Betty laid the letter down with a sense of relief at her release. Then a sudden pity for Frank brought a mist to her eyes. But she seemed to hear him say again, "You have taught me how to live--what more could a man ask from the woman he loves?" The words comforted her, she had not harmed him, then, "God keep him strong and good!" she said fervently. Slowly and thoughtfully she dressed. Then she noticed another letter which she had not seen before. It was from Ephraim. With great anxiety she read, that her mother was very ill, and she must come home directly. So Betty's mind instantly planned for her sudden departure for the West and once more, her own trials were forgotten in thinking of others. *********** CHAPTER XXIV. Unalloyed Love. In a small, modest apartment in a section of Chicago, which is inexpensive but respectable, Alma began her new life with Will and Harold. This afternoon she was alone for the first time. Will had taken Harold out to see more of the great city, while she was busy preparing for George's return from New York. He had left them just two weeks ago, promising to return and visit them for a few days. Alma prepared supper with a happy heart. She had refused all persuasions to keep a maid. Her strength had returned, and she was so supremely happy that no work seemed an effort to her, and she gloried now in taking a really active part in the world and helping Will to rise again from the lower rounds of the ladder. It was nearing six o'clock, and Alma looked the daintily set table over, with a glow of pride and satisfaction. "I never thought it could be such a pleasure for a woman to prepare things herself. It's almost like playing house." She laughed softly. "Riches after all, are not everything." She went to the window, and drew aside the curtain to look out. There was no sign of her loved ones yet. They were going to meet George. Maybe the train was late. So she sat down to wait. But she did not rest long. It seemed impossible for her not to keep busy with some preparation. Could this be Alma? Pleasure-loving, indolent Alma of the past? No! This was the Alma of later years,--strong, eager, loving, beginning a new life upon the ashes of heart-aches past! It was long past six, when Harold and Will returned alone. George had not arrived on the train expected. "Never mind," said Alma, "We three will have our cozy little supper together. When George comes, I can prepare something, too." Will's arms encircled her as they went to the table. Fondly he looked down into Alma's happy face. "I can't get used to this wonderful life," he said gently. "Nor I," she replied with an answering smile. "I sometimes pinch myself to wake up." Will's face was somewhat lined and he was partly gray. Otherwise, he was the same Will with the kind, dark, deep-set eyes. Harold ate his supper hurriedly. "I'm going to the depot, again, to meet Cousin George," he explained. "Very well," said Alma, but don't stay too late."