told Mrs. Frederick what Valancy had said to Olive, Mrs. Frederick wanted Valancy to apoligise.

“You made me apologise to Olive fifteen years ago for something I didn’t do,” said Valancy. “That old apology will do for now.”

Another solemn family conclave was held. They were all there except Cousin Gladys, who had been suffering such tortures of neuritis in her head “ever since poor Doss went queer” that she couldn’t undertake any responsibility. They decided — that is, they accepted a fact that was thrust in their faces — that the wisest thing was to leave Valancy alone for a while — ”give her her head” as Uncle Benjamin expressed it — ”keep a careful eye on her but let her pretty much alone.” The term of