidgravely, "There was only one flaw, Emma. I refused again, and for thelast time, to marry Tom Gray. I was sorry, but I couldn't help it. Idon't love him. "

"I'm sorry, too, that you couldn't find it in your heart to care forhim. I liked him best of those four young men. "

"Every one likes him. My friends all hoped that we would marry. " Gracesighed. "Still one's friends can't decide such matters for one. One mustsolve that particular problem alone. "

"Just so, " agreed Emma. "Although no one ever asked my hand in holymatrimony except a callow youth whom I tutored in algebra last summer. He had failed in his June examination and had to pass in September or beforever labeled a dunce by his fond family. Now you see why I canunderstand the psychology of saying 'no' to a proposal. This stripling, who was at least five years my junior, proposed to me out of sheergratitude. I actually succeeded in drumming quadratic equations into hisstupid head, and he offered me his hand by the way of reward. "

Grace's sad expression had by this time vanished. She was regarding Emmawith a smiling face. "Really and truly, Emma, did that happen to you?"

"It did, indeed, " averred Emma solemnly. "You aren't half so amazed as Iwas. I felt as though one of my Sunday-school class of little boys hadsuddenly exhibited signs of the tender passion. I labored long andearnestly to convince him that I was not his fate, and in due season hepassed his examination and promptly forgot me. I did not weep and wailat being forgotten, either. Still there was a grain of satisfaction inbeing sought. If I go down to my grave in single blessedness I shall atleast have the satisfaction of knowing that some one yearned for mylife-long society. " She beamed owlishly at Grace, and laughter routedthe sorrowful face she had turned to Emma only a moment before. 

But Emma was only trying to prepare Grace for unpleasant news. Now thatshe had put her in a lighter frame of mind, she said: "I might as welltell you about Miss Wharton, Grace. "

Grace's eyes were immediately fixed on her in mute question. 

"The news of the sale traveled to Miss Wharton, as I was afraid itwould, " began Emma. "Miss Brent wasn't here when first the dean heard ofit. She had gone home with Miss Parker for Christmas. Evelyn Ward wasn'there, either. She and Kathleen West and Mary Reynolds went to New York. Mary and Kathleen to work on the paper, and Evelyn to work for two weeksin that stock company of Mr. Forrest's. You knew about that, of course. It was the day after Christmas that Miss Wharton heard about the sale. She sent for Miss Brent and was greatly displeased to find her gone. However, she had had permission from the registrar, a fact that MissWharton couldn't overlook. Then Miss Wharton sent for me. She said thesale was a disgrace to Overton, and that she was amazed to think youallowed such a proceeding. I explained to her that you knew nothing ofit, that you were away at the time it took place, and she said you hadacted most unwisely in placing your responsibilities on the shoulders ofothers even for a day. Your place was at Harlowe House every day of thecollege year. You had no business to assume such a responsible positionif you did not intend to live up to it. 

"That's about the extent of all she said. I was so angry I couldscarcely control myself, but I managed to say quietly that PresidentMorton and Miss Wilder had never questioned your absences from HarloweHouse, and that I was sure you would lose no time in taking up thematter with her when you returned. Now you know what you may expect. Idon't know whether she has sent for Miss Brent since she came from NewYork. If she hasn't, then mark my words, the summons will cometo-morrow. "

Emma proved to be a true prophet. The nine o'clock mail next morningbrought two letters written on the stationery used by the Overtonfaculty. One was addressed to Grace, the other to Jean Brent. If the twoyoung women had compared them they would have discovered that each onecontained the same curt summons to the dean's office. Both appointmentswere for half-past four o'clock that afternoon. 

Grace stopped at Jean's table at luncheon that day and said softly. "Will you come to my office after you have finished your luncheon, MissBrent?"

Jean turned very pale. She bowed her acquiescence, and Grace went on toher own place. 

"I have been requested to call on Miss Wharton at half-past four o'clockthis afternoon, Miss Brent, " informed Grace as, later, Jean stood beforeher. "I noted that you also received a letter written on the businessstationery of Overton. Am I right in guessing that you have received thesame summons?"

For answer Jean opened the book she held under her arm and took from itan envelope. In silence she drew from it a letter, spread it open andhanded it to Grace. 

"Just as I thought. " Grace returned the letter. "Miss Wharton haslearned of your sale, Miss Brent. She is very indignant. Are youprepared to tell her what you confided to me?" Grace eyed the girlsquarely. 

"Why should I, Miss Harlowe?" burst forth Jean. "No; I will tell MissWharton nothing. "

"Nor will I, " was Grace's quiet rejoinder. "Whatever she learns mustcome from you. I wrote to Miss Lipton and received a letter from herassuring me that you are not at fault in the matter that made youradvent into Overton College a mystery to me. I need no furtherassurance. Miss Lipton's school is known to the public as being one ofthe finest preparatory schools in the United States. If it were MissWilder instead of Miss Wharton I should advise you to tell her all. I amso sorry you did not tell us in the beginning. You must do whatever yourconscience dictates. If necessary I will show Miss Wharton my letterfrom Miss Lipton, but I shall not betray your confidence unless yousanction my speaking. "

"Please don't tell her, " begged Jean. 

"It shall be as you ask, " returned Grace, but she was secretlydisappointed at what might be either Jean's selfishness or her pureinability to see the unpleasantness of the position in which she wasplacing the young woman who had befriended her. 

When Grace entered the familiar office and saw Miss Wharton's dumpyfigure occupying her dear Miss Wilder's place she felt a distinctsinking of the heart. The dean surveyed her out of cold blue eyes, thatseemed to Grace to contain a spark of deliberate malice. 

"Good afternoon, Miss Harlowe, " she said stiffly. As she spoke the dooropened and Jean Brent walked calmly in. She bowed to Miss Wharton in amanner as chilly as her own and took a seat at one side of the room. Thedean waved Grace to a chair. "Now, young women, " she began in a severetone, "I wish a full explanation of this disgraceful sale that recentlytook place at Harlowe House. I will first ask you, Miss Brent if you hadMiss Harlowe's permission to conduct it?"

"No. She refused to permit it. I held it in her absence, " answered Jean, defiance blazing in her blue eyes. 

"I see; a clear case of disobedience. What was your object in holdingit?"

"I needed money. I lost the greater part of my money on the train when Icame to Overton. "

"Why did you need money?" Miss Wharton exhibited a lawyer-likepersistency. 

"To pay my college fees, " Jean made prompt answer. 

"But how could a girl with a wardrobe as complete and expensive asyours--I have been informed that it was remarkable--be in need of moneyto pay her expenses, or obliged to live in a charitable institution, asI believe Harlowe House is?"

"You are mistaken. Harlowe House is _not_ a charitable institution!"Grace Harlowe's voice vibrated with indignation. "I beg your pardon, "she apologized in the next instant. 

Miss Wharton glared angrily at her for fully a minute. Then, ignoringthe interruption and the protest, turned again to Jean. 

"I cannot answer your question, " Jean spoke with quiet composure. 

"You mean you _will_ not answer it, " retorted the dean. 

"I have nothing to say that you would care to hear. " Jean's lips set inthe stubborn line that signified no yielding. 

Miss Wharton turned to Grace. "You have heard what this young womansays. Can you answer the question I asked Miss Brent?"

"The answer to the question must come from Miss Brent, " replied Gracewith gentle evasion. 

"Miss Harlowe, you have not answered me. " Miss Wharton was growingangrier. "I insist upon knowing the details of this affair frombeginning to end. Miss Brent's conduct has been contrary to all thetraditions of Overton. "

"That is perfectly true, " admitted Grace. 

"Then if you know it to be true, why do you evade my question? It willbe infinitely better for you to be frank with me. I am greatlydispleased with you and the reports I hear of Harlowe House. I assuredMiss Wilder, when first I met you, that I doubted President Morton's andher judgment in allowing you to hold a position of such greatresponsibility. You are too young, too frivolous. I am informed thatHarlowe House is almost Bohemian in its character. "

"Then you have been misinformed. " Cut to the heart, Grace spoke with adignity that was not to be denied. "Harlowe House is conducted on thestrictest principles of law and order. We try to be a well-regulatedhousehold, upholding the high standard of Overton. If it had not beenfor two of my friends and I, Mrs. Gray would never have given it to thecollege, and thirty-four girls would have missed obtaining a collegeeducation. Miss Wilder believed in me. She trusted me. I regret that youdo not. Regarding Miss Brent, I have received ample assurance of herhonesty of purpose from Miss Lipton, the head of the Lipton PreparatorySchool for Girls. Miss Lipton and I are in possession of certain factsconcerning Miss Brent which enable us to understand her peculiarposition here. I regret, beyond all words, that Miss Brent did notconfide in me before having the sale of her clothing. I do not condoneher fault, but I am sure that in her anxiety to do what was best forherself she did not intend deliberately to defy me. Here is a letterfrom Miss Lipton which I wish you to read. "

In her vexation Miss Wharton almost snatched the letter from Grace'shand. There was a tense stillness in the room while she read it. Jeankept her gaze steadily turned from Grace. At last the dean looked upfrom the letter. "This letter is, by no means, an explanation, althoughI am well aware of the excellent reputation Miss Lipton's school bears. What I am determined to have are the _facts_ of this affair. If I canprevail upon neither of you to speak them I shall place the matterbefore President Morton and the Board of Trustees of Overton College. "

Her threat met with no response from either young woman. 

"Before taking the matter up with President Morton, however, I shallgive both of you an opportunity to reflect upon the folly of yourpresent course. Within a few days I shall send for you again. If thenyou still continue to defy me I will take measures to have _you_, MissHarlowe, removed from your charge of Harlowe House as being unfit forthe responsibility, while _you_, Miss Brent, will be expelled fromOverton College for disobedience and insubordination. That will do forthis morning. " Miss Wharton dismissed them with a peremptory gesture. 

The two young women passed out of the room in silence. Once outsideOverton Hall, Jean turned impulsively to Grace: "I am sorry, MissHarlowe, but I couldn't tell that horrid woman what I told you. Shewould neither understand me nor sympathize with me. I know you think Ishould have explained everything. "

Grace could not trust herself to answer. Humiliated to the last degreeby Miss Wharton's bald injustice, she felt as though she wished never tosee or hear of Jean Brent again. It was not until they were half wayacross the campus that she found her voice. She was dimly surprised atthe resentment in her tones. "You chose your own course, Miss Brent, regardless of what I thought. That course has not only involved you inserious difficulty, but me as well. If you had obeyed me in thebeginning, I would not be leaving Miss Wharton's office this afternoon, under a cloud. I quite agree with you, however, that to tell MissWharton your secret now would not help matters. I must leave you here. Iam going on to Wayne Hall. "

With a curt inclination of her head, Grace walked away, leaving Jeanstanding in the middle of the campus, looking moodily after her. 

 CHAPTER XVIII

 THE BLOTTED ESCUTCHEON

But Grace was destined to receive another shock before the long day wasdone. The shadows of early twilight were beginning to blot out the shortwinter day when she let herself into Harlowe House. Stepping into heroffice she reached eagerly for the pile of mail lying on the slidingshelf of her desk. The handwriting on the first letter of the pile wasTom's. Grace eyed it gloomily. It was not warranted to lighten herpresent unhappy mood. She opened it slowly, almost hesitatingly. UnlikeTom's long, newsy letters, there was but one sheet of paper. Then shestrained her eyes in the rapidly failing daylight and read:

 "DEAR GRACE:

 "When you receive this letter I shall be out at sea and on my way to South America. I have resigned my position with the Forestry Department to go on an expedition up the Amazon River with Burton Graham, the naturalist. He is the man who collected so many rare specimens of birds and mammals for the Smithsonian Institute while in Africa, two years ago. It is hard to say when I shall return, and, as it takes almost a month for a letter to reach the United States, you are not likely to hear often from me. 

 "Aunt Rose is deeply grieved at my going. Still she understands that, for me, it is best. When last I saw you in Oakdale I had no idea of leaving civilization for tropical wildernesses. Mr. Graham's invitation to join his expedition was wholly unexpected, and I was not slow to take advantage of it. 

 "I would ask you to write me, but, unfortunately, I can give you no forwarding address. Mr. Graham's plans as to location are a little uncertain. Perhaps, until I can bring myself to think of you in the way you wish me to think, silence between us will be happiest for us both. God bless you, Grace, and give you the greatest possible success in your work. With best wishes, "Your friend, "TOM. "

Grace stared at the sheet of paper before her, with tear-blurred eyes. She hastily wiped her tears away, but they only fell the faster. MissWharton's injustice, Jean Brent's selfishness, together with the suddenshock of Tom's departure out of the country and out of her life, weretoo much for her high-strung, sensitive nature. Dropping into the chairbefore her desk, she bowed her head on the slide and weptunrestrainedly. 

