Love and War It was during the earlier phases of his connection with Chicago street-railways that Cowperwood, ardently interesting himself in Stephanie Platow, developed as serious a sex affair as any that had yet held him.

At once, after a few secret interviews with her, he adopted his favorite ruse in such matters and established bachelor quarters in the down-town section as a convenient meeting-ground.

Several conversations with Stephanie were not quite as illuminating as they might have been, for, wonderful as she was--a kind of artistic godsend in this dull Western atmosphere--she was also enigmatic and elusive, very.

He learned speedily, in talking with her on several days when they met for lunch, of her dramatic ambitions, and of the seeming spiritual and artistic support she required from some one who would have faith in her and inspire her by his or her confidence.

He learned all about the Garrick Players, her home intimacies and friends, the growing quarrels in the dramatic organization.