dnight and went up to her room.

Captain Dan forebore to trouble his wife with the news of the telegram
announcing John Doane's departure for the West, and the reception of
that news by Gertrude. After hearing Serena's complaints of her "nerves"
and weariness, he decided that there was trouble sufficient for that
night. But the next morning he spoke of it. Serena was surprised, of
course, and worried likewise.

"You're right, Daniel," she said, "I am afraid you're right. She and
John must have had some disagreement. I suppose it is only a lover's
quarrel--young engaged people are always having foolish quarrels--and
they always get over them and make up again. But, oh, dear! why did they
quarrel just now? Haven't I got enough on my mind without fretting about
them? Well, I'll talk to Gertie this very forenoon."

She did, but the talk was unsatisfactory. When Daniel, waiting anxiously
to learn what had taken place, questioned her she shook her head.

"I can't make Gertie out," she declared pettishly. "She acts so queer.
Doesn't want to talk about John at all. Says it is all right, and why
should I worry if she doesn't? And she is so different, somehow. She was
willing enough to discuss my chances for the vice-presidency. She asked
twenty questions about that and declares she is going to help me. And
yesterday, when I wanted her to help, she didn't take any interest. I
never saw such a change. And she is so--so fidgety and--and nervous and
high-spirited and silly. She laughed at nothing and kept jumping up and
walking about and sitting down again. I declare! it made ME jumpy just
to look at her."

Gertrude's conduct was certainly surprising. It caused Captain Dan to
feel "jumpy" more than once. Her determination to help her mother in the
campaign she put into immediate practice. She called Cousin Percy into
council, borrowed Serena's list of Chapter members, and the pair spent
hours checking that list together. Then Gertrude announced that she was
going to make some calls. She made them and returned, exultant.

"I think I have made two converts this afternoon," she said. "I am
almost sure they will vote for you, Mother. You and I must go to
Mrs. Black's to-night and talk it over with her. We MUST; it is very
important."

Serena, who had hoped for an early bedtime, expressed weariness, and
protested, but her protests were overruled. They went to the Blacks' and
Captain Dan and Mr. Hungerford went, also. Annette was d