ucation. Adelle replied that she should like to keep on
with school, by which she meant the Alton Girls' High.

"Of course, of course," the president said easily. "Every girl should
have the proper sort of education, and it is all the more important when
her responsibilities and opportunities in life are likely to be
increased by the possession of property."

But Adelle did not see how she could continue at the high school, now
that her aunt had died and there was no one but herself to look after
the roomers.

"Oh, very easily, very easily," the president thought. "How would you
like to go to boarding-school, my dear?"

Adelle did not know all at once. She had read something about
boarding-schools in story-books, but her conception of them was hazy.
And she ventured to say out loud that they must take a "sight of money."
The president of the trust company smiled for the benefit of his
fellow-officers and proceeded to break the news of the rich expectations
awaiting the timid little girl.

"I think we shall find enough money somehow to send you to a good
school," he said gayly. "You know we have some money in the bank that
will be yours,--oh, not a great deal at present, but enough to give you
a good education, provided you don't spend too much on clothes, young
lady."

This was a cruel jest, considering the quality of Adelle's one poor
little serge dress which she had on, and she took it quite literally.
While absorbing the idea that she must make her clothes go as far as
possible, she made no remark.

"The property that we hold in trust for you until you shall become of
age," the president resumed more seriously, "is not yet in such
condition that we can tell you exactly how much it will amount to. But
it is safe to say that all your reasonable needs will be provided for.
You'll never have to worry about money!"

He congratulated himself upon the happy phrasing of his announcement. It
was cautiously vague, and yet must relieve the little girl of all
apprehension or worry. Adelle made no response. For a Clark to be told
that there was no need to worry over money was too astounding for
belief.

"Now," said the president, who felt that he had done everything called
for in the situation, "I will leave Mr. Gardiner to explain all the
details to you. I hope you will enjoy your new school.... Whenever you
are in the city, come in and see us!"

He shook the little girl's hand and went off with his good-looking you