, but otherwise appeared like his usual self. Theodora felt that his
coming brought a whiff of fresher air into the sultry life of the family
circle. He was so gay, so full of the breezy atmosphere of the western
mountains, that his coming seemed to scatter a little the clouds which
had gathered; while his honest, kindly face made her feel, as it had
done before, that he was a friend to be trusted.

The doctor had met the travellers at the station, and Theodora knew that
they were in possession of the story long before they reached the house.
It was impossible from Mrs. McAlister's manner to read her decision in
regard to the rights of the case. She met Billy as cordially as ever,
when he came down to supper; and during the meal she forced him to take
an active part in the conversation. As soon as they left the table,
Billy turned away and went to his room. A moment later, she tapped on
his door.

"Come in," he said, for he supposed it was Theodora.

She came in and sat down beside him.

"Billy, my boy," she said gently; "tell me all about it, as if I were
your own mother."

He looked up, and something in the expression of his blue eyes reminded
her of a hunted animal.

"What is there to tell?"

"There ought to be a great deal," she said, smiling faintly. She was
startled at the change in the boy, at his pallor and at the listlessness
which pervaded his whole being.

"But Dr. McAlister has told you."

"Yes; but not all." She paused expectantly.

He misunderstood the pause. As if goaded to desperation, he turned on
her.

"Are you going back on me, too, Mrs. McAlister? I thought you would
stand my friend."

"I do."

"But you doubt my word?"

She was silent, unable to say yes or no.

He changed the form of his question.

"Do you believe me?"

"Billy, dear, I don't know what to think."

He shook back his hair impatiently.

"That's it. I'm not used to having my word doubted, and--it hurts."

Meanwhile, Theodora and Hubert were in the hall.

"Where are you going, Ted?" Hubert had asked, as they left the table.

"To Billy."

"I should think you might stay here, to-night, when Archie has just
come."

"Archie has you and Hope."

"But it's not decent, Ted, to leave him."

"It's not decent to send Billy off by himself," she retorted.

"Who sends him?"

"All of you."

"He needn't sulk like a baby."

"It isn't sulking, Hu. I'd go off and not stay with people who doubt my
word."

"Hm! He n