Bess whispered to Belle: "I see trouble ahead. Gertrude will want
to take him along."

Maud was "adjusting her eyes." She could not forget her famous
"imploring look."

But Duncan Bennet, with one bound, left the veranda, clearing the
steps without touching them, and he was in front of Daisy's car
dangerously soon.

"Look out, Duncan!" called Daisy. "Do you want to spatter
yourself all over my nice clean machine?"

"Not exactly," he replied, "but I felt I should do something
definite to welcome you. I suppose I may extend the kiss of
peace?"

"Oh!" gasped Maud. "Will he really kiss us?"

"Without a doubt," replied his cousin, laughing. "Duncan Bennet
is famous for his hospitality, and quite demonstrative. Don't
worry, dear. He is an awfully nice fellow."





CHAPTER XVIII

THE CLUE