"I realize that; and while there is an abundance of money, the will states that it is to be entirely in your control. But we've quarreled on that subject too many times already, without your loosening your grip on the dollars. To get back to our subject, I assure you I shall not be gone longer than twenty-one days, and the trip won't cost you a single penny."
"When did you propose going?"
"We take the noon train on Monday for Chicago."
He got his hat and left the house without another word, leaving Alora exultant. She hurried over to tell Mary Louise the good news.
"Did he really consent?" asked Mary Louise.
"Well, he didn't forbid it," said the girl, "and that's the same thing."
[CHAPTER XVII]
THE DISAPPEARANCE
The train was late getting into Chicago that Monday night. Colonel Hathaway took Mary Louise and Alora to the Blackington, but the hotel was so crowded that the girls could not get adjoining rooms. However, they secured rooms just across the hall from one another and the Colonel's room was but two doors removed from that of his granddaughter, so the three were not greatly separated.
"Never mind, dear," said Mary Louise, as she kissed her friend good night; "to-morrow we go aboard the yacht, and that will be our home for a long time."
"What time will you breakfast?" asked Alora.