Maud Warren apologized to Miss Sallie. Mr. Warren had been greatly displeased when he heard of his daughter’s disobedience, and had reprimanded her in such severe terms, that she anxiously endeavored to conciliate Miss Stuart at the earliest opportunity. Miss Sallie, however received her effusive apology very coldly, and it was some time before Maud felt in the least comfortable in her society.
One evening soon after the eventful dinner with the countess, the “Automobile Girls” started out for a moonlight stroll accompanied by Miss Stuart, Mr. Stuart, Mr. Warren and Maud. Just as they were leaving the hotel Marian Smythe appeared on the veranda and was asked to join them.
“Where have you been keeping yourself, Marian?” asked Ruth.
Marian flushed.
“I’ve been very busy,” she said hastily. Then as if anxious to change the subject: “Have you been to the countess’s villa lately?”
“No,” replied Ruth quickly. “Not since the dinner there. Have you heard anything about her?”
“No,” answered Marian shortly, and relapsed into moody silence.
As they strolled leisurely along Barbara who had been walking ahead with Miss Stuart, dropped behind with Marian.
“I want to ask you something, Marian,” she began.
“Little girls should never ask questions,” said Marian lightly, but Barbara felt that her apparent unconcern was forced.