THE telephone was downstairs, in the rear end of the hall which divided the lower floor into two equal parts.

But hardly had Mrs.Warham given the Sinclairs' number to the exchange girl when Ruth called from the head of the stairs: "What're you doing there, mamma ?" "I'll tell Mrs.Sinclair you're sick and can't come.

Then I'll send Susan in your place." "Don't!" cried Ruth, in an agitated, angry voice.

"Ring off--quick!" "Now, Ruth, let me----" "Ring off!" ordered Ruth.

"You mustn't do that.