“You still have some, Dory. I am only telling you this, that you will understand the situation and be as careful of expenses as you can.” “I will,” Doris promised, “and I’ll start by giving up that camping trip. I suppose, though, I won’t get to see Kitty this summer—unless—” She broke off and her face lighted up. “I forgot the letter I received from the Misses Gates!” she finished. “Perhaps they offer the solution to all my troubles!” CHAPTER III A PROSPECTIVE VISIT Doris brought out the crumpled letter written by the Misses Gates which she had thrust carelessly into her pocket, and handed it to her uncle. Adjusting his glasses, he read it through and then sat thoughtfully stroking his hair. “What do you think of it?” Doris demanded. “Very strange indeed. But just how do you think this letter will help to solve your financial problems?” “Why, I thought perhaps I am to inherit some money.” Wardell Force folded the letter and returned it to his niece. “I hope for your sake that you are right, but I would advise you not to build up your hopes.” “Don’t you think I should go?” “I scarcely know what to say, Doris. I recall that years ago your mother had an older brother who for some reason or other left home to travel. He was a young man at that time. To the best of my knowledge he was never heard of again.” “How queer!” “Yes, as I remember, the members of the family were unwilling to talk of the matter.” “He didn’t leave because of some disgrace?” “Not as far as anyone knew. His leave-taking was shrouded in mystery.” “I never knew I had such an interesting relative!” Doris declared. “The Misses Gates must know more than that about him and I’m curious to learn what they may have to tell me. I wish I could go to Rumson and visit them this summer. May I?” “You really think you would enjoy it?” “Perhaps not, but it would be something to do. And then, of course there _is_ a possibility that I am to inherit money. If only Kitty were going along, I know I’d have fun.” “But I don’t know anything about these women you are invited to visit, Doris.” “Oh, they must be nice,” Doris urged. “You can almost tell by their handwriting—it’s so refined.” Uncle Ward smiled. When his niece’s mind was made up, he seldom could hold out against her. “Very well,” he gave in reluctantly. “I suppose I must say you may go. Mind, I don’t feel entirely easy about it.” “Rumson isn’t very far away, Uncle Ward, and nothing could happen to me. Besides, Dave lives out that way, and he can sort of keep an eye on me.” “I don’t doubt but that he will do that, all right,” Mr. Force grunted. “I suspect he is your real reason for this trip.” “Honestly, I never thought of that at first.” “All right, run along.” He glanced at the clock on the mantel. “Won’t you be late for your music lesson?”