"But what does my aunt say?"
"My mother has not yet heard the story. My father wrote to my grandfather several times, but he took no notice of the letters."
"Aunt Louise has been in Europe several years."
"I have never seen my mother since I was a child; I do not remember her. Do you know where she is?"
"She was in Italy last winter; but I don't know where she is now."
"Will you ascertain for me?" I asked, with more interest than I cared to manifest.
"I will."
"I have her portrait in St. Louis. It was in a locket attached to a coral chain which I wore when I was saved from the river. I will show it to you some time."
"If it is really her portrait, I shall believe the story, whether anybody else does or not."
"My father says it is her portrait, and he ought to know. He is sure I am the lost son."