sunshiny smile even Allegheny's sullen distrust slowly began to
thaw. She drew Gray aside finally, and said: "It's all right. They're
perfect dears, and, now, the best thing you can do is to take yourself
off."

He agreed promptly, but cautioned her against economy. "That
bargain-hunting remark was only a bait. Remember, Gus Briskow
wants them to have everything, and be everything they should be,
regardless of expense. Why, both he and I would like nothing
better than to have Allegheny look like you, if that were
possible."

Miss Good eyed the speaker curiously. "Who are you?" she inquired.
"What are these nesters to you?"

"I am nobody. They were kind to me and I'm interested in their
future."

"Are you a fortune hunter, Mr. Gray?"

"I am." Gray's face instantly lighted. "I am the most
conscienceless fortune hunter you ever met, but--I am hunting my
own fortune, not Allie Briskow's."

"You needn't laugh. She's very--unusual and--But I dare say you
wouldn't tell me, anyhow."

"If I have excited your curiosity, I am delighted," Gray declared.
"Please let me return at lunch time and gratify it. I promise to
talk upon that subject which every man can discuss to best