“Why, mother dear, it isn’t anything to run one now.” “Not simply to run it. In case of emergencies, however, one must possess nerves that are under perfect control.” “I know,” Polly answered gravely; “but what is the matter with mine? Besides, I shouldn’t drive fast or run any risks.” “I should worry about you every minute. Foolish, you and your father would say; but I should all the same.” “Don’t!--for I dreadfully want one. If you could have seen how Little Duke enjoyed it to-day!” And she repeated his remarks. Within a week Polly had her license and she and Evan were spinning over the country roads in the new car, Polly chuckling over her number, which she declared was the very best in the whole list. She was an apt pupil, and absolutely without fear. Mrs. Dudley soon decided to take some of the children and occupy the back seat, rather than wait at home wondering if anything had happened, and her first ride with Polly at the wheel seemed to rid her of all apprehension. She argued no more against the new machine. The car was in use whenever its owner could take out any of her small patients or leave them. None needed skilled care throughout the day, and several of her friends were ready to act as substitute for an hour or two at almost any time. Patricia or Lilith or Hilda would frequently be found in charge of Paradise Ward, while Polly and her mother were downtown on a shopping excursion or on some visit across the city. She had run down alone one afternoon to make some small purchases, when, on coming out of a shop, she found herself facing John Eustis. “I’m glad to know you are still in the flesh,” he began. “I never get sight of you nowadays.” “Is it as much as a week since I saw you at Vesta Jordan’s?” smiled Polly. He laughed his answer. And then, “Going home? May I walk up with you?” “You may ride up with me. I drove down, that being the quickest way.” They were silent until they were beyond the business streets. “You have a dandy car, and you are an expert in running it,” praised John Eustis. “That bit of maneuvering was well done.” Polly looked pleased. “I am not wholly sure of myself yet,” she admitted; “but I haven’t made any big break since I gave up Evan. Even mother isn’t afraid to ride with me.” “She has no need to be afraid,” he returned. “I am glad you think so,” was all Polly said. “I should have come up to your house to-night,” went on John Eustis, “if I had not met you. Can you get off from your job for a week-end?” “I am afraid not. I have enlisted and I must stick to my post.” “You ought not to have enlisted.” “Oh, yes, I ought! I wouldn’t give it up for anything.” “Maybe you’ll be more persuadable when you hear where I want you to go.” Polly looked at him questioningly. “Do you remember Sally Robinson?” “How could I forget Sally! She was one of the dearest girls in our class.” “She was--and she is. And she is home from Texas--” “Here?” cried Polly. “No, at Overlook--up on the mountain.”