“I see. You thought of me as only a fair-weather friend. Square yourself by telling me everything.” Their quiet corner of the veranda was soon invaded. Carroll, Whitford, Connie and Mrs. Torrence joined them, declaring that Millicent couldn’t be allowed to monopolize the hero of the hour. “It’s only beginner’s luck; that’s all,” Bruce protested. “The pleasantest thing about it is that it’s my native burg; that does tickle me!” “It’s altogether splendid,” said Carroll. “Having seen you on your native heath, and knowing how the people over there feel about you, I know just how proud you ought to be.” “What’s the name of the place--Petronia?” asked Constance. “Laconia,” Carroll corrected her. “You will do well to fix it in your memory now that Bruce is making it famous. I might mention that I have some cousins there--Bruce went over with me not so long ago just to give me a good character.” “How very interesting,” Constance murmured. “Mr. Mills once lived for a time in Laconia,” Carroll remarked. “That was years ago. His father had acquired some business interests there and the place aspired to become a large city.” “I don’t believe I ever heard Mr. Mills speak of it; I thought he was always rooted here,” said Constance. The party broke up at midnight, and Bruce drove Millicent home through the clear summer night. When he had unlocked the door for her she followed him out upon the steps. “I’m afraid I haven’t said all I’d like to say about your success. It’s a big achievement. I want you to know that I realize all that. I’m glad--and proud. Many happy returns of the day!” She gave him both her hands and this more than her words crowned the day for him. He had never been so happy. He really had hold of life; he could do things, he could do much finer things than the Laconia memorial! On his way to the gate he saw beyond the hedge a shadowy figure moving across the Mills lawn. When he reached the street he glanced back, identified Mills, and on an impulse entered the grounds. Mills was pacing back and forth, his head bowed, his hands thrust into his pockets. He started when he discerned Bruce, who walked up to him quickly. “Oh--that you, Storrs? Glad to see you! It’s a sultry night and I’m staying out as long as possible.” “I stopped to tell you a little piece of news. The Laconia memorial jury has made its report; my plans are accepted.” “How fine! Why--I’m delighted to hear this. I hope everything’s as you wanted it.” “Yes, sir; the fund was increased and the thing can be done now without skimping. I put in the fountain--I’m greatly obliged to you for that suggestion. You ought to have the credit for it.” “Oh, no, no!” Mills exclaimed hastily. “You’d probably have thought of it yourself--merely a bit of supplementary decoration. You’ll be busy now--supervising the construction?” “Yes; I want to look after all the details. It will keep me busy for the next year. Carroll is going over to Laconia with me tomorrow.”