"Since when?" Mr. Phillips demanded.
"A year ago last October."
The father looked about him as for help.
"Come along with me," he said. "Both of you. Good night, ladies and gentlemen," he added to the hesitating guests—and there was a breath of relief and a scattering for home.
* * * * *
With his hand upon Helen's arm, and Hayward following, President Phillips led the way to his offices.
"I am not to be disturbed," he told a servant after he had stopped at the door and waved Helen and Hayward into the room. "Ask Mrs. Phillips if she will please come here."
Entering, he motioned Hayward to a chair, and, taking Helen with him, went into the inner office and closed the door behind him.
"Now, my child," he said, with a break in his voice despite every effort to keep it steady, "tell me all about this, and we—we'll find a way out."
He patted her hand reassuringly.