had suggested that Jessie's assistance should
be enlisted during his absence, since Alec was away, and the work would
be heavier now that spring was opening.

The mother had reluctantly agreed. For herself she had been willing
enough. But for Jessie she had stipulated that he should place the
matter before her himself. She had no desire that the one child
remaining to her should be made to slave her days at the Fort. She
would use none of her influence. Her whole interest in the trade which
had been her life for so long was waning. There were times when she
realized, in the loneliness which had descended upon them with Alec's
going, that only habit kept her to the life, and even that held her
only by the lightest thread. It was coming to her that the years were
passing swiftly. The striving of the days at the side of her idolized
husband had seemed not only natural, but a delight to her. Since his
cruel end no such feeling had stirred her. There were her children,
and she had realized that the work must go on for them. But now--now
that Alec had gone to the world outside her whole perspective had
changed. And with the change had come the realization of rapidly
passing years.

There were times, even, when she speculated as to how and where she
could set up a new home for her children. A home with which Alec could
find no fault, and Jessie might have the chances due to her age. But
these things were kept closely to herself. The habit of years was
strong upon her, and, for all her understanding of her wealth, it was
difficult to make a change.

"Can't you tell me, mother? I'd rather have you explain!"

The likeness between mother and daughter was very strong. Even in the
directness with which they expressed their feelings. Jessie's feelings
were fully displayed in the expression of her preference.

"Why don't you want to see Murray?"

The mother's question came on the instant. It came with a suggestion
of reproach.

"Oh, I'm not scared, mother," the girl smiled. "Only I don't just see
why Murray should ask me things you don't care to ask me. That's all."

"Is it?" The mother's eyes were searching.

"Nearly."

Jessie laughed.

"Best tell me the rest."

The girl shook her head decidedly.

"No, mother. There's no need. You're wiser than you pretend.
Murray's a better friend and partner--in business--than anything else.
Guess we best leave it that way."

"Yes, it's best that way." T