"Perhaps. But they could get to Detroit, or Indianapolis, or even to
Cincinnati."
"There are more picture making concerns in Chicago," suggested Nan, quietly, "than in the other cities named, I am sure. And the fare to Chicago is less than to the others."
"Right you air, Miss!" agreed Si Snubbins. "That's where them pesky gals have set out for, I ain't a doubt."
"And how are we goin' to get 'em back?" murmured Mr. Morton.
"The good Lord won't let no harm come to the dears, I hope and pray," said his wife, wiping her eyes. "Somebody'll be good to 'em if they get sick or hungry. There! We ain't showin' very good manners to our guests, Peke. These girls are off that train where there ain't a bite to eat, I do suppose; and they must be half starved. Let's have supper. You pull up a chair, too, Si."
"All right, Miz' Morton," agreed Mr. Snubbins, briskly.
Nan felt some diffidence in accepting the good woman's hospitality. She whispered again to Bess:
"Shall we stay? They're in such trouble."
"But goodness!" interrupted Bess. "I'm hungry. And we want to get her interested in the kiddies aboard the train."
"Yes, that's so," agreed Nan.