but said nothing. Miss Yates
probably multiplied the number of Dic's visits by two or more in
speaking of them to Tom, having in mind the double purpose of producing
an effect upon that young man and also upon his sister. But there was
too much truth in her boasting, since our hero certainly submitted
himself to Sukey's blandishments and placed himself under the fatal
spell of her dimples with an increasing frequency which was to be
lamented. Especially was it lamented by Billy Little. Sukey was so
perfect a little specimen of the human animal, and her heart was so
prone to tenderness, that she became, upon intimate acquaintance, the
incarnation of that condition into which the right sort of people pray
kind Providence to lead them not. The neighborhood gossips and prophets
freely predicted that Rita would marry Williams, in which case it was
surmised Miss Yates would carry her dimples into the Bright family. This
theory Sukey encouraged by arch glances and shy denials.

Tom had become a great dandy, and considered himself one of the
commercial features of the Indiana metropolis. He would have his old
home friends, including Sukey, believe that he directed the policy of
Fisher and Fox, and that he was also the real business brain in the
office of Roger Williams, where he occupied the position of confidential
clerk. He was of little real value to Williams, save in the matter of
wooing Tom's sister. Tom knew that he held his clerkship only by the
tenure of Rita's smiles, and Williams, by employing him, gained an ally
not at all to be despised.

On a certain Monday morning, after Rita had the day previous shown
marked preference to Dic, Williams said:--

"Tom, father orders me to cut down expenses, and I fear I shall be
compelled to begin with your salary. I regret the necessity, but the
governor's orders are imperative. We will let it stand as it is for this
month and will see what can be done afterward."

This gentle hint was not lost on Thomas. He went home that day to
dinner, and Rita felt the heavy hand of her brother's displeasure.

"You are the most selfish, ungrateful girl living," said Tom, who
honestly thought his fair sister had injured him. Tom's sense of truth,
like his mother's, ran parallel to his wishes.

"Why?" asked Rita, wonderingly. Had the earth slipped from its axis,
Tom and his mother would have placed the blame on Rita.

"Why?" repeated Tom. "Because you know I have a good position with
Wil