erience than I've had. They're all crazy to play stock at this time
of year. Of course, I don't need the money as much as they do, but I'm
fond of acting and it's a bully way to spend some of the summer.
Besides, I think the air out there--the high altitude--will do me lots
of good."

"That's all very well," rejoined the broker with a grimace of mock
despair, "but what am I going to do all alone in this dusty, thirsty
town, while you're playing Camille, and what not under the shady trees
at Denver? I'm an ass to stand for it."

She laid a consoling hand on his arm.

"No, you're, not. You're a darling boy. You know I had my heart set on
getting that stock engagement, and you went to all kinds of trouble to
make the manager let me have it. Really, Will--I can't say how grateful
I am! I won't be so long away--only six short Weeks--and if you like
you can come to Denver and bring me East again. It'll be awfully jolly
traveling home together, won't it?"

Brockton looked at her and smiled indulgently. He was only joking, just
to see how she would take it. Of course he would let her go. He would
be a selfish brute if he played the tyrant and consulted only his own
convenience.

"All right, kid," he said kindly. "Go and enjoy yourself. Never mind
about me--I'll jog along somehow. I'll miss you, though. I don't mind
telling you that. When you're ready to come home, just telegraph and
I'll take the next train for Denver. If you need any money, you know
where to write me. Meantime, put this in your inside pocket."

He pressed his strong fingers down on her open palm, and closed her
hand. Opening it, she found five new crisp one hundred dollar notes. A
crimson glow of pleasure spread over her face and neck. For a moment
she was unable to stammer her thanks.

"Oh, Will--you are so good!"

"That's nothing," he laughed lightly, "have a good time with it. Buy
what things you need. You understand--that is only a little extra pin
money. Your regular weekly cheque will be sent to you at Denver."

All she could say was to repeat:

"Oh--Will--you are so good!"

He lifted his glass and looked whimsically at her through the dancing
bubbles of the foaming champagne. In a low voice he said:

"Here's to my little girl! May she tread the stage of Denver with the
grace and charm of an Ellen Terry and return to New York covered with
new laurels!"

Calling for the bill, and tossing a ten dollar note to the waiter, he
rose hastily: