The pretty potted azalea in her hand would be excuse for her entrance into the room.

After that, circumstances must decide for themselves.
Mrs.Greggory was found to be alone at home as before, and Billy was glad.

She would rather begin with one than two, she thought.

The little woman greeted her cordially, gave misty-eyed thanks for the beautiful plant, and also for Billy's kind thoughtfulness Friday afternoon.

From that she was very skilfully led to talk more of the daughter; and soon Billy was getting just the information she wanted--information concerning the character, aims, and daily life of Alice Greggory.
"You see, we have some money--a very little," explained Mrs.
Greggory, after a time; "though to get it we have had to sell all our treasures--but the Lowestoft," with a quick glance into Billy's eyes.