Realizing that nothing could deter her, the attendants put themselves to the task of preparing for a hasty departure of their distinguished mistress, and when Jane and Mrs. Weatherbee took their places in the Lake Shore train that afternoon, it was in a luxurious and exclusive private compartment, reserved at the request of Mme. Nalasky, their companion on the journey. Immediately upon entraining, Madam was tucked into her couch by the faithful Marie, who could scarcely restrain from open rebellion, that Madam should so exhaust herself, to the danger of her marvellous voice. To these commands the singer reluctantly consented, although it was clear she would have much preferred taking Mrs. Weatherbee and Jane. “Oh, Mrs. Weatherbee,” breathed Jane, alone once more with her director. “Isn’t it too strange for words!” “Like a fairy story, my dear, but stories follow some people and I fancy they have a liking for you.” She was in splendid humor and the very best of spirits, in spite of her hard day spent at collecting talent for the concert. “Whatever will Helen say?” Jane could not help wondering aloud. “We have a pleasant scene ahead of us,” answered Mrs. Weatherbee smilingly. “And the little paper—to think it was through that article this has really come about,” further mused Jane. “Oh, no, my dear. You would have found this through one means if not another. True, the _Bugle_ served—but you operated it.” Mrs. Weatherbee insisted upon being complimentary. “And I feel, Mrs. Weatherbee,” Jane ventured further, “if this all comes out beautifully, we ought to forgive Marian. After all, she gave out the news that did the—that worked the miracle.” “Well, poor Marian is of the class bound to get into trouble, but I shall be very glad indeed if we can find some extenuating circumstance for her latest offence.” She was good natured to the point of indulgence. “But, don’t you think, Mrs. Weatherbee, the very fact that this seems to be providential makes a claim for Marian?” Jane was very cautious now. She did not mean to appear dictatorial to her superior. Mrs. Weatherbee smiled. “Leave it to Jane to find an excuse,” she replied, unmindful of having used a clap-trap phrase. “You do manage beautifully, my dear, to get girls out of trouble.” “But, you see, I have been in trouble myself at times,” explained Jane, “and I know how hard it is to extricate oneself. Marian is spiteful, and that leads her into mischief, but think of her disadvantages at home. Then just think of my wonderful daddy——” The school official smiled broadly. Yes, Jane had reason to be thankful for her inheritance. “Your father’s scholarship has done more than it ever promised to accomplish. I feel we have a beautiful scene to unfold as a prelude to our Golden Jubilee benefit,” she replied. “Oh, I am so glad!” sighed Jane as she lay back to watch the sunset creep over the Catskills.