ust one moment, the mother's thoughts were selfish. If Jacqueline
after all did not marry Philip, what would become of her own
vindication, that triumphant answer to the world for which she had so
patiently waited? She put the old plan from her with a sigh.

"Of course Channing would be a good match for little Jacqueline. But I
had hoped," she said, half to herself, "that my child might marry
Philip."

Jemima gave her a queer, quick glance. "You think Philip wants that?"

Kate nodded. "Perhaps he does not know it yet, though."

The girl said haltingly, "I have always thought that Philip was rather
fond of--you, Mother."

"Of me? So he is. Philip has loved me since he was a little boy," she
answered, smiling tenderly. "All the more reason for him to love my
Jacqueline. We are very much alike, only that she is prettier, and
younger--which counts, of course.--But now you say she wants to marry
this Channing."

"I do not say that he wants to marry her."

"Jemmy!"

"Well, why should he?" asked the girl, evenly. "It would not be a good
match for Mr. Channing. His family are conservative Boston people. Can
you imagine Jacky among conservative Boston people? Sliding down
banisters, riding bareback, making eyes at all the men--"

"That is not what you mean," said her mother, rather white about the
lips. "You mean the scandal about me. Yes, that would make a
difference.--You think it is only a flirtation, then?"

"On his part, yes. On Jacqueline's--I don't know. But even flirtation is
not very safe for Jacqueline. Remember her inheritance." Jemima met her
mother's wincing eyes firmly.

"What do you mean?" gasped the older woman.

"I mean--that Jacqueline is oversexed." She had no intention of seeing
her little sister come to grief for lack of frankness. "I know it, and
you know it, and we both know that it is not her fault." She added after
a moment, "I have reason to believe that Mr. Channing is not a marrying
man. There was talk in Lexington--If I were you I should write to
Professor Jim and ask him."

Kate promptly took her advice, with the results that have been seen; and
her respect for the acumen of her elder child became somewhat akin to
awe.

Nor was Jemima at the end of her surprises for her mother.

One morning she followed Kate rather aimlessly into her office; a thing
almost unprecedented, for Mrs. Kildare was rarely disturbed in her
sanctum except upon matters of business.

"You wish to see me ab