"Can I get you a seat, sir?" asked Vincent, placing a pitcher of ice water and tumblers on the speaker's table. "No, thanks; my days as parliamentarian are over, thank the Lord. I have learned, Vincent, that when the Sisters in Unity hold an election it's safer to be on the other side of the bolted door." "Yes, sir." Vincent removed a cherished Sevres vase from its customary abiding place on the mantel and tucked it carefully under his arm. "Miss Kathleen is looking for you, sir. I think I hear her in the hall now, sir," and he hastened into the library as Kathleen stepped into the drawing-room. "Where have you been since dinner, Dad? I went from the top of the house to the bottom looking for you." "Had to go over to the drugstore to get a prescription filled. Can I do anything for you?" "Yes. Come and spend the evening with me," she coaxed. Whitney laughed. "Can't, my dear. I have important work ahead of me tonight." "It must wait until tomorrow," coaxingly, stroking his cheek softly. "I don't like these lines, Dad. Your health is more to be considered than your work." Whitney's air of tolerance turned to one of determination. "You are wrong; my work is of primary importance. It's only a matter of hours now, Kathleen; then I can loaf for the rest of my days." She shook her head. "Unless you take rest you cannot stand the strain. Mother tells me you worked all last night and far into the morning." "My brain is clearer at night, and I have always required very little sleep." He frowned with growing impatience. "There is no use discussing the subject." He spoke in a tone which forbade further argument. "Dad," Kathleen lowered her voice and moved closer to him, "has it occurred to you that--that people are unduly curious about your invention?" Whitney eyed her keenly. "It has," he admitted tersely, "and I have taken precautions." He stared at the clock and frowned impatiently. "Nearly eight--the meeting will commence soon; let's get out of here." "Wait, Dad," Kathleen laid a restraining hand on his shoulder. "I cannot bear to think of you alone in the attic--so far away from--" "Sisters in Unity--the very best of reasons for going to the attic--" "Let me come with you," eagerly. "I'll bring my own work and not say a word to you. I'm nervous, Daddy, I--I don't want to be by myself tonight--and there's something I want to--to--" her voice broke. Whitney glanced at Kathleen in surprise. What had come over her? "Oh, come along," he agreed roughly. "Only remember, I won't be tormented with small talk." Kathleen's eyes brightened with relief as she accompanied him into the hall. As they appeared the elevator door opened and Mrs. Whitney stepped out into the hall.