So Betty's mind instantly planned for her sudden departure for the West and once more, her own trials were forgotten in thinking of others.
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CHAPTER XXIV.
Unalloyed Love.
In a small, modest apartment in a section of Chicago, which is inexpensive but respectable, Alma began her new life with Will and Harold.
This afternoon she was alone for the first time. Will had taken Harold out to see more of the great city, while she was busy preparing for George's return from New York.
He had left them just two weeks ago, promising to return and visit them for a few days.
Alma prepared supper with a happy heart. She had refused all persuasions to keep a maid. Her strength had returned, and she was so supremely happy that no work seemed an effort to her, and she gloried now in taking a really active part in the world and helping Will to rise again from the lower rounds of the ladder.
It was nearing six o'clock, and Alma looked the daintily set table over, with a glow of pride and satisfaction.
"I never thought it could be such a pleasure for a woman to prepare things herself. It's almost like playing house." She laughed softly. "Riches after all, are not everything."