of the letters were from friends
scattered far and wide over the country. The thick white envelope, Miss
Wilder's own particular stationery, lay almost at the bottom of the
pile. Grace tore it open with eager fingers and read:

"MY DEAR GRACE:

"Just a line to let you know how much I regret leaving Overton
without seeing you again. There were several matters of which I was
anxious to speak with you at greater length. I had not contemplated
leaving here for at least another week, but I cannot resist the
invitation which a dear friend of mine has extended to me, to
travel west in her private car, so I shall join her in New York
City on Saturday evening, as she wishes to start on her tour at
once.

"As soon as I reach my destination I will forward you my permanent
address. I wish you to write me, Grace. I shall be anxious to know
what is happening at Harlowe House and throughout the college.
Remember distance can make no difference in my interest and
affection for you. You have been, and always will be, a girl after
my own heart. With my best wishes for your continued welfare and
success.

"Your sincere friend,
"KATHERINE WILDER."

Grace laid the letter down with a sigh and sat staring moodily at it,
her elbows on the table, her chin in her hands.

Emma, who had finished clearing the table, regarded her with
affectionate solicitude. Stepping over to her, she slid her arm over
Grace's shoulders. Grace raised her head. Her eyes met Emma's. Then she
pushed the letter into Emma's hand. "Read it," she commanded.

"Do you think she understood?" was Emma's question as she handed back
the letter.

"About Miss Wharton not liking me?" counter-questioned Grace.

Emma nodded.

"I am afraid she didn't." Grace's gray eyes were full of sad concern.
"And the most unfortunate thing about it is that I must never trouble
her with Miss Wharton's shortcomings. It would worry her, and that would
retard her recovery. If the year brings me battles to fight, I must
fight them alone."

CHAPTER XIII

A DISTURBING CONFIDENCE

Grace awoke the next morning with the weight of a disagreeable duty
hanging over her. She had given Jean Brent until after Thanksgiving to
decide upon her course of action. Jean's d