urging Mary to bed, for it was
well past midnight. "A girl scout simply can't be timid, that is a
really, truly good as gold scout girl, and we all know you are exactly
that. But not one more word to-night. I have been appointed captain
and it is my duty to sound taps, or, as Benny Philow or Mally Mack
might say, 'douse the glim.' I think that's the cutest expression,"
and to demonstrate just how "cute" it was she snapped off the lights.

Next day everything was in confusion, and excitement was too weak a
word with which to describe the conditions that existed at Cragsnook.
Reda had come to with all the strength characteristic of her sturdy
race, and nothing but main force kept her from running away. She was
frightened to death of the place, of the people around her, and nothing
that Mary could say would assure her no harm could come to anyone who
was within the hospitality of that generous home. And Reda had
explained to Mary it was the jewels she had hidden for the child that
had caused her most anxiety. She feared Janos would find them.

The advent of Katie Bergen, Michael's cousin, seemed nothing short of
providential, and to her was at once entrusted the care of the
obstreperous patient.

"I think, dear Mrs. Dunbar," said Mary rather timidly, "it would really
be much better to take Reda back to the studio. Once there she will
quiet down, and that may save her from higher fever."

"Perhaps you are right," Mrs. Dunbar agreed; "the doctor says she has
been a very sick woman, and her collapse was only natural, considering
what she went through. Has she told you why she was so eager to see
you?"

"Partly," Mary replied. "You see, she was sort of conscious
[Transcriber's note: conscience?] stricken that something would happen
to me, and she felt obliged to warn me. And she also wanted to give me
Loved One's jewels."

"But nothing did happen," blurted out Madaline, keen on the trail of
the mystery.

"Oh, do tell us, Mary," begged Grace. "It seems to me we will have so
much to find out all at once it will be rather overwhelming if we don't
start in."

"Well, you little scouts run along and enjoy your story," suggested
Mrs. Dunbar, "and I will see about having Reda sent up to the mountain.
I am sure, Mary, you are right. She may be saved a real relapse if we
agree with her. And, of course, Katie is going to be your housekeeper.
I would envy you if I hadn't such a treasure in Jennie. This is really