When they were seated, Everett pressed his plea again.

“I don’t think Ann would have been so stubborn in the matter, if Horace had not insisted upon it.  And I know that you will be surprised to hear that he is in love with the girl, a little pauper who uses bad English and swears like a pirate.”

Fledra Vandecar dropped her fork and started back from the table.

“Everett, has Horace lost his mind, or what is it?  What can there be in two children—­for they are very young—­to have such a hold upon a man like Horace and a woman like Ann?”

“I have asked myself that a dozen times, and more,” commented Everett.  “But now you understand why I want to do something to relieve these misguided young people—­to say nothing of my love for Ann?”

“I do understand,” replied Mrs. Vandecar, “and I can’t blame you.  But, really, I don’t see what I can do, without incurring the enmity of both of my friends.”

“Your husband,” breathed Everett.

“Is pledged to Horace in this very matter, and, of course, I couldn’t take a stand against him.  Everett, why don’t you drop the case and let time take its course?  I fear that you’re going the wrong way.”

Brimbecomb bit his lip.  He might have known that Horace would apply to the governor; but he had hoped to steal a march upon him and to keep the state’s official from aiding him.  But Everett also knew what an influence Mrs. Vandecar had over her husband, and now rejoined: 

“I have gone too far with it; and, what’s more, if I have to bear the brunt of the thing alone, I’ll free Ann from a presence that has completely changed her!  Have you seen her lately?”

Mrs. Vandecar shook her head.

“I haven’t,” she admitted slowly.  “I haven’t been well enough to go out, and she hasn’t been here.  I have heard from her only now and then on the ’phone.  Poor child!  I must try to get over there tomorrow.”

* * * * *

Next day Ann met Mrs. Vandecar with open arms.

“Oh, Fledra,” said she, “I’ve longed for you so many days!  I do appreciate your coming!”

“I knew you would, Ann.  You are the first acquaintance I have called on in weeks.  But, honey girl, you don’t look well.”

Ann’s eyes filled with tears.  Fledra Vandecar was one of the many bright rays of sunshine in her past life, when she had been happy and contented, when Everett had been her lover, and Horace at ease.  Now her life was all chaos.  Misery, fright, and a troubled heart were her constant companions.

Mrs. Vandecar leaned over and gently brushed back a lock of hair from the girl’s brow.

“Ann, dear, can’t you tell me what is the matter?”

“There’s so very much, it would weary you.”

“Indeed, no!  Mayn’t I stay with you just a little while?”

Ann checked back her emotion and rose.

“Pardon, Dear; I didn’t dream that you could.”