eive her own, she also
declared that she would leave it for the present where it was invested
in the works, and the firm might pay her legal interest for its use, or
make her a small silent partner in the business. Sylvan had yet to be
consulted in regard to the disposal of his capital.

The month of October was in its third week. It was high time for Corona
to go to Washington and make the acquaintance of the Nevilles, if she
wished to go to travel west under their protection. She had several
times spoken of this purpose in the presence of Violet, so as to
accustom that emotional young woman to the idea of their separation. But
Violet, absorbed in her grief for the dead, paid but little attention to
Corona's casual remarks.

At the end of a few days Fabian Rockharrt began to talk about going back
to Violet Banks, and invited Corona to accompany his wife and himself to
their, pleasant country home.

It was then that Corona spoke decisively. She thanked him for his
invitation and reminded him of her unalterable resolution to go out to
Fort Farthermost to join her brother.

When Fabian Rockharrt tried to combat her determination, she informed
him that she had during the funeral week received a joint letter from
Captain and Mrs. Neville, inviting her to join their party to the
frontier. This letter had been written at the suggestion of the colonel
of Captain Neville's regiment, and had not been mentioned or even
answered until after the funeral. She said that she had accepted this
kind invitation, and had forwarded all her baggage, which had been so
long stored at North End, to Washington to wait her arrival in that
city.

"Very well, then," said Fabian. "If you are set upon this expedition, I
cannot hinder you, and shall not try to do so. But I tell you what I
will do. I will take Violet to Washington with you, and get rooms at
some pleasant house before the rush of winter visitors. We shall not be
able to go into general society, but there is a great plenty of
sightseeing in the national capital with which to divert the mind of my
poor little girl. Her old guardians, the Pendletimes, are there also,
and it will comfort her to see them. With them she will be able to let
you depart without breaking her poor little heart."

"Oh, Uncle Fabian, I am so glad you have thought of this! It will be so
good for Violet. She has had a sad time since her home-coming. She needs
a change," said Corona, eagerly.

"I think she wi