Her overflow of feelings was brief, however. Given little to tears, after her first outburst she exerted all her will power to controlherself. The girls were dropping in by ones and twos from their classes, the maid would soon come into the living room to turn on the lights, andat almost any moment some one might ask for her. She would not care tobe discovered in tears. 

Grace picked up the rest of her mail, lying still unopened, and wentupstairs to her room with the proud determination to cry no more. Shewas quite sure she would not have cried over Tom's letter had all elsebeen well. It was her interview with Miss Wharton that had hurt her socruelly. Yet, with the reading of Tom's farewell message, deep down inher heart lurked a curiously uncomfortable sense of loss. It was asthough for the first time in her life she had actually began to missTom. She had not expected fate to cut him off so sharply from her. Sheknew that her refusal to marry him had been the primary cause of hisgoing away. Mrs. Gray would perhaps blame her. These expeditions weredangerous to say the least. More than one naturalist had died of feveror snakebite, or had been killed by savages. Suppose Tom were never tocome back. Grace shuddered at the bare idea of such a calamity. And hedid not intend to write to her, so she could only wonder as the days, weeks and months went by what had befallen him. She would never know. 

While she was sadly ruminating over Tom's unexpected exit from herlittle world, Emma Dean's brisk step sounded outside. The door swungopen. Emma gave a soft exclamation as she saw the room in darkness. Pressing the button at the side of the door, she flooded the room withlight, only to behold Grace standing in the middle of the floor, stillwearing her outdoor wraps, an open letter in her hand. 

"Good gracious, Gracious, how you startled me! What is going on? Tellyour worthless dog of a servant, what means this studied pose in themiddle of the room in the dark? Not to mention posing in your hat andcoat. And, yes, " Emma drew nearer and peered into her friend's face withher kind, near-sighted eyes, "you've been crying. This will never do. Tell me the base varlet that hath caused these tears, " she rumbled in adeep voice, "and be he lord of fifty realms I'll have his blood. 'Sdeath! Odds bodkins! Let me smite the villain. I could slay and slay, and be a teacher still. Provided the faculty didn't object, and I wasn'tarrested, " she ended practically. 

Grace's woe-be-gone face brightened at Emma's nonsense. "You alwayssucceed in making me smile when I am the bluest of the blue, " she saidfondly. 

"I can't see why such strongly dramatic language as I used should makeyou laugh. It was really quite Shakespearian. You see I have 'the bard'on the brain. We have been taking up Elizabethan English in one of myclasses, and once I become thoroughly saturated with Shakespearian verseI am likely to quote it on all occasions. Don't be surprised if I burstforth into blank verse at the table or any other public place. But hereI've been running along like a talking machine when you are 'full fathomfive' in the blues. Can't you tell your aged and estimable friend, Emma, what is troubling you?"

"You were right, Emma. The summons came. " Grace's voice was husky. "I'vejust had a session with Miss Wharton. "

"About Miss Brent?"

"Yes. She sent for both of us. She asked Miss Brent to explain certainthings which she could, but would not, explain. I was in Miss Brent'sconfidence. As you know, she told me about herself after I came backfrom the Thanksgiving holiday. It entirely changed my opinion of her. Iwish I could tell you everything, but I can't. I gave her my word ofhonor that I would keep her secret. But, to-day, when she saw howunjustly Miss Wharton reprimanded me I thought she might have strained apoint and told Miss Wharton her story. Still I don't know that it wouldhave helped much. " Grace sighed wearily. "Miss Wharton is not MissWilder. She is a hard, narrow-minded, cruel woman, " Grace's dispiritedtones gathered sudden vehemence, "and she would misjudge Miss Brent justas she misjudged me. She is going to send for us again in a few days, and she declares that, if I do not tell her everything, she will takemeasures to have me removed from my position here. " Grace turned tragiceyes to her friend. 

"The idea!" rang out Emma's indignant cry. "Just as though she could. Why, Harlowe House was named for you. If Mrs. Gray knew she even hintedsuch thing she'd be so angry. I believe she'd turn Indian giver and takeback her gift to Overton. "

"Oh, no, she wouldn't do quite that, Emma. " Heartsick though she was, Grace smiled faintly. "She would be angry, though. She must never knowit. It made her so happy to give Harlowe House to Overton. She would beso hurt, for my sake, that she would never again take a particle ofpleasure in it. When Miss Wharton sends for me I shall ask herpoint-blank if she really intends to try to have me removed from myposition by the Board. If she says 'yes, ' I'll resign, then and there. "

"Grace Harlowe, you don't mean it? You've always fought valiantly forother girls' rights, why won't you fight for your own? The whole affairis ridiculous and unjust. If worse comes to worst you can go before theBoard and defend yourself. The members will believe you. "

Grace shook her head sadly, but positively. "I'd never do that, Emma. Ifit comes to a point where I must fight to be house mother here, then I'dmuch rather resign. I couldn't bear to have the story creep about thecollege that I had even been criticized by the Board. I've loved my workso dearly, and I've tried so hard to do it wisely that I'd rather giveit up and go quietly away, feeling in my heart that I have done my best, than to fight and win at last nothing but a blotted escutcheon. Youunderstand how it is with me, dear old comrade. "

"Grace, it breaks my heart to hear you say such things! You mustn't talkof going away. " Emma sprang from the chair into which she had droppedand drew Grace into her protecting embrace. Grace's head was bowed for amoment on Emma's shoulder. 

"Don't cry, dear, " soothed Emma. 

"I'm not crying, Emma. See, I haven't shed a tear. I did all my crying awhile ago. " Grace raised her head and regarded Emma with two dry eyesthat were wells of pain. "I have had another shock, too, since I camehome. Tom Gray has resigned his position with the Forestry Department atWashington, and has sailed for South America. I--never--thought--he'd--go--away. He isn't even going to write to me, Emma, and I don't know when he will come back. Perhaps never. You knowhow dangerous those South American expeditions are?"

"Poor Gracious, " comforted Emma, "you have had enough sorrows for oneday. You need a little cheering up. You and I are not going to eatdinner at Harlowe House to-night. We are going to let Louise Sampsonlook after things while we go gallivanting down to Vinton's for a hightea. I'm going to telephone Kathleen and Patience. There will be justfour of us, and no more of us to the tea party. They will have to come, engagements or no engagements. "

"I don't care to see any one to-night, Emma, " pleaded Grace. 

"You only think you don't. Seeing the girls will do you good. If youstay here you'll brood and grieve all evening. "

"All right, I'll go; just to please you. I must see Louise and tell herwe are going. "

"You stay here. I'll do all the seeing. Take off your hat and bathe yourface. You'll feel better. " Emma hurried out of the room and up the nextflight of stairs to Louise Sampson's room, thinking only of Grace andhow she might best comfort her. She was more aroused than she cared tolet Grace see over Miss Wharton's harsh edict. She made a secret vowthat if Grace would not fight for her rights _she_, Emma Dean, would. Then she remembered Grace's words, "I'd rather give it up and go quietlyaway, feeling in my heart that I have done my best, than to fight and, at last, win nothing but a blotted escutcheon. " No, she could not takeupon herself Grace's wrongs, unless Grace bade her do so, and that wouldnever happen. 

Fortunately Kathleen and Patience were both at home. Better still, neither had an engagement for that evening, and at half-past six o'clockthe four faithful friends were seated at their favorite mission alcovetable at Vinton's, ordering their dinner, while Grace tried earnestly toput away her sorrow and be her usual sunny self. 

But while Grace had been passing through the Valley of Humiliation, there was another person under the same roof who was equally unhappy. That person was Jean Brent. On leaving Grace she had gone directly toHarlowe House. Ascending the stairs to her room with a dispirited step, she had tossed aside her wraps and seated herself before the window. Shesat staring out with unseeing eyes, remorseful and sick at heart. Grace's bitter words, "If you had obeyed me I would not be leaving MissWharton's office this afternoon, under a cloud, " still rang in her ears. How basely she had repaid Miss Harlowe, was her conscience-strickenthought. Miss Harlowe had advised and helped her in every possible way. She had taken her into Harlowe House on trust. She had sympathized withher when Jean had told her her secret, and she had brought upon herselfthe dean's disapproval, would perhaps leave Harlowe House, rather thanbetray the girl who had confided in her. Jean's conscience lashed hersharply for her stubbornness and selfish ingratitude. If only she hadbeen frank in the beginning. Miss Harlowe would have explained all toMiss Wilder, and Miss Wilder would have been satisfied. Then she wouldhave had no sale of her wardrobe, and Miss Harlowe would have beenspared all this miserable trouble. 

What a failure she had made of her freshman year? She had made fewfriends except Althea and her chums. They were shallow and selfish to afault. She had held herself aloof from the Harlowe House girls, who, notwithstanding their good nature, showed a slight resentment of herproud attitude toward them and her absolute refusal to join in the workof the club. Since the day when Evelyn had taken her to task fordisobeying Grace the two girls had exchanged no words other than thosewhich necessity forced them to exchange. Evelyn had not forgiven Jeanfor her passionate advice to her to mind her own affairs. Jean, knowingEvelyn's resentment to be just, cloaked herself in defiance and ignoredher roommate. Little by little, however, the cloak dropped away and Jeanbegan to long for Evelyn's companionship. The yellow crępe gown and thebeautiful evening coat still lay in the bottom of Jean's trunk. In herown mind she knew that she had begun to hope for the time when she andEvelyn would settle their differences. She would then give Evelyn thebelated Christmas gift. She grew daily more unhappy over theirestrangement, and heartily wished for a reconciliation. Yet she wasstill too proud to make the first advances. 

It was hardly likely that Evelyn would make the first sign. Her pridewas equal to, if not greater, than Jean's. She, who abhorred prying andinquisitiveness, had been accused by Jean of meddling in her affairs. Evelyn vowed inwardly never to forgive Jean. So these two young girls, each stiff-necked and implacable, dressed, studied and slept in the sameroom in stony silence, passing in and out like two offended shadows. Gradually this strained attitude became so intolerable to Jean that shelonged for some pretext on which to make peace. As she sat at the windowwondering what she could do to atone for her fault the door opened andEvelyn entered the room. A swift impulse seized Jean to lift the veil ofresentment that hung between them. She half rose from her chair asthough to address Evelyn. The latter turned her head in Jean'sdirection. Her blue eyes rested upon the other girl with the cold, impersonal gaze of a stranger. Beneath that maddening, ignoring glanceJean's good intentions curled up and withered like leaves that aretouched by frost, and her aching desire for reconciliation was once moredriven out of her heart by her pride. 

 CHAPTER XIX

 THE SWORD OF SUSPENSE

When Miss Wharton sent Jean Brent and Grace Harlowe from her office withthe threat of dismissal hanging over them she fully intended to keep herword. From the moment she had first beheld Grace Harlowe she hadconceived for her a rooted dislike such as only persons of strongprejudices can entertain. Her whole life had been lived narrowly, andwith repression, therefore she was not in sympathy with youth or itsenthusiasm. According to her belief no young woman of Grace's age andappearance was competent to assume the responsibility of managing anestablishment like Harlowe House. She had again delivered this opinionmost forcefully in Miss Wilder's presence after Grace had left theoffice on the afternoon of their first meeting, and Miss Wilder'searnest assurances to the contrary served only to deepen Miss Wharton'sdisapproval of the bright-faced, clear-eyed girl whose quietself-possession indicated a capability of managing her own affairs thatwas a distinct affront to the woman who hoped to discover in her suchfaults as would triumphantly bear out her unkind criticism. 

Miss Wharton had held the position of dean in an unimportant westerncollege, and it was at the solicitation of a cousin, a member of theBoard of Trustees, that she had applied for the office of dean atOverton, and had been appointed to it with the distinct understandingthat it was to be for the present college year only. Should Miss Wilderbe unable to resume her duties the following October, Miss Wharton wouldthen be reappointed for the entire year. The importance of being thedean of Overton College, coupled with the generous salary attached tothe office, were the motives which caused Miss Wharton to resign hermore humble position, assured as it was, for an indefinite period ofyears, for the one of greater glory but uncertain length. 

Possessed of a hard, unsympathetic nature, she secretly cherished thehope that Miss Wilder would not return to Overton the following year. She also resolved to prove her own worth above that of the kindly, efficient dean whom the Overton girls idolized, and began her campaignby criticizing and finding fault with Miss Wilder's methods whenever theslightest opportunity presented itself. At first her unfair tactics badefair to meet with success. The various members of the Board, and evenDr. Morton, wondered vaguely if, after all, too much confidence hadbeen reposed in Miss Wilder. 

Wholly intent on establishing herself as a fixture at Overton College, Miss Wharton allowed the matter concerning Jean Brent and Grace to restwhile she attended to what she considered vastly more important affairs. The thought that she was keeping both young women in the most cruelsuspense did not trouble her in the least. On the contrary she decidedthat they deserved to be kept in a state of uncertainty as to what sheintended to do with them, and deliberately put over their case untilsuch time as suited her convenience. 

