They both laughed. Laughter altered and improved Mary wonderfully. It was a faculty she never exercised. She was always much too serious.

“Do you know, I haven’t one woman friend,” said Mary.

“Yes, you have, now.” Bertha pressed her hand.

“Good-bye! … Oh, Bertha, do you really think he’ll miss me?”

“Of course he will! Awfully!”

“Thanks. Good-bye!”

*

“Poor girl!” Bertha said to herself as Mary left the house.


CHAPTER XXXVI
PLAIN SAILING