“Is it because of the added expense that you haven’t done it before?” asked Lily.
“Partly. But you know I did put in an ad early this week; and two or three applicants showed up, but were scared off because of the ghost story. In that way our publicity has hurt us.”
“But you really can’t blame them for that.”
“No—I suppose not. But I do wish we could clear up the mystery, and go ahead on the reputation we’ve made.”
“Yes, I do too,” agreed Lily. Then, gathering up her fancy-work, she said, “I guess you need to go to sleep, Marj, so I’ll clear out. Oh, here comes Ethel, anyhow!”
“Hello, girls!” said Marjorie’s room-mate, as she entered through the open door. “What’s the trouble, Marj?”
“Just tired—that’s all!”
“Well, I’m sorry to say you’ll be more tired next week,” remarked the other girl, in a matter-of-fact tone. “Because Marie Louise writes that she can’t come back.”
“Marie Louise isn’t coming back from her vacation?” repeated Marjorie. “But she’ll have to—it’s Lily’s and Daisy’s turn to go!”
“Exactly—so we’ll be three girls short—four waitresses instead of five.”