Both Jean and Grace went about, however, with the feeling that a swordwas suspended over their heads and likely to descend at any moment. Grace expected, daily, to be summoned to Miss Wharton's office, there torefuse to divulge Jean Brent's secret and then ask the pertinentquestion, "Do you intend to lay this matter before the Board?" If shereceived an affirmative answer, then she planned to return to HarloweHouse, write her formal resignation as manager of it and mail it toPresident Morton. But day followed day, and week followed week, andstill the dread summons did not come. Grace discussed frequently thepossible cause of Miss Wharton's negligence in the matter with Emma, her one confidante. Emma was of the opinion that, in trying to fill MissWilder's position, Miss Wharton had her hands full. Although Emma wasapt to clothe the most serious happenings in the cloak of humor, she wasa shrewd judge of human nature. 

"Just let me tell you one thing, Gracious, " she remarked one blusteringMarch evening as the two young women fought their way across the campusagainst a howling wind. They were returning from an evening spent withKathleen West and Patience Eliot. "Miss Wharton is no more fitted forthe position of dean at Overton College than I am for the presidency ofthe United States. She may have been successful in some little, out-of-the-way academy in a jerkwater town, but she's sadly out of placehere. She has about as much tact as a rhinoceros, and possesses thećsthetic perceptions of a coal shoveler. I'm just waiting for thesesimple truths to dawn upon the intellects of our august Board. Iunderstand that cadaverous-looking man with the wall eyes and thespade-shaped, beard, who walks about as though he cherished a grudgeagainst the human race, and rejoices in the euphonious name of DariusDutton, is responsible for this crime against Overton. He recommendedher appointment to the Board. It seems that he is Miss Wharton'scousin. Thank goodness he isn't mine, or Miss Wharton either. "

Grace laughed at Emma's sweeping denunciation of Miss Wharton and theoffending Daniel Dutton. Then her face grew sober. "You mustn't allow mygrievances to imbitter you, Emma, toward any member of the Board. "

"Oh, my only grudge against Darius D. So far is his having suchdetestable relatives and foisting them upon an innocent, trustingcollege, " retorted Emma with spirit, "but my grudge against Miss Whartonis a very different matter. It's an active, lively grudge. I'd like towrite to Miss Wilder and Mrs. Gray, and interview Dr. Morton, and thensee what happened. It would not be Grace Harlowe who resigned; but itmight be a certain hateful person whose name begins with W. I won't sayher name outright. Possibly you'll be able to guess it. "

Grace's hand found Emma's in the dark as they came to the steps ofHarlowe House. The two girls paused for an instant. Their hands clungloyally. "Remember, Emma, you've promised to let me have my own way inthis, " reminded Grace wistfully. 

"I'll keep my promise, " answered Emma, but her voice sounded husky. 

"I know, " continued Grace, "that Miss Wharton's attitude toward me isone of personal prejudice. From the moment she saw me she disliked me. Iknow of only one other similar case. When Anne Pierson and I werefreshmen in Oakdale High School we recited algebra to a teacher namedMiss Leece, who behaved toward Anne in precisely the same way that MissWharton has behaved toward me, simply because she disliked her. But comeon, old comrade, we mustn't stand out here all night with the windhowling in our ears. Let us try and forget our troubles. What is to be, will be. I am nothing, if not a fatalist. " Grace forced herself to smilewith her usual brightness, and the two girls entered the house arm inarm, each endeavoring, for the sake of the other to stifle herunhappiness. 

It was not yet ten o'clock and the lights were still burning in theliving room. Gathered about the library table were six girls, deep inconversation. One of them glanced toward the hall at the sound of theopening door. 

"Oh, Miss Harlowe, " she called, "You are the very person we have beenwishing for. " It was Cecil Ferris who spoke. Nettie Weyburn, LouiseSampson, Mary Reynolds, Evelyn Ward and Hilda Moore made up the rest ofthe sextette. "We are wondering if it wouldn't be a good plan to giveour grand revue directly after the Easter vacation. It will be our lastentertainment this year, because after Easter the weather begins to growwarm and the girls like to be outdoors. If you would help us plan it, then those of us who live here, and are going to take part in it, can bestudying and rehearsing during the vacation. Of course, Evelyn won't bewith us, but she will help us before she goes to New York. When shecomes back she can give us the finishing touches. Here is the programmeas far as we have planned it. We are awfully short of features. "

Cecil handed Grace a sheet of paper on which were jotted several items. There was a sketch written by Mary Reynolds, "The Freshman on the TopFloor, " a pathetic little story of a lonely freshman. Gertrude Earle, ademure, dreamy-eyed girl, the daughter of a musician, was down for apiano solo. There was to be a sextette, a chorus and a troupe of dancinggirls. Kathleen West had written a clever little playlet "In the Days ofShakespeare, " and Hilda Moore, who could do all sorts of queer folkdances, was to busy her light feet in a series of quick change costumedances, while Amy Devery was to give an imitation of a funnymotion-picture comedian who had made the whole country laugh at hisantics. 

"How would you like some imitations and baby songs?" asked Grace, forgetting for the moment the shadow that hung over her. "I have twofriends who would be delighted to help you. "

"How lovely!" cried Louise Sampson. "Now if only we had some one whocould sing serious songs exceptionally well. "

"Miss Brent has a wonderful voice, " said Evelyn rather reluctantly. 

"Then we must ask her to sing, " decided Louise. "You ask her to-night, Evelyn. "

But Evelyn shook her head. "I'd rather you would ask her, Louise. Won'tyou, please?"

"All right, I will, " said Louise good-naturedly, who had no idea of thestrained relations existing between the two girls, and consequentlythought nothing of Evelyn's request. 

"Much as I regret tearing myself away from this representative companyof beauty and brains, I have themes that cry out to be corrected, "declared Emma Dean, who had been listening in interested silence to theplans for the coming revue. 

"You can't hear them cry out clear down here, can you?" asked MaryReynolds flippantly. 

A general giggle went the round of the sextette. 

"Not with my everyday ordinary ears, my child, " answered Emma, quiteundisturbed. "It is that inner voice of duty that is making all thecommotion. I would much rather bask in the light of your collectedcountenances than listen to those frenzied shrieks. But what of mytrusting classes, who delight in writing themes and passing them on tome to be corrected?"

"Oh, yes; we all delight in writing themes, " jeered Nettie Weyburn, towhom theme writing was an irksome task. "My inner voice of duty isscreaming at me this very minute to go and write one, but I'm so deaf Ican't hear it. "

"If you can't hear it, how do you know it is screaming?" questioned Emmavery solemnly. 

"My intuition tells me, " retorted Nettie with triumphant promptness. 

"Then I wish _all_ my pupils in English had such marvelous intuitions, "sighed Emma. 

"My inner voice of duty is wailing at me to go upstairs and finish myletter to my mother, " interposed Grace, rising. Her face had regainedits usual brightness. She could not be sad in the presence of theselight-hearted, capable girls, whose sturdy efforts to help themselvesmade them all so inexpressibly dear to her. She would help them all shecould with their entertainment. She would write Arline and Elfreda tocome to Overton for a few days and take part in the revue. 

It was not until she had finished her letter to her mother and begun oneto Elfreda that the sinister recollection again darkened her thoughts. She was living in the shadow of dismissal. Would it be wise to inviteArline and Elfreda to Harlowe House for a visit while she was souncertain of what the immediate future held in store for her? If shetendered her resignation she intended it should take effect withoutdelay. Once she had surrendered her precious charge she could not andwould not remain at Harlowe House. Still she had promised her girls thatshe would help them. She had volunteered Arline's and Elfreda'sservices, knowing they would willingly leave their own affairs tojourney back to Overton. 

Grace laid down her pen. Resting her elbows on the table she cradled herchin in her hands, her vivid, changeful face overcast with moodythought. At last she raised her head with the air of one who has come toa decision, and, picking up her pen, went on with her letter to J. Elfreda Briggs. If worse came to worst and she resigned before thegirls' entertainment she would courageously put aside her own feelingsand remain, at least, until afterward. It should be her last act ofdevotion to Harlowe House and her work. 

 CHAPTER XX

 THE AWAKENING

The sword which hung over poor Grace's head still dangled threateninglyabove her when she left Overton for Oakdale, on her Easter vacation. Miss Wharton had made no sign. Whether she had, for the time being, forgotten her words of that unhappy morning of several weeks past, orwas coolly taking her own time in the matter, well aware of thediscomfort of her victims, Grace could not know. She determined to layaside all bitterness of spirit and lend herself to commemorate theanniversary of the first Easter with a reverent and open mind. But therewas one ghost which she could not lay, and that was the the memory ofTom Gray's face as he said good-bye to her on that memorable rainyafternoon. Just when it began to haunt her Grace could scarcely tell. She knew only that Tom's farewell letter had awakened in her mind acurious sense of loss that made her wish he had not cut himself off fromher so completely. When on their last afternoon together he had pleadedso earnestly for her love Grace had been proudly triumphant in thesuccessful accomplishment of what she believed to be her life work. From the lofty pinnacle of achievement she had looked down on Tompityingly, but with no adequate realization of what she had caused himto suffer. 

It was not until she herself had been called upon to prepare to give upthat which meant most to her in life that she began to appreciate dimlywhat it must have cost Tom Gray to put aside his hopes of years and goaway to forget. A belated sympathy for her girlhood friend sprang tolife in her heart, and in the weeks of suspense that preceded her returnto Oakdale for Easter she found herself thinking of him frequently. Shewondered if he were well, and tried to imagine him in his new anddangerous environment. She began to cherish a secret hope that, despitehis belief that silence between them was best, he would write to her. 

Her holiday promised to be a little lonely as far as her friends wereconcerned. Mrs. Gray had gone to New York City to spend Easter with theNesbits. Nora and Hippy had gone to visit Jessica and Reddy in theirChicago home. Anne and David were in New York. Eleanor Savelli was inItaly. Even Marian Barber, Eva Allen and Julia Crosby had married andgone their separate ways. Of the Eight Originals Plus Two, and of theirold sorority, the Phi Sigma Tau, she was the only one left in Oakdale. To be sure she had plenty of invitations to spend Easter with her chumsand her many friends, but it was a sacred obligation with her always tobe at home during the Easter holidays. She was quite content to do this, and yet even her father's and mother's love could not quite still thelonging for the gay voices of those dear ones with whom she had keptpace for so long. 

There was one source of consolation, however, which during the firstdays at home she had quite overlooked, and that source was none otherthan Anna May and Elizabeth Angerell. The two little girls had by nomeans overlooked the fact that their Miss Harlowe was "the very nicestperson in the whole world except papa and mamma, " and proceeded tomonopolize her whenever the opportunity offered itself. 

Grace went for long walks with them. She helped them dress their dolls, and ran races and played games with them in their big sunny garden. Sheinitiated them into the mysteries of making fudge and penuchi, whilethey obligingly taught her the ten different ways they knew of skippingthe rope, and how to make raffia baskets. They followed her about liketwo adoring, persistent little shadows, until imbued with their carefreespirit of childhood, Grace, in a measure, forgot her woes and joined intheir innocent fun with hearty good will. 

"Really, Grace, I hardly know which is older, you or Anna May, " smiledher mother one afternoon as Grace came bounding into the living roomwith, "Mother, do you know where my blue sweater is? Anna May andElizabeth and I are going for a walk as far as the old Omnibus House. "

"It is hanging in that closet off the sewing room, " returned her mother. 

"Thank you. " Dropping a hasty kiss on her mother's cheek, Grace was off. 

Mrs. Harlowe watched her go down the walk, holding a hand of each littlegirl, with wistful eyes. Grace had not been at home three days beforeher mother divined that all was not well with her beloved daughter. Yetto ask questions was not her way. Whatever Grace's cross might be, sheknew that, in time, Grace would confide in her. 

On the way to the Omnibus House Grace was as gay and buoyant as her twolittle friends. It was not until they had reached there and Anna May andElizabeth had run off to the nearest tree to watch a pair of birds whichwere building a nest and keeping up a great chirping meanwhile, that afrightful feeling of loneliness swept over Grace. She sat down on theworn stone steps sadly thinking of Tom Gray and the good times theEight Originals had had at this favorite haunt. 

But why did the memory of Tom Gray continue to haunt her? Grace gave hershoulders an impatient twitch. How foolish she was to allow herself togrow retrospective over Tom. She had deliberately sent him away becauseshe did not, nor never could, love him. Still she wished that the memoryof him would not intrude upon her thoughts so constantly. "It's onlybecause he's associated with the good times the Eight Originals havehad, " she tried to tell herself, but deep in her heart was born astrange fear that she fought against naming or recognizing. 

