very good to write so regularly every mail. We are so glad to know
what a successful trip you are having. We are all very well; and
mother gave the children a tree for Christmas, and we hung your box
of sweets and my scent on it. They couldn't think how you had
managed to put them there! Thank you so much for the scent. I am
having the dining-room carpet cleaned. The children send their love
and so do I.--Your affectionate wife,

"MARIE."

"P.S.--Baby has cut another tooth."

"My God!" said Osborn resignedly, as he tore the letter across.
"Marriage is a big mistake. To tie oneself up for life at
twenty-seven...!"

* * * * *

Osborn was in Chicago, prospering exceedingly, when Roselle's second
letter came.

She was in the same city!

He hurried to her without a moment's loss. She was staying at a
boarding-house full of noisy young business people, among whom she was
a sensation. She received Osborn in a great smudged parlour decorated
with much gilt and lace curtains.

"Aren't you surprised?"

"I was never so glad."

"I expect you were. I expect you've been as glad ever so many times."
She looked at him shrewdly. "I didn't tell you in New York," she said,
letting her hand remain in his. They were alone in the horrible room.
"But my contract was for the passage out and three months playing with
Sautree; not for the passage home. You see, I wanted to get out here
somehow and see what I could do. It does one good to have been in the
States."

"And now--"

"I'm at a loose end."

She saw the quick flush on his face and the light in his eyes, and
playfully put against his lips two fingers, which he kissed.

"Only temporarily of course. I'm going round the hotels to-day--I
shall get plenty of entertaining to do. When I'm tired of this, I
shall move on."

"Why not let our moving on coincide?"

It was what, vaguely, in her mind, Roselle meant to do. She wanted
experience; but to gain it comfortably would need a certain amount of
financing; and she thought she had tested the fairly satisfactory
depth of his pockets, although he had told her nothing.

"I don't know," she reserved. "What are your movements and dates?"

He told her eagerly.

"I've always longed to tour Canada," she cried.

"Then tour it on your own. Only can't we be travelling companions?
I'll see to your tickets and luggage and so on."

"And I shan't have any hotel expenses," she added,