It was just six months after her marriage.
Venna was in the dear old library sorting out some books to use in her settlement work. Her husband's business caused him to travel so much that she had practically all her time to herself. After all, her married life had been a very smooth, contented affair.
When at home, her husband was completely devoted to Venna and her aunt. But when he was away she felt a joyous relief at her freedom and worked with zeal.
It never occurred to her to inquire into his many business trips. All business was a bore to her, and she was glad to leave it entirely in his hands. She hoped she would never show her pleasure at his absence, for she earnestly longed to please him as he deserved.
Today she was rather wishing her husband were home. There were some important business details to be attended to and she needed his advice. But this trip would be an unusually long one for him. He had written only this morning that he could not be home for another week.
Just as she finished her work in the library, Stella brought in a card announcing a caller—"Miss Hedgeway."
"But I don't know her, Stella," said Venna, wonderingly. "Ask her her business, please."
Stella obeyed and soon returned with the short reply, "Very personal. That's all she would say."
"That is the method all the agents use. Tell her I'm sorry, but too busy today to see strangers."
"All right, ma'am," replied the girl.