It is with deep pain and just learned of the death of se I know that this leaves annuity which was hers se and your future is tle friend! I can say n how vain and me; but, believe me, my you, and were it pos- and strive to cheer I am now going to ask a e been friends during all our not refuse me. the cottage. Let it be still as it has been in the any restrictions. alone, for it would secure some com- n yourself who will . Do not mind the that we are relatives in this extremity. ck sufficient for when I return ent arrangement I shall be very you. our friend, “WILLIAM MAPLESON.” Everet merely glanced at this, then taking his wallet from one of his pockets, he drew from it a folded paper. It was the other half of the torn letter. He laid the two portions together; the ragged edges fitted exactly, the writing was identical, and the epistle was complete, and read thus: “SANTA FE. June 10, 18—. “MY DEAR ANNIE: “It is with deep pain and regret that I have just learned of the death of your mother. Of course I know that this leaves you alone, and that the annuity which was hers for life only must now cease, and your future is unprovided for. My poor little friend, I can say nothing to comfort you, for I know how vain and cold words are at such a time; but, believe me, my heart is with you. I sorrow with you, and were it pos- sible I would come to you and strive to cheer you in this sad hour. But I am now going to ask a favor of you, Annie—we have been friends during all our life, and surely you will not refuse me.