Italian teacher, has
been in the United States this summer trying to establish what she calls
the order of the 'White Cross.' The members of the White Cross are to
devote themselves to the care of the children who have suffered from the
war. She says there is no hope of their growing into healthy and normal
men and women unless they receive special care."

"Is there an organization anything like our own Camp Fire girls in
France?" Sally Ashton demanded unexpectedly. "I know there is in England
where they call themselves the 'Girl Scouts.' But I should think that
young girls living and working together in France as we have been trying
to do, might help each other and be useful to other people as well."

"I quite agree with you, Sally," Bettina returned. "Odd, that no one of
us can answer your question! But as soon as we return East I mean to
make it my business to find out if there is a French Camp Fire. At least
we could write to the French Camp Fire girls if they exist."

At this instant the girls' conversation was interrupted by the sudden
opening of a door and Mrs. Burton's entrance.

She was not in mourning but was wearing a black dress and hat which were
unbecoming and made her look older.

"Why is everybody so serious?" she instantly demanded.

Before any one else could reply Sally Ashton answered:

"We are serious because we are thinking that some day we may ask you to
take us to France to form Camp Fire clubs over there and to do whatever
we can to help. Oh, of course I know we must learn more of what will be
required of us and be prepared to make all kinds of sacrifices."

Flinging her hat on the bed with as great carelessness as if she were a
girl and also as if she were pleased to be rid of it, Mrs. Burton
replied:

"You are an amazing child, Sally. Even if I had the courage for such an
undertaking, which I have not, do you suppose I would have sufficient
influence with the parents of any one of you to persuade them to allow
you to stir one foot away from your own land at a time like this? But I
understand you have been hearing Vera's news. The circumstances with
Vera are exceptional. Wait here another moment, there is something I
have to tell you."

Then Mrs. Burton disappeared into her bedroom which adjoined their hotel
sitting-room. Their hotel was not in the center of the city but in a
suburb a few miles out.

A few moments later she returned wearing a lavender crepe dressing gown
and look