nd she actually imposes the conviction upon
others. Her wishes have come to bear the approval of her conscience.
Every day of my life I grow more thankful that I have a sweet, gentle
mother. But Mrs. Bays intends right, and that, perhaps, is a saving
grace."

"I prefer a person who intends wrong and does right to one who intends
right and does wrong," replied Dic. "I know nothing so worthless and
contemptible as mistaken good intentions. But we should not criticise
Rita's mother."

"No," returned Miss Tousy; "and I'll go to see Rita every day--twice a
day--and will write to you fully by every mail."

"I intend to remain at the inn till she recovers. I couldn't wait for
the mail."

"Very well, that is much better. I'll send you word to the inn after
each visit, or, if you wish, you may come to me evenings, and I'll tell
you all about her. Shall I see you to-night, and shall I carry any
message?"

"Tell her I will remain till she is better, and--and then I--I
will--that will be all for the present."

* * * * *

Billy Little was for going home at noon, but Dic begged him to remain.
The day was very long for Dic, notwithstanding Billy's companionship,
and twice during the afternoon he induced his friend to exhibit the
Brummel coat at the street-crossing a short distance south of the house
wherein the girl of girls lay ill and grieving. After much persuasion,
Billy consented to accompany Dic on his visit that evening to Miss
Tousy. The Schwitzer coat was carefully brushed, the pale face was
closely shaved and delicately powdered, and the few remaining hairs were
made to do the duty of many in covering Billy's blushing baldness.

"I wish I had one of my waistcoats here," said our little coxcomb. "I
would button it if I had to go into stays--egad! I would. I will show
you those waistcoats some day,--India silk--corn color, with a touch of
gold braid at the pockets, ivory buttons the size of a sovereign, with
gold centres, made by the artist who made the coat. The coat is all
right. Wouldn't be ashamed to wear it to a presentation. I will button
it over this waistcoat and it will not be noticed. How do you like this
stock--all right?"

"I think it is."

"I have a better one at home. Got it down by the bank. Smith, Dye and
Company, Limited, Haberdashers. I can recommend the place if--if you
ever go to London. Brummel's haberdasher--Brummel knew the best places.
Depend upon him for tha