After having watched the noisy, but successful, builders to theirhearts' content, the children ran over to where Grace sat and challengedher to a game of tag. But she was in no mood for play, and suggestedthey had better be starting home. She felt that she could not endure foranother instant this house of memories. She tried to assume the joyousair with which she had started out, but even the two little girls werenot slow to perceive that their dear Miss Harlowe didn't look as happyas when they had begun their walk. 

"I think we'd better go and see her to-morrow morning and take her apresent, " decided Anna May, after Grace had left them at their own gate. "She laughed like everything when we started on our walk, but she lookedpretty sad when we were coming back and didn't say hardly a thing. I'mgoing to give her my bottle of grape juice that Mother made speciallyfor me. "

"I guess I'll give her that pen wiper I made. It's ever so pretty. "Elizabeth was not to be outdone in generosity. 

"We'll take Snowball's new white puppy to show her, " planned Anna May. "She hasn't seen it yet. And a real French poodle puppy is too cute foranything. "

"And we'll sing that new verse we learned in school for her, " addedElizabeth. 

True to their word, the next morning the two little girls marched up tothe Harlowes' front door laden with their gifts. Anna May bore withproud carefulness the cherished bottle of grape juice while Elizabethcuddled a fat white ball in her arms, the pen wiper lying like a littleblanket on the puppy's back. 

"We came to call as soon as we could this morning, because we thoughtyou looked sad yesterday, " was Anna May's salutation as Grace opened thedoor. "Here's a bottle of grape juice. Mother made it specially for me, but I want _you_ to have it, " the child said. Grace ushered her guestsinto the living room. 

"I hope you'll like this pen wiper, too. I cut it out and sewed it andeverything, " burst forth Elizabeth, holding out her offering. "I hopeyou'll always use it when you write letters. "

"Thank you, girls. You are both very good to me, " smiled Grace, "and I'mso glad to see you this morning. "

"We thought you would be, " returned Anna May calmly. "We broughtSnowball's puppy to show you. We named him this morning for a perfectlysplendid person that we know. You know him, too. The puppy's name isThomas. "

"That's Mr. Gray's real name, isn't it?" put in Elizabeth anxiously. "Every one calls him Tom, but Thomas sounds nicer. Don't you think itdoes?"

"We like Mr. Gray better than any grown-up man we know, " confided AnnaMay enthusiastically. "He's the handsomest, nicest person ever was. Doyou think he'd be pleased to have us name our puppy for him?"

"I'm sure he would. " Grace stifled her desire to laugh as she took thefluffy white ball in her arms and stroked the tiny head. Then the amusedlook left her eyes. Perhaps Tom would never know of his little whitenamesake. He might never come back from South America. Suppose she werenever to hear of him again. In the past she had, during moments ofvexation toward him, almost wished it, but of a sudden it dawned uponher that she would give much to look into his honest gray eyes again andfeel the clasp of his strong, friendly hand. 

"Miss Harlowe, shall we sing for you?" Anna May wisely noted that MissHarlowe had begun to look "sad" again. 

"We learned such a pretty new song in school, " put in Elizabeth. "AnnaMay can play it on the piano, too. Would you like us to sing it, MissHarlowe?"

"Yes, do sing it, " urged Grace, but her thoughts were far from herobliging visitors. 

The children trotted over to the piano, and after a false start or two, Anna May played the opening bars of the song. Then the two childishvoices rang out:

 "The year's at the spring And day's at the morn: Morning's at seven; The hillside's dew-pearled; The lark's on the wing; The snail's on the thorn: God's in his heaven-- All's right with the world!"

Grace listened with a sinking heart. The joy of Browning's exquisitelines from "Pippa Passes" cut into her very soul. All was not right with_her_ world. Everything had gone wrong. She had chosen work instead oflove, and what it brought her? She had believed that in rejecting Tom'slove for her work she had definitely and forever solved her problem. Nowit confronted her afresh. She understood too well the meaning of thatstrange fear which had obsessed her ever since her return home. Now sheknew why the memory of Tom had so persistently haunted her, and why herfriendly interest in his welfare had grown to be a heavy anxiety as towhether all was well with him. Wholly against her will she had done thatwhich she had insisted she could never do. She had fallen in love withTom. But her awakening had come too late. Tom had gone away to forgether. He would never know that she loved him, for she could never, nevertell him. On the night of Jessica's wedding, when they had strolled upthe walk to the house in the moonlight, he had said with an air ofconviction, which then made her smile, that there would come a time wheneven work could not crowd out love. His prophecy had come true, but itmeant nothing to either she or Tom now, for it had come true too late. 

 CHAPTER XXI

 KATHLEEN WEST MAKES A PROMISE

On Grace's return to Overton and Harlowe House from her Easter vacationshe plunged into her work with feverish energy. She wished, if possible, to free herself of this strange, unbidden love for Tom which seemed togrow and deepen with every passing day, and which made her utterlymiserable. Then, too, she did not know when the dreaded summons mightcome from Miss Wharton, and she longed to do as much as she could forher girls while the opportunity was yet hers. It was with this spiritthat she entered into the plans for their revue, which was to be givenin Greek Hall, and from the number of tickets already sold promised tobe a sweeping success. 

Arline and Elfreda had accepted their invitations with alacrity, promising to come to Overton several days beforehand for the purpose ofmaking Grace a visit. The girls who were to take part in the revue wereusing every spare moment to perfect themselves in their parts andspecialties, and every night the living room was the scene of muchrehearsing. 

According to information received from Emma, Miss Wharton was notfilling Miss Wilder's place with signal success. She had shown herselfto be not only extremely narrow-minded, but quarrelsome as well. She hadantagonized more than one member of the faculty by either tactlesslycriticising their methods of instruction, or seeking to force them intoopen dispute. Being only human, those whom she sought to humbleretaliated by taking advantage of her recent assumption of the duties ofdean to make her college path as thorny as circumstances would admit, and Miss Wharton was obliged to put aside all else, including thejudgment she intended to pass upon Grace, in a powerful contention forsupremacy over those who had worsted her in sundry college matters. 

Grace did not flatter herself that this state of affairs could last; shewas certain that, sooner or later, the blow would fall, but she wiselyresolved to put the whole unhappy business from her mind and make haywhile her brief college sun still shone. 

The arrival of Elfreda Briggs and Arline Thayer three days before thedate set for the entertainment made things seem like old times. 

"It certainly does you a world of good to have Elfreda and Arline here, Gracious, " observed Emma Dean as she stopped in the doorway of Grace'slittle office on her way to her room from her morning recitations. 

"I can't bear to think of their leaving me, " smiled Grace, looking upfrom the account book on her desk. Her face had partially regained itsformer light and sparkle. "They are coming here to luncheon to-day. Didyou know it?"

"Yes, I saw J. Elfreda on my way across the campus this morning. Theyought to be here soon now. "

A ring of the bell, answered by the maid, and the sound of Arline'sclear tones, mingled with Elfreda's deeper ones, proclaimed the arrivalof the two Sempers. The luncheon bell rang almost directly afterward, sothe four friends had time only to exchange salutations before going tothe table. 

"Do you know, girls, I can't get used to Overton without Miss Wilder, "declared Arline Thayer as they seated themselves at Grace's table, whichhad been set for four. "I keep looking about me, expecting to meet her atany minute. You must miss her dreadfully, Grace. "

"I do miss her more than I can say, " replied Grace briefly. The hauntingshadow lurked for an instant in her gray eyes, then she began to talkwith forced vivacity of the coming revue. 

But one pair of keen eyes had seen that shadow, and that pair of eyesbelonged to J. Elfreda Briggs. "I wonder what ails Grace?" was herthought, "It's something about Miss Wilder's not being here, I'm prettycertain. " She resolved to make inquiries concerning the new dean andmade an excuse to accompany Emma across the campus after luncheon, leaving Arline and Grace together. 

"What's the matter with Grace?" was her abrupt question the instant theyhad left Harlowe House behind them. "I could see that she wasn't quiteher old self at luncheon to-day. "

"I believe you 'could see' in the dark or with your eyes shut or even ifyou had no eyes, " teased Emma. 

"Then there _is_ something bothering her, " said Elfreda triumphantly. "Iknew it. "

"Yes, there is. I wish I might tell you, " returned Emma slowly, "but Iam in Grace's confidence. It wouldn't be a bad idea for you to ask her, though. If she would tell you, you might be able to suggest somethinghelpful. I'll just say this much. It's very serious. "

"All right, I'll ask her. If she tells me, I'll talk things over withyou afterward. If she doesn't, then forget that I asked you about it. "

It was not until late that afternoon that she found her opportunity toquestion Grace. Arline had left her to make a call upon Myra Stone, nowa senior, and Elfreda and Grace sat side by side on Grace's favoritebench that stood under the giant elm at one end of the campus. 

"Grace, " Elfreda's matter-of-fact tones broke a brief silence that hadfallen upon the two young women. "What has happened to hurt you?"

Grace started slightly. Her color receded, leaving her very pale. Thenshe said simply, "I suppose you 'could see, ' Elfreda. "

"Yes; I've been 'seeing' ever since I came. I wish you would tell meabout it. Perhaps I can help you. "

Grace shook her head. "No one can help me. I'll just say this. Don't besurprised at anything you may hear a little later. But please rememberone thing, Elfreda. Whatever I have done since I became the manager ofHarlowe House I have done always with the highest interests of my girlsat heart. "

"I guess we all know that, " retorted Elfreda. "I'll remember what yousay, though. I'm sorry I can't help you. You didn't mind my asking, didyou?"

"You know I didn't. It was affection that prompted the question. " Gracereached out to pat her friend's hand. J. Elfreda caught Grace's hand inhers. 

Again silence reigned. They sat gazing across the campus, their handsstill joined. Grace was thinking that she could not endure telling evenElfreda of the cloud that hung over her, while J. Elfreda Briggs wasregistering a vow to find some means of helping Grace in spite ofherself. 

"I must go, Elfreda, " said Grace at last, rising from the seat. "I amanxious to have dinner over a little earlier to-night on account of thedress rehearsal in Greek Hall. Let me see, who is the person to befavored with your company at dinner?"

"I'm going to take dinner at Wayne Hall with Kathleen. We'll meet at thedress rehearsal. " Elfreda rose, and the two sauntered across the campusto the point where their paths diverged. 

After stopping for a little chat with Mrs. Elwood, Elfreda climbed thestairs to the room at the end of the hall, where she received a mostvociferous welcome from Kathleen and Patience. But the moment theysettled down to conversation Elfreda said solemnly, "Girls, something isbreaking Grace Harlowe's proud heart. Emma knows, but she is Grace'sonly confidante. I asked Grace point blank, this afternoon, to tell me, but she wouldn't. It has something to do with that Miss Wharton, the newdean. Whatever it is, you know, as well as I, that Grace isn't likely tobe in the wrong. If I were going to stay here at Overton, a littlelonger, I'd find out all about it. "

"You could see, " murmured Patience. 

"Yes, I could, " declared Elfreda with a good-natured grin. "But so longas I can't be here to see, I'm going to pass the job along to you, Kathleen. I'm sure that if any one can find out the cause of poorGrace's woes it will be you. Go after it and run it down just as youwould a big story, and if you can find and kill the wicked monster andmake the princess happy again, well, there isn't anything that J. Elfreda Briggs won't do for you. "

"I'll do it, " vowed Kathleen, setting her sharp little chin at aresolute angle. 

"You can't lose much time, either. College closes the second week inJune, " reminded Elfreda. 

"Trust me to find out before that time. "

Having disposed of this important matter, J. Elfreda's gravity vanishedand she became her usual funny self again. The three girls had a merrytime together and set off for the dress rehearsal in high spirits. 

When they reached Greek Hall they found that Grace and Arline hadalready arrived and were sitting far back in the hall watching asextette of girls in smart white linen skirts, blue serge coats andstraw hats, banded with blue ribbon, who were down on the programme fora song entitled "Our Fraternity Friends, " the number ending with a gaylittle dance taught them by Hilda Moore. 

"Aren't they clever?" asked Grace eagerly, turning to Kathleen. Thethree young women had made their way to where she was seated. "They onlybegan practicing that dance last week. Miss Moore taught them. Shedances beautifully. "

The rehearsal proceeded without a hitch. Arline and Elfreda, being sureof themselves, did not take part in it. Kathleen West's clever one-actplay, "In the Days of Shakespeare, " was worthy of her genius. Itpresented the scene from the "Taming of the Shrew, " where Petruchioridicules Katherine's gown and berates the tailor. This scene wasenacted in accordance with the Elizabethan age, when the nobility werepermitted to take seats on the stage with the actors, the latter beingobliged to step around and over that part of the audience in order tomake their entrances and exits. These favored nobles had also theprivilege of expressing freely their opinions of the merits of thelong-suffering mummers, which they usually did in a loud voice. Kathleenhad made a careful study of the conditions prevailing in the theatre atthat period, and the little play was most mirth provoking from beginningto end. 

