found it the day after Bertha's party, and, feeling unusually
unhappy, I determined, if possible, to see my mother's face once
more. It was Sunday, and that night we were invited to some private
theatricals at Mr. Israel Bachman's, whose daughter had just
returned from school. You may remember his house on Vine street. I
declined to attend. By remaining at home, I thought I could
accomplish my purpose of discovering the hidden treasure.

"The cabinet was placed in the large closet attached to the
sitting-room. To explore it, I must conceal myself in the closet.
After the family departed, leaving me sole occupant of the house, a
friend called. When her visit ended, I was interrupted again by the
servant, so that it was late before I could begin my secret work. At
last all was quiet, and my explorations began. First one key, and
then another, was applied to the lock, but without success. I worked
away hopefully, knowing the right one would come in turn if I were
not interrupted. Drawer after drawer was opened and when the right
keys were at last found, not one yielded up the coveted prize. I
trembled with fear of disappointment. Only one remained to be
opened; what if that were empty, too? Slowly and with trembling hand
I applied the key to this last delicate lock. Just then I heard a
sound in the hall, and footsteps approaching. What should I do?
Without stopping to reflect, I closed the closet-door. As I did so,
the sitting-room door was opened, and my step-mother entered,
accompanied by Mark Abrams.

"'Be seated,' my mother said blandly; and in my covert I wondered
what could be coming. Mark obeyed, and drawing his chair nearer the
fire waited till she had laid aside her wrappings and seated herself
in front of him. Then she said: