ch time. The most difficult point is
the introduction. Now, in an introduction, what counts for most?
Ancestors, of course. My dear, have you any ancestors?"

"Not one."

"I was afraid of that. In fact I had intended to provide a few. But I
never dreamed they would be needed so soon. What is she doing now?"

"She has stopped walking. She has turned. She is coming this way."

"Then we must take our chance." The professor rose briskly. "Never
allow the enemy to attack. Come on. But keep behind me while I draw her
fire."

Aunt Caroline advanced in full formation.

"Benis. Ben--nis!" she called piercingly. "He can't be very far away,"
she declared over her shoulder. "I have a feeling--Benis!"

"Who calls so loud?" quoted the professor innocently, appearing with
startling suddenness from behind the boulder. "Why!" in amazed
recognition. "It is Aunt Caroline!"

"It is." Aunt Caroline corroborated grimly.

"This is a surprise," exclaimed the professor. As we have noted before,
he liked to be truthful when possible. "How'd'do, Aunt! However did you
get here?"

"How I came," replied Aunt Caroline, "is not material. The fact that I
am here is sufficient."

"Quite," said Benis. "But," he added in a puzzled tone, "you are not
alone. Surely, my dear Aunt, I see----"

"You see Dr. Rogers who has kindly accompanied me."

"John Rogers here? With you?" In rising amazement.

"It is a detail." Aunt Caroline's voice was somewhat tart. "I could
scarcely travel unaccompanied."

"Surely not. But really--was there no lady friend--"

"Don't be absurd, Benis!" But she was obscurely conscious of a check.
Against the disturbed surprise of her nephew's attitude her sharpened
weapons had already turned an edge. Only one person can talk at a time,
and, to her intense indignation, she found herself displaced as the
attacking party. Also the behavior of her auxiliary force was
distinctly apologetic.

"Hello, Benis!" said Rogers, coming up late and reluctant. "Sorry to
have dropped in on you like this. But your Aunt thought--"

"Don't say a word, my dear fellow! No apology is necessary. I am quite
sure she did. But it might be a good idea for you to do a little
thinking yourself occasionally. Aunt is so rash. How were you to know
that you would find us at home? Rather a risk, what? Luckily, Aunt,"
turning to that speechless relative with reassurance, "it is quite all
right. My wife will be delighted--Desire, my dear, permit me--Au