Mary Reynolds had also scored in the pathetic playlet, "The Freshman onthe Top Floor, " depicting a lonely little girl whose poverty anddiffidence kept her out of the carefree college life that went on in thehouse where she lived. Cecil Ferris essayed the role of the freshman. 

The last number on the programme was Jean Brent's solo. Afterconsiderable coaxing Louise had persuaded her to sing, and GertrudeEarle accompanied her on the piano. Grace felt her brief resentmentagainst the girl vanish as she listened to her glorious voice which hada suspicion of tragedy in it. 

There was a certain amount of lingering on the part of the performers totalk over the success of the dress rehearsal, but at last they alltrooped across the campus to Harlowe House. 

By curious chance Evelyn Ward found herself walking directly behind JeanBrent. She had been greatly affected by her singing. Obeying a suddenimpulse, she leaned forward and touched Jean's arm. "Can't we be friendsagain, Jean, " she said wistfully. "I--I love your voice, and I care somuch for you. There isn't much of the year left and----"

Jean's blue eyes grew strangely soft. "It was all my fault, " she saidhuskily. "Let's begin over again, Evelyn. " And under the stars they madea new and truer covenant. 

 CHAPTER XXII

 FIGHTING LOYALHEART'S BATTLE

The revue was an unqualified success. Greek Hall was filled tooverflowing, and the money fairly poured into the box office for theHarlowe House fund. There was a general rejoicing the next day among theperformers, and the same night a social session was held in the livingroom at Harlowe House. To Grace it seemed as though she had been waftedback once more to the dear dead days when the Sempers had held forth. The presence of Arline and Elfreda was the last touch needed to completethe illusion, and she went about her work feeling happier than she hadfor a long time. Even the shadow cast upon her heart by Tom's absenceseemed less gloomy. 

But on the heels of her brief elation trod disaster. Miss Wharton hadchosen to become highly incensed because she had not been consulted inregard to the holding of the entertainment, and the long-suspended swordfell. The revue had been given on Wednesday evening, and on Fridaymorning Jean had received a note summoning her to Miss Wharton's office. This time Miss Wharton intended to interview the two young womenseparately. She believed that Jean would reveal what she had hithertokept a secret if Grace were not present. With unreasonable prejudice shechose to place the brunt of Jean's refusal to speak upon Grace'sshoulders. 

Jean obeyed the summons and came away from Overton Hall with a white, set face. Almost the first person she encountered on the campus wasEvelyn, who was hurrying to one of her classes, and in her anguish ofmind she poured forth the whole bitter story to her roommate. 

"Oh, Jean, why didn't you tell me this before, " cried Evelyn. "I neverknew until the night of the dress rehearsal that things were not goingsmoothly for Miss Harlowe. Kathleen West told me in confidence thatsomething was wrong, and asked me to find out anything I couldconcerning it and let her know. We must go straight to her and tell hereverything. She can help us if any one can. Just for once I'll cut myEnglish recitation. Come on. Oh, I do hope Kathleen is at home. "

But Kathleen was not at Wayne Hall, and after some parleying the twogirls concluded to wait until she returned from her classes to herluncheon. It was ten o'clock when they rang the bell of the collegehouse where Grace had spent four happy years, and for the next hour anda half they waited in an agony of suspense. When Kathleen arrived theyhurried her off to her room and proceeded to acquaint her with all thefacts in their possession concerning the misfortune so soon to overtakeGrace. 

Kathleen listened to them without comment. When they had finishedtalking she asked one sharp question, "Do you know Miss Wilder'saddress?"

Neither girl knew it, but Evelyn was seized with a bright idea. "HildaMoore knows it. I am sure she does. "

"Then hurry to Overton Hall and get it from her, " ordered Kathleen. "I'mgoing to send a telegram. Are you sure Miss Wharton hasn't sent forGrace yet?"

"Yes, yes. She said she intended to send for Miss Harlowe to-morrowmorning. Evidently she has a reason of her own for not sending for herto-day, " was Jean's eager response. "But she is going to report us toPresident Morton and the Board within the next day or so. "

"Good-bye. I'll be back directly. " Evelyn dashed out of the room anddown the stairs on her errand. 

Twenty minutes later she returned. "Here it is, " she handed it to thenewspaper girl. 

Kathleen had not taken off her hat since her arrival at Wayne Hall. "Come on, girls, " she said. "You must go home and have your luncheon. Just leave everything to me. I think I can promise Miss Wharton asurprise. "

"What did she say to you, Jean?" asked Evelyn as they left Kathleen atthe corner, headed for the telegraph office, and went on to HarloweHouse. 

"What didn't she say. She is going to send me away if she can. I toldher everything, but it only made matters worse. I said over and overagain that Miss Harlowe was not to blame, but she grew harder everyminute. How I despise her. " Jean shuddered with disgust. "All this ismerely an excuse to oust Miss Harlowe. Why she doesn't like her, goodness knows. What is Miss West going to do, I wonder?"

"Telegraph Miss Wilder for one thing. Still, she can't write or comehere in time to save Miss Harlowe, " declared Evelyn. "Hilda knows aboutit. She said Miss Wharton dictated a perfectly horrid letter to Mrs. Gray, too, about Miss Harlowe this morning. "

"Oh, dear, " half sobbed Jean. "It's dreadful, and it's all my fault. "

Evelyn did not answer. She could not help feeling that Jean deservedthis bitter moment. 

"Shall you tell Miss Harlowe?" asked Evelyn as they hurriedly ascendedthe steps. 

Jean nodded. 

When they entered the dining room, for luncheon they learned to theirutter consternation that Grace had gone for the day to visit a classmatein Westbrook and would not return until after dinner that night. In themeantime Kathleen West had hurried to the telegraph office anddespatched the following message to Miss Wilder. "Wire President Morton, delay action, charges made by Miss Wharton against Grace Harlowe, untilword from you. Letter will follow. Answer. Kathleen West. "

"There, " she chuckled when she heard the tap of the operator's machine, "that will help a little. Never mind the expense. "

She was late to luncheon, and therefore missed Patience, but toward theclose of the afternoon they met, and Kathleen took her into herconfidence. All evening the two girls remained in the living roomlistening intently for the ring of the bell that might mean an answer toKathleen's urgent message. At ten minutes to nine Kathleen said wearily. "It's too late to hear to-night. The telegraph office closes at nineo'clock. The answer will come in the morning. Even as she spoke, thedoor bell rang loudly. Pale and trembling with suspense, she herselfanswered the door. Hastily signing the messenger boy's book she closedthe door on his retreating back and returned to the living room, nervously tearing open the envelope as she walked. Then she cried out insurprise. 

"What is it?" questioned Patience in alarm. 

Kathleen held out to her the disquieting bit of yellow paper. "Don't befrightened. It's good news. See. " Patience read over her shoulder. "Start east to-day. Recovered. Don't write. Reach Overton Friday week. Keep secret. Telegraphed president. Katherine Wilder. "

"Hurrah, we've saved the day, " rejoiced Kathleen. 

"And Kathleen West and Evelyn Ward have left milestones worth leavingalong College Lane, " reminded Patience with a smile that was very nearto tears. 

 * * * * *

Grace returned to Harlowe House from Westbrook at a little after eighto'clock in the evening. She found Jean Brent anxiously awaiting herarrival, and at Jean's request they went at once to her room, where Jeanacquainted her with the bad news. 

Grace listened with compressed lips, saying nothing. 

Jean wound up her narration with, "I know it is all my fault, MissHarlowe, but truly I tried to make things come right for you. I toldMiss Wharton all about myself and tried to make her understand that youweren't in the least to blame for my misdeeds. But I only made mattersworse. She is contemptible. " Jean's voice vibrated with bitter scorn. 

"I thank you for defending me. " Grace spoke unemotionally. "I hope thatPresident Morton will overlook the charge against you. I must go now. Iwish to be alone. I must decide what I am to do. Good night. " She hadremained standing near the door during Jean's recital, now she opened itand walked slowly down the hall to her own door. 

She entered her pretty room as one might enter a chamber of death. Sothe end had come. Well, she would meet it with a stout heart and a clearconscience. But she would not wait for Miss Wharton to charge her withbeing unfit for the trust Mrs. Gray had reposed in her. She stepped tothe library table and, opening a drawer, took out a sheet of her ownmonogrammed stationery and an envelope. Seating herself at the table, shetook her pen from its rack. After a little thought she began writing inthe clear, strong hand that characterized her. Her letter consisted ofnot more than a dozen lines. When she had finished she sealed, stamped, and addressed it to President Morton with a firm, unfaltering hand. 

Wrapping a light scarf about her shoulders, she stole softly downstairsand outdoors without being observed by the knot of girls in the livingroom. Crossing the campus, she dropped her letter into the post box atthe farther side, nearest the street. Then she walked slowly back, stopping at her favorite bench under the giant elm. The moon, almost atthe full, flooded the wide green stretch with her pale radiance. Thefringed arms of the old elm waved her a gentle welcome. 

Grace sank upon the rustic seat racked with many emotions. How often shehad sat there and dreamed of what her work was to be, and now, just asshe had begun to reap the glory of it, it was to be snatched from her. 

The soft beauty of the spring night coupled with the ordeal throughwhich she had just passed filled her with an unspeakable sadness. Shebowed her head upon her hands, but her thoughts lay too deep for tears. Yet even while she sat for the last time in the spot she loved sodearly, Kathleen West and Patience Eliot were standing side by sidereading the telegram that was to bring light out of darkness. 

 CHAPTER XXIII

 GRACE SOLVES HER PROBLEM

Grace waited impatiently for an answer to her letter of resignation. Sheexpected hourly a summons to President Morton's office, but it did notcome. It was now six days since Jean Brent's interview with MissWharton. Surely the dean had long since executed her threat to humiliateand depose Grace from the position of which she had been so proud. Thenwhy did not President Morton take action at once and end this torturingsuspense? Grace could not answer this question. She could only wonderand wait. 

But while she wondered and waited Kathleen West was leaving no stoneunturned. In the championing of Grace's rights she did nothing byhalves. The very next morning after receiving Miss Wilder's telegram shemarched boldly into President Morton's office for a private interviewwith that dignified gentleman. Her newspaper experience had taught herhow to gain an audience with the most difficult persons. She had littletrouble in obtaining admittance to the president's private office. Itwas a long interview, lasting, at least, a half hour, and when Kathleenrose to go President Morton shook her hand and bowed her out in his mostamiable manner. 

From Overton Hall she went directly to the telegraph office and sentanother telegram. This time it was addressed to Mrs. Rose Gray, Oakdale, N. Y. , and read: "Come to Overton, but fix arrival Friday. Grace needsyou. Serious. Wire train. Meet you. Kathleen West. "

By five o'clock that afternoon she had received this answer: "ArriveFriday, 9. 20 P. M. Arrange for me, Tourraine. Rose Gray, " and wastriumphantly showing it to Patience Eliot and planning her work ofvindication in Grace's behalf. 

But while her friends were busying themselves in her cause Grace wasengaged in packing her two trunks and arranging her affairs at HarloweHouse. So far as she knew, Emma Dean and Jean Brent, alone, were awareof what was about to happen. Jean, whose fate still hung in the balance, went about looking pale and forlorn. Being in Kathleen's confidence, Evelyn had not informed her roommate of the secret work that was beingdone in behalf of Grace. She understood that Jean was suffering acutely, and longed to tell her that all promised well for Grace, but not forworlds would she have betrayed Kathleen's confidence. 

Emma Dean had learned of the mailing of Grace's resignation from Graceherself when she had returned to Harlowe House late that same evening. For once her flow of cheer had failed her, and she had broken down andcried disconsolately. For the next two days she had been unconsolable. Her bitterness against Miss Wharton was so great that it distressedGrace, who sought in vain to comfort her. But on Monday afternoon shereturned from her classes in a lighter, more cheerful frame of mind. Infact as the week progressed she appeared to have thrown off her sorrowand was as funny as ever. 

Grace tried to be honestly glad that Emma's sorrow had been soshort-lived, but she could not help feeling a little hurt to think thatEmma, of all persons, should forget so quickly. Once or twice Emmacaught the half reproachful gaze of her gray eyes, and had hard work torefrain from telling Grace that the hateful shadow was soon to belifted. For Emma and Kathleen West had had a private confab, duringwhich both girls had laughed and cried and laughed again in a mostirrational manner. 

So the week wore away, and Friday came and went, leaving Grace stillwaiting and dreading. If she had happened to pass the Hotel Tourraine attwenty-five minutes to ten on Friday evening she would have seen ataxicab drive up to the entrance and a sprightly, little old lady stepout of it, assisted by a keen-faced, black-eyed young woman, who tookher by the arm and hurried her into the hotel. And if she had been onthe station platform when the 11. 40 train from the west pulled in shewould have eagerly welcomed the stately dark-eyed woman who signaled ataxicab and drove off up College Avenue. 

