In her excitement she had scarcely glanced before her, but now, as she turned into the Ferndale road, she observed a woman coming along the same path. It was Miss Brooks.
Somehow Dorothy was glad to meet her. After all, it was not pleasant to think too seriously.
"Good-morning," said Dorothy with all the vivacity she could summon. "Looking for Christmas mail too?"
"Yes," replied Miss Brooks, with something of a sigh. "There are many kinds of Christmas mail, I suppose."
The reply confused Dorothy. She did not want to bring sad reflections to the "little woman in black."
"I guess we will have pleasant weather," Dorothy hurried to say vaguely. "I hope so, at any rate, for we must depend considerably upon the weather for the success of our hospital entertainment. You know, we are to have one."
"Yes, I've seen the tickets," said Miss Brooks, walking along with Dorothy. Then both paused. Both had evidently exhausted the commonplace.
Miss Brooks looked keenly at Dorothy. The latter could feel her searching gaze, and wondered secretly what it could mean. Presently Miss Brooks said:
"I believe you are a prudent girl, Miss Dale, and I wonder if I might trust you with a delicate—matter?"
"If I can help you—yes," answered Dorothy promptly.