are tied up
by law, this year."

"So mother wrote to me. But I don't want to hear about troubles and
business tonight. I just want to enjoy myself after coming home to all
the dear folks," said Polly.

Tom was too unsophisticated with girls, although he was so popular with
men, to make allowance for the contrary spirit that often sways a girl
when she wishes to make a good impression; so he sulked and followed at
Polly's heels when she hurried after her friends.

Mr. Dalken turned just now, and saw the girl running as if to get away
from Tom, and he understood, fairly well, just how matters were. So he
endeavored to calm Polly's perturbed spirit and encourage Tom's "faint
heart" at the same time.

"Well, Polly dear," said he, placing an arm about her shoulders, "now
that you have seen many of the wonder-spots of Europe, and know more
about antiques and art than any of us, I suppose you are quite decided
that business is not your forte, eh? The next thing I'll hear from you,
you'll have dropped your ambitions and be sailing down a love-stream to a
snug harbor."

"Indeed not! You ought to know me better than that, Mr. Dalken," declared
Polly, vehemently, causing her companions to laugh. "I am more determined
than ever, since seeing such wonderful things in Europe, to devote my
life to my chosen profession. Why, the marvellous objects I saw in
Europe, used in interior decorating in centuries past, enthuse me anew. I
wonder that anyone can keep from studying this fascinating art where
there is such a broad field of work and interest."

Polly's mother and father listened to their daughter, with adoration
plainly expressed on their faces, and Tom had to grit his teeth to keep
from swearing, because of what he considered their influence over Polly
in this, her foolish infatuation for a business when she ought to be in
love with him.

When Mr. Dalken saw that he had launched a dangerous subject for Polly
and Tom, he had a bright idea. So he acted upon it instantly. He excused
himself from his friends' circle, and sought the Captain. In a short time
thereafter, the passengers heard the band playing dance music, and
immediately, most of the younger set hurried to the Grand Salon.

It was second nature with Polly to dance, and she did so with as much
grace as she rode her father's thoroughbred horses on the ranch; or hiked
the Rockies, over boulders and down-timber like a fawn. Kenneth Evans,
the youngest man in the par