Saturday morning dawned, clear and radiant. The glad light of earlysummer streamed in upon Grace. For a brief space she forgot her sorrowsas she knelt at the open window and drank in the pure morning air. Thenone by one they came back. She wondered whether the same sun wereshining on Tom, far away in the jungle, and if he were well, andsometimes thought of her. How happy she might have made him and herselfif only she had not been so blind. Through the bitterness of being foundwanting she had come to realize what a wonderful thing it was to betruly loved. Never had the love of her parents and friends for herseemed so sacred. And how beautiful, how steadfast, Tom's affection forher had been! With a sigh she turned her thoughts away from that losthappiness. Now came the old torturing question, "Would the summons cometo-day?"

She was still brooding over it when she went downstairs to breakfast. Stopping in her office, she hastily went over her mail. It was with asense of desperate relief that she separated an envelope, bearing theletter head of Overton College from the little pile of letters on theslide of her desk, and opened it. It was from President Morton, andmerely stated that he wished her to call at his office at eleven o'clockthat morning. 

With the letter in her hand, Grace entered the dining-room. She intendedto show it to Emma, but the latter, who had risen early on account ofsome special work she wished to do, had eaten a hasty breakfast anddeparted. Grace slipped the letter into her blouse and made a pretenseof eating breakfast. But she had lost all appetite for food. Aftersipping part of a cup of coffee she rose from the table and, returningto her office, opened the rest of her mail. 

Under any circumstances but those of the present her letters would havedelighted her. There was one from Eleanor Savelli, written from herfather's villa in Italy, a long lively one from Nora, containing abreezy account of Oakdale doings, and a still longer letter from Anne. There was one from Julia Crosby, and an extremely funny note from J. Elfreda Briggs, describing a visit she had recently made to the nightcourt. 

One by one she read them, then laid them aside with an indifference bornof suffering. If only there had been one for her in Tom's clear, boldhandwriting. But it was useless to linger, even for a moment, over whatmight have been. Grace gathered up her letters and, locking them in herdesk, went upstairs, with slow, dragging steps, to dress for her callupon President Morton. 

It was three minutes to eleven when a slim, erect figure walked up thesteps of Overton Hall. Grace wore a smartly tailored suit of whiteserge, white buckskin shoes, white kid gloves and a white hemp hattrimmed with curved white quills. The lining of the hat bore the name ofa famous maker. She had taken a kind of melancholy pride in her toiletthat morning, and the result was all that she could have wished. Unconsciously the immaculate purity of her costume bespoke the pure, high, steadfast soul which looked out from her gray eyes. As she pausedat the door for a moment, her hand on the knob, she experiencedsomething of the thrill of a martyr, about to die for a sacred cause. Then she opened the door. 

For an instant she stood as though transfixed. Was she dreaming, orcould she actually believe her own eyes? A sudden faintness seized her. Everything turned dark. She swayed slightly, then with a little sobbingcry of, "Fairy Godmother! Miss Wilder!" she ran straight into Mrs. Gray's outstretched arms. 

That throbbing, wistful cry brought the tears to Miss Wilder's eyes, while President Morton took off his glasses and wiped them with hishandkerchief. Great tears were rolling down Mrs. Gray's cheeks which shemade no effort to hide. "My little girl, " she said brokenly. "How daredthat dreadful woman treat you so shabbily?"

It was at least ten minutes before the three women could settle down tothe exchanging of questions and explanations. President Morton, the soulof old-fashioned courtesy, beamed his approval on them. 

"Now my dear, " said Miss Wilder at last, "I wish you to begin at thevery beginning of this affair, and tell us just what has happened. "

Grace began with the coming of Jean Brent to Overton and of her refusalto be frank concerning her affairs. Then she went on to the sale of herwardrobe which Jean had conducted in her absence and her finalrevelation of her secret to Grace after the latter had commanded it. Then she told of her promise to Jean not to betray her secret and of thesummons sent them by Miss Wharton, to come to her office. 

"But what was this secret, Grace?" questioned Miss Wilder gravely. "Wehave the right to know. "

The color flooded Grace's pale face. She hesitated, then with animpulsive, "Of course you have the right to know, " she went on, "JeanBrent's father and mother died when she was a child. She was brought upby an aunt who is very rich. This aunt gave her everything in the worldshe wanted but one thing. She would not allow Jean to go to college. Shedid not believe in the higher education for girls. She believed that ayoung girl should learn French, music and deportment at a boardingschool. Then when she was graduated she must marry and settle down. Oneof the friends of Jean's aunt had a son who was in love with Jean. Hehad been babied by his mother until he had grown to be a hateful, worthless young man, and Jean despised him. Her aunt told her that shecould take her choice between marrying this young man or leaving herhouse forever. She gave Jean a week to decide. Then she went into thecountry to spend a week end with this young man's mother at theircountry place. She thought because Jean was utterly dependent upon herthat she would not dare to defy her. 

"Jean had a little money of her own, so she packed her trunks while heraunt was away and went to Grafton to talk things over with Miss Lipton, who has known her since she was a baby. She was a dear friend of Jean'smother. As Jean was of age she had the right to choose her own way oflife. Miss Lipton knew all about Overton College and Harlowe House, soshe wrote me and applied for admission for Miss Brent. I had room forone more girl, and I considered Miss Lipton's recommendation sufficientto admit Miss Brent to Harlowe House. Naturally I was displeased whenshe disobeyed me and held the sale. Still I do not consider that heroffense warrants dismissal. "

"Miss Brent will _not_ be expelled from college, " emphasized PresidentMorton. 

"What I cannot understand is Miss Wharton's unjust attitude toward you. Surely she could readily see that you were not at fault, " cried Mrs. Gray in righteous indignation. 

Miss Wilder, too, shook her head in disapproval of Miss Wharton's courseof action. President Morton looked stern for a moment. Then his facerelaxed. He turned to Grace with a reassuring smile that told its ownstory. 

"Miss Harlowe, " he said, looking kindly at Grace, "it has always been myprinciple to uphold the members of the faculty in their decisions foror against a student, if these decisions are fair and just. I amconvinced, however, that you have received most unjust treatment at MissWharton's hands. Therefore I am going to tell you in strict confidencethat Miss Wharton has not filled the requirements for dean demanded bythe Overton College Board. On the day I received your letter ofresignation I wrote Miss Wharton, asking for her resignation at theclose of the college year. I had received a letter from Miss Wilderstating that she would be able to resume her position as dean of thiscollege next October. I had determined to send for you to inquire intoyour reason for wishing to resign the position you have so ably filled, when I received Miss Wilder's telegram. At her request I delayed mattersuntil her arrival. Miss West also called at my office in your behalf. Itake great pleasure in assuring you that I was prepared to accept anyexplanation you might make of the charges which Miss Wharton madeagainst you and Miss Brent. In all my experience as president of thisinstitution of learning I have never known a young woman who has carriedout so faithfully the traditions of Overton College. "

Grace listened to the president's words with a feeling of joy so deep asto be akin to pain. The shadow had indeed lifted. In the eyes of thosewhose good opinion she valued so greatly she was worthy of her trust. She never forgot that wonderful morning in President Morton's office. 

When at last she left the president and Miss Wilder, to accompany Mrs. Gray back to the Tourraine, she said with shining eyes, "Dear FairyGodmother, would you mind if we stopped at Wayne Hall. I _must_ seeKathleen West. "

"Of course you must, " agreed Mrs. Gray briskly. "I should like to seeher myself. My opinion of that young woman is very high. "

It seemed to Grace as though she could hardly wait until their taxicabdrew up in front of Wayne Hall. Mrs. Elwood herself answered the bell. 

"Oh, Mrs. Elwood, " cried Grace, "is Kathleen in?"

"Yes; she came in only a little while ago. "

"I'll wait for you in the living room, Grace. Bring that blessed littlenewspaper girl down stairs with you, " directed Mrs. Gray. 

As Grace hurried up the stairs and down the hall to the end room thememory of another day, when she had sought Kathleen West to do herhonor, returned to her. Her face shone with a great tenderness as sheturned the knob and walked straight into the room without knocking. Aninstant and she had folded in her arms the alert little figure thatsprang to meet her. "Kathleen, dear girl, " she cried. "How can I everthank you?"

"Don't try, " smiled Kathleen, her black eyes looking unutterable loyaltyat Grace. "I had to leave a milestone, you know, and I couldn't haveleft it in a better cause. I enlisted long ago under the banner ofLoyalheart. So you see it was my duty to fight for her. "

 * * * * *

It was after three o'clock when Grace left Mrs. Gray at the Tourraineand went back to Harlowe House. At Mrs. Elwood's urgent invitation theyhad remained at Wayne Hall for luncheon, and with Patience added totheir number had held a general rejoicing over the way things had turnedout. Mrs. Gray's last words to Grace on saying good-bye to her at thehotel were, "Grace, I am coming over to see you this evening. "

Grace walked home, her heart singing a song of thanksgiving andhappiness. As she entered the house the maid met her with, "There's alady to see you, Miss Harlowe. She just came. "

Grace stepped into the living room. A tall, gray-haired woman of perhapssixty, very smartly gowned, and of commanding appearance, rose to meether. "Are you Miss Harlowe?" was her abrupt question. Then before Gracehad time to do more than bow in the affirmative, she said with abrusqueness intended to hide emotion, "My name is Brent. Jean Brent ismy niece. Tell me, is she with you still? I could not bring myself toask the maid. I was afraid she might say that my niece was not here. " Inher anxiety, her voice trembled. 

Grace's hand was stretched forth impulsively. "I am so glad, " she saideagerly. "Jean needs you. She will soon be home from her classes. Wouldyou like to go to her room?"

The woman returned Grace's hand clasp with a fervor born of emotion. Shewas trying to hide her agitation, but Grace could see that she wasdeeply stirred. Once in Jean's room she gave one curious glance abouther, then sank heavily into a chair and began to cry. "I have been astubborn, foolish woman, " she sobbed. "I drove my little girl away fromme because I was determined to make her marry a man whom I now know tobe worthless. Oh, I am afraid she will never forgive me. "

Grace was touched by the proud woman's tearful remorse, but she doubtedif Jean Brent would forgive her aunt. She had spoken most bitterlyagainst her. Grace tried to think of something comforting to say. Butbefore she could put her thoughts into words the door was suddenlyopened and Jean walked into the room. At sight of the familiar figureshe turned very pale. Her blue eyes gleamed with anger. She took a stepforward. 

"What brought _you_ here?" she asked tensely. 

"Jean, my child, won't you forgive me?" pleaded the woman holding outher arms. 

Grace waited to hear no more. But as she turned to leave the room shecaught one look at Jean's face. The sudden anger in it had died out. Grace believed that all would be well, but whatever passed between auntand niece was not for her ears. She went directly to her room to waitthere until Emma came from her classes. She had so much to say to herfaithful comrade. 

In due season Emma appeared with a cheery, "Hello, Gracious. How iseverything?"

"Everything is lovely. Emma Dean, you dear old humbug. No wonder youcouldn't look sad when I talked about leaving Harlowe House. Now, confess. You were in the secret, weren't you?" Grace stood with herhands on Emma's shoulders, looking into her face. 

"The Deans of whom I am which, have always been advocates of the truth, "solemnly declared Emma, "therefore I will follow their illustriousexample and answer 'I was. ' You tied _my_ hands and _my_ tongue so Icouldn't fight for you, Gracious, but you couldn't tie Kathleen's. "

"Oh, Emma, I have so much to tell you. I hardly know where to begin. I'mso happy. It's wonderful to feel once more that I am considered worthyof my work. You and I will have many more seasons of it, together. "

"I wish we might, " returned Emma, but a curious wistfulness crept intoher eyes that Grace failed to note. 

The two friends talked on until dinner time and went downstairstogether, arm in arm. After dinner Emma pleaded an engagement with MissDuncan, Grace's former teacher of English, and left the house at alittle after seven o'clock. Grace slipped into her little office andseated herself at her desk. How glad she was that all was well again. Yes, she and Emma would, indeed, spend many more seasons together. Yet, somehow, the thought of her work did not give her the same thrill ofsatisfaction that it once had. Try as she might she could not keepthoughts of Tom from creeping into her mind. Where was he to-night? Hadhe forgotten her? Mrs. Gray had not once mentioned his name to her, andshe had not dared to ask for news of him. Her somber reflections wereinterrupted by Jean Brent and her aunt. A complete reconciliation hadtaken place. Miss Brent was now anxious to thank Grace for all she haddone in her niece's behalf. They lingered briefly, then went on to theHotel Tourraine, where Miss Brent had registered. They had not been gonelong when the ringing of the door bell brought Grace to her feet. Mrs. Gray had arrived. She hurried to the door to open it for her FairyGodmother. Then she drew back with a sharp exclamation. The tall, fair-haired young man who towered above her bore small resemblance todainty little Mrs. Gray. 

