Robinson goes out by the
day; I think we had better send for her."

"Well, the idea! Hire a girl so you can sit in the parlor with Traverse, I
suppose! You managed well enough since Eliza left, and I guess you will get
no chance to play the lady in this house! The kitchen is your place, and
that is all you are fit for!"

"Then I throw up the situation from this moment!" said Dexie, hotly,
thoroughly aroused at last. "It is quite time I turned my attention to
something higher--to the making of blue or green dogs on canvas, for
instance! Hire a servant to wait on you before night, for I will not step
my foot into the kitchen again! I'll find something to do in a more
congenial latitude," and Dexie thrust the remaining papers into the desk in
startling confusion, locking the several drawers with a snap.

As Gussie left the room she rose to her feet, intending to send word to Guy
to come and take her away, but, as she turned about, he caught her in his
strong arms and held her close to him.

"Oh, Guy! how long have you been here?" and she burst into tears.

"Long enough to make up my mind that Gussie shall never get the chance to
insult you again as she has done in my hearing. Dexie! it makes my blood
boil to know that you are treated in this manner! You must come away with
me! I cannot leave you in the house after hearing those words said to you.
You must not refuse, darling!" and he wiped away her tears and kissed the
white face in his arms.

"Oh, Guy! if you only _would_ take me," she sobbed. "I was just going to
send for you, and beg of you to take me at once."

"I ran in to tell you that I am called to the city on business, and must go
on the 5.30 train, so come with me, darling. I have a married sister living
in Boston, who will make you right welcome, and we will be married as soon
as the ceremony can be performed. Will you agree to this plan, my darling?"

"Yes, and bless you for the chance of getting away so quickly; but oh, Guy!
I seem to be all alone since papa died!" and the tears fell afresh.

"You will not be able to say that in a few hours' time, dear; but I must
hasten--I have an appointment at my office this minute. I will be back for
you in less than an hour, and will see your mother then. Now, go and get
ready for your journey, my little wifie," and with a tender embrace he
hurried away, and Dexie flew upstairs to her room.

She had barely time to lock the door when Gussie came towards it.

"O