ith
you, but there is an important matter which I neglected to see to
to-day, and which must be attended to. Graydon will soon be ready to
relieve me a great deal."

"Well, I shall be glad when he can do something besides waiting on Mr.
Arnault's convenience for the privilege of seeing Miss Wildmere. It
will be a terribly long, fatiguing day for you, Madge--for you both,
indeed!"

"Oh, I shan't mind it in the least! It won't be half so fatiguing as
one of my long rides. You spoke of wanting some things, and I can shop
for you, too."

Mrs. Muir had long since given up the idea of objecting seriously to
anything for which business was the alleged reason. The chance to do
some shopping by proxy soon occupied her mind, and when Miss Wildmere
took occasion to pass and repass, the only apparent topic of interest
in the Muir group was the prospect of purchasing some expensive goods.

Madge retired early to prepare for her journey. Mrs. Muir soon
followed, and her husband remarked that he would merely remain down
long enough to write a note to Graydon. This missive was brief, but
was charged with dynamite.

On the morrow, long before Miss Wildmere waked from the golden dreams
which that day should realize, Madge and Mr. Muir were on their way
to the city. The young girl had said: "Don't let us do anything by
halves. I have read that in the crisis of a battle timid measures
are often fatal. Let me give you everything that you can use as
collateral. How much is there?"

"Sixty thousand available at once. As I have said, you shall have your
own way."

"Well, for once a woman is wiser than Solomon."

They went immediately to the trust company which had her property in
keeping, and, having complied with the forms, obtained the entire sum,
then parted on Broadway, to rendezvous at the train. Mr. Muir gave the
radiant girl a look which she valued more than the money. He then went
to his bank. The official whom he accosted had been rather cold and
shy of late, but when he received the securities he grew perceptibly
urbane.

On reaching his office Mr. Muir found that a transaction which
had been greatly delayed was now consummated, and that another ten
thousand in cash was available. This also was sent to the bank at
once. Several business men were present when a confidential clerk from
Arnault appeared, and asked for a private interview.

"Well, really you must excuse me to-day. I'm very busy, and expect to
leave town in