a calm scrutiny that disconcerted. "I wasn't
born yesterday, you know. Mother was, perhaps, but not your dear little
sister. Cheer up, brother. You'll get over it, just like all the rest.
I'll ask her to come, but--Please don't frown like that. I'll suspect
something."

During the many little automobile excursions that the two girls enjoyed
during those few days in Tinkletown, Miss Bonner found much to love in
Rosalie, much to esteem and a great deal to anticipate. Purposely, she
set about to learn by "deduction" just what Rosalie's feelings were for
the big brother. She would not have been surprised to discover the
telltale signs of a real but secret affection on Rosalie's part, but she
was, on the contrary, amazed and not a little chagrined to have the
young girl meet every advance with a joyous candour, that definitely set
aside any possibility of love for the supposedly irresistible brother.
Miss Edith's mind was quite at rest, but with the arrogant pride of a
sister, she resented the fact that any one could know this cherished
brother and not fall a victim. Perversely, she would have hated Rosalie
had she caught her, in a single moment of unguardedness, revealing a
feeling more tender than friendly interest for him.

Sophisticated and world-wise, the gay, careless Miss Bonner read her
pages quickly--she skimmed them--but she saw a great deal between the
lines. If her mother had been equally discerning, that very estimable
lady might have found herself immensely relieved along certain lines.

Bonner was having a hard time of it these days. It was worse than misery
to stay indoors, and it was utterly out of the question for him to
venture out. His leg was healing with disgusting rashness, but his heart
was going into an illness that was to scoff at the cures of man. And if
his parting with his mother and the rosy-faced young woman savoured of
relief, he must he forgiven. A sore breast is no respecter of persons.

They were returning to the Hub by the early morning train from Boggs
City, and it was understood that Rosalie was to come to them in June.
Let it be said in good truth that both Mrs. Bonner and her daughter were
delighted to have her promise. If they felt any uneasiness as to the
possibility of unwholesome revelations in connection with her birth,
they purposely blindfolded themselves and indulged in the game of
consequences.

Mrs. Bonner was waiting in the automobile, having said good-bye to
Wicker.