he was in Dr. Dudley's arms.

For a moment she could only sob out her joy.

"Where have you been, Polly, child? We were all so worried--"

"I knew you would be! I knew it! But Aunt Jane made me come!
She held me tight and I could n't get away! Mr. Bean was going to
tell you last night; but she would n't let him--she sent him to
bed! And I tried to telephone to you just now, and I had n't any
five cents--oh, dear!"

"Poor little girl!" and the Doctor's voice was very tender.

His eyes passed beyond the curly head to the curb, where a knot of
men and boys regarded them curiously.

"Where is the telephone, Polly?" he asked.

"Up there, in the little grocery store." Her hand showed the
direction.

He swung her gently into the auto, stepped in beside her, and
steered slowly towards the conspicuous sign.

"I'll be back in a minute," he told her and disappeared between
the shelves of fruit and vegetables.

Polly's eyes followed him lovingly. Presently he was beside her
again.

"I wanted to let them know that you are safe," he smiled. "Now
we will see that Aunt Jane."

They went up the long stairs, Polly in advance. Her aunt heard
her, and opened the kitchen door.

"Where in the world--" she began sharply, but stopped at sight
of the tall man.

"I did n't know anybody was with you," she muttered; and then
recognized Dr. Dudley.

"I've had quite a hunt for you," he remarked. "You have moved
recently."

"Yes," she assented, "when I was married; this is nearer his
ship. I s'pose you're after Polly," she added; "but I've made
up my mind not to let her stay at the hospital any longer. I need
her at home."

"You will allow her to come to us for a day," he smiled, in a
tone that admitted of no refusal.

"Ain't no need of her goin' back," she fretted; "I can send for
her things."

"I'll agree to bring her luggage, when she comes for good," the
Doctor returned pleasantly' "but we want her for another day or
two, at the least. Polly, run and get ready! I shall be due at
the hospital before long."

In the little dim bedroom the eager fingers made quick work with
the buttons. This was what Polly had not dared hope for, a day or
two more with those she loved! Presently she was back in her
pretty dress and shoes, and was fastening on her hat before the
little cracked mirror. OH, her locket! She had come near
forgetting it.

"Please, Aunt Jane, can I have my locket and chain?" she asked,
facing