Not until luncheon had been served and the dishes washed, did Betty bring up the matter which had been troubling her.
"I'm worried about Father," she confessed. "The truth is, he's in danger of losing his position and through no fault of his own."
Penny remained silent and the girl went on with increasing embarrassment.
"I don't know how to say it—you've been so kind to me. But I was wondering—do you think Mr. Nichols might be induced to intercede in behalf of my father?"
"I'll speak to him about it," Penny promised, "but I think perhaps it would be better if your father talked with him personally——"
"Oh, no," Betty said hastily, "he'd never do that! You see, he doesn't know that I have said anything to you. I'm sure he wouldn't like it."
"I see," Penny responded quietly. "I'll talk with Father, but I am afraid it will do no good."
Betty's shoulders slumped, although she tried to smile bravely.
"I shouldn't have made the request. Please forget it."
"No, I mean to talk to Father about it," Penny insisted.