doctor."

If she had promised to take care of Ruth, it would have been more to his
mind; but since his wife was there, what harm could accrue that his
presence would prevent? So with a sincere apology he went over to the
hotel.

He hardly appreciated what an admirable aide he had left behind him in his
wife.

Kemp sat upon the top step, and leaned his back against the railing;
although outwardly he kept up a constant low run of conversation with Mrs.
Levice, who swayed to and fro in her rocker, he was intently conscious of
Ruth's white figure perched on the window-sill.

How Mrs. Levice happened to broach the subject, Ruth never knew; but she
was rather startled when she perceived that Kemp was addressing her.

"I should like to show my prowess to you, Miss Levice."

"In what?" she asked, somewhat dazed.

"Ruth, Ruth," laughed her mother, "do you mean to say you have not heard a
word of all my glowing compliments on your rowing?"

"And I was telling your mother that in all modesty I was considered a fine
oar at my Alma Mater."

"And I hazarded the suggestion," added Mrs. Levice, "that as it is such a
beautiful night, there is nothing to prevent your taking a little row, and