ompting, and she was curious to learn who
had influenced him.

"There was a word or two in Herbert's letter to the same effect," she
said. "The thing strikes one as amusing. George, of course, does not
explain why he joined these people."

A smile of rather malicious satisfaction crept into Ethel's eyes.
"According to Edgar, it was because his neighbors, the Grants, urged
it. The father of the girl he mentioned seems to be a leader in the
movement."

Sylvia carefully suppressed any sign of the annoyance she felt. It
was, of course, impossible that George should be seriously attracted by
Flora, but his action implied that he and the Grants must be good
friends. No doubt, he met the girl every now and then, and they had
much in common. Sylvia did not mean to marry George; but it was
pleasant to feel that she could count on his devotion, and she resented
the idea of his falling under the influence of anybody else. She had
never thought of Flora as dangerous--George was so steadfast--but she
now realized that there might, perhaps, be some slight risk. A girl
situated as Flora was would, no doubt, make the most of her
opportunities. Sylvia grew somewhat angry; she felt she was being
badly treated.

"After all," she said calmly, "I suppose there's no reason why George
shouldn't set up as a reformer if it pleases him. It must, however, be
rather a novelty for your brother."

Ethel laughed.

"I believe it's the excitement that has tempted him, Still, if George
is taking any active part in the matter, Edgar will probably find it
more than a light diversion." Then she changed the subject. "Did I
tell you that we expect Captain Bland to-night?"

Sylvia started slightly. She was aware that Ethel took what could best
be described as an unsympathetic interest in her affairs, but the
sudden reference to Bland threw her off her guard.

"No," she said. "Though you have met him, I didn't think you knew him
well."

"I believe it's chiefly a business visit. Stephen, you know, has some
reputation as a commercial lawyer, and Bland couldn't arrange to see
him in town. Anyway, he should be here soon."

Bland arrived half an hour later, but was unable to do more than shake
hands with Sylvia before West took him away to another room. It was
some time before they returned; and then West kept the party engaged in
general conversation until it broke up.

"I'll walk down the road with you," he said to Mrs. Lansing, an