eman at the window said:

"There are no hotels such as you speak of in the town, but there are
several private boarding-houses where travellers can be made comfortable.
May I have the pleasure of directing you to one?" This to Lancy.

"If it would not be too much trouble, we would be very much obliged," and
Lancy's natural state of mind slowly returned.

"Oh! no trouble at all," said the affable stranger; then turning to Dexie
he relieved her of her armful of wraps, with a simple "Allow me, please,"
and started away with Lancy, who was carrying the so far unused
lunch-basket, leaving the girls to follow at their own pace.

"Oh, Dexie! weren't you startled when that man spoke from the window?" said
Elsie. "I thought I should faint away with fright."

"It is a good thing that you thought better of it, then, for they would
have carried you right back into the hotel, and there would have been no
escaping after that."

"Where do you suppose he will take us?" Elsie asked as they turned a
corner.

"Couldn't say," was the unconcerned reply; "but as the place looks nicer
the farther we go, there is no need to be alarmed. I hope we will be
fortunate enough to secure lodgings on this pretty, tree-shaded street, for
flower-gardens are as thick as houses. Oh, see! he is going into that house
with the nice lawn in front of it."

A moment later they stepped through the gate that Lancy held open for
them, while their new friend went briskly up the walk and entered the house
in a manner that showed he was quite familiar with the place.

He had told Lancy as they walked along that he could recommend the house
where he boarded, and as he gave such a good account of the place, Lancy
determined to seek accommodation there.

"But there is one thing I must tell you," said the smiling stranger. "Mrs.
Morris is pretty sharp of tongue, and may make very strict inquiries as to
who was your grandmother, and what calling your great-grandfather followed,
before she will allow you to engage rooms. But do not mind it. I fancy you
can satisfy her on those points. She is as clean as a new pin and an
excellent cook--two good recommendations, you will allow."

"Well, I hope my ancestors will please her, for my sister is much in need
of rest. Is her husband of the same turn of mind as herself?" Lancy
smilingly asked.

"She is a widow, as is also her sister, who lives with her. It is the
latter who owns the place, but it is the younger and shar