"That poor child," the old lady said sadly. "What a trouble for her! Did you know the brother, Marie?"
247 "I saw him once. He was a nice boy," Marie said apathetically. She could remember Ronnie Webber well. He had had a snub, freckled nose and twinkly eyes.
It seemed impossible that he could be dead. She wished she could feel more sorry.
The evening seemed interminable.
"Sit down and read a book, child," Miss Chester said once. "Don't wander about the house like that! I know you must be upset, but it's no use taking trouble too much to heart."
Marie looked at her, hardly listening.
"I think I'll ring Mr. Dakers up," she said.
Miss Chester's eyes grew anxious.
"I should not, my dear," she said. "Chris told me that he was very busy packing. He is going away the day after to-morrow."
"I know; but I should like to see him before he goes."