"And so that is the story of our trouble," went on the girl. "Poor mother is much worried and doesn't know what to do. Mr. Callum threatens to bring suit and take our little home away from us. We have tried everything but nothing seems to be of any use."
"I wish I could help you!" said Frank eagerly. "My father is in business in New York, and perhaps he could give your mother some advice about the bonds. I wish you'd let me ask him."
"I'll speak to mamma about it," said Gertrude. "But we must hurry on, Grace. I have a lot of lessons to study."
"Do you walk this way every day after school?" asked Frank boldly.
"Sometimes—that is nearly every day," answered Gertrude, with a blush.
"I'm going to write to my father," said Frank eagerly. "If you will get me the name of the company who issued the bonds I may be able to help you. Perhaps I shall see you here to-morrow."
"Perhaps," admitted the girl shyly, and then she and her chum turned away.
Frank stood for a moment, in a sort of daydream. It was rudely interrupted by a chorus of excited shouts on the river, followed by others close at hand.
"Ha! What's that?" exclaimed Frank. He broke into a run, and, turning down a path was met by his brother and the two chums.
"What's the matter?" cried Frank.