There was a deathly hush.
Then Miss Eva motioned to Miss Nellie and said, "If you will excuse us, Mr. Brannigan, we have some arrangements to make about the concert to-night. Madame d'Avala is to sing in the school auditorium, a benefit performance," and she went out, followed by her sister and niece.
"Where's Florette?" Freddy asked again, his voice trembling with eagerness.
"I—seen her in K.C., sonny."
"How's the ac'?"
"Fine! Fine! Great!"
"No kiddin'?"
"No kiddin'."
"Florette—all right?"
"Why, what made you think any different?"