“Not much danger there. I fancy he’ll go quick enough.” “If he does, he will carry a heap of strength with him. Where is he?” “Out in the yard, I guess, or down at the drive. Shall I send for him?” “No,” laughed the other as he went out; “I want to find him good-natured. If he is only up to his waist in water now, he will be just right.” And he went away confident that he had accomplished his purpose and that Lettie would soon be with them. Elwell went home that night in doubt as to the best course to pursue. There was very little to be expected of Fanny in the way of help; that he knew, and he was sharp enough to see the value of a woman’s assistance. He did not doubt his wife’s willingness; but she was incapable. He found Fanny flushed with excitement over her probable elevation, socially. She noticed at once that he looked troubled. “What is the matter?” she cried. “There is nothing wrong?” Her husband seated himself in his easy-chair. “There is nothing the matter,” he said. “I have only been thinking about you. You ought to have some one here with you for a while--some good, clever woman that could help you in case we have to entertain. Besides that, you need some company yourself.” “I am sure I think so,” she replied, in her usual tone of deep injury. “I am just as lonesome as I can be.” “Why not invite some one, then?” “You have never mentioned it before,” she said; “and I really don’t know whom to invite.” “You had better think of some one,” he returned carelessly. And having left it thus to chance, he said no more about it. Peter called at the house that evening, expecting to find Elwell; and being disappointed in this, stopped for a moment to chat with Fanny. “By the way,” he said, “have you heard from Miss Allan lately?” This was the very inspiration Fanny needed. “I have not heard from her in an age,” she cried, shrilly. “Where is she--at home?” Coleman presumed so. “And do you think I could get her to come over and visit me for a while? You have no idea how lonesome I am.” He had no doubt but Miss Allan would be glad to come. “Oh, I am so glad!” cried Fanny. “I have been dying to see the darling girl for ever so long. I will write at once and ask her.” And Coleman went away smiling slyly, perfectly sure of the result. And he was right this time, for in less than a week Miss Allan was installed in the Morain household as a visitor for an indefinite period. Peter managed to tell her what was expected of her without any unnecessary delay. “You said you would be glad to come,” he said; “and now I want you to help us out, and I will see that Elwell makes it worth your while. And by the way,” he went on, hesitating a little, “you had better not mention what is past.” “What do you mean?” inquired Lettie, turning on him haughtily. “Why, I mean about that paper, you know, and all that.” Lettie nodded quietly.