ithin the next week."

"I may do a little sleuthing of my own just to hurry matters along,"
Penny warned with a laugh.

"Go as far as you like," Mr. Nichols said, undisturbed. "I depend upon
Joe to see that you don't get into too hot water."

After her father had left the house, Penny went to the Y.W.C.A. where
she taught a Friday morning swimming class. By eleven o'clock she was
through her work and had the entire day before her.

Making her way to the business section of the city, she did a little
shopping at one of the department stores. As she was buying a pair of
gloves, she heard her name spoken. Turning, she found Betty Davis
standing beside her.

"I saw you from across the aisle," the girl smiled. "I was just
starting home." She hesitated, then said hurriedly: "I don't suppose
you'd care to take luncheon with me?"

"Why, I'd love it," Penny responded instantly.

"I'm not much of a cook," Betty confessed modestly, "but I can always
scare up a sandwich or so."

Penny welcomed an opportunity to visit the Davis home again for despite
Betty's peculiar actions, she felt that the girl really liked her. As
they boarded a street car, it occurred to her that she had been invited
for a particular purpose. The girl grew increasingly ill at ease.
Conversation became difficult although Penny made a special effort to
be agreeable.

Not until luncheon had been served and the dishes washed, did Betty
bring up the matter which had been troubling her.

"I'm worried about Father," she confessed. "The truth is, he's in
danger of losing his position and through no fault of his own."

Penny remained silent and the girl went on with increasing
embarrassment.

"I don't know how to say it--you've been so kind to me. But I was
wondering--do you think Mr. Nichols might be induced to intercede in
behalf of my father?"

"I'll speak to him about it," Penny promised, "but I think perhaps it
would be better if your father talked with him personally----"

"Oh, no," Betty said hastily, "he'd never do that! You see, he doesn't
know that I have said anything to you. I'm sure he wouldn't like it."

"I see," Penny responded quietly. "I'll talk with Father, but I am
afraid it will do no good."

Betty's shoulders slumped, although she tried to smile bravely.

"I shouldn't have made the request. Please forget it."

"No, I mean to talk to Father about it," Penny insisted.

"It's very kind of you. I'd never have ment