[Illustration: Tom's Strong Hands Closed Over Hers. ]

"Grace!" said a voice she knew only too well. 

"Tom, " she faltered. Then both her hands went out to him. His own stronghands closed over them. The two pairs of gray eyes met in a long levelgaze. 

"Come into my office, Tom. " She found her voice at last. "I--I thoughtyou were thousands of miles away in a South American jungle. "

"So I was, but I didn't go very deeply into it. Professor Graham metwith a serious accident and we had to turn back to civilization. He felland hurt his spine and we had to carry him to the nearest village, twohundred miles, in a litter. Naturally that broke up the expedition, andwhen he became better we decided to sail for home. Reached New York Citylast week. I telegraphed Aunt Rose, and she wired me to meet her inOverton. I came in on that 5. 30 train. Of course I was anxious to seeyou, so Aunt Rose told me to run along ahead. She'll be here in alittle while. "

Once seated opposite each other in the little office, an awkward silencefell upon the two young people. 

"I am so glad nothing dreadful happened to you, Tom. " Grace at lastbroke the silence. "Those expeditions are very hazardous. I thought ofyou often and wondered if you were well. " There was a wistful note inher voice of which she was utterly unconscious, but it was not lost onTom. 

"Grace, " he said tensely, "did you really miss me?" He leaned forward, his face very close to hers. His eager eyes forced the truth. 

"More than I can say, Tom, " she answered in a low tone. 

Tom caught her hands in his. She did not draw them away. "How much doesthat mean, Grace? I know I vowed never to open the subject to you again, but I never saw that look in your eyes before, and you never let me holdyour hands like this. Which is to be, dear; work or love?"

"Love, " was the half-whispered answer. And the gate of happiness, solong barred to Tom Gray, was opened wide. 

 CHAPTER XXIV

 THE BOND ETERNAL

The full moon shone down with its broadest smile on the group of youngpeople who occupied Mrs. Gray's roomy, old-fashioned veranda. As onanother June night that belonged to the past, Mrs. Gray's Christmaschildren had gathered home. 

"We're here because we're here, " caroled Hippy Wingate. "But allow me tomake one observation. "

"_One_, " jeered Reddy Brooks. "You mean one hundred. "

"That's very unkind in you, Reddy, " returned Hippy in a grieved tone. "Just to show you how entirely off the track you are I will make that_one_ observation and subside. "

"I didn't know you had such a word as 'subside' in your vocabulary, "derided David Nesbit. 

"Nora, where art thou? Thy husband is calling, " wailed Hippy. 

"I would hardly call that an observation, " laughed Grace. 

"It sounds more like an anguished appeal for help, " remarked Anne. 

"Or a perpetration by a deaf man who hasn't the least idea of how itsounds, " added Tom Gray cruelly. 

"Nora, " rebuked Hippy, fixing a disapproving eye on his wife, who waslaughing immoderately, "how can you hear your husband thus derided andlaugh at his suffering? Oh, if Miriam were only here to protect me. Bythe way, " he went on innocently, "where _is_ Miriam?"

"She will be here a little later, " said Grace evasively. 

"Ah, yes, I see, " smirked Hippy. "I suppose she is looking up furtherinformation on the drama. Miriam is really well-informed on thatsubject. Did she go to the library or"--he paused and his smile grewwider--"to the train?"

Absolute silence followed this pertinent question. Then Jessica giggled. That giggle proved infectious. A ripple of mirth went the round of theporch party. 

"Here comes Miriam now. " Grace pointed down the drive. Two figures wereseen strolling toward the house in leisurely fashion. 

"Yes, here she comes. Better ask her what you just asked us, " Reddysatirically advised Hippy. 

"Why ask questions when my eyes tell me it _was_ the train? Still, ifyou think it advisable I will----"

"Be good, " ordered Nora. "Don't you dare say one word. "

"But I haven't made my observation yet, " reminded Hippy. 

"It will keep. "

"Ah, here they come! Now for a pretty little speech of welcome. " Hippyrose and puffed out his chest, but before he could utter a word he wasjerked back by the coat tails to the porch seat on which he and Nora hadbeen sitting. 

As Miriam and the man at her side neared the porch every one rose togreet them. Then the women of the party exchanged smiling glances. OnMiriam's engagement finger shone the white fire of a diamond. The nextinstant Everett Southard was shaking hands with Mrs. Gray and the EightOriginals, while Miriam looked on, an expression of radiant happiness inher eyes. Then the actor turned to her with the beautiful smile, thatNora O'Malley had often declared was seraphic, and said: "Shall we tellthem now, Miriam?"

Miriam's black eyes glowed with the soft light that love alone couldlend to them. The pink in her cheeks deepened. "Yes, " she acquiesced. 

"Miriam and I are going the rest of our way together, dear friends, " hesaid simply. Anne thought she had never heard his voice take on a moreexquisitely tender tone. "I came from New York to tell you so. "

Immediately a flow of congratulations ensued. In the midst of them TomGray's eyes met Grace's. What he read there seemed to satisfy him. Whenevery one was again seated he walked over to the porch swing where Graceand Anne sat idly rocking to and fro. Stopping directly in front ofGrace, he held out his hands to her. As she looked up at him her facetook on an expression of perfect love and trust. Placing her hands inTom's, Grace rose to her feet. Their friends watched the pretty tableauwith affectionately smiling faces. Then the two young people faced theexpectant company. 

"You know, all of you, what I am going to say, so you must know, too, how happy I am. Grace has promised to marry me. " Tom's face was aglowwith happiness. 

"My dear, dear child. " Mrs. Gray rose, her arms extended to Grace. "Ihave hoped for this ever since you were graduated from high school. "Grace embraced the old lady tenderly. Then her chums hemmed her in, andcongratulations began all over again. 

"Talk about your surprises, " beamed Reddy. "I hadn't any idea that Graceand Tom had fixed up this one. I can't tell you how glad I am, oldfellow. " He shook Tom's hand vigorously. David and Hippy followed suit. The faces of the three young men fairly shone with joy. They had longunderstood the depth of Tom's dejection over Grace's steadfast refusalto give up her work for his sake. 

"We saved it as a special feature of the occasion, " laughed Tom, "butI'll tell you three fellows a secret. " He lowered his voice and thelaughter died out of his fine face, leaving it very serious. "I neverexpected this happiness was coming my way. Long ago I gave up all ideaof ever being anything but a friend to Grace. I can't understand how itall came about, and I suppose I never shall. "

"Maybe we aren't tickled over your good fortune, " said Hippy warmly. "We've waited for this a long while. I always told Nora that it wouldhappen some day. I knew there was just one Tom Gray and that it wouldonly be a question of time until Grace found it out. "

"No fair having secrets, " called out Nora. "What and who are you boystalking about in such low, confidential voices?"

"Me, " beamed Hippy. "Reddy was just telling me that he never fullyappreciated me until cruel distance separated us. Of course I can't helpfeeling touched. It is so seldom that Reddy appreciates anything or anyone. He is----"

The confidential group suddenly dissolved in a hurry. Reddy took hold ofHippy's arm and rushed him down the steps and around the corner of thehouse in an anything but gentle manner. "There, " he declared, as hereturned to the porch alone. "That will teach him that he can't makepointed remarks about me. I guess he felt 'touched' that time. "

"N-o-r-a, " wailed a pathetic voice. "Come and get me. I want to sit onthe veranda, too. "

"Promise you'll be nice to Reddy, or I won't come after you, " stipulatedNora, making no effort to rise. 

"I won't promise, " came the defiant answer. "I don't like Reddy. He is ahard-hearted ruffian. "

"Thank you, " sang out Reddy. "Now come back if you dare. "

"I don't want to come back. I'd rather walk around by myself in thegarden. "

Nothing further was heard from Hippy for a time. Conversation on theveranda went on merrily. Apparently no one missed the stout young man. Suddenly a bland voice at Reddy's elbow said, "Why, good evening, Reddy. " Hippy's fat face appeared between the lace curtains at the openparlor window. He beamed joyfully at the company, then favored Reddywith a smile so wide and ingratiating that the latter's fierceexpression changed to a reluctant grin. At this hopeful sign Hippyclambered through the window and crowded himself into the swing betweenJessica and Anne, who had resumed their seats there. They protestedvigorously, then made room for him. 

After announcing their engagement and receiving the congratulations oftheir friends, Tom and Grace had seated themselves on a rustic bench alittle apart from the others. Grace's slim fingers lay within Tom'sstrong hand. 

"Grace, " he said, bending toward her so that he could look into hereyes, "are you perfectly sure that you love me? Are you quite content togive up your work? You don't think there will ever come a time when youwill be sorry that you chose me instead? It still seems like a dream tome. I can't believe that you and I are going to spend the rest of ourlives together. It's too much happiness. If you knew how blackeverything seemed that rainy day when you sent me out of your life----"

"Hush, you mustn't speak of it, " Grace lightly laid the fingers of herfree hand against Tom's lips. "I did not know how wonderful your lovefor me was. It took sorrow and separation to make me see it. But I'm_sure_ now, Tom, perfectly sure. I used to think I could never give upbeing house mother at Harlowe House, but now I am entirely satisfied tohave Emma Dean take my place. She will do the work even better than I. Harlowe House can spare me, but Tom Gray can't, and I can't spare him. What you said to me so long ago came true, dear. When love came to me, not even work could crowd it out. I have found my fairy prince at last. "

"Then the prince is going to claim the princess and bind her to himforever with a jeweled circle of gold, " said Tom softly. His handreached into an inner pocket of his coat. Over Grace Harlowe's slenderfinger was slipped the magic circle of gold, a glittering pledge ofeternal devotion, and as she touched the jeweled token with her lips theknowledge came to her that though Loyalheart's pilgrimage in the Land ofCollege was ended, an infinitely more wonderful journey on the Highwayof Life was soon to begin. 

How Grace Harlowe spent her last summer in her father's house beforestarting upon that journey, with Tom Gray as her life-long guide, willbe told in "Grace Harlowe's Golden Summer. "

 THE END

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 HENRY ALTEMUS COMPANY'S

 Best and Least Expensive Books for Boys and Girls

 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB SERIES

 By H. IRVING HANCOCK

The keynote of these books is manliness. The stories are wonderfullyentertaining, and they are at the same time sound and wholesome. No boywill willingly lay down an unfinished book in this series. 

1 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB OF THE KENNEBEC; Or, The Secret of Smugglers' Island. 

2 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB AT NANTUCKET; Or, The Mystery of the Dunstan Heir. 

3 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB OFF LONG ISLAND; Or, A Daring Marine Game at Racing Speed. 

4 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB AND THE WIRELESS; Or, The Dot, Dash and Dare Cruise. 

5 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB IN FLORIDA; Or, Laying the Ghost of Alligator Swamp. 

6 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB AT THE GOLDEN GATE; Or, A Thrilling Capture in the Great Fog. 

7 THE MOTOR BOAT CLUB ON THE GREAT LAKES; Or, The Flying Dutchman of the Big Fresh Water. 

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00

 Sold by all booksellers or sent postpaid on receipt of price. 

 Henry Altemus Company

1326-1336 Vine Street Philadelphia

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 BATTLESHIP BOYS SERIES

 By FRANK GEE PATCHIN

These stories throb with the life of young Americans on today's hugedrab Dreadnaughts. 

1 THE BATTLESHIP BOYS AT SEA; Or, Two Apprentices in Uncle Sam's Navy. 

2 THE BATTLESHIP BOYS' FIRST STEP UPWARD; Or, Winning Their Grades as Petty Officers. 

3 THE BATTLESHIP BOYS IN FOREIGN SERVICE; Or, Earning New Ratings in European Seas. 

4 THE BATTLESHIP BOYS IN THE TROPICS; Or, Upholding the American Flag in a Honduras Revolution. 

6 THE BATTLESHIP BOYS IN THE WARDROOM; Or, Winning their Commissions as Line Officers. 

7 THE BATTLESHIP BOYS WITH THE ADRIATIC CHASERS; Or, Blocking the Path of the Undersea Raiders. 

8 THE BATTLESHIP BOYS' SKY PATROL; Or, Fighting the Hun from above the Clouds. 

 Price $1. 00 each. 

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 THE RANGE AND GRANGE HUSTLERS

 By FRANK GEE PATCHIN

Have you any idea of the excitements, the glories of life on greatranches in the West? Any bright boy will "devour" the books of thisseries, once he has made a start with the first volume. 

