"Innocent!" exclaimed Miss Rhoda with utmost scorn.

"Some of her friends think her so," I observed. "Mrs. Reeves, a lady
who was at the party, stayed in the house all night, and is, I think,
there still."

"Why did she do that?" asked Mrs. Schuyler, looking puzzled.

"She hoped Miss Van Allen would return, and she waited there to look
after her."

"That was kind. Who is this lady?"

"She lives down on Washington Square. I only know her slightly, but
she is a warm-hearted and a most capable and sensible one. She refuses
to believe that Vicky Van--"

"What do you call her?"

"Her friends call her Vicky Van. It--it sort of suits her."

"From what you say, I judge she is not the terror I thought her at
first; but, all the same, she murdered my husband, and I cannot look
on her as you seem to."

"Nor can I blame you. Your feelings toward her are entirely just, Mrs.
Schuyler."