itch," admitted Helka. "That is why she is so powerful--she
can frighten every one with her face."

"And the new tribe she spoke of?"

"Has, I believe, a beautiful queen, and they are always trying to make
me jealous. But since I have seen you, I care less for my gypsy life."

"I am glad! I hope we may both soon go out in the beautiful, free
world, and then you could meet David----"

"Hush! I heard a step! Lie down and pretend illness."

Again Cora did as she was commanded. It did seem as if all were
commands in this strange world.

There was a tap at the door.

"Enter!" called Helka.

A very young girl stepped into the room timidly.

"Sam sent this," she said, then turned and ran away.

Helka opened the cigar box. "Cigarettes, I suppose," she said. Then
she smiled. "Why, it's a present--a bracelet. I suppose Sam found
this as he finds everything else he sends me--in other people's
pockets. Well, it is pretty, and I shall keep it. I love bracelets."

She clasped the trinket on her white arm. It was pretty, and Cora had
no doubt that it had been stolen, but as well for Helka to keep it as
to try to do anything better with it.

"I should like to give it to _you_," said the queen suddenly. She took
off the bracelet and examined it closely.

"Oh, I really couldn't take it," objected Cora.

"I know what you think, but suppose you got out some time? This might
lead to----"

"Oh, I see. You need not speak more plainly. Perhaps when I go I may
ask you for it!"

"It has a name inside. Betty----"

"Betty!" exclaimed Cora.

"Do you know a Betty?"

"Indeed, I do! She was with us when----"

"Then that was when Sam found it. The name is Betty Rand!"

"Oh, do you think they have harmed Betty?" and Cora grew pale.

"Bless you, no! I heard that the girls had been searching the woods
for you. She may have dropped it----"

"Oh, I hope so. Dear Betty!" and Cora's eyes welled up. "What would I
not give to see them all!"

"Well, now, dear, you must not be impatient. See, I am reforming. I
have not smoked today. And that is something that has not occurred in
years. If you should make a lady out of a savage, would you think your
time ill spent?"

Cora gathered up the robe she wore. It did seem as if she had been in
gypsy land so long! She was almost familiar now with its strange ways
and customs.

"You are not a savage, and I love your music. If you come out into the
world, I am