CHAPTER XIV.
LUCY'S GHOST Kenneth had sent word to Tom Gates, asking the young man to come to Elmhurst, but it was not until two days after the lawn party that Tom appeared and asked permission to see Mr.Forbes.
Beth and Louise were with Kenneth at the time, and were eager to remain during the interview, so the young man was shown into the library.
Beth could scarcely recognize in him the calm and cheerful Tom Gates they had visited in the county jail; for his face was drawn with care and anxiety, eyes were bloodshot, and his former neat appearance was changed to one careless and untidy.
Kenneth scrutinized him closely.
"What have you been up to, Tom ?" he asked.
"I've been searching for Lucy, sir, night and day.

I haven't slept a wink since I heard the awful news of her sickness and escape.

Where do you think she can be, sir ?" His question was full of agonized entreaty, and his manner pitifully appealing.
"I don't know," answered Kenneth.

"Where have you searched ?" "Everywhere, sir, that she might be likely to go.

I've inquired in every town, and along every road leading out of the county.