"How I envy Anna Halloway!" exclaimed Venna suddenly. "Did you know I received a letter from her lately? As soon as they reached the West, they looked around for real country life high up in the mountains. You know both Anna and her husband hate city life. They found a place called 'Ephraim,' and they've bought a home there. Anna says she looks at the mountains and feels nearer heaven already. She's so happy to have such a place to bring up her babe in. I'm glad for her, but I miss her so!"
"Is she the only one you miss?" asked Sister Maddon, laughing. "And is she the only one you have heard from lately?"
Venna blushed and gave the machine a little spurt.
"Oh, no," she returned, trying to look indifferent. "I meant to tell you I heard from Walter about a week ago. He wishes me to give you his love. Here is his letter. Won't you read it?"
Sister Maddon read and then handed the letter back to Venna.
"Good as no letter at all—don't you think so?" she questioned Venna, smiling.
The machine received another spurt, as Venna determined to conceal her hurt.
"Why, no," she answered calmly, "it was very kind of him to write at all when he is so busy."
Mrs. Maddon laughed one of her joyous little ripples.
"Now, look here, Venna dear, I didn't persuade you to come out to-day just because your health needed it. It isn't only much needed fresh air that has paled you lately. You mustn't mind a mother like me getting interested in your great love for Walter, and his great love for you. You don't mind me speaking frankly, dear?"