“Are you happy here, Marjorie?” asked Mrs. Fordyce, turning directly to the girl. “What a question, dear Mrs. Fordyce! You have done everything for my comfort,” and Marjorie looked gratefully at the older woman. “I have seldom met with such consideration and kindness. You--you are not dissatisfied with me?” in quick alarm. “No, indeed.” Mrs. Fordyce’s tone was flattering in its sincerity, and Marjorie’s fears were allayed. “I can’t get on without you; in fact, I am afraid I’m putting too much upon you. You are so dependable I forget your youth.” Marjorie’s laugh was followed by an unconscious sigh. “Youth with me is a thing of the past; I rival Methuselah,” she said lightly. “Don’t worry about me, dear Mrs. Fordyce; I can never do enough to repay your kindness. My work here is most congenial.” “Come along, Marjorie,” called Janet from the hall. “Go, my dear,” Mrs. Fordyce impulsively kissed Marjorie. “Don’t keep my husband waiting; he’ll never forgive you.” Mrs. Fordyce had been by herself but a scant ten minutes when the hall door again opened and Duncan walked in. “Where’s everybody?” he demanded, seating himself by her. “Your father had an engagement at the Riding and Hunt Club.” She inspected the clock. “He should be there now.” “And what are the others doing?” “Janet and Marjorie? Oh, they are out shopping for Christmas.” “I wish I’d known it, I’d have gone with them,” and he beat an impatient tattoo on the back of the lounge. “I am afraid you find Washington very dull,” said Mrs. Fordyce regretfully. “But I am selfish enough to wish to keep you here. Stay as long as you can, dear.” “Of course I’m going to stay,” heartily, catching the wistful appeal in her eyes. “I’ve given up returning to the West until February and you’ll have me on your hands until then.” “That’s dear of you, Duncan,” she leaned over and stroked his hand. “My bonnie big boy,” and there was infinite pride in her tone. “You have no idea of my joy in having your father, Janet, and you under one roof again. This will be a blessed Christmas to me.”