.

IN THE GABLE WINDOW.
A few minutes later I was tripping up-stairs in the wake of a smart young maid whom Mayor Packard had addressed as Ellen.

I liked this girl at first sight and, as I followed her up first one flight, then another, to the room which had been chosen for me, the hurried glimpses I had of her bright and candid face suggested that in this especial member of the household I might hope to find a friend and helper in case friendship and help were needed in the blind task to which I stood committed.

But I soon saw cause--or thought I did--to change this opinion.

When she turned on me at the door of my room, a small one at the extreme end of the third floor, I had an opportunity of meeting her eyes.