and closed convulsively in his pocket.

"If there is any way possible," said the girl, "I must obtain that
package. I give you my word I have as much right to it as any one who
will appear at the inn. The honor and happiness of one who is very dear
to me is involved. I ask you--made bold as I am by my desperation and
Hal Bentley's assurances--to aid me if you find you can."

With the eyes of a man in a dream Mr. Magee looked into the face of the
latest comer to Baldpate.

"Hal Bentley is an old friend and a bully chap," he said. "It will be a
great pleasure to serve a friend of his." He paused, congratulating
himself that these were words, idle words. "When did you arrive, may I
ask?"

"I believe you were having dinner when I came," she answered. "Mr.
Bentley gave me a key to the kitchen door, and we found a back stairway.
There seemed to be a company below--I wanted to see only you."

"I repeat," said Mr. Magee, "I shall be happy to help you, if I can."
His word to another lady, he reflected, was binding. "I suggest that
there is no harm in waiting until morning."

"But--I am afraid it was to-night--" she began.

"I understand," Magee replied. "The plans went wrong. You may safely let
your worries rest until to-morrow." He was on the point of adding
something about relying on him, but remembered in time which girl he was
addressing. "Is there anything I can do to make you more comfortable?"

The girl drew the fur coat closer about her shoulders. She suggested to
Magee a sheltered luxurious life--he could see her regaling young men
with tea before a fireplace in a beautiful room--insipid tea in
thimble-like cups.

"You are very kind," she said. "I hardly expected to be here the night
through. It is rather cold, but I am sure we have rugs and coats
enough."

Mr. Magee's duty was clear.

"I'll build you a fire," he announced. The girl seemed distressed at the
thought.

"No, I couldn't let you," she said. "I am sure it isn't necessary. I
will say good night now."

"Good night. If there is anything I can do--"

"I shall tell you," she finished, smiling. "I believe I forgot to give
you my name. I am Myra Thornhill, of Reuton. Until to-morrow." She went
in and closed the door.

Mr. Magee sat limply down on the cold stair. All the glory was gone from
the scene he had pictured a moment ago. He had the money, yes, the money
procured in valiant battle, but at the moment he bore the prize to his
lady, another a