Amador ledger., 1907-05-03

My, the way some of these people
whiz along a country road is fearful!
Your supper is most ready, Mrs. Dix
on. take it you are a widow woman,
because
'Yes, I've been widowed for five
years." Lois interrupted. 1--WE were
simply taking a short pleasure drive
A slight accident delayed US for an
hour, else we should be at home by
this time. We were making for Jep-
worth, where 1 have sister,"
81 see." Mrs. Ladd began to place
dishes. 81 sort of wondered"
"a friend of mine and his brother,
besides the chauffeur" explained Lois,
blushing a trifle. at did seem queer
that I was left so unceremoniously to
the care Of strangers, but 1 can look
out for myself, and 1 always go pre-
pared for emergencies. Still I should
have thought
''Oh, it's the machine every time,"
laughed the old woman "Men seem to
forget. What with their wrangling and
hurry for cover. you and Dotty were
better out of it."
Apparently" Mrs. Dixon's tone was
sarcastic. However, to let me come
In unattended and to leave all explana-
ton to me when he knew 1 was upset
and trying to calm Dot She paused.
Seraph was eying her shrewdly.
"Considerate, 1 must say" observed
the hostess. "Well, draw up and eat"
"Mercy! You have cooked enough for
threew Lois laughed outright.
'It's not all for you, my dear. Our
regular hasn't had his supper He
turned up only a few minutes before
you did. I'll tinkie the bell for him.
You don't mind company, do you? He's
q real nice man, but sort of quiet this
trip. Acts sort Of impatient and nerv-
Gus, too which isn't his usual way"
81 must ask you. to introduce me,
then. I'll be glad to thank him for
helping u.s."
The bell rang softly in the hall. Lois,
busying herself with her napkin and
with Dot, did not glance at the enter
ing figure.
Mrs. Ladd, impressed by the impor-
tance of the act Of introduction, spoke
up smartly.
"Nat, let me make you acquainted
with Mrs. Blakeley-I-I mean Mrs
Dixon. Mr.. Blakeley, Mrs. Dixon. This
is her little girl. Dear, dear! Wasn't
it funny that I should have got you
twistedr'
"Very funny" murmured Blakeley,
bowling and making considerable noise
with his chair. Lois dropped her nap
kin. Dot stared, smiling and nodding.
''Now I've embarrassed your cried
Mrs. Ladd, retreating to the kitchen.
"Gracious?' she exclaimed to herself.
Neither Of them can find a word to
say. 1 guess I'll shut this door or they
may hear me giggle."
The silence was broken by Dot
you've got whiskers," she remarked,
with complacence. That's why! Didn't
you know me?"
NO." said the man thickly. 81 hadn't
my glasses on. recognized no one 1
put that wrap over your head, dumped
you in a chair and called Mrs. Ladd. 1
didn't know you, dear
"And you've put on a coat" went on
his inquisitor, surveying him affection
ately. 81 liked you better with just a
mustache. 1t seems ever so long since
you came to see mamma"
"Hush, Dot" said her mother softly.
But he used to bring me candy" per-
sisted the child. "Mr. Barker doesn't.
1 like Mr.. Blakeley best. Don't your"
Lois cheeks crimsoned.
Its bedtime, dear. Mrs. Ladd will
take you to the room. I'll be up in
minute. Be good girl and run out to
the kitchen for her."
Dot tiptoed to Blakeley's chair.
"Good night" she said coyly and put
up her lips.
The man kissed her tenderly, with
great lump in his throat. He had hoped
for many good night caresses from this
little one, but that hope no longer ex-
listed. AS she disappeared he gazed
steadily at the woman opposite.
Let us have it over, Lois" he blurt-
ed. 81 heard the news a month ago.
Believe me, my dear, I shall try to
think only Of your happiness. Barker
will be a very happy man."
''Not with me, Nat"
"What! Do you mean
81 mean that do not intend to be-
come Mrs. Barker. 1 have not yet given
him my answer. He will get it tomor-
row when he returns with his automo-
bile. You have been misinformed."
Her eyes shone into his as he strain
ed forward, eager, transformed with
sudden joy.
Lois" he cried. "Oh. my love. tell
s=ssss