never known the real joy of doing good work, with the actual reward in
sight. Home life had been dreary indeed, school had been little better,
the only bright spot in the misplaced life had been put in by Dorothy
Dale. And what a power for good had been the quiet, unobtrusive
influence!

"I owe every single thing to Dorothy," Tavia declared to her own heart
that eventful night, "and I hope some day I will be able to show her I
am not ungrateful."




CHAPTER XVII

A GIRL'S WEAPON


Tavia's plans took shape next morning--there was nothing visionary about
them. She did surprise her father with a neat breakfast table, and
Johnnie surprised himself with a clean linen suit.

"Nothing succeeds like success," said the father, pleased and happy
that, at last something had "happened" to brighten the make-shift home.

"And when mother comes," Tavia announced, "she will find that I have
discovered how to keep house, for I have already provided for dinner.
Now Johnnie, be careful that you do me credit--go right straight to
school when it's time, and don't, as you value your place in--in--my
heart, miss a single lesson!"