A VISIT TO THE INDIGENT The guests had either retired to their rooms, or were wandering about the spacious grounds; at least none were in evidence when West emerged on to the side terrace, where Miss Natalie and Percival Coolidge waited.

The car was an electric runabout, the single broad seat ample for the three, and West found himself next to the girl who took charge.
Few words were exchanged until they turned into the main high-way, headed toward the city.

Even then conversation scarcely touched on the special object of their trip.

Indeed, Coolidge seemed inclined to avoid the subject entirely, turning the conversation into other channels whenever the matter was broached.

This was so persistently done as to arouse West's notice, but Natalie appeared indifferent, interested only in her guidance of the car.