1 THE RANGE AND GRANGE HUSTLERS ON THE RANCH; Or, The Boy Shepherds of the Great Divide. 

2 THE RANGE AND GRANGE HUSTLERS' GREATEST ROUND-UP; Or, Pitting Their Wits Against a Packers' Combine. 

3 THE RANGE AND GRANGE HUSTLERS ON THE PLAINS; Or, Following the Steam Plows Across the Prairie. 

4 THE RANGE AND GRANGE HUSTLERS AT CHICAGO; Or, The Conspiracy of the Wheat Pit. 

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00

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 SUBMARINE BOYS SERIES

 By VICTOR G. DURHAM

1 THE SUBMARINE BOYS ON DUTY; Or, Life on a Diving Torpedo Boat. 

2 THE SUBMARINE BOYS' TRIAL TRIP; Or, "Making Good" as Young Experts. 

3 THE SUBMARINE BOYS AND THE MIDDIES; Or, The Prize Detail at Annapolis. 

4 THE SUBMARINE BOYS AND THE SPIES; Or, Dodging the Sharks of the Deep. 

5 THE SUBMARINE BOYS LIGHTNING CRUISE; Or, The Young Kings of the Deep. 

6 THE SUBMARINE BOYS FOR THE FLAG; Or, Deeding Their Lives to Uncle Sam. 

7 THE SUBMARINE BOYS AND THE SMUGGLERS; Or, Breaking Up the New Jersey Customs Frauds. 

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 GRACE HARLOWE OVERSEAS SERIES

1 GRACE HARLOWE OVERSEAS. 

2 GRACE HARLOWE WITH THE RED CROSS IN FRANCE. 

3 GRACE HARLOWE WITH THE MARINES AT CHATEAU THIERRY. 

4 GRACE HARLOWE WITH THE AMERICAN ARMY IN THE ARGONNE. 

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 THE COLLEGE GIRLS SERIES

 By JESSIE GRAHAM FLOWER, A. M. 

1 GRACE HARLOWE'S FIRST YEAR AT OVERTON COLLEGE. 

2 GRACE HARLOWE'S SECOND YEAR AT OVERTON COLLEGE. 

3 GRACE HARLOWE'S THIRD YEAR AT OVERTON COLLEGE. 

4 GRACE HARLOWE'S FOURTH YEAR AT OVERTON COLLEGE. 

5 GRACE HARLOWE'S RETURN TO OVERTON CAMPUS. 

6 GRACE HARLOWE'S PROBLEM. 

7 GRACE HARLOWE'S GOLDEN SUMMER. 

All these books are bound in Cloth and will be sent postpaid on receiptof only $1. 00 each. 

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 PONY RIDER BOYS SERIES

 By FRANK GEE PATCHIN

These tales may be aptly described the best books for boys and girls. 

1 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN THE ROCKIES; Or, The Secret of the Lost Claim. 

2 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN TEXAS; Or, The Veiled Riddle of the Plains. 

3 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN MONTANA; Or, The Mystery of the Old Custer Trail. 

4 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN THE OZARKS; Or, The Secret of Ruby Mountain. 

5 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN THE ALKALI; Or, Finding a Key to the Desert Maze. 

6 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN NEW MEXICO; Or, The End of the Silver Trail. 

7 THE PONY RIDER BOYS IN THE GRAND CANYON; Or, The Mystery of Bright Angel Gulch. 

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00

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 THE BOYS OF STEEL SERIES

 By JAMES R. MEARS

Each book presents vivid picture of this great industry. Bach story isfull of adventure and fascination. 

1 THE IRON BOYS IN THE MINES; Or, Starting at the Bottom of the Shaft. 

2 THE IRON BOYS AS FOREMEN; Or, Heading the Diamond Drill Shift. 

3 THE IRON BOYS ON THE ORE BOATS: Or, Roughing It on the Great Lakes. 

4 THE IRON BOYS IN THE STEEL MILLS; Or, Beginning Anew in the Cinder Pits. 

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00

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 THE MADGE MORTON BOOKS

 By AMY D. V. CHALMERS

1 MADGE MORTON--CAPTAIN OF THE MERRY MAID. 

2 MADGE MORTON'S SECRET. 

3 MADGE MORTON'S TRUST. 

4 MADGE MORTON'S VICTORY. 

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00

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 WEST POINT SERIES

 BY H. IRVING HANCOCK

The principal characters in these narratives are manly, young Americanswhose doings will inspire all boy readers. 

1 DICK PRESCOTT'S FIRST YEAR AT WEST POINT; Or, Two Chums in the Cadet Gray. 

2 DICK PRESCOTT'S SECOND YEAR AT WEST POINT; Or, Finding the Glory of the Soldier's Life. 

3 DICK PRESCOTT'S THIRD YEAR AT WEST POINT; Or, Standing Firm for Flag and Honor. 

4 DICK PRESCOTT'S FOURTH YEAR AT WEST POINT; Or, Ready to Drop the Gray for Shoulder Straps. 

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00

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 ANNAPOLIS SERIES

 By H. IRVING HANCOCK

The Spirit of the new Navy is delightfully and truthfully depicted inthese volumes. 

1 DAVE DARRIN'S FIRST YEAR AT ANNAPOLIS; Or, Two Plebe Midshipmen at the U. S. Naval Academy. 

2 DAVE DARRIN'S SECOND YEAR AT ANNAPOLIS; Or, Two Midshipmen as Naval Academy "Youngsters. "

3 DAVE DARRIN'S THIRD YEAR AT ANNAPOLIS; Or, Leaders of the Second Class Midshipmen. 

4 DAVE DARRIN'S FOURTH YEAR AT ANNAPOLIS; Or, Headed for Graduation and the Big Cruise. 

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00

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 THE YOUNG ENGINEERS SERIES

 By H. IRVING HANCOCK

The heroes of these stories are known to readers of the HighSchool Boys Series. In this new series Tom Reade and HarryHazelton prove worthy of all the traditions of Dick & Co. 

1 THE YOUNG ENGINEERS IN COLORADO; Or, At Railroad Building in Earnest. 

2 THE YOUNG ENGINEERS IN ARIZONA; Or, Laying Tracks on the "Man-Killer" Quicksand. 

3 THE YOUNG ENGINEERS IN NEVADA; Or, Seeking Fortune on the Turn of a Pick. 

4 THE YOUNG ENGINEERS IN MEXICO; Or, Fighting the Mine Swindlers. 

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00

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 BOYS OF THE ARMY SERIES

 By H. IRVING HANCOCK

These books breathe the life and spirit of the United States Army ofto-day, and the life, just as it is, is described by a master pen. 

1 UNCLE SAM'S BOYS IN THE RANKS; Or, Two Recruits in the United States Army. 

2 UNCLE SAM'S BOYS ON FIELD DUTY; Or, Winning Corporal's Chevrons. 

3 UNCLE SAM'S BOYS AS SERGEANTS; Or, Handling Their First Real Commands. 

4 UNCLE SAM'S BOYS IN THE PHILIPPINES; Or, Following the Flag Against the Moros. 

6 UNCLE SAM'S BOYS AS LIEUTENANTS; Or, Serving Old Glory as Line Officers. 

7 UNCLE SAM'S BOYS WITH PERSHING; Or, Dick Prescott at Grips with the Boche. 

8 UNCLE SAM'S BOYS SMASH THE GERMANS; Or, Winding Up the Great War. 

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 DAVE DARRIN SERIES

 By H. IRVING HANCOCK

1 DAVE DARRIN AT VERA CRUZ; Or, Fighting With the U. S. Navy in Mexico. 

2 DAVE DARRIN ON MEDITERRANEAN SERVICE. 

3 DAVE DARRIN'S SOUTH AMERICAN CRUISE. 

4 DAVE DARRIN ON THE ASIATIC STATION. 

5 DAVE DARRIN AND THE GERMAN SUBMARINES. 

6 DAVE DARRIN AFTER THE MINE LAYERS; Or, Hitting the Enemy a Hard Naval Blow. 

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 THE MEADOW-BROOK GIRLS SERIES

 By JANET ALDRIDGE

1 THE MEADOW-BROOK GIRLS UNDER CANVAS. 

2 THE MEADOW-BROOK GIRLS ACROSS COUNTRY. 

3 THE MEADOW-BROOK GIRLS AFLOAT. 

4 THE MEADOW-BROOK GIRLS IN THE HILLS. 

5 THE MEADOW-BROOK GIRLS BY THE SEA. 

6 THE MEADOW-BROOK GIRLS ON THE TENNIS COURTS. 

All these books are bound in Cloth and will be sent postpaid on receiptof only. $1. 00 each. 

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 HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SERIES

 By H. IRVING HANCOCK

In this series of bright, crisp books a new note has been struck. Boysof every age under sixty will be interested in these fascinatingvolumes. 

1 THE-HIGH SCHOOL FRESHMEN; Or, Dick & Co. 's First Year Pranks and Sports. 

2 THE HIGH SCHOOL PITCHER; Or, Dick & Co. On the Gridley Diamond. 

3 THE HIGH SCHOOL LEFT END; Or, Dick & Co. Grilling on the Football Gridiron. 

4 THE HIGH SCHOOL CAPTAIN OF THE TEAM; Or, Dick & Co. Leading the Athletic Vanguard. 

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00

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 GRAMMAR SCHOOL BOYS SERIES

 By H. IRVING HANCOCK

This series of stories, based on the actual doings of grammar Schoolboys, comes near to the heart of the average American boy. 

1 THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL BOYS OF GRIDLEY; Or, Dick & Co. Start Things Moving. 

2 THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL BOYS SNOWBOUND; Or, Dick & Co. At Winter Sports. 

3 THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL BOYS IN THE WOODS; Or, Dick & Co. Trail Fun and Knowledge. 

4 THE GRAMMAR SCHOOL BOYS IN SUMMER ATHLETICS; Or, Dick & Co. Make Their Fame Secure. 

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00

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 HIGH SCHOOL BOYS' VACATION SERIES

 By H. IRVING HANCOCK

"Give us more Dick Prescott books!"

This has been the burden of the cry from young readers of the countryover. Almost numberless letters have been received by the publishers, making this eager demand; for Dick Prescott, Dave Darrin, Tom Reade, andthe other members of Dick & Co. Are the most popular high school boys inthe land. Boys will alternately thrill and chuckle when reading thesesplendid narratives. 

1 THE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS' CANOE CLUB; Or, Dick & Co. 's Rivals on Lake Pleasant. 

2 THE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS IN SUMMER CAMP; Or, The Dick Prescott Six Training for the Gridley Eleven. 

3 THE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS' FISHING TRIP; Or, Dick & Co. In the Wilderness. 

4 THE HIGH SCHOOL BOYS' TRAINING HIKE; Or, Dick & Co. Making Themselves "Hard as Nails. "

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00

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 THE CIRCUS BOYS SERIES

 By EDGAR B. P. DARLINGTON

Mr. Darlington's books breathe forth every phase of an intenselyinteresting and exciting life. 

1 THE CIRCUS BOYS ON THE FLYING RINGS; Or, Making the Start in the Sawdust Life. 

2 THE CIRCUS BOYS ACROSS THE CONTINENT; Or, Winning New Laurels on the Tanbark. 

3 THE CIRCUS BOYS IN DIXIE LAND; Or, Winning the Plaudits of the Sunny South. 

4 THE CIRCUS BOYS ON THE MISSISSIPPI; Or, Afloat with the Big Show on the Big River. 

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00

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 THE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SERIES

 By JESSIE GRAHAM FLOWER, A. M. 

These breezy stories of the American High School Girl take the readerfairly by storm. 

1 GRACE HARLOWE'S PLEBE YEAR AT HIGH SCHOOL; Or, The Merry Doings of the Oakdale Freshman Girls. 

2 GRACE HARLOWE'S SOPHOMORE YEAR AT HIGH SCHOOL; Or, The Record of the Girl Chums in Work and Athletics. 

3 GRACE HARLOWE'S JUNIOR YEAR AT HIGH SCHOOL; Or, Fast Friends in the Sororities. 

4 GRACE HARLOWE'S SENIOR YEAR AT HIGH SCHOOL; Or, The Parting of the Ways. 

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00

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 THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS SERIES

 By LAURA DENT CRANE

No girl's library--no family book-case can be considered at all completeunless it contains these sparkling twentieth-century books. 

1 THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT NEWPORT; Or, Watching the Summer Parade. 

2 THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS IN THE BERKSHIRES; Or, The Ghost of Lost Man's Trail. 

3 THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS ALONG THE HUDSON; Or, Fighting Fire in Sleepy Hollow. 

4 THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT CHICAGO; Or, Winning Out Against Heavy Odds. 

5 THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT PALM BEACH; Or, Proving Their Mettle Under Southern Skies. 

6 THE AUTOMOBILE GIRLS AT WASHINGTON; Or, Checkmating the Plots of Foreign Spies. 

Cloth, Illustrated Price, per Volume, $1. 00