CHAPTER XVII.
A PINK-RIBBON TRAIL Mrs.Stetson wore an air of unmistakable relief as she stepped into William's sitting-room.

Even her knock at the half-open door had sounded almost triumphant.
"William, it does seem as if Fate itself had intervened to help us out," she began delightedly.

"Billy, of her own accord, came to me this morning, and said that she wanted to go away with me for a little trip.
So you see that will make it easier for us." "Good! That is fortunate, indeed," cried William; but his voice did not carry quite the joy that his words expressed.

"I have been disturbed ever since your remarks the other day," he continued wearily; "and of course her extraordinary escapade the next evening did not help matters any.

It is better, I know, that she shouldn't be here--for a time.
Though I shall miss her terribly.