Evening star. [volume] (Washington, D.C.) 1854-1972, 1903-12-19

was not by way of paying much heed to
women. She had seemed SO young and
girlish to be the mother of such a great
boy. Now, as she seated herself, he won
dered if she would raise her veil, and felt
vaguely disappointed when she did not
She seemed decidedly nervous and Here
ford waited, slipping an arm around the
boy, who had climbed Familiarity to his
knee. Something in the sight seemed to
give her courage, and she broke the pause
before it became awkward.
You Will pardon me, won't your her
voice, though timid, was low and sweet
But my little boy tells me that you have
met with an accident and if you will allow
me to help you-please don't think me i'm
pertinent, she begged, Hereford made
impulsive movement, only it is so far
to Chicago-tf you are going there" her
voice trailed uncertainty off, and Hereford
turned and smiled at her.
You are most kind. Indeed / appreciate
it. But l shall get along somehow. l have
plenty of cigars and some whisky left. l
shan't starve."
But
THANK you just as much" Herefords
Tone though pleasant was determined.
Yet she made a last effort.
Il can easily spare it," she persisted
half pleadingly. Wont you let me lend
you enough for dinner?'
The whimsical smile on Hereford's face
deepened perceptibly.
You are very good. But / am sure that
/ should never willingly accept meal from
any woman but my Wife
"Ah, your wife" The boys mother drew
back little. But she is not here
She does not exist yet returned Here
ford cheerfully. Il haven't found her
yet" The woman suppressed a tiny sigh.
You are quite unmovable, then?" she
asked wistfully.
quite. And your boy here has been
most generous with his chocolates. What's
your name, my SOM" to effect DIVERSION
that is" realizing the next instant that
the woman might think he was trying to
learn her identity. But the boy was too
quick for him.
My name is Marion Wilberforce Bron-
SON. he recited in his childish treble. Here
ford stared incredulously, then leaned for
ward, clasping the child with a sudden con-
VulSiVe movement.
Marion Wherefore did you say" he
demanded in hoarse, strained voice.
"How-Who-"
The woman beside him touched the boys
arm.
Run away to nurse, darling" she said
gently, and the boy obediently jumped
down.
Marion Wilberforce Bronson" he re-
peated. II was named for my mother" he
added, with a proud glance at her before he
careered joyously to the nurse. Hereford
leaned back, trembling violently
Marion" he whispered, Marion" The
woman lifted her veil and essayed tremu-
lous smile.
Eyes, 1 am Marion Bronson" she said.
Hereford looked bewildered.
You, But Bronson?"
Certainly surprised in her turn.
'Why-I thought" Hereford was stam
mering helplessly and the woman inter
posed.
Il married Mr.. Bronson eight years ago"
she answered quietly. Her matter-of-fact
tone steadied him at once
ut is you who must forgive me now he
smiled, rather ruefully. But 1 have been
away from home so long that meeting a
familiar face is bit unnerving. Besides. as
you know, l haven't eaten much lately" he
added by way of apology. Mrs. BrOnson's
eyes darkenedy
$50 you haven't. And you won't let me
help you. either
1T will help me to hear something about
you" he assured her TT is so long since
l have had word of you; it must be nearly