“Well, I've got the Annex. I'm glad I've got that for the overflow, anyway,” resumed Billy, trying to steady her voice. “I've sent a whole lot of happiness up there mentally, if I haven't actually carried it; so I'm sure you must have got it. Now tell me of yourself.”
“There's nothing to tell,” insisted Alice, as before.
“You're working as hard as ever?”
“Yes—harder.”
“New pupils?”
“Yes, and some concert engagements—good ones, for next season. Accompaniments, you know.”
Billy nodded.
“Yes; I've heard of you already twice, lately, in that line, and very flatteringly, too.”
“Have you? Well, that's good.”
“Hm-m.” There was a moment's silence, then, abruptly, Billy changed the subject. “I had a letter from Belle Calderwell, yesterday.” She paused expectantly, but there was no comment.