kley, and found the first, as was the wrapper, addressed in Olive's
hand. The penmanship of the second was fairy-like and beautiful, and
she recognized it as Claire's. At sight of the third, her heart gave a
great bound, and then almost stood still. It was superscribed in a
firm, manly hand, and was, it must be, from Dr. Vaughan.

Once securely locked in her room, Madeline opened the first of her
letters with eager fingers. Yes, Olive's first. The desire to see what
_he_ had said was strong in her heart, but she had decided not to
humor her heart. She held his letter caressingly for a moment and then
putting it beside Claire's opened and read Olive Girard's letter.

It was like Olive's self; sweet, womanly, hopeful, yet sad:

DEAR MADELINE:

I am only now beginning to realize the new life and hope you
have put into my heart. As I think again of what you have
done and are doing, I cannot but feel faith in your success.
Oh, if I could but work with you; for you and for Philip!

Again and again I implore you to pardon me for ever doubting
your wisdom or strength. If at any time I can aid you--such
poor aid--my purse is yours, as your cause is mine.

Claire and Doctor Vaughan will speak for themselves. And as
I dare make no more suggestions to so wise a woman, I only
put in a faint little plea. Do, pray, grant Doctor Vaughan's
request, and may God aid you in all that you do.

OLIVE.

"Doctor Vaughan's request!" repeated the girl. "Would that I could
grant him not only all his requests, but all his wishes!"

Then she opened Claire's letter.

MY GRAND MADELINE:

How proud I am to claim you for my friend! I shall never
again conduct myself with any degree of meekness toward
people who have not the happiness of knowing you. And you
should hear Doctor Vaughan extol you! He says you are wiser
and braver than any detective. That he would trust you in
any emergency. That if any one can lift the cloud that hangs
over poor Philip, it is you.

My heart tells me that you will yet prove the good angel of
Philip and Olive, as already you have been mine; and soon, I
pray, you will become that and more to Doctor Vaughan; you
must and shall. I shall have no wish ungratified when I can
see your trials at an end; and yourself, surrounded by us
who lo