That morning when Carmen went to see Ames the Express received word of the walk-out of the Avon mill employes. Almost coincident with the arrival of the news, Carmen herself came unsteadily into Hitt’s office. The editor glanced up at her, then looked a second time. He had never before seen her face colorless. Finally he laid down his papers.
“What’s happened?” he asked.
“Nothing,” answered the girl. “What work have you––for me––to-day?” She smiled, though her lips trembled.
“Where have you been?” he pursued, scanning her closely.
She did not reply at once. Then, so low that he scarcely caught the words, “I––I have been with––a friend.”
Sidney Ames came puffing into the office at that moment. “Hello!” he cried as he saw Carmen. “How does it happen you’re out riding with Willett? Saw him help you out of an auto just now.”
“He brought me here,” she answered softly.
“Where from?”
“Your father’s office.”
Hitt and the lad stared at her with open mouths. She turned, and started for her own room, moving as if in a haze. As she neared the door she stumbled. Sidney sprang after her and caught her in his arms. When she turned her face, they saw that her eyes were swimming in tears.