"Of course, I understand," said the girl hastily. "Thank you very much.
Perhaps, by and by, I can tell you everything. But we must see Mr.
Graves first. I--oh, DON'T ask me more now, Mrs. Dunn."

The widow of so astute a politician as Mike Dunn had been in his day
could have scarcely failed to profit by his teachings. Moreover, she
possessed talent of her own. With a final pat and a kiss, she prepared
for departure.

"Good-by, then," she said, "or rather, au revoir. We shall look in
to-morrow. Come, Malcolm."

"I say, Mal!" cried Stephen, rising hurriedly.

"You won't tell anyone about--"

"Steve!" interrupted his sister.

Malcolm, about to utter a languid sarcasm, caught his mother's look, and
remained silent. Another meaning glance, and his manner changed.

"All right, Steve, old man," he said. "Good-by and good luck. Caroline,
awfully glad we had the spin this afternoon. We must have more. Just
what you and Steve need. At your service any time. If there is anything
I can do in any way to--er--you understand--call on me, won't you?
Ready, Mater?"

The pair were shown out by Edwards. On the way home in the car Mrs.
Corcoran Dunn lectured her son severely.