said Miss Alan in a voice of relief. “All the galleries are shut.”

“I think I shall go out,” said Lucy. “I want to go round the town in the circular tram — on the platform by the driver.”

Her two companions looked grave. Mr. Beebe, who felt responsible for her in the absence of Miss Bartlett, ventured to say:

“I wish we could. Unluckily I have letters. If you do want to go out alone, won't you be better on your feet?”

“Italians, dear, you know,” said Miss Alan.

“Perhaps I shall meet some one who reads me through and through!”

But they still looked disapproval, and she so far