goal."

Penloe and Stella entered the dining-room just as Mrs. Herne had seated
Barker and Brookes at the table. As Stella took her seat the two young
men thought they had never seen her face so beautiful, with its sweet
smile and calm expression. Her vivacity brought out the wit and humor of
the two guests, who were always considered good company at any one's
table. Penloe said little, because he saw how the two young men were
enjoying Stella's bright conversation. After dinner the company
adjourned to the parlor.

Stella seated herself between her two friends, and looking at Barker she
said: "I must tell you and Stanley that we have given up going on our
wedding tour through the Oriental countries. We both feel we are wanted
here and we will stay where our work calls us."

Barker replied saying: "Your decision is grand and we will feel much
encouraged in having you with us."

Stella said: "We will spend a week with aunt before starting out to
speak. During our stay in Roseland we will see much of each other and
have opportunities for perfecting our plans."

Two days later Penloe and Stella became the guests of Mrs. Marston,
arriving at that lady's house about four in the afternoon, which was an
hour before Stella's aunt dined. Mrs. Marston was delighted to receive
her niece and her husband, for she was at her best when she had company.
After dinner, as it was a little chilly, a fire was lit in the open
grate and the three sat round to enjoy a social time.

Mrs. Marston said: "Stella, I suppose you and Penloe have all your plans
made for your wedding tour."

Stella said: "Well, Aunt, we had made many plans and I had built several
castles which I expected to occupy during our journey, but we received a
visit from Herbert and Stanley while we were at Charles' and Clara's
and they brought with them a number of letters containing invitations
for us to speak on the 'California Idea,' as it is now called, and we
think it best to give up our wedding tour and do what we can to help
forward the California movement; and, Aunt, the money which you so very
kindly gave me to use for a wedding tour, I feel I ought to return to
you, as we are not going; and so here is a check for the full amount of
your gift made payable to your order."

Mrs. Marston received the check from Stella and said: "I had hoped you
would have gone on your tour."

And added in a laughing tone: "You two are the strangest persons I have
ever met. Th