ad vivid memories of some of the scenes upon which she and Ralph had
inadvertently blundered during the afternoon informals of Christmas
week. The auditorium in the academic building where informals are held,
has many secluded nooks. Upon one occasion she had run upon Helen and
Paul Ring, the former languishing in the latter's arms. Perhaps mamma
would not have been so ready to intrust her dear little daughter to Foxy
Grandpa's protection had she dreamed of the existence of Mamma Ring and
dear Paul.

At all this sentimental enthusiasm Stella had looked on indulgently and
now laughed outright, "What silly kids you two are," she said.

"Well, I don't see that you had such a ravishing time, anyway," cried
Helen.

"Why, I'm sure Mr. Allyn was as attentive as anyone could be. He was on
hand every minute to take me wherever I wanted to go." Stella's
expression was quizzical and made Helen furious.

"Oh, a paid guide could have done as much I don't doubt."

"Father _is_ a little fussy at times, so perhaps it is just as well. You
see I should not have been at Severndale at all if he had not been
called to Mexico on business. So I'd better be thankful for what fun I
did get. But there goes the first bell. Better get down toward the
dining-room, girls," laughed Stella good-naturedly, and set the example.
A moment later the room was deserted by all but Helen who lingered at
the mirror. When the others were on their way down stairs she slipped to
Nelly's room and took from her desk a sheet of the monogram paper and an
envelope, which Mrs. Harold had given her at Christmas. As she passed
her own room she hid them in her desk for future use. After dinner when
the evening mail was delivered, Helen received a letter bearing the
Annapolis postmark. Nelly had one from her father. As she read it her
face wore a peculiar expression. The letter stated that her father was
coming to Washington to consult with Shelby concerning a matter of
business connected with Severndale's paddock. As Nelly ceased reading
she glanced up from her letter to find Peggy watching her narrowly.
Peggy had also received a letter from Dr. Llewellyn in which he
mentioned the fact that Bolivar felt it advisable to run down to
Washington. In an instant the whole situation flashed across Peggy's
quick comprehension.

During the girl's visit at Severndale Jim Bolivar had never come to the
house. Nelly had many times slipped away for quiet little talks with her
fat